Summer Travel: Joanna Goddard's Guide to New York City

Find something fresh to do in the Big Apple as our summer travel series continues. Cup of Jo founder and Brooklyn local, Joanna Goddard shares her top spots in the city that never sleeps. Wander the halls of a museum, sail the Hudson River, or bike through Central Park with the littles in tow. And be sure to grab a a slice of pizza while you're in town. 

"My bike has seats for our boys, so in the evenings after work, we often go on little adventures, from riding to the carousel to getting ice cream at Ample Hills. My five-year-old Toby will sing 'Sound of Music' tunes from his seat behind me, while my baby Anton points out 'big cados' (tractors) from his front seat. I know they'll grow out of it one day, but for now, that bike is my favorite place to be." 

 

Natural History Museum (Upper West Side)

On hot summer days, the museum provides a cool escape, and I always feel like we're in a Wes Anderson movie when I see our kids playing underneath the giant whale. Also, there are secret sprinklers on the roof!

Sailing on the Hudson (Chelsea)

For a fun date night, my husband and I love taking a sunset sail. You can get tickets for the Adirondack, an 80-foot schooner, that sails down to the Statue of Liberty. Bonus: They bring around complimentary beer and wine, and you're allowed to bring on food (we'd recommend lobster rolls).

The Upright Citizen's Brigade (Chelsea)

You'll spot stars like Amy Poehler, Horatio Sanz and Jack McBrayer in the hilarious sketch comedy show ASSSSCAT on Sunday evenings. Tickets book up quickly, so watch their calendar.  It's worth the effort; the show is so funny, people actually cry tears of laughter. If you'd like to grab a bite afterward, we highly recommend Co. Pizza down the street.

Jane's Carousel (Dumbo)

l has the most spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. The kids love riding the horses, and then we'll often have a picnic in the adjacent meadow and watch the boats sail by.

Brooklyn Crab (Red Hook)

This awesome restaurant has a back garden with mini golf and sandboxes, so your kids can play happily while you sip beers and eat buttery crab rolls.

 

Are you an avid traveler to NYC? Share your fave spots with us in the comments below! 

 

You can find Joanna online at Cup of Jo, and on Instagram.