Kelly's blog

While Queens may not be chock-full of high-end gourmet creameries like Manhattan and Brooklyn, that doesn't mean we've only got Mister Softee. From authentic old-fashioned sofa fountains serving up insane sundaes to cool new ma-and-pa parlors like Long Island City's Malu, Queens has got its share of ice cream places worth traveling to—whether you live in the borough or are just passing through. These nine sweet spots are all family favorites for me and my brood. And if you don't dig ice cream, don't worry: Some of these shops are best known for other cold treats like Italian ices—a staple of my home borough.

Midtown West may not be as chock-full of traditional play spaces as neighboring Chelsea or the Upper West Side, but there are still plenty of places where kids can run around indoors. Times Square has lots of fun interactive megastores like the Disney Store and Toys R Us, and Dave & Buster's is filled with new and retro arcade games. Plus there are three bowling alleys within blocks of each other, a lovely local library, a couple of kiddie gyms and other offbeat spots to romp or hang out.

Our month-long focus on Forest Hills comes to a close with a look at our favorite places for kids to play and learn in the area, both indoors and out. Forest Park, which is the neighborhood's southern border, is the go-to green space and boasts playgrounds, ball fields and a historic carousel. But there are plenty of other places for kids to romp indoors as well as get creative, play sports, cook and so much more. Here are our top class and play spots for families in Forest Hills, Queens.

Back in 2010, we posted our first roundup of cool Queens party places, including favorites like Astoria Sports Complex and the Queens Zoo. But there are so many other awesome birthday spots in the borough—including a few that recently opened like Astoria's Kids Playhouse and Oliloli Studio in Forest Hills—that we decided to do a second post with 10 more options.

These Queens birthday party places cater to all kinds of kids, from active to artsy to animal lovers. And as a Queens mom with two children myself, I've been to many of these spots personally. You can find additional birthday inspiration in our Party Guide.

We continue our month-long focus on Tribeca with a roundup of our favorite places to shop with kids in the area. Considering the neighborhood's trendy reputation, it's no wonder that its picturesque cobblestone streets are home to some of NYC's hippest children's clothing and toy boutiques, all with eye-catching window displays. Whether you're looking for eco-friendly playthings, a unique outfit for a special occasion, your tot's first pair of shoes or even celebrity-designed maternity wear, these Tribeca shops sell it all, plus so much more. Here are our top 12 places to shop with kids in Tribeca.