Yuliya Geikhman

Yuliya Geikhman is a freelance writer and parent based in NYC. She's been writing professionally since 2009 and editing since 2018 and has a degree in English education that's gathering dust in a drawer.

Latest posts by Yuliya

Hidden Gem for Families in NYC: Hallett Nature Sanctuary in Central Park

Submitted by Yuliya Geikhman on Tue, 09/16/2025 - 2:42pm

The buildings of midtown feel a world away when you're immersed in the Hallett Nature Sanctuary.

You've probably seen the Hallett Nature Sanctuary in Central Park without even realizing it. The 4-acre green space is located across from the Pond in the southeastern corner of the park, and serves as a scenic, lush backdrop for the body of water. What most visitors don't realize is that this space has been open to the public for nearly a decade. The Hallett Nature Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Central Park, and it's a perfect NYC space to explore with kids for a moment of peace that transports you out of the city.

Live from New York: Here's How to Catch a Kid-Friendly Television Taping in NYC

Submitted by Yuliya Geikhman on Thu, 09/11/2025 - 11:08am

Catch Today on weekday mornings simply by setting your alarm clock extra early. Photo by Jody Mercier

If watching a TV show is exciting for your kids, imagine how much more exciting it would be to be on location while the show is being filmed. One of the perks of being in New York City is that many shows are filmed right here. This means there are plenty of opportunities to be part of a live studio audience.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, here's where you can watch a TV taping in NYC. Our picks range from daytime talk to teen-friendly late-night shows, all taping in New York. Find more behind-the-scenes action with a visit to the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens.

Hidden Gem in NYC: Find Whimsical Tom Otterness Sculptures at this NYC Park

Submitted by Yuliya Geikhman on Tue, 09/09/2025 - 11:58am

Tom Otterness' whimsical sculptures take centerstage at this lower Manhattan park.

Wandering through the 14th Street and Eighth Avenue train station in Manhattan, you can't help but spot the whimsical bronze statues scattered throughout the underground station. These charming little round-headed creatures are the creations of artist Tom Otterness, and they never fail to delight families who stumble upon them during their commute. Many New Yorkers are already aware of the existence of these sculptures, but what you might not know is the NYC subway isn't the only place where you can find Tom Otterness sculptures in the city.

So, whether you love Otterness' work or are just on the hunt to uncover a fun hidden gem in NYC, here's where else you can find Otterness' art with kids in tow.

Atlantic City Aquarium Reopens with New Animals and Attractions

Submitted by Yuliya Geikhman on Tue, 08/12/2025 - 6:28am

The Atlantic City Aquarium is a small facility where kids can see aquatic life up close.

The Atlantic City Aquarium reopened in spring 2025 after shuttering for a renovation that began in 2020.

We took a trip down to see everything the small Jersey Shore seaside attraction has to offer. Is the reworked facility worth a visit, or is it a miss? Read on to learn more about the Atlantic City Aquarium's best attractions and everything you need to know to plan a visit.

And, if this aquarium happens to spark a new interest in life under the sea, check out our rundown of the best aquariums for your next family vacation. For trip ideas further afield, read our comprehensive Family Travel Guide.

Best Prenatal Massages in NYC for Prenatal Pampering

Submitted by Yuliya Geikhman on Mon, 07/21/2025 - 5:01pm

The Prenatal Massage and Movement Center offers gentle massages and movement therapies designed to support the well-being of pregnant individuals. Photo by Your Cherish/courtesy of the business

Being an expectant mother isn't easy, and it's so important to give yourself some "me" time as your body adjusts to carrying a tiny New Yorker. Take a much-needed break by indulging in some of the best prenatal massages NYC has to offer. Whether you need relief from back pain, want to reduce swelling, or crave a moment of calm, these spots for prenatal massage in New York City soothe your body and mind. Find the most relaxing pregnancy massage locations where skilled massage therapists will help you relax, recharge, and find a moment of rest along your incredible journey to motherhood.

Mothers to be can find more help for the changes on the horizon in our NYC Baby Guide, which is packed with helpful ideas for everything from baby registry must-haves to our mom-tested tips for raising little New Yorkers.

Lights, Camera, New York! Where to Find Iconic NYC Movie Sites with Kids

Submitted by Yuliya Geikhman on Fri, 07/11/2025 - 11:27am

Living in New York City can often mean getting front-row tickets to some of the most iconic NYC movie locations. The city's streets serve as a backdrop to many famous movie and television moments, and exploring these New York film sights as a family can be a fun way to relive the excitement of your favorite family movies and TV shows.

Many of these iconic filming locations in New York are close to top NYC attractions—or they are attractions in their own right. Whether you're a local, or visiting from out of town, these NYC movie locations make for a fun diversion and provide the perfect backdrop to snap an only-in-New York family photo. We've found destinations from the big screen, like Ghostbusters, to the small screen, including Friends, and more recent hits, too.

Kid-Approved Rooftop Dining: Summer Spots for Families

Submitted by Yuliya Geikhman on Sun, 06/15/2025 - 8:57am

The Rockaway Hotel's rooftop offers stunning sea and city views. Photo by Kyle Knodell

This summer, head out and up to one of NYC's family-friendly rooftop restaurants for a night out above the town, literally. If you have a hankering for some outdoor dining, there are great options that deliver delicious food and entertainment alongside a great view. You can dine alfresco with the kids in tow from high above the crowded, hot NYC streets at one of these kid-friendly eateries hidden away on rooftops around the city.

Find more family-friendly dining destinations in our NYC Kids' Guide to Restaurants.

Hidden Gem in NYC: Here's Where to Find the Monk Parakeets of Brooklyn

Submitted by Yuliya Geikhman on Tue, 06/10/2025 - 10:00am

Eyes up, Brooklyn: Here's how you can spot the chattering, cheeky, monk parakeets that call the borough home.

You'll hear them before you see them: the tell-tale squawks of the monk parakeets that make their home in NYC. These exotic birds are every bit the New Yorker, making their homes in the trees in local neighborhoods around Brooklyn and chattering energetically among themselves. Parrot-watching is a delightful hidden gem activity in Brooklyn, and one that many families might not realize they can do. Keeping an eye (and an ear) out for these silly birds in the quiet Brooklyn neighborhood of Bensonhurst is a great, kid-friendly activity on a sunny day!

Yuliya Geikhman

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