The Metropolitan Museum of Art

“The Met” is not only the country’s largest museum, but also the most encyclopedic, as its collection covers everything from Ancient Greek sculpture to contemporary installation work. Michelle Smith recommends tackling the massive museum( which has over two million square feet) in smaller sections. “During fall and winter months, I’m here with my kids every weekend,” she says. “Even if it’s just for an hour!”

Photo courtesy of: Sean Pavone Photo/Shutterstock.com 

La Colombe

According to fashion designer and New York mom Rebecca Minkoff La Colombe lays claim to the "best coffee in NYC and the best almond croissants." With beans roasted on premises and barristas who approach cups like they're canvasses for art work, many New Yorkers would have to agree. The single-origin fair trade beans are served in a traditional cafe setting, where an airy and open space provides clear views of the in-house roaster and people watching of fashionable TriBeCa business people and locals. 

60 Thompson

The hip and sophisticated boutique hotel is frequented by fashionable travelers and trendy Soho locals alike. Its Thom Bar is perpetually thumping with the sounds of fashion forward clientele and a nightly DJ, while modern yet sumptuous accommodations make guests feel at home. Fashion designer and New York mom Rebecca Minkoff is a particular fan: "It’s in an amazing area and they have a great roof deck with beautiful views of the city. The rooms are fantastic as well," she says. 

The Peninsula Hotel

Conveniently located in the middle of New York's most popular tourist attractions on 5th avenue, the Peninsula is not only one of New York's grandest and most comfortable, but it is also one of the most family friendly. The hotel boasts spacious rooms, top of the line service, and a host of amenities and entertainment catering to children. Little ones are presented with cuddly toys in lieu of a welcome champaign toast at check-in. Rebecca Minkoff likes to visit the roof deck for "fantastic views," and the whole hotel "for that old New York feeling." She adds, "it's located just blocks from Central Park, which is perfect if you love to take a morning jog." 

Joanna Vargas Spa

Voted the best spa in NYC, the Joanna Vargas skincare regime is famous among the beauty and wellness-bsessed. The skin-care guru for whom the salon is named graduated from the University of Chicago with a degree in women's studies before moving on to become one of the most renown facialists in New York. Using all natural and organic products for "microcurrent facials," which combine many therapies in a single session. The spa makes use of creative procedures and devices in its trusted methods. New York mom Rebecca Minkoff is a devotee who adds that "She even converted a tanning bed to a light therapy bed that gets rid of stretch marks and skin damage."