Saturday with the kids in Yorkville

Whether you’ve got your own kids or you’re watching someone else’s for the day, kids start the day early. Let’s face it, diners were invented so Dads would have somewhere to take the kids at 7AM on Saturday morning. This is one of my favorites. Tucked away in Yorkville way over on York Avenue, it’s far from the chaos and tourism you come to think of when you think of a Manhattan diner. It’s a neighborhood spot with some of the best breakfast dishes in the city. By the time you slide into your booth your coffee cup will be full, the test of any great diner.

After brunch, you’ll all be ready to stretch your legs and if your kids are anything like mine they will certainly enjoy a chance to run and bounce around at the My Gym. This location usually opens up at 9AM and they often have open play in between classes and events and birthday parties. Grab a little coffee to go and take the short walk one avenue west and two blocks south.

After an hour or two at My Gym, your coffee will likely have worn off and everyone will be in need of a little pick-me up. Two Little Red Hens is a crowd pleaser. The morning baked goods are all amazing but the real attraction is the Brooklyn Blackout cupcakes. You can get them in mini form as well if you want to sample a few flavors. They bake them throughout the day so no matter what time you arrive, something is always just out of the oven, grab a small box and head to the park to enjoy your treats!

Carl Schurz is a neighborhood favorite. It’s fairly large park that stretches from 84th street to 91st street along the East River. You’ll find swings, a basketball court, a dog run and playground and a number of grassy areas as well as the John Finley walk that is lined with benches overlooking the river. Be glad you have a sweet in hand and if the weather is nice enough roll out your picnic blanked and enjoy a little time by the water.