Experience this famous bridge...

Something about the Brooklyn Bridge inspires awe in all who lay eyes on it. Walking across it is an experience all but the smallest children should have! You can walk one way (half hour at average pace) and take the subway back or you can combine this walk with other Brooklyn attractions. Manhattan entrance near Park Row and Center Street (close to the 4,5 and 6 subways).
JW Editor's note: For more information on Brooklyn from a woman's point-of-view, click here.

Avoid soft drinks...

When eating in restaurants, encourage your children to take the healthier option of New York City's excellent tap water. Soft drinks in New York are very expensive (sometimes upwards of $2), and refills are not free, so the addition of a few extra drinks for each person can easily double your bill. 

Tickle kids' taste buds...

Pommes Frites (123 Second Avenue (7th St. and St. Marks Pl.) Hot crispy fries served in a paper cone. You have a choice of dozens of toppings (some of which are included in the price and some cost fifty cents). I recommend a combination of ketchup, mayonnaise-based "frites sauce" and chopped onions - all of which are free.  

Fab Flea market shopping...

NoHo Flea Market (Broadway between East Fourth and Great Jones Streets) -- as a teenager, this was always one of my favorite markets, especially around Christmas Time. Jewelry, T-shirts, funky clothes, sky's the limit. Perfect for bringing hip gifts home to give to (and impress) friends. Open Saturday and Sunday.  

You'll love this book...

"Inside, New York City expert Ellen R. Shapiro leads you through every highlight and chance for adventure that New York City offers to visitors and residents, alike. You'll find countless activities for all ages, tips from New Yorkers, and easy-to-read maps and information that will get you where you want to go safely, economically, and in a New York minute." Prima Publishing (www.primapublishing.com). U.S. $16.95 Can. $25.95