Play spaces are big business in NYC, with new kid-friendly play spots popping up annually. Some offer drop-in play while others are members-only, and all are seemingly kid-centered, with padded walls and brightly colored playthings. Now there's a new kid on the block attempting to reinvent family fun, with the arrival of The Wonder in the stroller-packed Tribeca neighborhood.

This new members-only space offers an ultra-cool hangout spot that aims to cater to both adults and children. Co-owned by two NYC moms who wanted somewhere other than their apartments to connect with each other—and their kids—over a glass of wine and playtime, The Wonder isn't cheap, but it just might be a new model for play spaces in NYC. Read on for a peek inside.

By the time you've hit the tween years, you've been to enough birthday parties to feel like you've seen it all. Looking for a new celebratory experience worthy of increasingly grown-up interests for your 10 to 13 year-old? We've rounded up 13 too-cool party spots to celebrate your tween's next big birthday. With party packages this out of the ordinary, you'll be able to please even the pickiest tween with unique fetes like zombie laser tag, DIY chocolate or ice cream, and jewelry making with semi-precious stones.

Hosting a swimming birthday party is a splashy way to celebrate your child's next big day. Kids can hit the water for an instant taste of summer no matter the season.

While FREE swimming spots abound in the summer months, the rules make it a little difficult to party there. So, expect to fork over some dough if you want to throw a good, old-fashioned pool party at one of these swimming spots in NYC that offer birthday party packages to the general public—most are offered year round.