Vanessa Leigh

Vanessa Leigh is a busy mom of three (including twins!), a Midwesterner turned East Coaster, and a chocolate enthusiast. She’s a copywriter specializing in Early Childhood and Motherhood, plus the creative force behind her Etsy shop. When she’s not writing or designing, you can find her indulging in dark chocolate peanut butter cookies at Levain Bakery. Connect with Vanessa at www.vanessaleighagency.com or browse her creations at MamaMagicByVanessa.etsy.com. She loves chatting with fellow parents—don’t hesitate to reach out!

Latest posts by Vanessa

Riverside Park’s Best Playgrounds Ranked for Kids and Families to Enjoy

Submitted by Vanessa Leigh on Mon, 06/14/2021 - 1:10pm

Hippo Playground is Riverside Park's top destination when it comes to playtime. Photo by Jody Mercier

Riverside Park is our family’s backyard and home to some of the best playgrounds in the city, but what's the best of the best in this four-mile stretch of nature that spans Manhattan's west side from 72nd Street to 158th Street? We set out to find out, and our parent-tested results are here. We've ranked the playgrounds of Riverside Park based on their amenities, accessibility, and how much family-friendly fun they inspire.

Once you've had your share of romping in Riverside, be sure to check out our rankings of the best playgrounds in Central Park, Prospect Park, and Brooklyn Bridge Park, too.

Volunteer With Mott Haven Fridge to Deliver Free Food to Needy Neighbors

Submitted by Vanessa Leigh on Fri, 06/11/2021 - 10:53am

Mott Haven Fridge was born of necessity during the pandemic and needs more volunteers to serve New Yorkers in need.

As the so-called "Summer of New York City" approaches, and the city rebounds from the effects of the pandemic, there's still plenty of work to do to ensure all New Yorkers are on an even footing. A lack of access to healthy foods was particularly problematic during the pandemic, and the need persists, but local org Mott Haven Fridge is building a network of FREE fridges all across the Bronx and Upper Manhattan and looking for a few good volunteers to help keep them stocked.

Read on for details on this family-friendly volunteer opportunity, and find more ways to make giving back a part of your summertime routine.

See Riverside Park South's Recently Renovated Transformation

Submitted by Vanessa Leigh on Fri, 05/07/2021 - 10:55am

Riverside Park South provides a lovely bridge between the concrete jungle and the Hudson River, and warm weather means it's time to explore this new green space now.

The long-anticipated opening of Manhattan's Riverside Park South has arrived at last. Officially opened in October 2020, the new section of the park spans from West 65th Street to 68th Street is a perfect green space to visit this spring. This Upper West Side park is one of the top destinations for neighborhood families, offering expansive outdoor spaces for NYC families to enjoy. The new section offers playgrounds and more family-friendly amenities to explore.

Read on for details on the project, plus what renovations are still in store. Find more fun places to play in our Guide to Parks and Playgrounds for New York City families.

Vanessa Leigh

Latest posts by Vanessa

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