Le Parker Meridien

New Yorkers don’t have much need to stay overnight at Le Parker Meridien, the brilliant slogan of which is “Uptown. Not Uptight,” but they find reasons to visit nonetheless. For one, there’s Gravity, a sprawling multi-tiered wellness center complete with fitness classes and a full spa. And there are plenty of reasons to warrant a little exercise, given the hotel’s three great restaurants! One of these is Burger Joint, where you’ll find good and greasy hamburgers along with pitchers of beer and milkshakes for the kids! For something more upscale but still family-friendly, go to Norma’s. The menu might have a section titled “Mom Can’t Make This,” but Lyss Stern certainly isn’t offended. “It’s the perfect breakfast spot,” she says. “The breakfast dishes are like dessert, and my boys love sugar!”