Playground

Right in the middle of Astoria’s urban grid, this spot on Alameda Ave is one of those places you end up at almost by accident — usually mid-errand or mid-walk when the kids are done cooperating. It’s a no-frills stop, but that’s kind of the point. The location is genuinely handy, with enough nearby spots to grab food or coffee while the little ones burn off some energy. If you’re already poking around town, it fits easily into the day without any real detour.