While visiting Chelsea (and staying in our apartment), if you have 2 hours to wander and you are interested in walking to a REALLY interesting art exhibit/installation, walk over to the Hudson (the river on the west side, so left as you leave our building) and then down a few blocks to ashesandsnow. It is a beautiful, breathtaking installation, and the museum itself is an integral element. Takes about 2 hours to really experience the whole thing.

If you want to grab a burger or salad (or healthy, full breakfast) at diner prices, but in a "cool" spot, Cafeteria on 7th Ave and 17th St. is great. No problem sitting on your own here as long as it isn't peak seating time. Another neighborhood gem is City Bakery -- they put a VERY gourmet spin on the salad bar concept. Just walk up 6th to 17th? 18th? and hang a right. City Bakery is on the North side of the street. AMAZING quick breakfast, and great for putting an evening meal together on your own and toting it home. They close on the early side since they are mainly take-out, so call to check their hours before if you choose to get dinner there.

The RMA (Rubin Museum of Art) is across the street on 17th (between 6th/7th) -- a brand new Himalayan art museum fully funded by the Rubin family and stocked with treasures from their own collection. A stunningly designed space. Worth stepping into just to soak up the zen-like vibe of the coffee bar without committing to the museum entry fee.

Union Square has the farmers market on most Saturday mornings. Just hang a right out of the apartment and walk a few blocks east on 16th. Great place to grab an artisinal bread or fresh squeezed juice. Hang a left out of our building's front door and visit Chelsa Market for fresh bakery goods, dairy products, an amazing array of fruit and vegetables or an alternative spot to Starbucks for your morning cup o' joe.