Bayside, Queens

Bayside is a quiet, upper middle to middle class town that boasts everything from a lovely marina on the bay to great schools and diverse restaurants. You can visit the Bay Terrace mall for some casual shopping or take a very short ride to Manhasset to browse luxury goods. Couples, families, and friends haunt "Restaurant Row" on Bell Boulevard, where you will find everything from fabulous pasta to spicy Cajun or yummy sushi. There are Irish pubs and rowdy sports bars, and even a saloon.

For those with families, there are plenty of great schools in Bayside. Cardozo is a very good high school. On the other side of town, Bayside High School is also worth considering. The libraries are clean and well stocked. There are also many nice parks and playgrounds scattered throughout the town. You can go roller blading or running alongside the Cross Island Parkway and the Bayview Marina or have barbecues at Alley Pond Park. During the winter, be sure to take your kids to see the famous homes (one is on 32nd Avenue near Bell Blvd. and the other is on 26th Avenue near Francis Lewis). You'll be amazed by the decorations.

The neighbors are friendly, the schools are good, the shops are trendy, and the restaurants are diverse. There is something for everyone in Bayside.