Unlike the old storefront location, the new MoonSoup is on the second floor, so you'll need to take an elevator and climb a few steps. There is stroller parking downstairs but when it overflows you'll need to lug it upstairs. Once inside, you'll find two modest-size but homey classrooms. The bigger room has lots of toddler-friendly soft-play gym equipment and toys, while the smaller one hosts many of the older kid classes.

My three-year-old daughter and I tried the Messy Art & Music class. We really enjoyed the 45-minute session, which incorporated lots of activities: music, painting, water-table and soft-block play, and ended with parachute and bubble fun. Our teacher, Claire, had professional theater and music experience, and explained that most of the other instructors at the facility do, too. Afterward, we stuck around for an open-play session, which is free to currently enrolled students.

In addition to a variety of music, art and active play classes for babies, toddlers and young children, MoonSoup also offers The Little School, a preschool alternative program that uses a combination of Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies. There are also classes for new parents like infant CPR.

Most of MoonSoup's offerings require a semester-long commitment although there are occasional one-off events. Visit the website for a complete schedule and to register. Of course, the new space still hosts great birthday parties. MoonSoup also runs classes at two other NYC locations: J&R Junior in the Financial District and Gym-AzIng in Astoria, Queens.

MoonSoup in Midtown East is located at 201 East 56th Street between Second and Third Avenues on the second floor. Call 212-319-3222 for more information.

Find out about other great indoor play spots for NYC kids in our Inside Activity Guide.