I love to explore the city a bit when I travel, but I always do it strategically so I stay safe and see the best of what I'm after.
1. Nothing better than advance research.
2. Trip Advisor. If you're reading this right now, you are fluent in the ways of the Internet. Trust the articulate people who have "been there & done that" and are willing to share on Trip Advisor. I have never EVER been screwed over by listening to the voice of the travelling majority on Trip Advisor.
3. Connect with your hotel concierge at least 2 weeks before the trip. Do this via e-mail. Let him or her know about your upcoming stay, what your kids like to do, what you hope to see etc. They are always a wealth of knowledge but it can be hard for them to help you "instantly" if you just meet the day after you arrive.
4. Ask the bartender, the busboy & the waiter about local attractions & stores, but NOT about other restaurants. Don't put them on the spot or in a position of conflict. At the airport, the news stand and the mall (etc), ask about the best local restaurants.
5. Don't be afraid to break away from the chain. Applebees and McDonalds might be familiar and consistent, but they won't be memorable. I always look for independently run, family restaurants. Those are the gems. Those are the experiences that make it more than a trip... they help you truly grab the flavour of the city.
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