York in the low 60s

We are considering bidding on an apartment at York and 63rd. The first time we had really been to the neighborhood was when we saw the apartment, and we didn't have time to walk around. We will certainly do that before we go into contract, but in the meantime I am interested in people's views and experiences living in the neighborhood, especially with a family. Specifically: - How noisy/crowded is it with the hospital and the bridge? - Are there parks and playgrounds for kids nearby? - Are there the usual amenities nearby, i.e. supermarkets, restaurants, bars, drycleaners, etc. - Just how inconvenient is being that far east, in terms of getting to work, going out, people visiting? Thanks very much.