I asked Little E, “Where is the one place anywhere in the world you want to go?” Without missing a beat, he said, “New York City.” From the day he learned in school the reason why the Statue of Liberty was green, he had asked to go see it for himself. So, when a three day weekend presented itself, we boarded the short flight to the city that never sleeps.
On the flight, we had some convincing to a 6 and 3 year old that they would indeed still be required to sleep. But I don’t think they believed us. Because it wasn’t long after we landed that we found ourselves exploring Chinatown at dusk, just in time to see the lanterns glow. Jason and I were eager to try soup dumplings for the first time… they did not disappoint.
The next morning, we packed up for a long day of walking… starting with a near mile and a half walk across the Brooklyn Bridge into DUMBO. Jason and I have both explored NYC on our own many different times, but neither of us had ever been to DUMBO, and we were curious to see what all the fuss was about. The bridge stroll was an experience in itself. The air was full of a once in a lifetime buzz as tourists took their time crossing the East River. In contrast, the air in DUMBO felt less electric and more staged. Everyone was there to get that perfect Instagram shot, which seemed to take away from what this part of the city had to offer. Regardless, we found amazing views of the city, we took a ride on the 100 year old Jane’s Carousel, and we ate ice-cream under the bridge. All in all the walk was worth it.
We could have stayed in DUMBO longer and got more of the true Brooklyn experience, but we had a boat to catch. The moment had come to see the Statue of Liberty up close. We took a river cruise starting on the Hudson, rounding into the East River, and a finale right up to Liberty Island.
It seems like you can’t truly experience NYC without visiting Time Square. The boys were a little young for a show. So, this time, we decided to do a quick walk-through on our way to Central Park. Little E’s eyes were huge as he took in all the lights, street performers, and characters roaming the street. At one point, we were swarmed by Elmos begging us to take a photo for a fee. At the park, we visited the zoo, rode the central park carousal, and of course stopped for ice-cream. Jason also made friends with a local city squirrel.
That evening we met up with friends for oysters and drinks along the riverwalk. We all took an evening stroll to Battery Park where we rode our third carousel, and our favorite carousel, the Sea Glass Carousel.
Our family may have traveled across the world, but nothing has quite kept us on our toes like NYC. We only saw a fraction of what the Big Apple has to offer. And even so, E has decided that he will move here when he grows up. I’m good with that, kid.
Until next time,
