Last weekend, we took advantage of some frequent flyer miles and the last few weeks of Bambino’s lap child status. Rather than a physical birthday gift, we gave him a weekend in NYC. (You have to admit, Central Park is a pretty awesome birthday gift.)

After a fun day at school, we jumped on a quick flight to Newark. By dinner time, we were in Midtown Manhattan. Someone liked the hotel room.

The next day, we took the City by storm. Bambino started with some latte.

Next on the agenda was Rockefeller Center. As I have mentioned, narrow spaces and railings = immediate panic attack for me. Thankfully, the lovely designers of Top of the Rock created their terraces like cruise ship decks. I didn’t hyperventilate. That much.

However, if you are not debilitatingly afraid of heights, the Top of the Rock offers gorgeous views of the City, including the Empire State. It is also very kid-friendly, since the lines are reasonable, and there is plenty of space to explore.

Next, we did some shopping, and discovered a neighborhood Italian restaurant with fantastic food. Cacio e pepe pizza? Yes, please! One blue hippo, named Will, was also adopted.

We had a surprise for Bambino that evening. The NY Red Bulls. The Seattle Sounders. Henry. Dempsey. Soft pretzels. These are the things that Bambino dreams are made of.

Sunday, we kept to our tradition, and took it easier. Brunch was had at an English pub, which happened to have the Man City/Chelsea match on.

We visited Bryant Park.

We stumbled upon a Hispanic Heritage parade.

And, if the Billy Johnson playground at Central Park doesn’t make you happy, nothing may.

We wrapped up the night at a nearby Indian restaurant. Bambino loved the homemade roti and paneer.

Before heading out on Monday, there was time for a cruise of the Hudson River.

There was also time for more latte. And a good snuggle.

Thank you, New York.

Bambino Recommended:

St Giles, The Court Hotel. (Not über-posh, but nice, spacious rooms, and a great location.).

Nino’s 46— Great service, real Italian food.

Nirvana— Delicious Indian food, and fantastic service.

Top of the Rock, for views of the City.

Bryant Park— There’s a carousel, putting green, and Kubb. Need we say more?

Billy Johnson Playground, at Central Park. There’s a fountain. A stone bridge. And a granite slide inset into a hillside. It may be playground perfection.

NY Red Bulls. Good soccer. Great for kids. I wish we had an MLS team closer by… We’d have season tickets.