Recently, we took a much needed mini-vacation to Manhattan in what has proven to be a very, very busy wedding season. Three days isn’t nearly enough, but we’ll have to wait until the actual off season for some serious R&R. Annie is now of the movin’/groovin’/talkin’ stage so we thought it would be great to get out to some of NYCs kid-friendly museums and parks. In what proved to be the coup of the decade for lodging, Don found the newly restored Beacon Hotel in the Upper West Side for a steal (Orbitz, folks. Orbitz). Home to Sarah Jessica/Matthew Broderick, one of Lindsay’s favorite families, it’s a kid friendly neighborhood and we had no problem finding markets and diners at any hour within easy walking distance. Mr. Broderick himself wandered past us as we looked over the fresh produce at the Fairway Market. Given that our room at the Beacon was a two room suite with tons of closet space and full kitchen, there was nothing lacking for the meal times and quiet times that are so important in the toddler age. Central Park, the Children’s Zoo, the Natural History museum, long walks to Columbus Circle and F.A.O. Schwarz…we had a great time all around.

A few tips for fellow travelers…business class on Amtrak is great for this age. With security, possible delays, and the restrictions of air travel, the train is a great way to go for NYC. The fact that you end up square in the middle of the city is a benefit and cuts a great deal of headache and time off your trip as compared to air travel (roughly 45 minute difference in comparison). The ability to walk around is reason enough and nap time was no problem at all. From Penn Station, the Uptown Express was two stops and a 10 minute subway ride to our hotel.

No complaints at all. Enjoy!

(for a full flash slideshow of all images, click here: Annie Amused in the Apple)