Florida to NYC by Train!

We took an unforgettable Amtrak journey from Florida to New York, and it was everything we dreamed it would be. My grandson, dressed as a junior conductor in his crisp uniform and hat, could barely contain his excitement.

Exploring food and fun in New York City is an adventure unlike any other, and we packed as much as we could into one unforgettable day! Our journey began with a quintessential NYC experience—grabbing a slice of pizza. We found a small pizzeria tucked into the heart of Manhattan, where the aroma of fresh dough and bubbling mozzarella filled the air. The slices were huge, cheesy, and perfect, with that signature thin crust that folds just right in your hand. Whether you’re a pepperoni lover or a plain cheese purist, New York pizza really does live up to the hype.

After satisfying our taste buds, we headed straight to the dazzling lights of Times Square. It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible—neon signs flashing everywhere, street performers entertaining the crowds, and the energy of thousands of people moving in every direction. We took a few moments to soak it all in, snapping photos and just marveling at the buzz of the city that never sleeps. Of course, a quick stop at the famous red steps for a bird’s-eye view of the square was a must!

Next, we made our way to the LEGO Store, which is a dream come true for kids and kids at heart. This isn’t just any store—it’s a creative playground filled with intricate LEGO models of NYC landmarks, from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building. There’s even a massive LEGO dragon winding through the store! We spent time exploring the interactive build stations, where you can create your own mini-figures or design a masterpiece of your own. It’s impossible to leave without feeling inspired—and maybe with a bag full of new LEGO sets.

From there, we took a short walk to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The moment you step inside, it’s like entering another world—a serene, awe-inspiring contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. The towering ceilings, intricate stained-glass windows, and quiet reverence of the space left us speechless. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s impossible not to be moved by the beauty and history of this iconic landmark. We lit a candle, took in the peaceful atmosphere, and reflected for a moment before continuing our adventure.

Our final stop of the day was FAO Schwarz, the legendary toy store that feels like a magical wonderland. Walking through the doors, we were greeted by the famous life-sized toy soldiers and a world of imagination. The store is filled with interactive experiences—from a candy station where you can customize your own treats to the giant piano made famous in the movie Big. We couldn’t resist trying it out, dancing across the keys to play a tune. From stuffed animals bigger than we were to an entire section dedicated to board games, FAO Schwarz is a treasure trove of fun.

By the time we wrapped up our day, we were completely worn out but so full of joy. Exploring the food and fun of NYC is like stepping into a living postcard—every corner has something new and exciting to offer. Whether it’s the perfect pizza slice, the bright lights of Times Square, or the magic of toys and LEGOs, this city truly has something for everyone. It’s no wonder they call it the greatest city in the world!