hexagonquilter

We are going to Niagara Falls on a Monday morning 8 hr bus ride. Only US side. Then the next day to the Corning Glass factory tour. then back by Tuesday night. The cost includes the bus, hotel and some tickets. Am hoping We got a good deal on this. But it was one of the main things I really wanted to go see.

Lisanne

Take comfortable walking shoes. Just walking the streets of the city is one of its purest pleasures.

Boston1954

If you have a digital camera, and are loathe to take the laptop to load the pictures, be sure to get an extra chip for all the pictures you will be taking.

Moonpi

I hate to be the one to bring this up, but while in the city, you do need to be aware of your surroundings and keep a tight hold on your purse. Don't carry around things - like your social security card- that you won't be using and cannot replace easily. Just a few minutes of neglecting safety can ruin your whole trip.

hexagonquilter

Thanks for the security tips. We got child watch bears for 2 of us to wear and the third will be the holder of the adult part. So if we get separated more than 150 feet it will let off piercing beeps until we are back together.
I never carry my social security card with me. (Just asking for it to be taken). We are planning on keeping it light. a Small wallet to go across the chest with only a camera and the necessities.
Funny, my 24 year old daughter thinks "the city will eat us alive" she doesn't expect the 3 of us to return safely. I have faith she is very wrong.

CarrieAnne

Well, youre from Wis., you got to be tuff!
Your trip sounds so exciting....I have heard so many great things about the Bronx zoo, too. And of course, the fabric shops!
Have a great time, cant wait to see pictures!

aliaslaceygreen

Staten Island Ferry is A MUST!!! It's free, its 20 minutes each way, it is a 'cooling' experience after all the heat and humidity if you sit outside. Just avoid rush hour, as it IS A commuter vehicle. Inside the Staten Island side terminal there is a cool fish tank. Not much to do on SI near the ferry-- but there is a wonderful zoo on the island, especially if you are into reptiles/snakes.
http://www.statenislandzoo.org/

Snug Harbor Cultural Center is relatively near the ferry, they have a lovely Chinese Scholars Garden http://www.snug-harbor.org/

Near the ferry in Battery Park is where they put the Sphere on display after 9/11, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Sphere
and the Bull on Broadway is nearby, http://www.flickr.com/photos/flissphil/2295723628/

as is the The American Indian Museum. http://www.nmai.si.edu/

Ground Zero is a few short blocks away.

If you go to the City Quilter, look into the Highline Park, nearby. A new and unique park. http://www.thehighline.org/about/maps

And of course, the Met.http://www.metmuseum.org/

The other responses have given you great ideas too!! There is way too much to do and not enough time.

GOOD shoes. Comfortable shoes.
Buy a Fun Pass for the subway, you walk or take it or a bus (slower!!!) everywhere, although a cab ride in NYC is probably an experience you shouldn't miss!! Have FUN. New York is a FRIENDLY place, and SAFE one if you just use your head!!!

aliaslaceygreen

Also, Times Square still does (as of April) have a section blocked off to traffic, they have chairs and tables sitting out in the street for you to sit and rest a bit, wait for someone to come out of a store, etc. There is a Ferris wheel inside the Toys R Us in Times Square as well.

I personally would risk spending a few extra dollars on separate tickets to different attractions, because you may find that walking around and people watching takes all your time and you don't WANT to have to rush from point A to point B to do some other thing.

Serendipity is a must for a child as well. http://www.serendipity3.com/main.htm

People watching is my absolute favorite pastime in Manhattan.

susie0808

Yes!! The wooden escalators are in the original movie Miracle on 34th street!! And the store is amazing! That Macys on 5th Ave trumps all macys all over!!

Everything You have read is all great things to see and do. Not sure about buying passes for ferries or empire state building inadvance ...but most definately the broadway shows! If you have your trip planned out leave some room for browsing you will have a great time!! And make sure you also look up! Some buildings are just beautiful! :-) :-) :thumbup:

Maride

Your bus may not take you to the Canadian side, but is within walking distance. Many people walk the bridge to the other side, since you have an upfront view from there. Great advice about the walking shoes and safety. Have a good time.