Another NYC thread, please take a look for me.

[findmewdw]

I know there have been several threads about NYC and I have read all of them. I would appreciate New Yorkers help to see if my itinerary looks okay. Suggestions would be appreciated.

First Day (should arrive to hotel in Times Square around 12)

Visit Times Square Visitor's Center, get metropass and have quick lunch
Take subway to financial district, Charging Bull, Trinity Church
World Trade Center Memorial have tickets for 4:30, Ground Zero Walk/St. Paul
Take subway to Brooklyn
Dinner at Grimaldi's/Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory?
Walk back into Manhatten via Brooklyn Bridge
Head to Staten Island Ferry to view SOL
Head back to hotel

Second Day
Possibly tour St. John the Divine Cathedral
Take subway to Gray Papaya then walk to American Musuem of Nat'l History
Head to ChinaTown shop
Head to Little Italy Dinner?
Empire State Building at sunset

Third day
St. Patrick's Mass
Lunch at Ellen's Stardust Diner
Check into matinee tickets at TKTS booth or through theater
5th Avenue shop
SOHO?
Broadway? Newsies?

Fourth Day
GMA
check to see standby tickets to The View or other show
Get tickets for NBC studio tour if possible for sometime for the day and tour Rockefeller Center
Statue of Libery tour at 2:00
Visit Washington Square Park
New York Public Library Bryant Park

5th Day
GMA/Today show?? Depending on Day 4
Bike tour Central Park
Dinner for DS bday?
Broadway?Peter and the Starcatcher?
Bike tour Central Park

Thanks for your help. Any thing that is a must that I haven't included? I think I read that many broadway plays do not show on Monday. Is that correct?

 

[EagleScout]

First, regarding mondays, yes, many shows are dark. Second, you are certainly seeing a lot (and should have a great time), but just ensure you understand at least a little about the city's transportation system, etc. because each of your daily itineraries span several miles. For example, if planning to take a subway, ensure there are subway connections, etc, and if going on a weekend, ensure weekend subway schedule not reduced or eliminated due to construction, etc. Similarly, taxis are notoriously difficult to hail outside manhattan other than prime tourist stops, etc. And even in manhattan, there is basically a "dead zone" between 445 and 515 in afternoon while taxis do shift/driver changes. Finally, I know this is "budget" board, but if budget permits, you might consider at least one or two fine dining experiences, if that is your thing (and kids old enough). The only "new york ethnic" food you are really missing is authentic deli (you have pizza, little italy, and chinatown), although ny also has access to lots of other cuisines not even really seen elsewhere In usa. Carnegie deli about halfway between central park and times square on 7th ave, and katz's is downtown (on houston street, I think - street spelled like city in texas, but rhymes with "mouse won".)

 

[findmewdw]

First, regarding mondays, yes, many shows are dark. Second, you are certainly seeing a lot (and should have a great time), but just ensure you understand at least a little about the city's transportation system, etc. because each of your daily itineraries span several miles. For example, if planning to take a subway, ensure there are subway connections, etc, and if going on a weekend, ensure weekend subway schedule not reduced or eliminated due to construction, etc. Similarly, taxis are notoriously difficult to hail outside manhattan other than prime tourist stops, etc. And even in manhattan, there is basically a "dead zone" between 445 and 515 in afternoon while taxis do shift/driver changes. Finally, I know this is "budget" board, but if budget permits, you might consider at least one or two fine dining experiences, if that is your thing (and kids old enough). The only "new york ethnic" food you are really missing is authentic deli (you have pizza, little italy, and chinatown), although ny also has access to lots of other cuisines not even really seen elsewhere In usa. Carnegie deli about halfway between central park and times square on 7th ave, and katz's is downtown (on houston street, I think - street spelled like city in texas, but rhymes with "mouse won".)

Yes I have been researching the subway system and have downloaded Hopstop. I realize we have many miles traveling on some days and I was worried about that too. We are vacation warriors and want to see as much as possible on our limited time there. Thanks for telling me about the weekend subway shcedule because Day 2 and 3 are weekend days. Thanks for the deli info., too. Yes, we are planning on eating at a nicer place only once a day for the budget. I have the restaurant list from the other thread that we are trying to go through. I will add the deli to it. Thanks so much for your help.

 

[princessatheart90]

Hi findmewdw! it looks like you are going to have a great time! As PP mentioned, the itineraries do span out across several miles and navigating the subway and taxi system can be overwhelming (and confusing) for some tourists. Here are my suggestions that will allow for more time spent per area, and less time in the subway!

May I suggest that you visit Washington Square Park on the same day you visit SoHo as it is only a 10 minute walk from the SoHo area. The walk is very nice, and you will pass part of the NYU Campus (I walk it every day!). It will save you time-- the statue of liberty and washington square park are quite far from each other! SoHo is also very short walk to Little Italy. Maybe you could grab a bite there on the same day you visit the Soho and West Village area? Both areas are best visited during the day.

Also, in regards to Grimaldis, take into consideration that you will most likely wait a very long time to get in. They do not take reservations and there is always a line. May I suggest Lombardi's in SoHo as an alternative? It is very well known and is as authentic as NYC pizza gets.

Get to the Statue of Liberty early, and plan on spending several hours there. I would suggest making that the first thing to do on that day and then heading to the NBC Studios after.

You are correct that most of Broadway is dark on Monday's. I just saw Matilda and it was fabulous! I highly recommend it.

The same day that you visit St. John the Divine and the Museum of Natural History, try to make a stop at Lincoln Center (only 10 blocks from the museum). The iconic (and recently renovated!) fountain makes for a beautiful family photo, especially at night.

Have a fabulous time in "the city that never sleeps"!

 

[Shyest99]

Sounds like you will have a fantastic time in my city Newsies was amazing, as was Matilda. I know you mentioned GMA/Today show, and possibly The View or Live with Kelly? (show with standby tickets) Do not know the dates you are planning on being here, but you can check the website http://www.interbridge.com/lineups.html to see who is on what show that day, and if they are even taping since they take a lot of vacation time during the summer. Have a great time!!

 

[msmama]

I would guess it'll be dark by the time you get to the Staten Island Ferry on day 1. Don't know if that's a problem for you, but just wanted to throw that out there.

I've had delays or cancellations on every south bound subway line I've tried the last few times I've been in NYC (go figure, going north is always easy). So, like other said, pad your time. Hopstop doesn't necessarily tell you this stuff either (and if you're stuck underground you can't always get service to check your smart phone to tell you what to do next).

TKTS opens at 10 (11 on Sundays, which I think may be the day you have it mentioned) so I'd do that before lunch. I don't know the age of your kids, but I saw Once recently and it's AMAZING!! I've never seen Disney shows at TKTS so if that's what you want I'd get them before you go.

I also love to get a snack somewhere (Could be your deli day) and eat it in Bryant Park or the steps of the public library. Some of the best people watching in the city.

 

[Iamajoy79]

I totally agree with Lombardi's & Carnegie Deli.... Great pizza at Lombardi's... As for Carnegie, one sandwich can feed 2 people easily. I work in Times Square and I take the city for granted. It's nice to see it through your eyes... The excitement! One HUGE piece of advice about transportation is to avoid town cars that try to pick you up when hailing a cab. They will rip you off and in general you don't know how safe they are. Only get into yellow NYC cabs. You can't do and see everything in NYC... There are just too many things to do. Just enjoy your trip!

 

[findmewdw]

Hi findmewdw! it looks like you are going to have a great time! As PP mentioned, the itineraries do span out across several miles and navigating the subway and taxi system can be overwhelming (and confusing) for some tourists. Here are my suggestions that will allow for more time spent per area, and less time in the subway!

May I suggest that you visit Washington Square Park on the same day you visit SoHo as it is only a 10 minute walk from the SoHo area. The walk is very nice, and you will pass part of the NYU Campus (I walk it every day!). It will save you time-- the statue of liberty and washington square park are quite far from each other! SoHo is also very short walk to Little Italy. Maybe you could grab a bite there on the same day you visit the Soho and West Village area? Both areas are best visited during the day.

Also, in regards to Grimaldis, take into consideration that you will most likely wait a very long time to get in. They do not take reservations and there is always a line. May I suggest Lombardi's in SoHo as an alternative? It is very well known and is as authentic as NYC pizza gets.

Get to the Statue of Liberty early, and plan on spending several hours there. I would suggest making that the first thing to do on that day and then heading to the NBC Studios after.

You are correct that most of Broadway is dark on Monday's. I just saw Matilda and it was fabulous! I highly recommend it.

The same day that you visit St. John the Divine and the Museum of Natural History, try to make a stop at Lincoln Center (only 10 blocks from the museum). The iconic (and recently renovated!) fountain makes for a beautiful family photo, especially at night.

Have a fabulous time in "the city that never sleeps"!

Thank you so much for all your suggestions. Lombardi's was my husband's choice for pizza. Yes, it would make sense to do Washington Square Park and SOHO on the same day. I will be tweaking our itinerary, I knew I could get help here. Thanks again!

 

[findmewdw]

Sounds like you will have a fantastic time in my city Newsies was amazing, as was Matilda. I know you mentioned GMA/Today show, and possibly The View or Live with Kelly? (show with standby tickets) Do not know the dates you are planning on being here, but you can check the website http://www.interbridge.com/lineups.html to see who is on what show that day, and if they are even taping since they take a lot of vacation time during the summer. Have a great time!!

Thanks for this site. I figured several shows would be on rerun. This will be very helpful.

 

[findmewdw]

I would guess it'll be dark by the time you get to the Staten Island Ferry on day 1. Don't know if that's a problem for you, but just wanted to throw that out there.

I've had delays or cancellations on every south bound subway line I've tried the last few times I've been in NYC (go figure, going north is always easy). So, like other said, pad your time. Hopstop doesn't necessarily tell you this stuff either (and if you're stuck underground you can't always get service to check your smart phone to tell you what to do next).

TKTS opens at 10 (11 on Sundays, which I think may be the day you have it mentioned) so I'd do that before lunch. I don't know the age of your kids, but I saw Once recently and it's AMAZING!! I've never seen Disney shows at TKTS so if that's what you want I'd get them before you go.

I also love to get a snack somewhere (Could be your deli day) and eat it in Bryant Park or the steps of the public library. Some of the best people watching in the city.

Yes, I realized it would be dark for the Staten Island Ferry. That is a question I had, will we be safe at that time? We thought we'd like to do that at dark since we will be touring the SOL on another day. I do want to keep safe though.
I love the idea of eating on the steps of the public library. Thanks so much for your help.

 

[rhiansmom]

We just got back and were able to get Newsies tickets for less than waiting in line at the ticket booth. Goto broadwaybox.com for the code. Then you aren't wasting time in line and you know you have tickets for a show that evening.

 

[findmewdw]

We just got back and were able to get Newsies tickets for less than waiting in line at the ticket booth. Goto broadwaybox.com for the code. Then you aren't wasting time in line and you know you have tickets for a show that evening.

Did you get the code and then order the tickets by phone or did you use the code at the theater? My son wants to see Newsies. I wonder if I could get a discount using Disney Visa. I know sometimes they have discounts. . .

 

[clh2]

I can't help with questions about discounts for Newsies - but when we where there in December - we did see the show on a Monday night.

It was AWESOME...and worth the price of the tickets! (We were in the 2nd row of the balcony, right in the center!)

 

[MeganFyne]

WOW! I'm exhausted just looking at day 1!

I think PP said - Grimaldi's always has a wait. Like several hours. Picture trying to get walk up BOG reservations.

How are you arriving to the city? I mean are you flying or driving?

Re: metrocards: there is a new $1 fee PLUS the amount you spend on the card for each metrocard. How many people are in your party and how long you spend in the city/ how often you'll take the subway or bus may change which metrocard options you may want.

First Day (should arrive to hotel in Times Square around 12)


After a long day of travel you might not want to walk the Brooklyn Bridge. Also, the other side of the bridge is pretty far in downtown Manhattan - make sure you consider you might need to take a cab back to your hotel from there. Especially if you are traveling with kids.


If you insist on shopping in China Town, stay off of Canal Street. It's the pits.

Try visiting the South Street Seaport one day. It's really neat. I think the Bodies exhibit is still there, and they have their own TKTS booth, which is less likely to run out of tickets b/c fewer people know about it than the Times Square one.

While it's true many Broadway shows are dark on Mondays, some are not. Check listings!

I would also suggest taking a guided tour. They are rarely more than $20/pp (usually like 10) and super fun/valuable.
http://www.bigonion.com/

Also see the highline park if you'll be in the summer! Are you going with kids? Would you like to see music or live comedy if you aren't? There are always great places to go (and yes, not in Times Square - off the beaten path you get inexpensive or free shows)

Going with kids? I love the Native American museum. It's downtown near where you get into the park for the boat to Liberty Island. So Many Awesome Museums!

I love my city, but as Nora Ephron said about NY "It's a great place to live, but I'd hate to visit"

 

[it's kelly]

They have opened a Grimaldi's in Coney Island across the street from the Cyclone. We walk in and get a table with no problem.

 

[it's kelly]

Yes, I realized it would be dark for the Staten Island Ferry. That is a question I had, will we be safe at that time? We thought we'd like to do that at dark since we will be touring the SOL on another day. I do want to keep safe though.
I love the idea of eating on the steps of the public library. Thanks so much for your help.

What time would you be traveling on the ferry? While I don't think there would be an issue and I am not a regular on the ferry, there are homeless who stay inside the ferry terminal. I'm guessing you would just be getting off and right back on?

 

[findmewdw]

What time would you be traveling on the ferry? While I don't think there would be an issue and I am not a regular on the ferry, there are homeless who stay inside the ferry terminal. I'm guessing you would just be getting off and right back on?

Yes, we would only get off and right back on. I know it would be after dark, but should be before 11 pm. If it's unsafe, we don't want to be there. We are seeing the SOL another day anyway, just thought we'd enjoy the ferry ride at night.

 

[findmewdw]

WOW! I'm exhausted just looking at day 1!

I think PP said - Grimaldi's always has a wait. Like several hours. Picture trying to get walk up BOG reservations.

How are you arriving to the city? I mean are you flying or driving?

Re: metrocards: there is a new $1 fee PLUS the amount you spend on the card for each metrocard. How many people are in your party and how long you spend in the city/ how often you'll take the subway or bus may change which metrocard options you may want.

First Day (should arrive to hotel in Times Square around 12)


After a long day of travel you might not want to walk the Brooklyn Bridge. Also, the other side of the bridge is pretty far in downtown Manhattan - make sure you consider you might need to take a cab back to your hotel from there. Especially if you are traveling with kids.


If you insist on shopping in China Town, stay off of Canal Street. It's the pits.

Try visiting the South Street Seaport one day. It's really neat. I think the Bodies exhibit is still there, and they have their own TKTS booth, which is less likely to run out of tickets b/c fewer people know about it than the Times Square one.

While it's true many Broadway shows are dark on Mondays, some are not. Check listings!

I would also suggest taking a guided tour. They are rarely more than $20/pp (usually like 10) and super fun/valuable.
http://www.bigonion.com/

Also see the highline park if you'll be in the summer! Are you going with kids? Would you like to see music or live comedy if you aren't? There are always great places to go (and yes, not in Times Square - off the beaten path you get inexpensive or free shows)

Going with kids? I love the Native American museum. It's downtown near where you get into the park for the boat to Liberty Island. So Many Awesome Museums!

I love my city, but as Nora Ephron said about NY "It's a great place to live, but I'd hate to visit"

Yes, I think my first day is crammed too. We are a family of four, with DD18 and DS 15. We will fly in that morning and will leave our home by 4am, so we may be too tired to get it all in. My kids won't slow us down;they are athletic and use to intense exercise. It's Mama who may not be able to keep up the pace. I just want to have a basic plan, but we are very flexible and realize we will need to go with the flow. I will be arranging things based on everyone's comments. Is their a particular guided tour that you would recommend? I think that would be fun, and it sounds budget friendly, too. I will check into that link. Again, thank you so much for your comments and help!

 

[CarrieR]

Your schedule looks reallly ambitious to me. We went this week and did the following:

Train arrived @ Grand Central 10:38AM (42nd)
Walked to Serendipity - 45 min wait
Went to Dylan's Candy Bar during wait
Ate Serendipity (60th)
Walked to/thru Central Park (up to 79th then down thru the park)
FAO Schwartz
Grabbed Starbucks & dinner near Times Square
Saw Annie (47th, I think)
Midnight train home

Our group of four were three with good to excellent levels of NYC knowledge and a "country mouse," ha ha. We planned to cab it but didn't need to since we spanned a whole 35 blocks :/ Just to show what we found to realistically fit into a day, all in the same area of the city. YMMV of course!

I would absolutely have access to a paper map and practice reading it. We had a weird snafu going out to Coney last year and I was SO glad I knew how to read a subway map. On our first nyc trip a few years ago, I discovered that my friends did not and I was kind of appalled - one of them grew up in CT!

 

[SnoWhiteRabbit]

TKTS has an app. You can check it each day to see what's available. It will give you a good idea, in advance, of what will be available when you go.

Also, if by chance, you pick a non-musical, there is actually a separate window, with virtually no line...