[NoKoolAidforMe]

Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty are a must see. Get to the Liberty Island Ferry early to catch the first boat. Plan on spending 2-3 hours.

When you get back from Liberty Island, you’re within walking distance to Wall Street, Ground Zero and St. Paul’s Chapel, the New York Stock Exchange, Fraunces Tavern (where George Washington bid farewell to his men), Federal Hall (where George Washington took his first oath as president) and the South Street Seaport.

The American Museum of Natural History is fabulous. There are lots of dinosaurs, medieval art, and the Hayden Planetarium.

DO NOT TAKE the double-decker buses. They are not safe. You will be safer taking your own tour.

[oh8eleven]

DO NOT TAKE the double-decker buses. They are not safe. You will be safer taking your own tour.
What are you talking about? I grew up in NY and still visit twice a year. I've been on many bus and boat tours and have recommended them to dozens of friends, family and co-workers over the years. Never a problem.

Getting up and down the Empire State Building can be a problem depending on the season, the day of the week, even the time of day. My last visit up was last July and round trip was less than two hours.