Vacation in Pennsylvania and Visit to NYC

So this Tuesday my long awaited trip to Pennsylvania to see my best friend has finally come. I can't wait to get out and relax, drink some cold beer, and play some golf. But Since I know there are quite a few of you that live in the north, I just wanted to get some suggestions and advice on what to see when I visit New York City. I'm flying into Scranton, PA and am visiting NYC for a day that week. What's going to be the easiest to get there? By Bus? How much does it cost? What about getting around NYC and Taxi costs and such? What should I see, besides the obvious (Times Square, Ground Zero, Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building). FOOD!! Where should I eat while I'm there? Any help or suggestions are appreciated... I know Mouse and Kathleen know some things so I hope you can point me in the right direction!

Ryan

I suggest the New York way: the subway. Buy the one day card and travel like the natives. Taxis are ok as long as you're not going crosstown. It's _slow_. I got around alright by the subway and by walking.

If you've only got a day, I wouldn't suggest the Empire State or the Statue unless you're prepared to spending your day standing in ques. Unless you're there very first thing in the morning, the lines will kill you.

I'd skip the obvious (everyone else wants to see them too, which is why they're always crowded) and just see the places that you can without queing; Times Square, Central Park, Ground Zero, Flat Iron building, etc. You know, the buildings, parks and such.

Kathleen's the best guide you can have... and she know all the great restaurants as well.

Ice

Ryan - Send me a pm with your dates and perhaps we can meet for some food or drink . Are you really only going to be in NYC for a single day? That's not much time for a city that big - not to mention being so close to Jersey and seeing some of the Jersey shore. I'll also send you a pm with my phone numbers.

I have a restaurant guide that I have sent a few people here - I'll go look it up (if I can find it).

I agree with Ice - if it's only one day buy the unlimited day pass on the subway and go anywhere with it - for 24 hours. New York City is not the scary place that you have read about - hit the streets and enjoy it. I also agree with his advice about the Empire State building - you can see it - but if you want to go up to the top it will be a looong wait on line. Same with the Statue of Liberty. I would recommend a ride on the Staten Island Ferry though. You just go there and come back. Your subway card will cover the cost and you will go right past the Statue on the water. Then - the view of Manhattan on the way back in is priceless - one of the best in the world.

Kathleen

you shouldn't be drinking if you're only 20

hush! Don't spoil my fun! It's hard to wait 2 more months! Anyways, I appreciate everyone's help. Ice, the subway is a great idea. I read that those "Fun Passes" cost around 7 dollars. Which is a great deal. I also found a bus station in the area that travels to NYC and back for around 30 dollars. I'll be in good shape!

Ryan

Crap - I forgot about that. Sorry Ryan - you can order a milkshake - and I'll have the beer. (I'm ducking now LOL)

Kathleen

Rub it in!!! It's fine... My time is coming very soon. Unfortunately, 2 months seems like an eternity. My co-workers are already starting to plan out how drunk I'm going to get!!

Ryan

got to be a law abiding citizen

btw you can take me for a beer if i actually make it to NY next year summer

Oh... I need to find some record shops as well in NYC. I've got money to spend so suggestions would be lovely!

Ryan

You looking for old records or old CDs or brand new? There is not the choice of stores that there used to be unfortunately - the CD/record business has gone to shit


And Jim - anytime you're here - you're on for at LEAST a beer

Kathleen