wildblueyonder

We have 3 nights/2 days in NYC in June. It's our first visit to NYC and , although I've done loads of research (especially reading this forum!), I've bought no tickets for anything - no shows, no coach tours, no boat tours, no nothing! Every time I go to buy something (often), I think that whatever it is, will tie us and I think we would prefer to just wonder the streets and take it all in, slowly. Is this sensible? There are, of course, some things 'on our list', such as Times Square, TotR, Empire State, World Trade Center Site, Central Park, maybe the Met and Natural History Museum - and the Statue of Liberty (probably by Staten Island ferry).

I'm not really asking a question; I'm just thinking aloud! But I am generally such an organised person and I'm a bit concerned over my non-organisation for these two days!

Ceidleh

I would not worry about not having purchased advance tickets for NYC attractions. Just plan on getting up early to get to a sight that may have long lines (i.e., Empire State).

If you are not insistent on seeing any one particular show or having front row seats, just get over to the TKTS booth to get in line before they open and pick up a discounted ticket for whatever they might have that strikes your fancy. You can check their website in advance to see what shows they offer tickets for.

NewbE

I agree, I don't think this is a problem at all. I think you should make a list of your personal must-see's, the things you would be very sorry to miss. Then make a rough list of which you'll do on which day, based on location--NYC is very big, as everyone knows, that's why I'm suggesting this, so you don't waste time backtracking. As C. says, if there's a specific show you'd like to see, buy those tickets, but otherwise, use TKTS. If there's a restaurant you'd LOVE to go to, make a reservation; otherwise, stay loose!

wildblueyonder

Thanks folks - I feel more relaxed now!

Yes I do have a sort of rough idea in my head. We get into Manhattan at about 5 or 6 in the evening on our first night (it's the Hampton Inn Times Sq N), so I thought we might walk to the Rockefeller Center and do the TOTR. Then on one day, south Manhattan - Wall St etc and the Staten Island + maybe the Empire State and some of 5th Avenue. And some wondering around and people-watching. Second day, we could stick around the area and go up to Central Park and the museums there. Maybe! Whatever, we have to get up early the next day to fly to Chicago!

I really don't like big cities and am happy to stay loose!

nytraveler

I agree with not tying yourself down to a lot of tours.

A couple of recos - if you do Tof the R don;t bother iwth Empire State -which has terribly long lines - it's overkill

You can SEE the Statue from the Staten Island ferry - but not up close - since it doens;t go to Liberty Island

Agree that walking and seeing what grabs you is the best idea - just come armed with a list of what is open when

But- if you're going to the theater - and you should - do go to Broadwaybox.com and get discount tickets in advance.

wildblueyonder

nytraveller - my hub is adamant that we go up the ESB, but if he sees long lines he might well change his mind! Yes, realise the ferry doesn't land at Liberty Island, but you can't go up the statue now, can you, so a view from the water will be fine with us.
(Not sure if this is alright or not, but ...) I bought a coupon from eBay for $5 for Grease. And it works! I was offered $121 priced tickets for $71 on ticketmaster. I didn't buy them though - or I haven't yet - as we're not sure we want to go!