Just booked a flight to take my teenage son to the the US Open Labor Day weekend. We have been to New York a couple of times before, so we will focus on going to tennis matches, a show and other activities. Just looking for a cheap place to stay and not concerned w/ambience this trip. Hampton Inn Times Sq is offering $169 night, incl breakfast. Any downside to this? Also, any other events of interest going on at that time or ideas of things to do? This is a father/son weekend and we've done the Met and tourist sites before . Is the Bronx Zoo really that great?

Thanks!

Yes - the Bronx Zoo is one of the best in the world. There's also an aquarium - but it requires a subway trek to Coney Island.

Have you done the various boat rides (Staten Island ferry, Circle Line tours, Ellis Island ferry)? Have you done the Intrepid?

If you want another sporting activity how about a baseball game - it looks like we might have TWO real winners this year.

Or some activities of your own - biking or boating in Cenral Park?

Thanks for the idea about the baseball game-can't believe I didn't think of that. It's still Feb., I guess. Have taken the Ellis Island tour, Statue of Liberty and the Beast speedboat. What is the Intrepid?

The city will be quiet during that weekend; for many residents, it is the last time to enjoy their country/beach houses before the official end of the season. So it is a nice time to be visiting. Any interest in Museum of Natural History?

I've heard that the Hampton Inn is a fairly decent deal, esp since it includes breakfast. It's clean, and I think maybe fairly new. Should be fine.

We're planning on being at the Open too. Can't wait!

The Intrepid is a WWII aircraft carrier that is now a museum. It is in the Hudson RIver at 46th Street.