Jumped on a great fare Detroit to LaGuardia in April and am busy researching how to make the most of our visit. I have done all the "usual" things, such as Empire State, Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, MOMA.

Here's what I have so far:
We will probably stay at On the Ave, upper West side and would like to take advantage of options close to our hotel. We like to be active, so plan early morning exercise each day in Central Park and Riverside Park esplanade (both within a few blocks of the Ave.) My favorite exercise is biking. Any close bike rentals nearby that open early? Also nearby are Zabar's, Cafe des Artistes (for brunch), Tavern on the Green (for sentimental reasons).

We have tickets for "Wicked" at the Gershwin and might try the early prix fixe dinner at "21" beforehand. I read someone's post here who walked across the Brooklyn Bridge and had pizza on the other side (Grimaldi's?) and thought we could combine that with a ride on the Staten Island Ferry. While on that side of town we want to pay our respects at Ground Zero.

We only have three nights, so I don't want to overschedule. I'd love some input on any glaring problems and/or other ideas you all might have. Thanks in advance.

Sounds like a great time well thought out. Here's a website with info on bike rentals/tours

http://www.nycvisit.com/content/index.cfm?pagePkey=501

For the most beautiful views from the bridge, walk from the Brooklyn side to Manhattan. It is so much better that way. It is really easy to do and highly recommended. For the best light and views, how about a late lunch at Grimaldi's, the bridge to Manhattan, and then make your way to the ferry through downtown. Alternatively, if you have not spent much time on the Lower East Side, you can be at Chinatown in no time after coming off the bridge.

For breakfast, you are quite close to the Omega Diner, on 72nd Street between Amsterdam and Columbus. Great food, ample portions, and at prices more akin to what you're used to in Michigan than what you'll see elsewhere in Manhattan.

You didn't mention if you have been to any of the uptown museums. Since you're so close (a couple of blocks) you might want to check out the Museum of Natural History/Planetarium (the most incredible laser and music shows) or stroll dirctly across the park to the Met - one of the world's 3 great museums.

I would put the American Museum of Natural History at the very top the list of places to experience in that area.

Thanks for all the thoughtful and helpful suggestions so far. McLaurie, that website has a wealth of information - it's a keeper! Dan, your suggestions certainly make sense, should we take the subway over and then walk back over the bridge. I heard it was beautiful to see the city all lit up at night on the way back. I hope we can fit in a visit to Chinatown. NYtraveler and Howard, thanks for mentioning it, I actually had made a mental note to get over there, especially since it's so close to our hotel.