I'm taking my 12 yr old daughter to NYC in May, and was wondering if guided tours are the best way to go? What are availability, quality, prices?

I think you can do it on your own and save money. Since I've never used tours I don't know much about them. This Fodor's web site should have some information as would other resources.

A major tour operator is Gray Line. They operate double decker hop on/hop off bus tours that includes stops at every major tourist attraction. Price is $39 for an adult, $26 for a child and it is for a full day of touring. There is an uptown loop (2 hours), a downtown loop ( 3 hours) and an evening tour of 3 hours. They offer a Sunday Harlem Gospel tour (4 hours that is $44 for an adult, $24 for a child. I tend to agree with the other poster who suggested you do it on your own. If you indicate what are "'must sees" advice can be given as to how best to organize your days.

NYC is definately a walking vaca. No need for tours, if you get tired, there are always cabs. Map out where you want to go first, most of the highlights of the city are in the same area, if not you can take a bus ,cab or subway anywhere you want...you can always ask your hotel for the best way to get around...the bus tours are a waste of your money, in my opinion.

A couple of other online resources are: www.citysearch.com and www.nytoday.com.