We're trying to plan a 4-5 day trip to NYC, but my husband has such an erratic work schedule in the next few months, it's hard to nail down a date.

For decent tix to shows and other attractions, how far in advance should we purchase? How 'bout hotel reservations? We're also interested in good deals. It will be our first trip so I don't want to wait until the last minute and then get screwed on price and availability. Thanks!

You can get hotels through Priceline and tickets at TKTS upon arrival.

As far as airfare, the major airlines just dropped their fares to NYC.

You don't have to plan months in advance.

You could try to pick a date that you think the trip might work and search on-line for a cancelable hotel reservation. If you find a price that you can live with at a hotel that is acceptable to you - book it. Hopefully you won't have to cancel, but if you do you will have the ability to do so. A Priceline reservation can not be cancelled, you pay for it when your bid is accepted and there's "no way out".

What shows were you interested in seeing? Tickets for the hot shows like "Wicked" go fast, but you would be able to get tickets for other shows at TKTS or by using the discounts at playbill.com or theatermania.com We have some very knowledgeable theater people here, including Patrick or Howard who will be able to offer you sound advice if you tell them (generally) when you will be visiting and what shows you might want to see.

"As far as airfare, the major airlines just dropped their fares to NYC."

Interesting you say that. I keep checking AA from Ft. Lauderdale to LaGuardia for June 1 to July 1. It has been as low as $120 and more recently $156. I've been holding off to make sure our dates aren't going to change. But this past week it changed to $256!

As for getting show tickets, availability varies by the time of the year. The present is a great time to get theater tickets as this is a slow season. Also, tickets are more readily available for midweek performances than for those on weekends.
How far in advance you buy the tickets really depends on the shows you want to see.
I know this information isn't really terribly specific. If you could give us the shows you're interested in seeing, then perhaps we can offer more specific info.