We went to Top of the Rock in the morning (after the Today Show) in late July a couple of years ago and there was NO LINE...none at all.

I actually think tourists don't use buses enough!

Yesterday I saw 2 people get on the train at 96th street, get off at 86th and say they were then walking to 82nd. Huh?? Why bother going up and down stairs then waiting for a train?
It would have taken just a couple of minutes longer to get on a bus and be taken practically door to door.
I've also seen people in midtown walk a few blocks out of the way to get a train, then walk a couple of blocks underground, to get to the right platform, then end up getting out still a few more blocks away from their destination.
Now buses in midtown can CRAWL, but if the traffic doesn't look too bad, don't feel like you have to always go underground.

Many New Yorkers would just walk the whole way for trips under 20 blocks. If that isn't an option or a choice you want at that moment, try the buses.

A bus can be an especially good idea on the east side where there is only one train line. If you're near First Avenue, walking all the way over to Lexington can take a lot more time than grabbing a First Avenue bus to go uptown or a Second Avenue bus to go downtown, especially if you can grab a LIMITED bus.

sf7307 Do you wear white sneakers, blue jeans and tee shirts along w/billed caps when you travel in Europe? Also, I thought I recognized you in the theater last time I visited NYC!

Well, I don't ever wear a "cap". And despite the snarkiness, I don't see the point of dressing for what others' think, except when it comes to being respectful of local customs, such as not wearing low-cut or no-sleeve tops in Egypt last summer. Be respectful - you're entitled to your opinion and I'm entitled to mine.

If you get to the Police Museum check out if they have a medal designed for the Police Dept in the late 19th century. It was designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany and is the original design for the famed interlocking NY that you now see on Yankee uniforms. So if you are going to a Yankees game that would be fun to see. The curator of the museum told me a few years ago that it was then in the commissioner's office - but that was Commissioner Kerick who left in disgrace so maybe it's back in the museum - - but ask about it.

Yes, New Yorkers walk 20+ blocks all the time, but...most people from other places are not used to so much walking and it will finally be hot in July. To keep the kids and all of you from getting overtired and grouchy...take cabs sometimes. It is a vacation and you want to enjoy it.
Food is very expensive and not good at the Yankees. Eat before you go and just get snacks.
We like restaurant Becco in the theater district. It kinda has a party atmosphere and almost everybody loves pasta. My kids always liked this place. O'Neals, across from Lincoln Center has great burgers. Plus, the cafeteria at Met Museum is just fine for lunch.

<< I think we will try for the "smart casual" look for the theater >>

I think this is a good idea. If you're wearing a sleeveless top, take a cardigan or something real light with you. Some theaters have powerful a/c.

When you're in Central Park, there are usually street entertainers in the area near Bethesda Fountain (72nd St midway into the park). Some of them do comedy/acrobatic routines, rap, etc. Your children may like this. Today (in the rain), there were still musicians out there - two violinists in the most outrageous costumes and makeup and then there's the saxophonist who is usually around. As you walk around, just follow the music or if you see a crowd in a circle, it's a good indication of a performance. A map of the park is a good idea.

If you have the time, it is fun to take buses and see the "scene" which is New York.We enjoyed our bus trip from Midtown down to Soho. Then we returned by subway. Walking in Central Park is a delight on a nice day.

Do not miss the newly opened HighLine!

Well.. are you here? It's July 23rd and as I type it's raining and 66 degrees. So much for the heat -:)

Gwendolynn - but earlier today was so hot and muggy - just like the 'dog days' of summer!

Centralparkgirl..... I hope our friends have completed their trip. I hear we're in for it tomorrow: 90 degrees -:)

Tho this summer hasn't been so bad , so far. I recall one year when it was in the high 90's and humid forever.