yes, regarding ESB and TOR...i am a view-aholic, and do think the TOR is a better view, in that you are farther uptown, but for a 15 year old birthday to remember...seems the whole sound of 'top of the ESB' carries more weight...

and yes, the tenement museum is a great idea, i have looked at the website, IS THERE A FAVORITE TOUR THERE!? there are so many, i just got a bit baffled.

and what about the WTC museum, i know it is just a construction site, but i would think this museum and just being there would be quite memorable...am i wrong??

and the heat?? coming from texas, it'll be fine!! 105 degrees here should be easy to beat in NYC, and there is no such thing as a 'dry heat'!! :)

Tenement Museum: I took the tour that dealt with the Irish family (mostly because my family's Irish) and can recommend it. The new two hour "Getting By" tour looks interesting. They're all good, from what I've heard. Sort of depends on your interests.

Definitely recommend sailing around Manhattan! I also think looking out over the observation deck of Empire State B. or Tip of the Rock is pretty darn cool.

My husband's office is in Times Square -- here are some good places near the theater district:

http://www.bond45.com/contact.html -- Bond 45. A place people frequently go in his office to celebrate birthdays, because the food is sooo good.

Here are a couple other favorite in that area of town:
Belgium food: http://bxlcafe.pregraphic.com/

Great Italian family style food: http://www.tonysnyc.com/locations/index.html

Hope you have a great time and Happy Birthday!

just found fourth of july fireworks on the deck of the INTREPID, for $100 a person, open 7-9pm...COMMENTS?? anyone done this?? thinking it might be a good way to see this aircraft carrier (the concorde and submarine won't be open at this time) and get a more controlled group to see the show?

hubby HATES crowds, esp. uncontrolled mob like i anticipate at some of the spots along the hudson, know this will be mob-ish getting in and out, but maybe we can miss SOME OF IT??

YOUR COMMENTS would really be appreciated!! thanks

My suggestion for Mom's birthday. Have an appetizer or snack somewhere before Wicked. (Hate to sit in a theatre with a full stomach!) Then opt for a nice dinner afterwards - NYC will be hopping on a Friday night and it's fun to be out. Walk down 46th (Restaurant Row) after the show and you will see restaurant after restaurant. Shouldn't have a problem getting in - however if you want to make a reservation, you might try Orso. Wide range of food - specialty pizzas to fancy stuff. Check their website. I always eat AFTER a Broadway show. Not rushed - and makes for a nice end to a fabulous New York evening!