Just wanted to thank everyone again for all their fantastic suggestions for my 2-night trip to NYC with my daughter. We had an incredible time, as always, and can’t wait to come back again. We stayed at the Edison Hotel for $179 a night, which I thought was a bargain. While Time Square is horrendous, it’s a good base location.

Wed. Got in around noon, left our bags at the hotel, and walked over to 2nd Avenue Deli. I was happy to learn that they reopened, although in a new location, but so sorry to hear about the owner being murdered. After a delicious lunch we took a cab over to the Metropolitan Art Museum. They were forecasting heavy rain so this was going to have to be an “inside” day. We visited the American woman fashion exhibit, a photography exhibit, and the Picasso exhibit. At that point the museum was closing so we headed out. Little did we know that trying to catch a cab in the pouring rain at 5:30 would be impossible. It was pouring out and our umbrellas were being turned inside out in the wind so we tried to take a bus. Mistake number two. I didn’t know that they don’t accept bills; only quarters. So back out into the rain and cold. We found a shop where I was able to get quarters, and then walked up Park Avenue, trying to find a bus stop. Mistake number 3. No buses on Park Ave. Finally we found someone exiting a cab and were able to get to our hotel. We checked in, changed into dry clothes, and then proceeded to the Upright Citizens Brigade comedy club, where it was recommended we arrive an hour early to get in line so we could get a good seat. Which we did. In the pouring rain again. Got soaked a second time. But it was worth it. We saw a British comedian, Simon Amstell, who was fantastic. The “theater” is incredibly run down. My seat had a crate under it to keep it from collapsing. But it all sort of added to the ambiance. We also stayed for the second show which was the screening of a new sitcom. A very enjoyable evening that only cost $5 apiece. Since it was late and we were tired after the show, we caught a cab back to the hotel.

Thurs. Took the subway to Greenwich Village to take the Central Greenwich Village and Soho Foods of New York Tour that I would highly recommend. So happy that the weather cooperated this time. We had very substantial tastings at the following restaurants:

Focacceria - Mozzarella tomato, roasted pepper and olive oil sandwich on homemade focaccia
Bellavitae - Ricotta cheesecake
Cuba - Enpenada, yuca, and tomatillo sauce
Monte’s - pasta with bolognese sauce
Joe’s Dairy - homemade mozzarella and sundried tomatoes
Once Upon a Tart - chocolate pear tart

Plus we learned so much about the history and architecture of the area. It’s really one of my favorite things to do. The rain held off until the tour was over so, stuffed and tired, we took the subway back to our hotel and rested up for the evening. Too full for dinner, we skipped it and went and saw Fences. Incredible show. Powerful performances. Can’t wait to see if they win any Tony awards. My daughter, a photographer, was able to get several photos of Denzel Washington after the play when he graciously came out and shook people’s hands. We then headed over to Bar Centrale, a very classy bar/restaurant in an unmarked brownstone. After looking at our menus and ordering our drinks, we looked up and got the distinct feeling that we were the only ones there that were not celebrities. I am so horrible with names but Linda Lavin was at the table next to us, and we also saw Sean Hayes, Sarah Paulson, and Tony Goldwyn. Wish I wasn’t so clueless and knew who everyone else was! Had a wonderful time.

Friday. Ate a quick breakfast at the Edison Café, which I love. Then took the subway over to High Line. Beautiful weather. Beautiful park. I can see how New Yorkers must love having this tiny gem of green. Such a great vantage point too. Also took a quick stroll through the Chelsea Market. Wish we would have had time to see the Monet exhibit, which I hear was very nice -- and free!

Lunch back at the Edison and then unfortunately had to head back to the airport. Such a great trip in such a great city. Thanks again for all your help!

Sounds wonderful. Glad you liked Bar Centrale. How was the food, btw? For next time, you need to start mastering the transit system. Here's a link to subway and bus maps and a trip planner. http://mta.info/

I forgot to mention that I did use Hop Stop before I left and printed out several directions, but I didn't print out directions to the Met. I had a map of the transit system, but it was kind of hard to read. A phone with internet access would have really come in handy to figure out what subway to take. But we did take the subway everywhere on Thurs and Fri.

We had a pretzel after the show which was very filling so then we weren't hungry for dinner. We just had a couple of drinks at Bar Centrale.

I am confused. Did noone here tell you buses do not accept paper? Did you try to board the bus before or after you used the subway? You have 2 hours for a transfer. Also, you get 3 bus transfers, and $1.50 on a $10 metrocard.
I go to Pier17 from Brooklyn, eat, then use my transfer on the bus to Times Square.

Sounds like a fun trip, thanks for posting!

Only coins have been forever in NY, for Tourist that are Seniors using coins is the simplest way, we took a roll of quaters from home, and took the bus often with my husband paying only $2.25 for both it did worked very good.

When we were in NYC, we decided to catch a bus and my friend didn't have enough change. A young mom explained what we needed and then gave my friend enough coins to get on. She chatted with us on our way to meet my friend's sister. I was struck by the kindness.

Thanks for the trip report! I'm adding Bar Centrale to my list.