Still not ready to post my itinerary for NYC (it's bulky, unwieldy and grows overnight) but have this quick question.

We're booked for the last week in May at the Affinia Dumont. We arrive at Penn Station at 2:45. We'll have 2 med roll bags - can we walk it? I read that the Crosstown Bus is very slow - and that a taxi might take twice as long as walking.

Opinions?

Yes, it's walkable. Yes the bus is slow (but maybe more comfortable than walking). Yes, a taxi could take longer than walking. But it's your vacation. Stop stressing. It's not a big deal. One way or the other, you'll get there.

Absolutely walkable. Lots of people are on the sidewalk, but big deal! Out of Penn Station, simply head up 7th Ave to 34th St, make a right, walk on 34th till you find the hotel (past Lexington). I love that area; Murray Hill is so "real" New York! And make sure you go for a Big Nosh at Sarge's Deli (3rd Ave just north of 36th St.)!!

It's certainly walkable - but be prepared for masses of pedestrians on the sidewalk. I would grab a cab just to avoid having to dodge all those people for 8 blocks (some of them long).

The walk from Penn Station to the Affinia, is probably 20 minutes, I did it yesterday, no biggie. If you don't feel like walking hop on the bus (the #16 or the #34) which stops right at Penn Station, (34th and 7th Ave) and get off at Lexington Ave.

Have a great time while you are here.

Thanks everyone - Of course McLaurie is right - it's not a big deal - I think I tend to get hung up on worrying about stuff like that.

travelbuff,
you were/are staying at the Affinia? Would you mind telling me some close places that you enjoyed eating - and also where we might pick up some very basic groceries?

rjw_lqb_ca
I will certainly look for Sarge's Deli. I wish I were there right now! And glad to hear a thumb's up for Murray Hill! (Assuming I can hear a thumb's up!) Any other recommendations?

I live here on the uppest west side, and was downtown doing some shopping.

Right in the area there are so many good restaurants you won't have a problem finding something yummy. Walk up 3rd AVe to 40th to Docks which is one of the best seafood restaurants in the city. There are also many more that you will pass along the way. Probably the closest food store is Gristede's also on 3rd AVe at 36th ST.

If you walk down 3rd AVe there are more restaurants, Coppola's being my favorite in the area (I used to live in that area on 29th St) on 27th ST (I think) and 3rd Ave.

If you like Sushi, try Iron Sushi on 3rd and 30th and there's Moonstruck Diner open 24/7 across the street.

Have a great time while you're here.

travelbuff,
thanks for the specific recs - esp Gristede's and the Moonstruck Diner! How could you resist a name like that? And 24/7 to boot.

Decent (for NYC) Tex/Mex at El Rio Grande on 38 st. just off 3rd ave. El Parador, even closer to your hotel is considered by many (not me) to be very good Mexican. Artisinal is one of the best French brasseries in the city and it's near you. They are known for their cheese selection (and do fondues). They have good value prix fixe lunch and dinner.

I'm at the Affinia Dumont right now and I LOVE it! Love the hotel and the area; so much better than our last stay at the Affinia across from Penn Station - such a crowded area. I picked up groceries this morning at the market right next door to the hotel. For what I wanted it worked.

I've jotted down the restaurant suggestions - thanks!