JD

Lisa Magnago: a place to experience after a walk in battery park or a visit to downtown nyc. a beautiful quiet spot where to sit and read.

Gray Line New York: Hop-off at Stop #4 on the Downtown Loop & visit the Empire State Building Observatory on the 86th floor. The Observatory offers panoramic views of the city's bustling streets.

HuffPost: The crown reopened in summer 2009 for the first time since 9/11 and will be open until 2011 when it is closed for renovations. Read more.

TODAY Show: Largest indoor theatre in the world with a marquee that is one whole city-block long.

Gray Line New York: Hop-on the Uptown Loop for gorgeous views of Central Park from the top-deck.

Jay Thompson: If you ask the ferryman, he'll let yr kid pull the air horn.

TODAY Show: A breathtaking view of Manhattan.

Gray Line New York: Hop-off at Stop #3 on the Downtown Loop to get some holiday shopping done at the magical Macy's on 34th Street,

Gray Line New York: Look up and wave at guests on the top-deck of the double-decker bus!

Time Out New York: Visit the ice rink before Thanksgiving and Christmas to avoid the crowds. On Thanksgiving go between 9am and noon or expect a one- to two-hour wait.

Gray Line New York: Sports fan visiting NYC? Catch a game at this giant indoor arena home to the NHL New York Rangers of the NHL, the New York Knicks of the NBA and the New York Liberty of the WNBA.