If you care, and get the chance, get off Manhattan island and see some quintessential NY places like Coney Island (ride the Cyclone, walk the Boardwalk, eat some Nathan’s and maybe even get your toes wet at the beach!
Conversely, in the other direction, take a boat trip up the Hudson River Valley and hop off at one/some of the beautiful, old New York towns and villages that are dotted along the shore. It’s a beautiful boat ride (you will be going opposite the direction Sully landed!) and you’ll go under some cool bridges and may enjoy a nice respite from the hustle, bustle, noise, emergency sirens…and smell…of Manhattan.
P.S. There was mention of renting bikes. No problem in Central Park, but absolute madness on the roads, esp with you instinctively looking on the wrong direction for traffic!!!
P.P.S. Just because it has a reputation, don’t miss out on going to Times Square! It’s really close to Rockefeller Centre and a few other things, so wander through at least for a few pics! Maybe even take in a matinee show, esp if it’s 90-100F outside.
P.P.S. Your pound has recently been stretched by the Orange Moron, so push the boat out a bit and enjoy the exchange rate while you’ve got it in your favor! Things cost what they cost, so get over the “fuck, that’s expensive!” early. Buy…don’t buy…your choice, but “that’s expensive” gets old and steals your joy. Do or don’t, but don’t whine about it, esp to loved ones, whose joy it also steals!”
ENJOY!!!