Richard (and anyone else who lives near, has lived in, or knows New York City…), we're going to NYC this summer (likely in June, but not sure yet) and are wondering if you have any tips on what are must-sees, must-eats, and where in the city is a good place to stay (in terms of what areas of the city… we're clueless).  Our plans definitely will include the Museum of Natural History, the Met. Museum of Art, and the Statue of Liberty (all three are non-negotiable with Amelia). 

I love that they are non-neg. with the four year old that is awesome!

yeah, she was the one who picked New York City, actually….  Nathan told her she could pick where we went for family vacation after his deployment. I was totally bracing myself for the inevitable "Disneyworld!!!".  No. The kid says, "I want to go to New York and see the Museum of Natural History".  I love being responsible for giving the world one more geek. 

She is an amazing geek! Just like her mom.

Great that she's not been drinking the "Disney Kool Aid".

Uh, yeah…MY HOUSE! I'm just 10 minutes out of the city and my wife is an excellent cook.

The museums are a must.  I would hit up Broadway too.  South Street Seaport is a great spot for shopping and music.  If you're going to the Statue of Liberty, I would take the ferry over to Jersey City and visit the Liberty Science Center.  Amelia would absolutely love it.  Heck, I'll probably meet you there if you go.

As far as food…there's so much.  It really depends on what you're interested in.  There's an awesome restaurant in the Village called Peanut Butter & Co.  They serve PB&J sandwiches almost exclusively.  You also have to go to the Shake Shack in the Flatiron for some epic milk shakes.  If you like sandwiches, Katz's on the East Side is a must.

Not too sure about hotels.  You'll probably want to be in the middle of everything…near Times Square.  Something like the Paramount or the Washington Jefferson will put you right in the action without robbing you blind.

Richard, definitely plans include seeing you and Amy….  I will let you know dates once we have them.  Likely in June, mid to late in the month I'm guessing.  We're still waiting on official word on when Nathan is going to get home. 

K, the hotel suggestions are a huge help. 

As for food, we love ethnic stuff (Indian, Morroccan, etc.).  Want to definitely try some great pizza.  Also would love to find some great bakeries and coffee shops. 

I'm so freakin' excited.

I can definitely help you with the ethnic stuff.  I also know where to get the "best Korean bbq" on this side of the globe (in Koreatown, obviously).  Pizza - you can't take a step in NYC without bumping into the "world's best pizza".  If the place serves just straight up pizza (i.e. none of that crappy thick or thin crust junk), you can't lose.  And I have you covered with bakery…my in-laws know every great bakery and German deli from Jersey to Maine.  If you like chocolate, I can show you where to get some mind-blowing hot chocolate.

I'll also see if I can find some more hotel advice.  Usually everyone that comes in from out of town stays in Newark near the airport (more business than pleasure).