Going to visit NYC in fall, must see places?

[Junebaby]

My family is in the process of planning our trip to NYC and surrounding area.  There is soooo much to see and not enough time.  My boys are 13 & 11.  What are some places that we shouldn't miss?  And is it worth it to buy "passes" for attractions.

 

On my list so far-

Touring Brooklyn, Patterson & Wallkill.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Central Park

Brooklyn Bridge

 

How do I find listings for free events in the area?  Not sure on the dates we will be there or how many days we will have there yet either.  It will be late October or early September probably.

 

TIA

 

[Qapla]

The Staten Island Ferry is free.

 

Also, Times Square at night is quite a sight.

 

Might mention, the Macy's has something you will not find elsewhere. It still has some of the "wooden escalators". Several have been modified and are partially metal. However, the one going to the basement is still original - wood.

[Cherie]

Also, my daughter and I took some Greyline tours.  (The big red tour busses.)  So fun!  

[trottigy]

Other than the branch places - the statue of liberty is open again. You can get tickets to go online or when you get there.

Also, the new tower and museum where the 911 twin towers were destroyed is something to see. Also, the top of the Empire State building is quite a sight.

[Qapla]

Some may not consider it a "sight" but the New York Subway is something you may also want to check out, especially since it is one of the best ways to get around ... parking is expensive and traffic is ridiculous.

 

You can get a 7-Day Unlimited – $30 (plus a $1 fee for new cards - added since March 2013)

 

This is a per-person cost but it allows you to ride the subway and some of the buses all you want during the 7 days. You can even order the card(s) on-line and they will send them to you. The 7 days do not start until the first time you use the card at the subway.