For all the high-priced tickets in this town, (and there are a lot!), it’s reassuring to realize that there ARE freebies to be found. The Staten Island Ferry shuttles you between downtown Manhattan and the St. George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island. The ride lasts a meager 30 minutes each way, but barring all sea-sickness, it’s a fun way to really see Manhattan from afar.

The best time of day to hop on board is, probably predictably, sunrise or sunset when weather permits. Regardless, one can always catch views of Ellis Island, lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the many bridges that connect the five boroughs. And if you’re really looking for a good time, beer and snacks are available for purchase!

One time, I took the Ferry with some friends to see a cricket game, but upon arrival to Staten Island, we discovered the game was canceled and our long trip from Brooklyn was for nothing. But, that sad Ferry ride back to Manhattan turned into a literary fest of haiku-writing about our disappointment, and now, we all have good memories of the day. See how things can change in a New York minute?

Luckily, even though South Street Seaport is home to J. Crew, Godiva, and Ann Taylor, their original 19th century structures have been preserved and the nearby museum can help fill in the historical gaps.

The best advice for a trip to the Met is to focus on only a few exhibits or rooms, rather than becoming overwhelmed by the immensity of the museum. If weather permits, the roof garden usually hosts a few installation pieces, but better yet, take in the sweeping views of Central Park and Manhattan.

What I don’t recommend? Taking up your date on the idea that you should bypass the donation counter and see how long you can roam around the museum without those little metal badges. Because guess what, it isn’t as thrilling as you were convinced it would be.

Sipping cappuccino, eating cannoli, saying Godfather lines in your head…welcome to Veniero’s! This Italian sweets mecca opened in 1894 as a pool hall-pastry shop, and continues to crank out the same delectable treats. On top of some top-rate edibles, much of the architecture is original and in tact, transporting you back to the early 1900’s as you sit among a diverse crowd.

Veniero’s is no hidden gem, so you may wait for a table most weekends, but one bite into whatever your order will make it worth your time. I have also ordered from the counter “to-go,” heading back home to devour some cannoli.

Yes, the piano from Big really is there! My first trip to Fao Schwarz involved watching my piano-playing dad reenact the above clip from the movie. Memorable! Even if you don’t have the fancy footwork, a stroll around this gigantic toy store will take you back to your childhood, and make you feel really out of touch with “what the kids are doing these days.” Remember when we didn’t have video games and played with dolls and such? Okay, I’m dating myself!