Liberty Helicopter Tours

Helicopter rides are cool. They are cool anywhere in the world, but probably the coolest place of all would be New York. The Manhattan skyline is impressive enough from the ground, but seeing it from the air just adds a whole new dimension to the majesty of the tall buildings.

Liberty Helicopters run an efficient company from two locations in Manhattan, and one in New Jersey.
They run tours of varying length, from a 2-minute take-off and land to a 20-minute full tour of Manhattan island. The latter is highly recommended. It is not cheap -far from it- on a per-minute basis this is probably the most expensive thing I have ever done, but its worth paying the extra dough for the long tour.

The only thing I don't understand is that on top of the advertised pricing you have to pay for security tax and a hefty departure fee. Even so, it's an unforgettable experience and the experience is worth every penny!

The View restaurant and lounge are situated on the top floors of the Mariott Marquis Hotel at Times Square, New York.

It is the only revolving roof top restaurant in New York and that alone is a good reason to visit the place. While having your drink or dinner the floor of the restaurant revolves slowly (taking about an hour for a full turn) thus giving you 360 degree views of the New York skyline.

The restaurant offers quality food for a reasonable price, offering a choice for three-course dinners for a set price.
The lounge has an even better deal in the form of an all-you-can-eat buffet, as well as an extensive cocktail menu, though the hefty cover charge may put you off.

To get to The View you must ride a vertigo inducing glass elevator through the 45-floor atrium of the Marriott Marquis Hotel. Even if you aren't interested in a drink or meal at The View, this elevator in itself is actually one of the coolest free attractions in NYC.