I think you are thinking of the Barns and Nobel near Lincoln Center. Near that is the IMAX theatre which is one of the largest in the World.
The new Hayden Planetarian is really cool, along with the rest of the Natural History Museum. (DINOSAURS!)
I think you mean the Natvral History Mvsevm.
I was actually thinking of the B&N up near Lincoln center when I said “Columbus Circle”. As I recall, it’s a biggie. But, it’s just a big B&N. I wouldn’t make it the focus of my trip (or even a sidebar, but that’s just me).
Perhaps you mean the 2nd Avenue Deli?
hijack, mini
What airport would you fly into to do the same trip? Newark?
/hijack, mini
Newark Airport now has a NJ Transit train stop, that will take you right into Penn Station, so probably. When I lived in NY I usually flew from LaGuardia, which was near my house. However getting into the city either from there or JFK is a pain.
Former New Yorker, now sometimes visitor.
When we lived in NJ, we would drive in. Don’t expect to use your car in New York - it is just a hassle. parking in hotel garages is most convenient, but expensive.
Last August we stayed at the Holiday Inn on W. 57th street. About $150 a night, but very, very nice. There are two towers, and I’ve heard the one I stayed at is the best. I’m a Starwood frequent stayer member, and that seems to get you a good room. It’s about a block from one subway and two blocks from another, and there are a bunch of nice restaurants in the area, and a good place for breakfast a block away.
I think I’ve been to the Barnes and Noble you mean, though a long time ago. I think it was around 23rd street on the East side. It was massive even for today’s B&Ns, across two buildings. This was before they had spread thoughout the world. Look for something around there.
NY driving is not that bad. NY parking sucks. Unless you want to spend half your time looking for a meter, or half your budget on lots, I’d advise the subway or footleather.
I park in Hoboken and take the PATH train (Port Authority Trans-Hudson) inton Penn Station.
In Hoboken you can find a cheaper parking deck than in the city. You are just across the Hudson from mid-town and the train costs about $2.00 and the ride takes about 5 minutes.
Hey, hey! You’re saying that like our friend shouldn’t see Philly or PA at all. 
Speaking on behalf of other MADs, Paul in Saudi is welcomed to whatever we’re planning. New visitors are cause for a get together.