I went to NYC one time and only one time, out of NJ, crossing into NY by the most southern bridge, a Big bridge it was too. Twelve of sixteen (12 of 16) inbound and outbound lanes were ALL GOING IN THE SAME DIRECTION on a calm and peaceful Sunday morning about 7:30 a.m. As we rounded a curve just off of the bridge, SIX (6) INBOUND LANES were stopped, FOUR (4) INBOUND LANES were backing up at 45 mph(!) and exiting the highway.
I elected to exit right then. Now, traveling below the elevated bridge, we made our way through the city. There were many No U - Turn signs. Then, suddenly, to me anyway, a tunnel to NJ loomed ahead and No U - Turn. So, I became the Ugly American from Florida, stopped the car, and made a U - Turn back into the city.
Finding a pleasant drive along the waterfront, we got closer and closer to Ellis Island and decided to take the walking ferry over to the Statue of Liberty. A kind parking attendant steered us to FREE parking three streets over in a clean and secure area. There was no line for ferry ticketing to the island.
We spent several hours on the island and returned. The line on the city-side to board the ferry had grown to five blocks long. Street performers were showing off for gratuties. We got in the car, drove through the tunnel, and went back to our uncle's accommodations in Elizabeth City.
I won't go back again, because I don't have to. And yes, my reasoning is ENTIRELY due to the city's persona as depicted on TV and the nightly news.
You keep it. I don't want it. I'll take the peace of mind in a rural setting where I can legally carry every day and twice on Sunday.