Once in NY we spent 5 wonderful days in a glass fronted hotel in south manhatten (Embassy Suites)overlooking the Statue of Liberty. In the evening we had the most beautiful views. As we are a family of 5, we have problems finding accommadation which doesn't involve having two separate rooms, this hotel gave us an apartment which was great. Large breakfast included. Free internet in the lobby (if you haven't brought your PC with you), we even managed to buy baseball tickets via the lobby internet. Very helpful staff. Whilst we wouldn't call it 5* luxury, it was practical and suitable for the children. We have stayed in the Waldorf in the past, but if you are thinking about this make sure you ask for a room in the New Tower. The Sony Centre is a brilliant interactive day out for all the family. Visit the Empire State Building in the early morning or evening as the queues are much much shorter. We did this the morning we arrived and the children were just overwhelmed. Having been to NYC twice before, as an adult you see things differently when you have the children with you. We split up and took in 2 different shows on Broadway, went to Central Park (very hot in August!), and the natural history Museum. The kids loved this and I wish we had gone there earlier in the day as we didn't have enough time to see it all. We sailed to the Statue of Liberty and walked around, but tickets need to be bought in advance now to walk up the Statue, so check this out before leaving the UK. After that we spent 5 cultural days in Washington DC (took the bus! as its quicker than train/plane and almost door to door). Took a hotel outside centre near Alexandria. Lovely colonial town, well worth a visit. Again the chidren enjoyed themselves. They had a history lesson, but 5 days was enough for them. Some of the museums are so enjoyable and interactive that they wanted to go back to the Space Museum and American History museum. Again, it was very hot, and there isn't much shade walking around the monuments etc. The best way to see them all if you only have a short time is to take the tram style cars (jump on/off). You now need special permission to visit the Capitol Building and the White House - check this out well in advance.  Union Station is a brilliant place to eat, shop, watch a film and catch a train!