NYC Help?

Two things(Three actually):

In July, I will be making a cross country trip to New York City to visit a
life-long friend. At one point, I would like fly along to Hudson River path
to see the Statue of Liberty. I was wondering if that path is open to VFR?
New policy? Do I have to inform anyone in advance? Any suggestion?

I would need a tie down for a couple days near NYC. My friend lives in
Manhattan. Which airport do you recommend(non-controlled airport preferred)?
Cost?

Any suggestion for this trip? Gear? I will be flying either Cessna 150 or a
Warrior. I haven't decide yet. By the way, I will be flying to NYC from
Pittsburgh.

Toks Desalu
PP-ASEL
Dyin' to Soar