Originally Posted by joel304
A taxi will be a flat rate of $35 plus tolls and tip, although the lines can be long. If money isn't a problem, schedule a car service to meet you at your flight. This would be in the area of $75 plus tip. The open top bus tours are good, depending on what time of year you go.
The flat rate for a taxi to Manhattan from JFK is $45 plus toll and tips. Tel Aviv and Carmel Car Services are $40 plus toll and tips. For these two companies, when you arrive, you call them and then they pick you up outside the baggage claim.
If you are only in Manhattan for one weekend, pick the things you and your mother really want to do and then enjoy them to your hearts content. Don't let anyone rush you.