For those of us who enjoy New York City's built environment, Open House New York is a wonderful weekend. Great public and private buildings are opened up to give rare views of our City. This year, I'm told there will be tours of Subway power houses, of the Decayed hospital on Roosevelt Island, newly restored Federal Hall, the South Street Seaport Museum and Governors Island.

In previous years, I visited the Tweed Courthouse, the High Bridge Water Tower, the top of the Jefferson Market Courthouse Library Clock Tower (with great views of West Village mews and streets), the Grand Army Plaza Arch (which is truly a wonder inside) and to the Montalk Club, a late 19th Century super-decorated private club I'd never seen before.

Some of the best events are crowded. So plan ahead by visiting their website www.ohny.org In addition, they seek volunteers to help manage the lines. Volunteers put in a 4 hour shift at one building (and then get to jump the lines at others).