The Lonely Planet folk are pitting San Francisco against New York City... and we're getting our collective ass kicked right now in their poll. Turns things around! They've taken 15 locations in each city, and want you to pick favorites (the view from the Brooklyn Bridge or Twin Peaks, that sort of thing). They also note that you can get street cred in NYC by not pointing or squealing at the rats (so basically, this guy wins). more ›

Central Park may be pretty from the ground, but the view from above will give New Yorkers a whole new perspective while taking in "the brilliance of the Greensward Plan, Frederick Law Olmstead and Calvert Vaux's 1858 design." The NY Post reports that starting tomorrow, helium balloon rides will be offered for just $25 a pop.

The rides will be offered from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. through Aug. 22, and children 12 and under ride for $17.50. Starting today, the company is accepting reservations for rides between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. The rest of the day will work on a first-come, first-served basis.