First off, thank you for your service!
Secondly, there's no way I can relate to that experience, but there's certainly more to the Hudson then many would think like reporting points, altitude separations between rotorcraft and fixed wing traffic, flying on one side of the river going southbound versus northbound. Just some small things to know that will make your flight much safer. At the very least take the FAA SFRA quiz on the Hudson or talk to a CFI before you go flying.
I actually recommend doing the flight at night. Not only is there less traffic, frequency congestion, and way easier to spot others, I personally find it much more beautiful at night!
Would love to show you pictures if you like.
Took my girlfriend flying at night too
Cheers,
Mike