As a native New Yorker it's very hard to decide what to include in a story like this. There are definitely some 'must see' tourist spots that include Times Square, Fifth Avenue and Central Park. There are a few more out of the way locations, including in Central Park that I'd like to recommend.

First, do visit Times Square. And if you have time, catch a show at BB Kings Blues Club, a wonderful venue with excellent acoustics and constant line-up of great acts. It is reasonably priced considering it's in the middle of the busiest tourist spot in the city.

Next, do take a bus uptown to a lovely part of Central Park that is rarely seen by tourists. It's located on 5th Avenue and West 105th Street and there is a garden and beautiful lake just a few blocks up. Central Park is huge, and this is a nice place to get away from the maddening crowds.

Heading back downtown, visit the South Street Seaport and explore the harbor on the Pioneer, a schooner built in 1885 and the only iron hulled, American merchant sailing vessel still existence. It is an exciting and intimate way to view Lower Manhattan.  And if you're up to it, you can help hoist the mast!

Also downtown is the National Museum of the American Indian, which holds many interesting and wonderful objects of art, shows films, and has an exclusive  collection of Native American artifacts. There is a lovely store and the exhibits change month to month.

Other places that may be a little off of the beaten path are the East and West Village. Do take a stroll down to Christopher Street where you will find clubs, shops and lot's of interesting people. Drop by historic Washington Square Park, go on trip back in time through Bob Dylan's West 4th Street and McDougal, as well as the popular Bleecker Street. Then finally head East to the East Village for a funky end to a wonderful day.