Sure, you'll want to see a few sights while you're here, but don't forget to include these experiences on your to-do list.

Ride the elevator to the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building for a birds-eye view of the city. From the observation tower, you can see about 50 miles on a clear day.

Poke around in the eclectic shops and galleries of SoHo (south of Houston Street). While you're there, have lunch alfresco to people-watch or have a cup of java in a quaint coffeehouse.

Take in a Broadway show. If you're flexible, visit the Times Square TKTS booth to save up to 50% on same-day performances.

Do the museum hop. With all the world-class choices— American Museum of Natural History, Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Museum of Modern Art to name a few—the city is bound to have a collection that suits your fancy.

Treat yourself to Dim Sum in Chinatown. Walk off your feast afterward by strolling through the narrow streets chock full of colorful shops displaying everything from Chinese lanterns and jade carvings to herbal remedies and tasty baked goods.

Stroll along Fifth Avenue between 49th and 58th streets to experience a true shopping mecca with the likes of Saks Fifth Avenue, Cartier, Tiffany's, FAO Schwarz and Rockefeller Center. Even if you're not a shopper, the window displays are delightful.

Explore the trendy boutiques and elegant Greek Revival townhouses tucked along tree-lined streets in Greenwich Village. Wander over to Washington Square, where performers frequently entertain in the area near Washington Arch.

Do as New Yorkers do, and spend some quality daylight time in Central Park. Circle the lake on winding paths, explore Shakespeare Garden's craggy hillside or climb the stairs to the top of Belvedere Castle for a scenic overlook.

Indulge in an Italian feast or sip a cappuccino at an outdoor café in Little Italy. Marvel at the assortment of cheeses, olives and fresh breads offered in neighborhood groceries. For designer fashion finds, head to Nolita (“north of little Italy”).

Travel via ferry from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island. Lady Liberty graciously welcomes visitors to Liberty Island, while the same ferry ticket covers a stop at Ellis Island, site of the Immigration Museum.