Actually interesting, soul provoking things to do and see in NYC?

Go to central park and rent a row boat with a bottle of good whiskey/vodka/tequila and a good group of friends.

Also, nachos and salsa.

You could start by not throwing out the garbage paper people hand you on the street there.

They’re called “flyers” and they show you new and exciting things to experience.

Go to Peter Luger’s! It’s expensive, but it’s worth it!

It’s been awhile since I’ve lived in the area but I don’t think they’ve gone anywhere.

Have you tried The Cloisters? If you enjoy art and history or just a beautiful meditative place it’s definitely soul stirring. Or at least it was for me.

I would second The Cloisters (way uptown on W.Side) and add The Frick (1 E 70th St.) and The Morgan Library (35 and Madison).

There is also the wonderful American Folk Art Museum
at 45 W. 53d ST.

What about the Public Library? it is practically a museum itself.

These are great answers guys – keep it coming fluther!

I second the Frick—a great, manageable size museum, and I also second the public library for its free exhibits, map room, etc.

I’ll add three suggestions of my own:

-The Nuyorican Poets Cafe. Go for an open mike or spoken word/poetry slam, have a few beers, meet some interesting people, think, feel, etc…
-Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop. I can’t remember the exact address, but it’s like a block from the Flatiron Building. Easily the best lunch counter in the City.
-Explore lower Manhattan via an awesome interactive theater called “Accomplice New York.” It’s different and fun! My wife and I (long time NYC residents) did it with her folks, and we all enjoyed it.

Have fun!

There’s other cool spots in Northern Manhattan to visit, too.

Try visiting High Line Park where you can bring your own food and maybe sip on some beer/wine, or crossing the Brooklyn Bridge. You can also go kayaking for free on the Hudson. If you want a cheap awesome meal, try SEA across the street from High Line Park. There is soooo much to do in NYC.