Going to D.C. and New York in three weeks.....

[DubaiSis]

If this is your first trip to New York I wouldn't worry about "off the beaten path" unless you're going to be there for a long time. There are enough completely valid experiences right there on the path to take advantage of. Go to Ellis Island, hit one or more of the big museums (The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a favorite of mine but there are several world class museums), go to a show (or 3), walk around Times Square, Shop on Fifth Avenue, watch The Today Show or Good Morning America live. Take one of the double decker bus tours. Ask a stranger for a restaurant suggestion (don't necessarily TAKE said advice).