One of the best ways to explore a town is to consider seeing it as a local would experience it and visit each of the little hole in the wall eateries and local spots that aren't usually shared with tourists. It's generally the case that a NYC bed & breakfast will be able to offer up some good opinions on which local restaurants are best and what tourist attractions are the least crowded and when. Locals can also offer up great information on which tourist attractions aren't worth the price of admission and which ones will create lasting memories.