Got back from New York a couple of weeks ago (never been there), and New Orleans (last week...never been there) so have a few things to add..
NEW YORK
Go to a Broadway Play.. went to see Mama Mia.. it was FUN
Statue of Liberty.. did you know that prior to 9-11 you could go all the way to her hat?
Ellis Island.. an all afternoon trip for history buffs.. pretty amazing for anyone though.
Times Square at night - just to say you've been there, done that
Row boats in Central park
Grand Central Station.. wow.. I was totally amazed when I saw the sign "Tracks 105-117 ===>" 117 tracks in the same location??!?!?
Top of Rockeller building.. the view of Central Park from there is amazing. You don't realize just how big it is until you've seen it from "the top of the rock"
Top of the Empire state building
NEW ORLEANS
Walked down bourbon street in the French Quarter.. party city!! A little dirty.. but maybe I'm just getting old
Walked along the shore of the mighty Mississippi just before it leaves for the ocean. It starts in Minnesota (where I'm from originally) so that was kinda cool.
Ate a Beignet.. had NO idea what that was.. turns out it's kinda like a funnel cake in the shape of a dinner roll.. YUM
Looked through the telescope of a street astronomer. He had a 10" and I think a 14" telescope.
Saw Jupiter.. and it's MOONs.. wow