new york city is quite easy to figure out which is probably the most favourite part i liked about however if you are a night person as i am you should probably have contacts whom directs you to the populer clubs or local bars. i suggest time out magazine which includes all the events restaurants parties concerts or museums. but village voice (free street magazine) works too. union square is a good place to hang out and shop which is quite popular at nights for street performers and also easily accessible to soho and west broadway. www.newyork.going.com will also guide you to see the most popular events and clubs.
have fun