What do I do? hope Martini & Angela can suggest something

take the train downtown (25-35 minutes) & rent a bike and ride around. I used Starbike rentals (www.StarBikesRental.com). It's just northeast of the station on deRuyterkade. The bikes looked to be in much better shape than the big name near the station (MacBikes).

Anne Frank house is haunting, but important to keep in mind. Museums are good. Zoo is fun.

If you are there in the early evening, the red light district is unique. (just don't take pictures like I did on my first visit).

Take a guided tour to one of the cities nearby. You can book a trip @ the counter next to the casino (E pier). Or try your luck at the casino...

Do keep in mind the time it will take you to travel from and to the airport and the lines at customs, you don't want to miss your flight...

I am not an expert -- I have been to Holland once. But, given that, here are my ideas.

Depending on the time of day, here is what I might consider -- take the (direct) train to Amsterdam.
a) Go to the Van Gogh museum; and/or
b) Go to the Rijksmuseum
c) Walk around the town. See the RLD. Eat. Walk along the canals (or take a canal tour).

Or go to a smaller town like Haarlem.

was just in Amsterdam in April..love this city ! suggest a canalboat ride, that will show you alot of the city and harbor , pick one of the museums,the hidden church, Anne Frank house or beer tour... the train from airport to Central Station is quick and easy to negotiate...area around Dam Square full of shops and local color...just be sure to be " street smart " like in any city...

Roy

We always like to have a lay over in Amsterdam. Often we are on the 23:30 flight and take the train into Amsterdam. We usually browse the shops and have a few beers and get a meal. Chao Phraya is a Thai restaurant we enjoy in Nieuwmarkt. Then train back to Schipol about 21:00 to check out the duty free and then jump on the plane.

Thanks for all the tips guys n gals , I arrive at 1:30 pm so will have plenty of time for trying lots out.

and if I don't do them all... well there's bound to be another time