Hi Guys,

I'm new to the flyertalk forums and hail from Singapore. I will be travelling to NYC from 5 Oct 2012 to 20 Oct 2012 to visit my friends based there.

I last went to the US when I was 9 years old, mainly visiting Disneyland and eating the best ribs in my life. The entire experience left a huge impact on me and I've been looking to visit again ever since.

I'll be attending College at the University of Illinois next year and would like to get acquainted with American quirks and peeves so I don't present myself like a clueless idiot then. Are there any must-see football games played during that period that I can attend to learn the rules?

Any tips and suggestions on must-do activities? I like doing stuff off the beaten tourist track such as hunting for indie bookstores and catching low-cost/free concerts festivals etc. etc.
Anywhere recommended to catch fall scenery as well?

Thanks in advance!