We are going to Amsterdam next August and will have two full days and part of a morning on the third day for sightseeing before our cruise ship leaves. We have never been to Amsterdam before and could use advise on what to see in such a short stay. The cruise line arranged for us to stay at the Grand Krasnapolsky Hotel (I hope it is a good hotel).
Thanks -- Mike

That's a well-known hotel, you'll be fine.
Most of the high points of Amsterdam can be enjoyed over two days anyway...
Any guidebook will highlight the main sights, ie.
- Anne Frank house
- Van Gogh museum
- Rijksmuseum
- Canal boat tour
- Vondelpark
- walking along the canal rings to enjoy the architecture
- Red Light district
- Leidseplein square for street entertainment and cafés
- climb the Westerkerk bell tower (great view over Amsterdam)
- follow your nose and check out one of the infamous 'coffee shops' (it isn't coffee you're smelling )

Everything Travelnut said -- do! Also, take a tram, lots of fun, and try french fries with mayo and a rice table, just once.

Thank you, Travelnut and Surfergirl for your responses. Is August a time when we can go see the Tulips and if so, where do you suggest? Mike

I believe the tulip crop is over by the end of May...

It's true, the tulips are mostly gone by August, but you can always go to the flower auction in Alsmeer. Get there by 7.30 or 8 am to see the largest indoor flower auction in the world (I think it is, anyway.) You might also want to consider a day trip to Haarlem; it's an easy train ride from Amsterdam.

I'm afraid tulip fields don't bloom in August, but go to the floating flower markets. Gorgeous. Besides that my favorites have already been recommended: Vondelpark for a walk or a picnic, Leidseplein square in the evenings for the street performers, red light district if you're interested. Sticking to the main central part of the city you can see many things in 2-1/2 days there.