I will stop over in Amsterdam for 2 nights and one full day in late May. I have never before been to that city. I am already booked for a hotel right in the center of town near Van Gogh museum.

What are recommendations as to how I should best spend this day?

Hi Hal--we really enjoyed the canal tour but be sure to choose a company that uses windowless boats so you have a clear/clean view of the citys beautiful buildings and bridges. If you enjoy art, I would not miss the Van Gogh museum or the Rijksmuseum, though I fear it may be closed for renovation? A vist to the Anne Frank House is fascinating and haunting. We loved Amsterdam--it's a great city to explore on foot and there are lots of wonderful shops, places to eat--hope you enjoy a great trip!

Just to clarify, the Rijksmuseum, though closed for renovation, has 400 of their "masterpieces" (including the Night Watch) on display at the Philips Wing. For more details:
http://rijksmuseum.nl/index.html

I agree with dcespedes. It's such an easy town to wander around in. I agree with a canal tour, the museums and then wander around. I recommend trying the ristaffel (rice table) at an indonesian restaurant. Have a great time! We're headed for our 3rd visit, thinking about visiting the zoo this time.

I was there for the 1st time for 5 days and simply wandered around (and around). I particularly liked the Leidseplein district and Vondelpark is gorgeous. Of course a wander thru the Red Light District a must. Things I didn't do but seem like a good idea: the boat canal tours and any of the major museum or sites depending on your interests.