hotrod,
You have not done too bad with your choice of hotel, especially for your 1st visit. As for paying too much, nah, at this time of year (so close to Queens Day, which is the 30th) prices tend to go up at most hotels. Your hotel is not too far from the Leisplein, Vondel Park and the upmarket shops of P C Hoofstraat (all are just around the courner).
If your a RLD man, the main two, Wallen & Singel are a bit of a journey (about 20 30 mins on foot), but the 3rd one, Pjip, is just around the courner.
Even if your not a museum fan, check out some, just so you can say you've been to some to any enquiring minds back home.
Visit the Anne Frank house, I found to be a very sobering experience (get there early, can get crowded) or the Budhist Temple(?) in the Zeedijk by the Wallen.
The city is virtually covered wall to wall with museums and culture, I'd be surprised if you did'nt dip your toe into one or two museums or gallerys. I find just wandering around the dam is just as rewarding and there is tons to see and do, trust me you'll find something that will grab your attention. The Jordan district, I find to be particularly nice, especially in spring, to just disappear in.
Get your self a guide book on the city which will get you started, while your getting ready to travel, it will give you additional material. Or check out the city's tourist info website
http://www.holland.com/amsterdam/gb/ for additional material.
As for other towns to check out. Harleem or Alkmaar, are great towns, is not too far to get to, have a different vibe to Amsterdam and are well worth a visit.
Enjoy your trip bruv, you'll love it.
oats