I just turned off the compass in Skyrim using the ini, it's a lot more fun to randomly explore when I can't see a symbol for a fort in front of me.
I'll probably look myself for some, but do you guys know any mods as far as like increased NPC activity or more NPCs? Like more bandit encounters, more citizens stealing/on quests for themselves/ or doing something or something like that. And if you're familiar with Morrowind, I mean something like 'Morrowowind Comes Alive'
As well as a camping mod.
(And companions, but I'll look for them myself)
There are definitely mods for everything you want, I can't think of any names right now for the npc activity and stuff, but I have used them.
I would recommend grabbing better cities, but be warned it adds a lot to cities and can often be a little taxing on your computer.
There's also Martigen's Monster Mod, it adds a ton of wildlife and enemies to fight.
If you do notice bad fps drops I would recommend loving around with the graphics settings involving grass, since there is so much of it and doesn't add that much to the visual experience.