Business trips and New York tend to go hand-in-hand for travelers. From its major convention centers and expo arenas to its breathtaking skyscrapers and rooftop bars, New York is truly a treat for the business traveler; just make sure to bring an extra pair of shoes for walking and an appetite for adventure, regardless of what part of the state you end up in. 

New York is known for hosting some of the most notable annual trade show events, boasting an international presence in sectors including fashion and retail, global logistics, business expos and more at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City, Brooklyn’s Expo Center or one of the many luxurious hotels in the region. 

In the Empire State, there’s a plethora of transportation options to choose from. But make sure to always know your options as you navigate various parts of the city and don’t limit yourself to one means of transportation. All in all, the subway and occasional Uber will most likely be your best options; travelers will walk a significant amount either way. 

Upon your arrival, expect to be greeted with the cliché hustle and bustle atmosphere paired with crowds of people trying to get to their destinations as quickly as possible. You’ll find there’s so much to do compact in one state that it would take a couple of weeks to check them all off the list. This quick reference list is for business travelers seeking adventure in between business. The best part is, this list doesn’t require more than a couple of days to knock out. 

BAR 54

There are few rooftop bars that deliver the experience found on the 54th floor of the Hyatt Centric Times Square. Bar 54 offers some of the most fascinating photo opportunities while providing a modern and relaxing atmosphere guaranteed to help one forget they are in New York for business. If you’re seeking a delicious meal, elegant cocktails, upbeat tunes and views that don’t disappoint, Bar 54 is the perfect place for you. Take in the views of the Chrysler Building and take a peek at Times Square from the top, minus the crazy crowds and stuffy streets. Bar 54 is the ideal environment for business networking if you’re seeking an untraditional and exhilarating environment to talk business in. And if you’re simply seeking asylum after a long day of meetings and conferences, Bar 54 has a spot ready for you and you alone. Either way, you’re bound to connect with someone on the rooftop terrace. Also, if your curiosity peaks, a rooftop telescope supplies up-close views of the dozens of buildings and views surrounding the region. Get ready for some unmatched photo opportunities here!

THE VESSEL AT HUDSON YARDS

Yes, you read that correctly–it’s literally a vessel comprised of one giant spiral staircase offering unique viewpoints paired with magnificent river and city views. Let’s face it, if one visits New York and doesn’t relish the views, it’s not really a trip to New York. The Vessel features 154 flights of stairs equating to roughly 2,500 individual stairs. And it gets better: Admission to experience this Thomas Heatherwick/Heatherwick Studios masterpiece is free on the same day. So, spontaneity is fully supported and encouraged. Again, brace yourself for remarkable photo opportunities and an experience you won’t find anywhere else. It’s ideal for those who might have a fear of heights but still crave some high-towering adventure. Don’t worry, there is an elevator that goes straight to the top if the thought of climbing 154 flights of stairs makes your feet hurt. However, we highly recommend taking the stairs due to the intricate and funky mirror images one experiences on the way to the top. 

THE HIGH LINE

We promise we’re not trying to add more steps to your New York adventures, but The High Line is simply a must-do exploration of a different side of New York. In short, this is an all-in-one experience combining the best and most beautiful aspects of nature, art and design throughout a 1.45-mile stretch of elevated rail track showcasing the city’s history and beauty. Owned by New York City, The High Line delivered meat to the Meatpacking District and agricultural goods to local warehouses and factories from 1934-1980. Nowadays, it offers residents and visitors an open invitation to wander and explore its path of various viewing spurs, crossroads and natural scenery. If you happen to catch an appetite on the trail, there are a variety of food options depending on the time of year visited. Throughout the year, Santina serves some of the tastiest Italian-themed dishes that are sure to satisfy the hunger. The High Line is ideal for unwinding and de-stressing and is sure to satisfy one’s need for adventure and wandering or for those seeking a healthy dose of tranquility and a glass of wine.  

9/11 MEMORIAL & MUSEUM

In true patriotic style, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is an unmatched experience, taking its visitors through one of the most devastating events in our country’s history and reiterating the importance to never forget the service and sacrifice given by America’s first responders and the lives lost so abruptly that day. Interestingly enough, what some don’t realize is how the early 1990s World Trade Center bombing is also remembered along with the 9/11 attacks on the WTC and the Pentagon, paired with the world’s response. Although this is a much heavier and serious place to visit, anyone who claims to be an American needs to pay tribute to the beautifully developed memorial, Survivor Tree and museum. If you already know the dates of your upcoming New York trip, take a glance at the Events Calendar to see if you can pencil-in a visit to experience a critical part of America’s history and learn to pause and appreciate the more important aspects of what we do and what we stand for as a united country.