city guide

For business travelers, the key to enjoying free time in New York City—and its mind-boggling range of entertainment, culture and dining—is to take it slowly.

Don’t feel obligated to do it all. Some of the most rewarding visits to New York are savored little by little, at an easy pace, without any pressure to overachieve. This vibrant city will always be here, and you can always come back.

New York, thanks to its reliable subway and bus system, easy-to-find taxis and walkability, is one of the only cities in the world where you can enjoy several multicultural experiences in one day. Making the most of Midtown While doing business in hectic midtown Manhattan, you can find ways to calm your mind and even get in a little sightseeing.

One sure way to avoid traffic headaches is by not taking a taxi. Traffic in this congested area, especially during the day, is a nightmare. Just ride the subway or even hoof it. You’ll probably make it to your destination faster.

For a fun break between meetings, go stargazing in the middle of the day at Grand Central Terminal (42nd Street and Park Avenue, grandcentralterminal.com). Upon entering the main concourse of this spectacular building, cast your eyes up and try to identify the constellations that have been lovingly restored on the elegant ceiling in recent years. Afterward, grab a quick meal in the lower-level food court, or stop by the famous Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant for a stiff martini at the raw bar.


For a breather with a bit of culture, check out the International Center for Photography (1133 Sixth Avenue at 43rd Street, icp.org). The frequently rotated exhibits are usually small, making visiting them easy to wedge into a day of appointments. Then take a deep breath and absorb the beauty of Bryant Park, on Sixth Avenue between 40th and 42nd Streets. Not only are there all kinds of holiday activities in the works, but you can also take advantage of the free wireless Internet access.

Where to stay

One of the most accommodating and consistent hotel chains in New York is the W, which has five locations throughout Manhattan, ranging from a trendy venue on Union Square to a more businesslike one on East 39th Street. You can also stay in the heart of SoHo, where you’re liable to run into a movie or pop star checking into the SoHo Grand; or relax in a purely modern environment a little farther downtown at 60 Thompson. For traditional, luxurious accommodations, however, it’s hard to top the Four Seasons on East 57th Street.

Inside the New York Guide

Explore and share travel advice on:

• Getting there, getting around
• What to see and do in New York
• Recommended hotels and restaurants in New York

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STAN WILLLIAMS is a freelance writer in New York.