Welcome to Manhattan, New York City!
Business travelers to New York City are expected to pay $796 per day on average for hotel, meal, cab, drinks, and incidentals, according to ECA International, a global workforce mobility consulting and support firm. That whopping amount makes New York City the most expensive town for business travelers in the US and worldwide. And this amount doesn’t even not include the plane tickets.
After you’ve paid so much for your business trip, you might want to enjoy a little of what New York City has to offer!
As a business traveler with limited free time, you can still experience the best of Manhattan with attractions that open early or last into late late at night. From morning walks in Central Park to nighttime views from observation decks, we've curated a list of must-visit places.
Explore the vibrant energy of Manhattan and create lasting memories in this city that never sleeps. So, whether you rise early or have evenings free, let's dive into how you can experience Manhattan, New York City.
Discover the top-10 must-visit places in Manhattan, curated to help you make the most of your business trip, whether you have limited time or an unexpected opening in your calendar to explore day or night.
Top 10 New York City Attractions for Business Travelers
Central Park
Central Park, an urban oasis, offers the perfect morning escape. Whether you're jogging along scenic paths, enjoying a picnic breakfast, or rowing a boat on the serene lake, Central Park’s lush greenery and tranquility will rejuvenate your mind and set a positive tone for the day ahead.
Central Park
Central Park, an expansive 843-acre urban oasis, stands as a testament to New York City's commitment to preserving natural beauty within its bustling heart. Drawing over 37 million visitors annually, the park offers a myriad of experiences. You can choose to jog along its 58 miles of pathways, winding through diverse landscapes.
Engage in a reflective moment by the picturesque lake, where rowboats glide across the water's surface, mirroring the towering skyscrapers beyond. With over 18,000 trees, Central Park acts as a natural carbon sink, absorbing a significant portion of the city's emissions. Whether it's the invigorating morning jog, a peaceful picnic breakfast, or the serene boat ride, the lush greenery and tranquility will set a positive tone for the day ahead, making Central Park the perfect escape to rejuvenate your mind.
Recommended Time to Visit: Early morning to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Open: Daily from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM, providing ample time for exploration.
The Most Current Information: https://www.centralparknyc.org
Top of the Rock
The Top of the Rock Observation Deck provides breathtaking views of the city skyline, including the iconic Empire State Building and Central Park. It's an ideal spot to witness the city's beauty both in the morning and at night.
Top of the Rock
The Top of the Rock Observation Deck, perched atop the historic Rockefeller Center, offers a 360-degree panoramic spectacle of New York City's skyline. Ascending 70 stories, this vantage point presents an unobstructed view that encompasses iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the sprawling Central Park.
With over 3.5 million annual visitors, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to human ingenuity. Its strategic location within the heart of Manhattan positions you to capture the city's allure in its full grandeur.
Recommended Time to Visit: Morning for a serene experience or at night to see the city lights.
Open: Daily at 8:00 AM, with the last elevator going up at 10:00 PM.
The Most Current Information and Tickets: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/attractions/top-of-the-rock-observation-deck
Times Square
Times Square is a vibrant and bustling hub adorned with dazzling billboards and a constant buzz of energy. The neon lights create a captivating atmosphere at night, making it an ideal spot for an unforgettable evening stroll.
Times Square
Recommended Time to Visit: Night after dark, to fully immerse yourself in the dazzling lights and vibrant energy.
Open: Times Square is bustling 24/7, making it an ideal nighttime attraction.
The Most Current Information: https://www.timessquarenyc.org
Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met houses a vast collection of art from various cultures and time periods. Exploring its galleries in the morning allows for a peaceful experience to appreciate the world's artistic treasures.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met, boasting over 2 million square feet of space, houses an extensive collection of art spanning cultures and epochs. It stands as one of the world's largest and most prestigious museums. Exploring its galleries in the morning provides a serene atmosphere to immerse yourself in the artistic tapestry of human history.
With artworks ranging from ancient civilizations to contemporary masterpieces, this cultural haven invites you to embark on a journey of appreciation for the world's diverse artistic heritage.
Recommended Time to Visit: Lunchtime to explore exhibits with fewer visitors or Friday night after a dinner.
Open: The Met opens at 10:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM.
The Most Current Information and Tickets: https://www.metmuseum.org
The High Line and Hudson Yards
The High Line is a unique elevated park built on a former railway line. It offers stunning views of the city's west side, complemented by art installations and beautifully landscaped gardens. It leads you from Pier 53 to Hudson Yards, the newest must-visit urban oasis of shops, restaurants, and modern architecture. It features the tallest in the Western Hemisphere adrenaline-pumping outdoors observation desk, The Edge.
The High Line and Hudson Yards
The High Line, constructed along a former railway track spanning 1.45 miles, provides captivating vistas of the city's western side. Complemented by art installations and exquisite gardens, it exemplifies urban revitalization and adaptive reuse. Elevated 30 feet above street level, this linear sanctuary offers panoramic views, inviting you to embrace both nature and creativity simultaneously.
Recommended Time to Visit: Early morning to enjoy a serene walk before it gets busy.
Open: Daily at 7:00 AM. Closing times vary by season, with the latest closing time at 10:00 PM during the summer.
The Most Current Information:
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island provides a deep dive into American history and symbolizes freedom and immigration.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
A visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island offers an immersive journey into American history and stands as an representation of freedom and immigration. These landmarks forge a poignant link to the nation's origins.
The Statue of Liberty, standing at 305 feet, represents hope and opportunity, while Ellis Island serves as a historical gateway to the millions who arrived seeking a new life. Together, they encapsulate the enduring spirit of America's diverse heritage and serve as a testament to its principles.
Recommended Time to Visit: Early morning for a more intimate experience and to secure crown access.
Open: The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island have varying hours, with the first ferry departing at 8:30 AM.
The Most Current Information and Tickets: https://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm
Chinatown and Little Italy
Chinatown and Little Italy are vibrant neighborhoods rich in culture and cuisine. Exploring these areas at night allows you to experience their bustling nightlife and savor delicious food.
Chinatown and Little Italy
Chinatown and Little Italy are vibrant neighborhoods, rich in culture and culinary delights. Exploring these areas at night offers an immersive glimpse into their lively nightlife, bustling markets, traditional eateries, and a captivating array of aromas, providing the perfect opportunity to relish delectable cuisine.
Recommended Time to Visit: Dinner time to experience the vibrant nightlife and try delicious cuisines.
Open: Chinatown and Little Italy's shops and restaurants generally stay open late into the evening.
The Most Current Information:
- https://www.nyctourism.com/new-york/manhattan/chinatown
- https://www.nyctourism.com/new-york/manhattan/little-italy
A Broadway Show
Broadway offers world-class theater productions, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a captivating and unforgettable evening of entertainment.
A Broadway Show
Broadway is the epitome of global theater, attracting over 13 million attendees yearly. Known for its world-class productions like "The Lion King," "Hamilton," and "Wicked," it offers captivating and unforgettable entertainment.
With more than 40 theaters featuring a range of shows – from timeless classics to cutting-edge performances – Broadway provides an immersive cultural experience. As a vital part of New York's arts scene, it captures the city's creative essence and offers unparalleled access to the performing arts at their peak.
Recommended Time to Visit: Night for an unforgettable theater experience.
Open: Broadway shows usually have evening performances, with showtimes varying by production.
The Most Current Information and Tickets: https://www.broadway.com
9/11 Memorial and Museum
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors the lives lost during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Visiting in the morning offers a reflective and respectful experience.
911 Memorial and Museum
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum pays tribute to the lives lost during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It stands as a poignant reminder of the nation's resilience. Arriving in the morning provides for a reflective experience. Amidst the artifacts and exhibits, the site offers an intimate connection to history, fostering a deep sense of remembrance and understanding.
Recommended Time to Visit: Morning for a reflective experience with fewer visitors.
Open: Opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 8:00 PM.
The Most Current Information: https://www.911memorial.org
Boutiques of Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue is renowned for its luxury boutiques and high-end shopping experiences. Exploring the boutiques during the morning hours is ideal, as it allows them to avoid crowds and have a more leisurely browsing experience.
Boutiques of Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue, synonymous with opulence, draws millions of shoppers annually with its luxury boutiques and high-end shopping experiences. Exploring these boutiques during the tranquil morning hours allows for a leisurely browsing experience.
From iconic brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co. to upscale fashion houses such as Prada and Versace, this fashion-forward thoroughfare offers a curated selection of exclusive collections ensuring an unhurried and refined shopping ambiance.
Recommended Time to Visit: Morning for a relaxed shopping experience.
Open: Boutiques on Fifth Avenue generally open around 10:00 AM and close in the evening.
The Most Current List of Shops on 5th Avenue: https://visit5thavenue.com
At the end of the day (or night), no other city in the world is quite like New York. Prepare to be awe-struck by its dizzying energy, diversity, and vast opportunities that will captivate your senses.
After all, making the most of a business trip to Manhattan comes down to effective planning, great intel, and a positive attitude. If you leave NYC without feeling inspired, you just didn’t do it right.
The Author
InnReg is a team of over 30 Regulatory Compliance and Innovation Consulting experts helping fintechs succeed in highly regulated markets since 2013. InnReg specializes on mitigating regulatory risk while helping clients launch and grow innovative fintech products and services.
