Wix’s first-ever developer conference is coming to New York in September, with two days of expert-led talks, tailored workshops, exclusive networking events and more. While the conference includes both on-site and remote attendance options, with livestreams for viewers watching from home, we want to ensure that guests coming to New York for the conference get the most out of their visit to the city.

It’s in this spirit that we’ve put together a list of things to do and see while you’re in New York City for DevCon. Activities are listed below in order of their distance from the conference venue. Whether you’re staying for a few days or more than a week, these are our recommendations for the best places to go to get the most out of your time in New York.

The High Line

The High Line is an elevated park and walking path that runs along 10th Avenue near DevCon. Built on a former freight line, the urban “rail trail” has become one of Chelsea’s biggest tourist attractions since first opening in 2009, with an average 8 million visitors annually. Its lush gardens and shady seating make it the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon walk or casual conversation with friends. Take in the architecture of the neighborhood — from gritty industrial buildings refashioned into art galleries to luxury condos from celebrity architects — with world-class views of the Hudson River, all just steps away from DevCon.

Little Island

One of Manhattan’s newest public parks, Little Island has already become a favorite with visitors from around the world. Built on Chelsea’s Pier 54, the two-acre island is the perfect spot for outdoor performances in its amphitheater or casual sightseeing from the top of its rolling hills. Enjoy delicious food and drink at one of the island’s kiosks and explore the winding pathways that surround the park.

The Whitney Museum

The Whitney Museum of American Art is one of the oldest and most respected institutions dedicated to the conservation and preservation of American art. Since its founding in 1930, the museum has housed essential works by Edward Hopper, Jackson Pollock, and Georgia O'Keeffe in its permanent collection, which spans two of the museum’s six exhibition floors. The gorgeous Renzo Piano-designed building includes exceptional dining and shopping options on the ground level, as well as a rooftop balcony with spectacular views of Lower Manhattan and the High Line. Lose yourself in one of Kandis Williams’ multi-channel video installations at this year’s Whitney Biennial in between DevCon activities.

The Empire State Building

No guide to New York is complete without the Empire State Building. Completed in 1931, the 102-story building has a commanding presence on the NYC skyline, with soaring Art Deco details that give it a distinct pre-war feel. From 1931 to 1970, the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world, and while it is currently the seventh-tallest building in New York and 53rd-tallest building in the world, its rooftop observatories still have hands-down the best view of the city. Check out the more spacious main deck on the 86th floor or venture up to the top deck on the 102nd floor, where you can see ​​up to 80 miles on a clear day.

Times Square

Times Square needs no introduction. The three-street intersection — made up of Broadway, 7th Avenue, and 42nd Street — has been at the center of New York City nightlife since at least the turn of the century, when the New York Times first moved into the neighborhood and gave the are its name. From the innumerable jazz clubs that once stretched down 42nd Street to the endless shops and theaters that came to decorate the area in the years following World War II, the square has long embodied the commercial spirit of this city and nation in ways that just make sense when you see it in person. Take a photo from the top of Times Square’s famous staircase and check out classic spots like the Hard Rock Café, Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum, or one of the many theaters along Broadway.

Central Park

A big-city vacation doesn’t have to be completely devoid of natural beauty. Central Park has long been an essential destination for locals and travelers alike — not only to get away from the noise and chaos of urban living, but also to appreciate the simple joys of the great outdoors. From its sprawling lakes, ponds and fountains to the many paths, trails, and bridges that make the park accessible, there’s so much to do and see within the park that it’s easy to forget that you’re still in the center of one of the largest cities in the world. Enjoy an afternoon birding with help from a panoply of free online resources, or grab a burger at one of the many bars and restaurants placed throughout the park.

American Museum of Natural History

Another of New York’s premiere cultural institutions, the American Museum of Natural History is located on the Upper West Side across from Central Park. Its 45 permanent exhibition halls include more than 34 million specimens, with life-size models of the Alaskan Brown Bear, Tyrannosaurus Rex, and Blue Whale to name a few. Ponder the existence of extraterrestrial life in the Hayden Planetarium Space Theater and pick up some Astronaut Ice Cream from the gift shop on your way out the door.

Bronx Zoo

While the Central Park Zoo has its merits, most New Yorkers agree that the Bronx Zoo has the city’s superior animal-viewing experience. One of the largest zoos in the country with over 250 acres of outdoor space along the Bronx River, the 123-year-old institution features more than 6 thousand animals from over 600 species. From the African Plains and Tiger Mountain exhibits to more recent additions like the Treetop Adventures climbing experience, it’s easy to forget that you’re still in the city at all. Check out the World of Birds exhibit to see some of the rarest flying creatures from the most remote parts of the world.

Wix DevCon 2022

Wix DevCon 2022 will take place on September 7-8 in New York and include a livestream option for remote attendees. To learn more about the event or to register to attend, please visit the official Wix DevCon 2022 website.

If you missed the Wix DevCon, click here to learn more about our upcoming DevStudio_Con.