With a premium on public space in Midtown, New York's zoning laws require certain developers to deed a percentage of their space for a public environment. In the New York world, these are known as “privately owned public spaces,” and are both indoor (covered) and outdoor. For the sake of the Winter Meeting, here are a number of indoor (covered) public environments to enjoy near the Waldorf, when you're hankering for a bit more elbowroom or a change of scenery.
The Altria Multistory Pedestrian Space, 120 Park Avenue at 42nd Street (near Grand Central Terminal)
Seating, food service, and an art gallery that is under the aegis of the Whitney Museum of American Art.
575 Fifth Avenue Pedestrian Space, between 46th and 47th Streets
Complete with seating, landscaping, and fountains.
Sony Center Pedestrian Space, 550 Madison Avenue between 55th and 56th Streets
A multistory space with trees, seating, and a choice of food services, including Starbuck's. A real oasis from Midtown and uplifting on gray winter days.
Trump Tower Covered Pedestrian Space, 725 Fifth Avenue between 56th and 57th Streets
A commercially exuberant environment, this grandfather of privately owned public spaces features landscaped terraces, a waterfall, and a variety of seating styles. A connecting passageway leads to:
590 Madison Avenue Pedestrian Space, between 56th and 57th Streets
Noted for its tall bamboo tree stands and its indoor sculpture garden, 590 is a respite from the bustle of its counterpart in Trump Tower. There's ample seating and several choices in food service.