Spectacular Perks of Holiday Business Travel

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Extending a business trip for leisure has become one of the leading trends of today’s travel industry. But for those that pass on “bleisure” opportunities, nearly 60% of business travelers said it was because they just didn’t have time, according to a report by the Global Business Travel Association.

Fortunately, time constraints shouldn’t keep you from all recreational activities during business travel. When you’re staying at a hotel, especially during a holiday, the entertainment often comes to you. Many hotels offer special events, deals, and other opportunities to help you make the most of your holiday away from home with minimal effort on your part.

Hotel Engine connects business travelers to 100,000+ options across North America, South America, and Europe, which can be searched through and filtered by special amenities. But if you’re looking for something specific to a certain holiday — say, a spectacular view to take in Fourth of July fireworks — you should do you research before you book. Here are the country’s best firework displays and how to view them from the comfort of your own hotel. It’s easy to capitalize on your next holiday stay, whether it’s for business or just for fun.

New York – Macy’s 4th of July Firework Show

This is the self-proclaimed largest pyrotechnic show celebrating Independence Day in the United States. For the best view, consider hotels along the East River near the Brooklyn Bridge, where five barges between 24th and 41st streets launch the entertainment. Based on public online reviews, previous occupants recommend views from the Park South Hotel, Dumont NYC, and Residence Inn New York Manhattan/Central Park.

Washington D.C. – National Mall Fourth of July Celebration

There’s no place more patriotic to celebrate the country’s independence than the National Mall. Luckily, you can keep away from the packed crowds by sticking to a hotel room or rooftop with a view. Options include the 4-star W Washington D.C. and the DoubleTree by Hilton Washington, DC–Crystal City.

Philadelphia – Wawa Welcome America July 4th Fireworks

Dubbed one of the largest free concerts in America, the Wawa Welcome America 4th of July Concert and Grand Finale Fireworks create a breathtaking show over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Stay away from the hordes of viewers at Benjamin Franklin Parkway (and the rain that came this year) to watch from above. Consider locations such as the 33-story Loews Philadelphia Hotel and the 288-suite Embassy Suites Philadelphia.

San Francisco – 4th of July Fireworks

Pier 7 has long been the go-to spot for prime firework viewing off the Municipal Pier, but be prepared to share the space with thousands of other attendees. Instead, you can position yourself above the water and the rolling hills by booking a hotel with a prime view of the Bay Area. These vantage points include Hyatt Regency San Francisco, San Francisco Marriott Marquis’ The View Lounge, and the rooftop garden of The Orchard Garden Hotel.

Seattle – Seafair Summer Fourth

Witness the explosion of the nearly 8,500 pounds of fireworks that make up the Seafair Summer Fourth celebration from the comfort of your hotel. To create the full outdoor experience, be sure to tune into Warm 106.9 and listen along to the fully choreographed display, set to the Seafair Summer 4th musical score. Prime locations, such as the Thompson Hotel’s 12th-floor restaurant or the Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown, will keep you relaxed as you take in the show.