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• Ticketmaster Deals - lots of shows with 2 For 1, Me+3 and 4-Pack deals.
• American Express Ticketmaster Deals - for cardholders.
• StubHub - great selection, NY's most popular ticket reseller

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Best of nyc holiday tours, dyker heights christmas lights, warmest winter tours of nyc.

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• The Hideout at Gallow Green Winter Rooftop @ The McKittrick Hotel

Igloos @ Winter Village in Bryant Park

The greens rooftop @ pier 17, winter concerts & live music in new york city.

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More Things to do in NY in Winter

• Cozy Bars with Fireplaces – relax and enjoy some cocktails or hot chocolate and food by a warm fireplace
• Bowling – head to Bowlmor Lanes in Times Square or Lucky Strike (W 42nd and 12th Ave ) and shoot the ball!
• Day Spas – there is no better way to forget about nasty weather than to check into one of our amazing day spas, which offer whirlpool spas and baths, couples massages and all around general pampering. A few to enjoy: ancientbathsny.com, gjspa.com, russianturkishbaths.com, scpremier57.com
• See a Movie – NYC has one of the best selection of movie theaters anywhere! Whether you want IMAX, art house, servers at your seats, classics, indie or general cinophile, we have so many unique and distinct theaters.
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• Ink48 Hotel - right next to the Intrepid Museum and my ALL time favorite rooftop!
• The Ready @ Moxy NYC East Village - all-season rooftop with an amazingly eclectic vibe and great skyline views. (photo)
• The Empire Hotel - year-round indoor/outdoor rooftop with seasonal pool and cabana rentals

Attractions & Sightseeing

Go high or go home.

• Empire State Building - (86 and 102 floors) Best for patient movie and history buffs who need to check it off their bucket list. Recently redone indoor 102nd Floor Observatory
• Top of the Rock - (67-70 floors) Best for sweeping 360° vista views, including of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Shorter lines and cheaper than the ESB.
• One World Observatory - (100-102 floors) Best for homage to the Twin Towers. Modern and high tech, with phenomenal views
• Edge - (100-101 floors) Highest outdoor observation deck, glass bottom floor, deck extends 80 feet away from building (photo)
• Summit One Vanderbilt - (91-93 floors) Opened Oct 2021, all glass elevator, indoor and outdoor decks and glass terraces off the side of the building. One of the hottest tickets in town

Sightsee from the Sky

• Summit One Vanderbilt - (91-93 floors) Opens Oct 2021, all glass elevator, indoor and outdoor decks and glass terraces off the side of the building

New York City Night Cruises

Sunset sail aboard the schooner adirondack, nyc premiere dinner & skyline cruise, champagne city lights cruise on yacht manhattan, circle line harbor lights cruise, new york city lights dinner cruise, around manhattan architecture, take in all the tours, landmarks and attractions and save.

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New York City Nightlife

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• New York Dinner Cruise - family-friendly and/or romantic cruise with excellent service, spectacular sights and delicious menu offerings.
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• NYC Night Bus Tour - From Times Square to the Brooklyn Bridge, see our city wink and twinkle right at you.

Romantic Things to Do in NYC

Romantic nyc hotel deals, romantic nyc champagne & skyline cruises, private central park walking tour with a personal photographer, new york city private helicopter tour, romantic broadway show picks, valentines dinner cruise with the nyc skyline, explore and indulge like a real nyc foodie, spot celebrities in nyc, get out of town for a day.

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The 13 Best NYC Places to Visit in Winter

New York City has many super famous sights to offer. But when I’m in New York in the winter, I look at other places that I do not have, for example, in the summer on my travel plan.

You'll also love this:

• GUIDE: Winter in New York
• The 33 Best Things to Do in Winter in New York
• The 33 Absolute Best Attractions in New York

Therefore, I have compiled my 13 best places in NYC that you should visit during winter time. In addition to classics like the Empire State Building, we also show you a few special places that you can discover in the Big Apple only in winter. 👉  Further down you find all spots on a map .

Let’s check out the best sights in New York in winter:

My Favorite Places to Visit in Winter in NYC

If this list isn’t enough for you, our New York Winter Guide has even more tips on the best spots, tours, events and Christmas in New York.

Brooklyn Bridge in Winter

The Brooklyn Bridge is an official landmark of the city, which you should not miss even in winter. Make sure to walk across the impressive bridge and enjoy the unique view across the East River to Brooklyn in the clear winter air. And while you’re on the bridge, take a stroll to Brooklyn Bridge Park .

GET A WARMING COFFEE AND ENJOY THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS!

Due to the cold wind, it can get really icy on the Brooklyn Bridge in winter. The best time to try your luck on some warming sunshine is around noon on the bridge.

Central Park in Winter

Central Park should not be missing from any Things to Do in New York in winter ! The green lung of the city turns into a true winter wonderland during the cold season. It is therefore also a popular destination for New Yorkers. Stroll through the park under snow-covered trees and let yourself be enchanted by the play of lights on the frozen water surfaces in the evening.

Walking through Central Park in the cold is magical! If there’s snow, it’s even more amazing.

If you want to be more adventurous, start in Harlem and walk down Central Park towards Midtown. Too often we catch ourselves starting on Fifth Avenue at the Plaza Hotel in Central Park. There is so much more to explore than just that part of Central Park.

Bryant Park Winter Village

Starting in October (and running through March), it is time once again for the best winter market in New York City to open its doors. The Winter Village in Bryant Park is not only the largest Christmas market in the city but also by far the nicest on account of its adjacent ice rink and places to shop and eat. This along with its amazing location among all the skyscrapers makes for an amazing Christmas experience. 

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the largest Christmas trees in NYC, placed annually in Rockefeller Center Plaza. In New York, the Tree Lighting Ceremony right after Thanksgiving is the official start of the Holiday season . Over the past years, we weren’t super lucky with the weather but the Tree Lighting Ceremony attracts tons of people every year. Of course, the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center is the highlight of visitors coming to New York from all over the world during Christmas time. Most visitors only know the tree from movies or pictures, so it’s very impressive looking at it in person. This year, the lighting of the tree ceremony at Rockefeller Center will take place on Wednesday, December 1st, 2021 .

From Manhattan: 4-Hour Dyker Heights Holiday Lights Bus Tour

If you live in Brooklyn or visit New York during Christmas , one of the most popular attractions to enjoy during the wintertime is the Dyker Heights Christmas lights display. Every year around this time, people flock to catch a glimpse of these beautiful lights. Our ultimate guide will tell you everything you need to know about Dyker Heights and their Christmas Lights Festival so that when December rolls around, you have no problem navigating your way through the crowds and enjoying it as much as possible!

My tip: Here you find the best Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tours .

Saks Fifth Avenue

Saks Fifth Avenue flagship store, which is located in Midtown Manhattan, offers an experience like no other flagship store in the city. It’s one of the original stores responsible for helping to make fifth ave a must-visit shopping destination.

The flagship store is a whopping ten stories high and features everything from designer clothing to accessories to home decor. You’ll find all of the top designers at Saks Fifth Avenue, including Prada, Gucci, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, and more! In addition to clothing, you can also find beauty products and services here, making it the perfect one-stop-shop for all your luxury needs.

The flagship store is often considered to be the most luxurious department store in New York City and offers an experience that is sure to please everyone who visits. With outdoor light experiences, and intricate displays adorning each floor of Saks, it’s no wonder why many consider it to be one of the must-visit store’s flagship stores in NYC. 

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is the most famous attraction in New York City. When most people think of NYC, this landmark is usually the first thing that pops into their head. It’s an iconic skyscraper and has been arguably the face of the city. It should definitely be a part of every trip to the city since it features two observation decks! Here’s a fun fact: The Empire State Building even has its own zip code! (NY 10118)

9/11 Memorial

Ground Zero has now become a place for quiet reflection. With two huge pools to commemorate the lives lost during 9/11 the beautiful memorial attracts people from far and wide. NYC will never forget 9/11 and the memorial is the perfect embodyment of this spirit.

What is the best pass for New York?

Currently, there are six major passes for New York City, making the task to find the best New York pass even harder. Most of the NYC sightseeing passes have a list of over 10 included attractions it can be difficult at times to compare them properly. Because we know how overwhelming the choice can be, we have created a tool that helps you to find the best New York Pass in three simple steps – ourNYC Attraction Pass Savings Calculator!

The Edge Observation Deck

The Hudson Yards observation deck called Edge is New York’s newest and highest open observation deck. It opened in March 2020 and we were there – the view from up here is just sensational, and through the glass floor you can see over 100 floors straight down!

One World Observatory

The One World Trade Center is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere meaning that is the ultimate place for an observation deck. The One World Observatory offers amazing views over the whole of Manhattan, the Hudson and East Rivers and of course the Statue of Liberty. As one of NYC’s newest attractions the modern building and its observation deck have many amazing features that make this well worth the visit!

Staten Island Ferry

One of New York’s most popular tourist attractions is the Staten Island Ferry, which commutes between the southern tip of Manhattan and Staten Island. The crossing is free of charge! The 5 mile journey takes about 20-25 minutes and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the skyscrapers and the Statue of Liberty.

One Vanderbilt The Summit

The New York City skyline is one of the most famous and recognizable skylines in the world. It’s a city filled with skyscrapers and tall buildings. In most recent years, it has been expanding which made way for new observation decks. The newest observation deck is located at the top of the One Vanderbilt Building and is called The Summit. This deck is the second-highest outdoor deck in NYC which follows the Edge and has been open since October 2021.

There are few parks as unique as the High Line. The elevated freight rail line was repurposed as a public green space that opened in 2009 and now offers amazing views of the city, as well as a place to relax and unwind. Its plant life is based directly off what was growing there while it was abandoned, giving this park a unique and interesting atmosphere! The High Line stretches from The Meatpacking District all the way to Hudson Yards-34th Street.

The 13 Best NYC Places to Visit in Winter on a Map

Winter in New York – Our Complete Guide 2024

The 43 Best Things to Do in New York in Winter

The 41 Absolute Best New York Attractions In 2024

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

19 Top Things to Do in NYC in Winter

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Sep 29, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger is a born-and-raised New Yorker having spent the majority of her adult life living in Manhattan and Queens.

New York City is magical any time of the year. Yes, even in winter! Those of us who live and breathe New York City will tell you that just because temperatures have dropped, does not mean the spirit or energy of New York does, too. In fact, New York comes alive in an entirely new way during the winter months.

For New Yorkers, winter technically begins right after Thanksgiving at the end of November, and lasts until the end of March . The coldest months are January and February, though snow can fall anytime between November and sometimes into April. While this may be a deterrent for some, winter in New York City is actually one of the most festive and exciting times to visit.

Personally, I wait all year for the beginning of December, when the city starts to sparkle for the holidays. Entire neighborhoods are festooned with lights, decorations, and glitter. The holiday spirit in New York is second to none, especially when it comes to catching iconic productions, from The Nutcracker ballet to The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall.

But even after the holidays are long gone, you'll still find me out and about exploring NYC in winter. It's such a vibrant time of year, from fashion shows and discounted restaurants to Jazzfest and Chinese New Year. And because the temperature has a tendency to plummet, visitors often find the crowds to be slower than from May to October.

If you're ready to bundle up and explore New York when it's at its most magical, check out our list of the top things to do in NYC in winter.

1. See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

2. celebrate new year's eve, 3. go ice-skating, 4. see a broadway show, 5. explore the new gilder center at the american museum of natural history, 6. window shop on fifth avenue, 7. see the bright lights of brooklyn, 8. celebrate chinese new year, 9. enjoy winter jazzfest, 10. sip the best hot chocolate, 11. get dressed at fashion week, 12. dine around at restaurant week, 13. dig for treasure at the indoor brooklyn flea market, 14. hit a museum (or many), 15. get active at chelsea piers, 16. soak up culture at lincoln center, 17. snuggle up at the strand, 18. catch a flick at ifc, 19. enjoy nyc hotel week.

Nothing kicks off the holiday season in New York quite like the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. While all the five boroughs sparkle with decorations, twinkling lights, window dressings, and a palpable good spirit, there is something about the historic lighting of the tree that tells New Yorkers, "The holidays are here."

The tradition has been happening for more than 75 years, and each year the tree manages to tower at impressive heights. It goes up every year around Thanksgiving at the end of November and stands proudly over the ice-skating rink below.

As a New Yorker, there is a requirement to abhor anything "touristy," but even I cannot resist a loop or two around the ice-skating rink underneath the colorful Christmas lights.

Insider tip: If the crowds at Rockefeller Center are too much, I like to head down to Wall Street to see their Christmas tree. While not as big as the one in Rockefeller Center, the tree in front of the New York Stock Exchange is quite magical and magnificent and definitely scratches that holiday spirit itch.

Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, New York

New Year's Eve is an important holiday for New Yorkers. We all love the opportunity to push reset and start anew - and we do so in style with big celebrations all over the city.

If you're interested in a real bucket list moment, the ball drop in Times Square is one of the most celebrated New Year's Eve spectacles in the world. Sure, you may be surrounded by hundreds of thousands of your closest friends, but the ball drop is watched by millions all over the world in nearly every country.

There are ways to avoid the crowds of the street: surrounding rooftops and restaurants sell tickets for their bird's-eye view of the event. Prices aren't cheap, but it will be worth it for the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Most restaurants will offer prix-fixe menus on New Year's Eve, with a choice of appetizers, entrees, and desserts, and complete with festive decorations. Many restaurants even do a midnight countdown and toast. Bear in mind that many of the menus can be on the pricier side, so you'll want to do some sleuthing to see where you can get the best deals.

Author's Tip: I would caution against these prix-fixed menus because the food quality tends to suffer in the frenzy of the New Year's Eve crowds. I also find that the price is never really worth what you're getting. Instead, opt for smaller restaurants that will still be offering their regular menus.

I already mentioned Rockefeller Center's ice rink, which is definitely a bucket list experience for winter in NYC. It's open until midnight, too, by the way. But it's not the only place in NYC to go ice skating in the winter.

Bryant Park is one of the most famous spots in the city to lace up ice skates. Bryant Park sits in one of the most cosmopolitan sections of Manhattan, surrounded by skyscrapers, office buildings, and the New York Public Library. But come wintertime, the park transforms into a veritable winter wonderland, known as the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park.

Over in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, ice-skating gets taken to new heights. Located on the 23rd floor of The William Vale Hotel , the sky-high rink invites guests to come and "skate the skyline."

Of all the theater districts in the world, none is more famous than New York City's Broadway. And what better time to sit snuggly in a warm, heated theater than winter in New York?

The district is named for the street around which it centers. Broadway is the longest thoroughfare in New York and runs the entire length of Manhattan. About halfway up the island is Times Square , which is where the city's most famous theaters are, home to the world's most famous plays and musicals.

What is playing is constantly changing, with some shows running for decades, while others play for a short amount of time. Among the most famous plays to ever hit Broadway have been Chicago, Hamilton, The Lion King, Rent, Phantom of the Opera, Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots , and quite literally hundreds more.

Catching a show on Broadway is one of the best things to do in New York no matter the time of year, but winter is arguably one of the best for a nice break from the frigid temperatures.

January also hosts NYC Broadway Week , when audiences can purchase 2-for-1 tickets to the top Broadway shows. If you miss Broadway Week in January, there is also one in September.

One of New York's charms is that it's a walking city. But in the winter, the icy temperatures can make that a little less than pleasant. Warm up inside the American Museum of Natural History and check out its impressive new wing — the canyon-inspired Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation. Opened in May 2023, the $465-million wing shows off a stunning architectural design made to resemble a deep canyon carved by the wind.

Its galleries extend off of the atrium, accessible by bridges and through giant holes that were built to resemble the mouths of caves.

One exhibit includes a sprawling Butterly vivarium, home to roughly 80 species of butterflies. Another gallery features creepy crawlies from around the world in the insectarium. In this exhibit, you can look through a transparent sky bridge that is filled with leaf-cutter ants. The Gilder Center also has a 360-degree theater, as well as classrooms.

Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, New York

If you are in the mood to brave the brisk air, tourists and New Yorkers alike surge with excitement to explore the opulent window dressings that light up Fifth Avenue stores during the holidays.

All the high-end department stores pull out all the stops to decorate their street-facing window displays with festive and fun holiday decorations. In 2019, Saks Fifth Avenue teamed up with Disney to create the world of Frozen in its windows, while Louis Vuitton celebrated with an installation that covered the entire corner facade of Fifth Avenue with brilliantly colored sculptures, and life-size images of the brand's icon.

If the weather proves to be a bit too uncomfortable, you can always pop into one of the stores for a little retail therapy. 'Tis the season, after all.

While the majority of New York City lights up during the holidays, no neighborhood offers more pomp and circumstance than Brooklyn's Dyker Heights.

For decades the residents of Dyker Heights have made it a tradition to hire professional lighting companies to essentially deck all of the halls. Thousands of lights are strung up across the mini mansions in this affluent section of Brooklyn, including toy soldiers, angels, moving reindeer, Santa, and more.

The neighborhood is not super convenient to reach from Manhattan, so several tour companies offer to take visitors on coach buses to and from Dyker Heights on a guided sightseeing tour.

Expect the displays to be up just after Thanksgiving. If you're planning a DIY visit, the lights can be seen from 11th to 13th Avenues, from 83rd to 86th St.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Brooklyn

Each year around February, New York City explodes with fiery colors, festive events, traditional dancing, and street performers, all out in full force to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

Lunar New Year is a holiday celebrated across Asia, where people take time to honor household and heavenly deities, as well as their ancestors. Picture fireworks, lion dances, and plenty of delicious dim sum.

Manhattan's Chinatown plays host to the Firecracker Ceremony, as well as the Chinese New Year Parade. The parade route runs down Mott and Canal Streets, down East Broadway toward the Manhattan Bridge, and then over onto Forsythe and Eldridge Streets toward Grand Street.

This is also one of the highest concentrations of Chinese restaurants in the city, so you're sure to find a place to tuck into some world-class Chinese dining.

Ever since 2005, Winter Jazzfest has been lighting up New York City with some of the hottest names and rising stars in the music industry. What started as a one-day, single-location program has exploded into a week-long spectacle that spans more than 10 stages and brings more than 700 artists.

But the event is so much more than performances. The program also includes conversations and presentations on topics that range from the jazz community to social justice, gender, environmentalism, wellness, and mental health. All talk sessions are free and open to the general public, as well.

Any winter destination worth its whipped cream knows how to concoct the perfect mug of hot chocolate. Fortunately, New York City has several bakeries and restaurants that can fill the order. And no trip to New York City in the winter is complete without a piping hot cup of chocolate.

Perhaps the most famous hot chocolate in the city isn't even hot at all. The iconic "frozen hot chocolate" at Upper East Side restaurant Serendipity 3 was made famous in the eponymous movie, Serendipity . Today, it's a tourist and local favorite for the cold "hot" chocolate, served with a scoop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Be sure to book enough time for this treat, as lines are to be expected.

Then there's the Dominique Ansel Bakery (famous for the world-renowned cronut creation), which serves a more traditional cup. This hot chocolate is a city favorite and is topped with a marshmallow flower.

Come February, New York's streets are packed with the world's best dressed, as celebrities, models, photographers, writers, and stylists strut their stuff for Fashion Week.

Fashionistas absolutely live for New York Fashion Week (there is a Fall version, as well). While the fashion shows themselves are invite-only, there is still plenty of excitement to absorb around the city, from Lincoln Center to Bryant Park, and several venues across the city that host events.

Beyond the fashion shows and parties, there are several panels hosted discussing the future of fashion and other topics surrounding the industry, hosted and attended by some of the biggest and most up-and-coming names in the industry.

New York City is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, but that also means it's home to the most expensive or fully booked restaurants. Enter Restaurant Week, or rather, Restaurant Weeks, as the event is actually three weeks long.

This popular event offers reduced-set meals at some of the city's most iconic eateries. Whether you're tucking into homemade pasta at a Michelin-starred restaurant, sinking your teeth into a Ribeye at a dimly lit steakhouse, or feasting on dim sum any day of the week, Restaurant Week gives visitors the best taste of New York, at a fraction of the price.

If you happen to miss the winter event, there is another Restaurant Week offered in the summer.

A rite of passage for every New Yorker, and every visitor to New York, for that matter, is a trip to the Brooklyn Flea. This sprawling outdoor summer market is chock-full of treasures, from antiques and vintage clothing to collectible toys, records, and more. Come winter, the market moves indoors so that shoppers can browse and stay warm.

The indoor Winter Market has taken up residence in Industry City, where 60 or more vendors set up tables on both Saturday and Sunday to hawk their wares. Keep in mind this will be one of the more expensive flea markets you encounter (it is New York, after all), but haggling is encouraged.

New York's famous Smorgasburg food and drink fair has also set up shop at the flea market, so you'll be able to try some of the best dishes from New York's most iconic restaurants all under one roof.

Address: 220 36th Street Suite #2-A, Brooklyn, New York

Museums are open in New York year-round, but with winter temperatures plunging to below freezing, winter is the perfect time to head indoors to check out some of the best art in the world.

You name it, New York City has a museum for it. From the world-famous Metropolitan Museum of Art to the American Museum of Natural History , the modern marvels at The Whitney , or the history of the native tributes of New York at the Museum of the American Indian , you can always learn something from inside the (heated) centers of learning across the city.

New York City even has museums dedicated to the maritime trade, the tenement-style living of early New York, the Museum of the Moving Image , and a Museum of Morbid Anatomy . No matter your interest, you'll find a museum to match in New York. And it's always the perfect excuse to step out of the cold.

Staying active in New York City may seem challenging in the winter, what with freezing temperatures and snowy streets. But if you know where to look, you'll find plenty of indoor adventures that will get your heart rate up and keep you warm at the same time.

Chelsea Piers, for example, is one of the most beloved activity playgrounds for adults in New York City. The mega sports complex on the Hudson River touches everything from baseball and basketball to figure skating, football, ice hockey, and even golf and rock climbing.

For wintertime, Chelsea Piers features two indoor rock climbing walls. The 23-foot rock climbing wall at the Field House is great for all levels, while the Rock Wall at Pier 60 is one of the largest rock climbing gyms in all five boroughs.

Other fun indoor activities within the 80,000-square-foot Field House include batting cages, open soccer and basketball, gymnastics, and more. You can even head over to The Golf Club for some indoor driving practice.

Winter is magic in New York, with twinkling lights and buzzing energy. It also happens to be peak season at Lincoln Center for the New York City ballet, philharmonic, and opera. This is one of the premier places in all of New York to really soak up the culture, so make sure to snag a ticket to one of the coveted events at this Upper West Side icon.

Lincoln Center is more than a performance space. It is truly a destination, which receives more than five million visitors each year. Its gleaming white campus sits not far from Columbus Circle and is recognized by its iconic central fountain. It is home to 11 resident organizations and puts on roughly 3,000 programs and events each year.

I absolutely love winter at Lincoln Center because it is when the New York City Ballet begins its Winter Repertory Season. This six-week season brings world premieres to the stage at Lincoln Center, as well as revives classics like Sleeping Beauty.

New York City has some of the best shopping in the world, no matter the time of year. But you can go shopping anywhere. Where you can't go anywhere, however, is The Strand. That is pure New York, and what better place to escape the icy air than by stealing away into the towering stacks of one of the best bookstores in the country?

The Strand prides itself on the "18 miles of books" in its inventory. One step inside the cozy Union Square bookstore, and you'll see they weren't exaggerating. Stacks packed to the brim with every title imaginable plaster every open surface in the shop. Step in to browse everything from bestsellers and travel guides to rare and collectible books, gifts, clothing, science books, photography, graphic novels, and truly so much more.

You'll know you're a real New Yorker when you leave with your "The Strand" book tote filled to the brim with your new finds.

New York City has plenty of movie theaters. It has everything from traditional theaters to ones with reclining auditorium seats to theaters that serve full dinner meals during a screening. But it only has one IFC Center, which is an art house icon located in Greenwich Village.

Right on Sixth Avenue and West 3rd Street, IFC Center is about as iconic as movie houses go. It was originally the Waverly Theater, but in 2005 underwent a renovation to become the IFC Center, and has drawn hundreds of thousands of viewers ever since to see its roster of independent films.

Within the theater are five screening rooms, all of which are dedicated to independent, foreign, and documentary films. It even offers cult movie screenings at midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

The theater enjoys some of the best real estate in the country, so after you catch a film, you'll be at the doorstep to the best coffee shops, restaurants, shopping, and people-watching in the entire city.

New York City has some of the best hotels in the world. Unfortunately, that means that these hotels can come at exorbitant prices. If you can plan your travel far enough in advance, I recommend taking advantage of NYC Hotel Week .

This is an annual offering of discounted hotels that runs for more than a month over the winter starting typically in early January. Often you can find hotel rates discounted by more than 20 percent. The key, though, is to book early because these deals get snapped up even faster than a New York minute.

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The best things to do in the winter in NYC

The weather outside might be freezing, but the best things to do in winter in NYC will keep you cheery.

New York City doesn't shut down in the winter, thank you very much! Instead, we're just turning up the heat on all there is to do here. There are plenty of incredible things to do all season long during the coldest time of year, including great museum exhibits and winter pop-ups. For something a bit more snuggly, check out the free fireplaces to cozy up by in NYC  or lounge inside a sauna at one of the best spas . Don’t forget that New York is absolutely gorgeous in winter, so bundle up and go out to admire all the snow-covered trees at the best NYC parks  or check out some outdoor public art .

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do outside this winter in NYC RECOMMENDED:   The best New York attractions

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Best things to do in the winter

1.  Sip afternoon tea

• Restaurants

Treat yourself like royalty at one of NYC’s best spots for afternoon tea, complete with fancy sandwiches, decadent scones, lavish surroundings and a caffeine jolt. From the elegant  Grand Salon at the Baccarat Hotel to the park views at Mandarin Oriental, these special tea services will make you cozy on the rainiest or coldest day.

2.  Experience a Well-Being Concert at Carnegie Hall

Forget the gown, tux, and fancy shoes. For this new concert series at Carnegie Hall, stretchy pants, cozy sweaters, and comfy footwear is welcomed. 

The iconic venue is hosting five intimate concerts this winter that combine elements of mindfulness and meditation with world-class musical performances. These hour-long Well-Being Concerts cost between $15-$30 and run through April.

During the show, audience members are encouraged to get comfortable while reclining on floor mats and cushions. A host will share prompts, lead breathing exercises, and ask guests to share thoughts and reflections with their fellow audience members. Guest may even be encouraged to sing.

3.  Belt it out like you're on Broadway

• Theater & Performance

"Hey sister, go sister, soul sister, go sister," there's a spicy new   Moulin Rouge   pop-up that's definitely worth going to. 

Moulin Rouge! The Musical   has taken over the rooftop at M Social Hotel in Times Square with a Broadway karaoke experience this winter. Decked out in red decor and lit with chandeliers, this pop-up promises to heat up the colder days and makes an especially fun night out for Valentine's dates. Find the venue at 51st and Broadway, with the pop-up available through at least February 2024. 

If you need a little liquid courage to belt it out, there’s a themed drink menu, including The Rouge, Baby!, a twist on a rum punch, and The Sparkling Diamond, a take on a French martini.

Be sure to make a reservation to attend. Reservations can be made for an hour and 15 minutes,   bookable on OpenTable . Tickets cost $50/person and include one complimentary themed cocktail.

4.  Think pink at Pier 15

• Things to do
• Events & Festivals

Just in time for Valentine's Day, Pink Pier is back at Pier 15 with over-the-top decor, photo opps, and themed food—all perfectly pink. Watermark, the 10,000-square-foot outdoor bar and restaurant along the East River, has been transformed into this pink paradise. 

Whether you're celebrating the season with a Valentine, a gal-entine, a pal-entine, or just your fabulous self, Pink Pier makes for a fun spot to go out. Tickets are on sale here .

The experience promises a romantic dining destination. You’ll enter through a floral hallway that sets the stage for what’s ahead. Pink and red flowers abound, twinkly lights illuminate the space, and heart installations make for excellent photo backdrops. Ribbons, bows, and garlands fill every spare space for the ultimate coquette aesthetic. 

5.  Make your own handbag

At Sip & Stitch, create your very own custom handbag with the guidance of purse pro Anthony Luciano. As a longtime handbag artistan and a fashion expert, Luciano will share tips and tricks for making a handbag that's perfect for your personal style. 

The lively workshops are held in Luciano’s Garment District studio, which is packed with vintage ephemera, beautiful decor, and plenty of purses to spark your inspiration. The class begins with a chance to pick a leather color and texture of your choosing—just nothing boring, as Luciano admonishes. Once that’s sorted, he’ll guide you through each step of the process, from cutting to gluing to making final touches. While the workshop is called Sip & Stitch, there’s technically no “stitching” involved, so don’t be intimidated. Even if you’re not a crafty person, Luciano and his team will make sure you leave with a handbag you’re proud to carry. 

Several workshops fall under the Sip & Stitch umbrella, from a classic handbag to a unisex option. Prices range from $175 to $275, with adult beverages and snacks provided at the higher price point. The team plays pop and disco tunes in the background, making a fun and fashionable night for all.

6.  Visit the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park

• Markets and fairs

The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park has returned in all its holiday glory. On the grounds, you can peruse more than 180 shopping and food kiosks—all at one of the best   NYC parks. Expect loads of handmade, unique and New York City-specific gifts for your family and friends. Work up an appetite at the 17,000-square-foot   ice-skating   rink and then fill up at the  rinkside pop-up restaurant called The Lodge for festive cocktails and hearty food.

The experience will be open through March 3, 2024.

7.  Explore The Met's new fashion exhibit

A refreshing new fashion exhibit at The Met hands the mic to pioneering women designers who dress women of all shapes and sizes. The exhibition shows how female designers have reclaimed the body—and are reclaiming the message in fashion.

" Women Dressing Women " showcases 80 garments by 70 makers, from couture gowns by well-known designers like Donna Karan to political garments by Katharine Hamnett to plus-size outfits by Ester Manas. The exhibition, curated by The Costume Institute, is on view at the Upper East Side museum through March 3, 2024, included with museum admission. It highlights rare pieces from the collection, many of which are on view at The Met for the first time. 

The exhibition explores the subject through four sections: anonymity, visibility, agency, and absence/omission. Focusing on the period between the early 1900s and today, the collection offers a snapshot of fashion history and fashion trends. 

8.  Relax at a winter spa

Two New York City hotels are offering outdoor spa experiences this winter—The William Vale in Brooklyn and The Rockaway Hotel + Spa in Queens, so grab your swimwear and make a reservation. 

At The William Vale, enjoy the views while indulging in some much-needed stress relief. Bask in the heat of a barrel sauna with panoramic skyline views or soak in a cedar hot tub under the stars—or both! The experience makes for a special solo trip or a romantic date night. 

At The Rockaway Hotel, enjoy a resort-style escape not too far from Manhattan. For the winter, the hotel has transformed its patio area into a winter pool house with cedar saunas and cozy decor. Plus, the outdoor pool is open for a refreshing plunge. After your dip, you can slip into a buttery robe and relax with tabletop games.

9.  Sip pink cocktails

Season after season, Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge sprinkles its special blend of hospitality pixie dust to transform its venue into an immersive spectacle. This winter is no different as the Garment District bar presents the saccharine Pink Winter Lodge: Neon Frost Edition.

Expect pink decor everywhere, plus a themed menu with pink drinks and pink sweet treats. Make a reservation here ; walk-ins are welcome as well. 

No matter the weather—yes, even if snow is in the forecast —Magic Hour makes for a fun destination, as it offers an indoor and outdoor rooftop with a retractable roof.

10.  Check out the Museum of Broadway

From amazing costumes to Broadway history to fun photo opps, this long-awaited new museum is a must-see for theater buffs.  

You can expect the new museum to highlight over 500 individual productions from the 1700s all the way to the present. 

Among the standout offerings will also be a special exhibit dubbed "The Making of a Broadway Show," which honors the on- and off-stage community that helps bring plays and musicals to life multiple times a week. 

11.  Step into an immersive AI world

Inside a venue dating back 100 years into the past, a new art show explores a question of the future: How can human creativity and artificial intelligence coexist?

ARTECHOUSE, located inside an old boiler room at Chelsea Market, has debuted its latest digital art exhibition, “World of AI·magination;"   tickets are on sale here   starting at $21/person. To create the exhibition, ARTECHOUSE Studio developed original visual elements with generative AI systems. Designers hope to inspire visitors to consider AI as a "creative associate rather than a mere tool for innovation." 

World of AI·magination centers around a 20-minute cinematic experience with six scenes. One scene, called the Library of Magical Portals, features colossal books brimming with dreams and algorithms. Another scene called Symphony of Illusions constantly morphs, while the Infinite Maze immerses visitors into multiple parallels.

12.  Experience an empowering new art show

When Komal Shah starting collecting art more than a decade ago, she noticed something startling: "The art world does not treat women artists equally" compared to male artists. 

She decided to do something about that by founding the Shah Garg Foundation with her husband, Gaurav Garg. The organization champions artwork by women and seeks to remedy the imbalances facing marginalized artists. Nearly 100 pieces of art from their collection are now on view in a powerful and diverse show called " Making Their Mark: Art by Women in the Shah Garg Collection " in Chelsea (548 West 22nd Street). It's free to visit through March 23, 2024; hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-6pm.

The expansive exhibition fills two stories with stunning works by artists including Firelei Báez, Cecily Brown, Judy Chicago, Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, Mary Weatherford, Anicka Yi, and many others. The show features paintings, drawings, textile works, sculptures and mixed media pieces by significant artists from the last eight decades. 

13.  Explore beautiful new outdoor art

One less reason to be gloomy this winter: The free and vibrant Ana María Hernando exhibition at Madison Square Park, which features giant waterfall and cloud-like sculptures that'll make you feel like you’re in a tropical island somewhere in the Studio Ghibli universe. 

"To Let the Sky Know/Dejar que el cielo sepa," is hard to miss: Spread across three of Madison Square Park's lawns and hovering over the snow, the aim of Hernando's public project is to foster feelings of hope, growth, and fluidity — admit tedly, three things that feel pretty hard to come by during our frigid winters. It's on view until March 17, 2024.

14.  Get competitive at Brooklyn’s pétanque bar

• Sports and fitness
• Sports & Fitness

Carreau Club , the nation’s first pétanque bar, has added an indoor location to its ranks with more space to get your game on while sipping a drink.

The indoor venue at Brooklyn's Industry City makes for great night out with a full bar, craft beer, wine and cocktails, plus a small deli counter. For the uninitiated, pétanque (pronounced puh-TONK) is a bocce-ball style French boules sport gaining popularity in the U.S., starting here in NYC. 

15.  Admire "Divine Pathways"

The vibrant, ornate stained glass windows inside Manhattan's historic churches always create a dazzling spectacle. But now, a new long-term art display inspired by those rich colors has unfurled inside the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Morningside Heights—the   world's largest Gothic cathedral . 

Titled "Divine Pathways," the monumental art installation is made up of more than 1,100 lengths of blue, red and gold fabric. Each ribbon measures 75 feet in length (approximately seven stories high). Combined, they are almost 16 miles long—that's longer than the island of Manhattan!  

St. John the Divine is open daily for self-guided sightseeing tours with a $15/adult admission fee;   timed tickets are recommended . "Divine Pathways" will be on view through June 2024. 

16.  Get a hole in one at Swingers

• Midtown West

This "crazy mini-golf course" and entertainment complex straight from London offers three nine-hole golf courses across 23,000 square feet under 20-foot-high ceilings. For those new to the game, "crazy golf" is a British spin on mini-golf, but it's for a 21-and-over audience since craft cocktails are served by caddies on the course. In addition to the cocktails, the course offers a little more edge — think wild routes, obstacles, windmills and more.

At Swingers NoMad, expect six cocktail bars with signature classic cocktails from London and D.C., as well as 12 cocktails created specifically for NYC, private rooms you can rent, an opulent clubhouse and four gourmet street food vendors—Sauce Pizzeria, Miznon, Fonda and Mah Ze Dahr Bakery.

17.  Get your game on

• Weird & Wonderful

Get your game on at a board game cafe near Union Square.

Filled with 500 games,   Hex & Co.'s latest location   is now open just south of Union Square at 801 Broadway (Broadway and East 11th in Greenwich Village) and ready for gamers of all fandoms. 

This is the third location for Hex & Co., joining fellow board game cafes in the Upper West Side and Upper East Side. It also joins sister stores The Uncommons in Greenwich Village and The Brooklyn Strategist in Carroll Gardens.

The new cafe is the first with a true private room, perfect for parties of all kinds. Visitors can choose from more than 500 games on the venue's massive game wall, everything from Taboo and Risk to Catan and Ticket to Ride. 

18.  Learn how to hit a bullseye

Wild Captives , the nation’s first female- and LGBTQ-owned archery studio, is now open. It's a place where everyone can "be their own superhero." The studio in Brooklyn’s Industry City offers empowering and fun hour-long introduction to archery classes every weekend for $45/person. 

Each intro class includes a chance to learn about different parts of the bow and safety requirements. After the lesson, each participant gets a chance to shoot the bow trying to pop a balloon pinned onto the bullseye. Intro-to-archery classes are available each Friday, Saturday and Sunday,   bookable online  for anyone over age 12.

19.  Experience INTER_, NYC

The energy in   INTER_  feels more like a meditation retreat than a typical gallery—and that’s by design. 

The experiential, multi-sensory museum in Soho invites visitors into a heightened state of contemplative awareness through a sound bath, light installations and aspects of meditation all combined with interactive digital art. 

Here's a sneak peek inside the museum  — and if you want to  check it out yourself ,  Time Out readers get a discount on tickets with code   TIMEOUT15.

20.  Actually go sledding

Hope for snow, and if the flakes actually fall, pretend your a kid again and go sledding! Some of the best NYC parks (in all five boroughs) offer great hills for thrill seekers. After having a playful day throwing snowball fights and sliding down those slippery slopes until you become a snowperson, take us up on our recommendations for watering holes where you can grab a drink and warm up afterward.

There are many great bars with fireplaces in the city that will do the trick, but if you want the real post-sledding beverage, check out our list of the best hot chocolate in the city.

21.  Warm up at NYC’s best fireplace bars

This time of year, when sweaters replace ceiling fans and we’re already eyeing our jackets, gathering around a contained flame sounds more idyllic than ever. Whether they’re in a dive , a cocktail spot or a cold weather rooftop , these are the best fireplace bars in NYC.  

22.  Go ice skating

Ice skating in NYC is one of the city’s most beloved seasonal traditions. While some skating rinks are open year-round, ice skating in the winter — especially around the holidays — is a special treat that will warm your soul with the spirit of the season. The iconic rink at Rockefeller Center and the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park are bursting with holiday cheer (and fab food and drinks), while low-key rinks offer a more chill experience. 

23.  Get cozy at these restaurants and bars

Tucked away inside New York’s top-notch restaurants, bars and coffee shops are some of the best nooks to relax in. From fancy drinks dens with warm, winter cocktails to neighborhood bars with roaring fireplaces , these are the coziest bars and restaurants in New York. Leave the cold behind.

24.  Spend time at The Polonsky Exhibition at NYPL

• Midtown West Until Dec 31, 2025

You'll want to spend a couple of hours inside the NYPL to see every item of its collection within "The Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library’s Treasures." The artifacts on view span 4,000 years of history and includes a wide range of history-making pieces, including the only surviving letter from Christoper Columbus announcing his "discovery" of the Americas to King Ferdinand’s court and the first Gutenberg Bible brought over to the Americas...just wow! 

25.  See cute pet photos at Fotografiska

If scrolling through social media to see pictures of cute dogs and hilarious cats is a favorite pastime of yours, then this new exhibit at   Fotografiska   is a must-see. Titled " Best in Show ," the exhibition explores the role of furry and feathered friends in our culture through more than 100 incredible photographs. 

Photos show dogs in a variety of situations, like getting baths, posing, partying, shaking their heads and even dressing up in fancy “cones of shame.” Cats, rats, bunnies, birds, reptiles, turtles and fish get their moment in the spotlight, too, at this exhibition on view in the Flatiron District through January 2024. 

26.  Explore "The Secret World of Elephants"

Majestic, incredible elephants are getting the spotlight in a new exhibit at The American Museum of Natural History. "The Secret World of Elephants" showcases both modern and ancient elephants, offering visitors a chance to see a full-scale model of a woolly mammoth, learn about what elephants eat, touch an elephant's tooth, listen to elephant calls and more.

The exhibition is now open in the museum’s LeFrak Family Gallery. An additional ticket is required to visit the exhibit; museum members can visit for free.

27.  Trip out at The House of Cannabis

The House of Cannabis (a.k.a. THC NYC) is a new weed museum in Soho. While the museum boasts plenty of mind-bending multi-sensory bells and whistles, it also showcases art, highlights science and confronts the social justice issues baked into cannabis prosecution.

Don't miss: The Euphorium, a massive spinning record you can sit or lay on while listening to music, from The Doors to Santana. With the room's impressive light show and hazy vibes, it's like a merry-go-round for adults.  

28.  Watch the Super Bowl

Whether you dig football or not, the big game is, if anything, an ace excuse to gorge and get sloppy. And if football isn’t really your jam, there’s always the Puppy Bowl, a televised gaggle of adorable doggies in a mock stadium. Who are we kidding? We’re mostly here for the puppies.

29.  See a 'Super' exhibit

If you've always dreamed of going to the Super Bowl but haven't found a good way to get there, the Paley Center for Media is now bringing the Super Bowl to the middle of Manhattan. Its latest exhibit, " Beyond the Big Game ," includes a hefty collection of 57 team rings, uniforms from past Super Bowls, and Katy Perry's iconic halftime show outfit.

Sure, it's not the actual Super Bowl, but let's be really serious for a second: It's the closest thing many New Yorkers are going to get to experiencing the big game anytime soon.

If you're not the biggest football fan, don't stress — there's also an entire section that celebrates the best Super Bowl commercials, so those who are creatively and artistically inclined can also stay busy.

The exhibit will run Wednesday-Sunday from 12pm-6pm until March 3. Tickets can be   bought in advance online  and prices range from free for children to $20 for adults.  

30.  Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Valentine's Day in NYC can be so romantic! It's one of the biggest NYC events in February  so, of course, the city offers a bevy of options, including enjoying a decadent dinner from one of the best NYC restaurants  and a number of performances from stand-up to burlesque.

More winter things to do

The best places to go ice-skating in NYC

Lace up your skates and head to our picks for the best indoor and outdoor ice-skating NYC has to offer

The best ski trips near NYC

Interested in ski trips near NYC? Take the bus or train to hit the slopes in ski paradises near New York in no time.

The best places for ice-skating lessons in NYC

• Ice skating

For a cool new hobby, take one of the city’s best ice-skating lessons for a spin on the rink this winter

The best places to go sledding and where to drink after

Grab your galoshes and check out the best places to go sledding (and where to get boozed-up afterward)

The best indoor activities in NYC

If the weather outside is frightful, never fear! These killer indoor activities in NYC are here to save the day.

Winter food & drink

The best hot chocolate in NYC

Kiss Swiss Miss goodbye—the best hot chocolate in NYC features fiery chilies, marshmallow “flowers” and, yes, booze.

NYC’s top holiday pop-up bars for 2023 festivities

From returning favorites like Sippin' Santa to cozy newcomers, these are the seasonal spots you have to hit up before year's end. 

The 11 best NYC rooftop bars open during the winter

The best rooftop bars open during the winter range from a mountain ski lodge to a cigar lounge overlooking Times Square.

The 13 best bars with fireplaces in NYC

When it’s so cold outside that drinking isn’t enough to warm you, seek out the best bars with fireplaces in NYC.

The best bars open on Christmas in NYC

These bars open on Christmas will be serving up the best this holiday, whether you want cocktails, craft beer or wine.

Winter events guides

Christmas in New York

Our guide to Christmas in New York, including great gift ideas, holiday markets and festive activities.

Hanukkah in NYC guide

From the best latkes and kosher restaurants to fun events, here is everything you need to celebrate Hanukkah in NYC.

New Year’s Eve in NYC

Ring in the new year with our guide to the best parties, the Times Square ball drop and more to celebrate New Year's Eve in NYC.

Martin Luther King Day in NYC guide

Celebrate Martin Luther King Day in NYC with our guide featuring the best MLK Day events, Harlem attractions and more.

Archive things to do in the winter content

Six wintertime pitfalls that drive every New Yorker crazy

10 fun things to do (while sober) in January

New York arts events to inspire you this winter

NYC concerts, comedy shows and music festivals to see this winter

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New York in the Winter – 20 Great Things to Do

Last Updated on April 4, 2024

Estimated reading time: 21 minutes

By Jim Ferri

New York doesn’t close down in the winter. In fact, for many visitors to New York, winter is the best time to visit since you’ll find many things to do and prices are lower.

And the crowds – at least after the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays – are smaller than in the warmer months, which means less waiting at major attractions and restaurants.

Tickets for top Broadway shows are also more available in New York in the winter, and many museums bring in new exhibits in early January and February. So while April – November can be wonderful in New York, you may also want to think outside the seasonal box. Here are 20 things to do in New York that continue to be quite enjoyable when the temperature drops.

Go for a Walk on the High Line in New York in the Winter

Undeniably, New York’s  High Line  has become dear to many New Yorkers (as well as visitors in the know). It’s an elevated linear park, a 1.45-mile-long walkway, and parkland on Manhattan’s West Side, built atop an abandoned elevated railroad spur.

Straightaway, I’ll tell you I’ve walked it in the spring, summer, and winter. And, believe me, it’s terrific during any season.

Take a stroll along it and go back down to street level to visit  Chelsea Market  for lunch, or visit the new  Whitney Museum  at its southern end on Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District.

The High Line’s northern end is on West 34th Street, between 10th and 12th Avenues. Here you’ll find the old Hudson train yards, now a modern clutch of condominiums, shops, and restaurants. Adjacent to it is the spectacular Vessel, an open-air, honeycomb-shaped 16-story structure with 80 landings designed for visitors to climb.

Where to Go:

Access the High Line on Gansevoort Street, 23rd Street, or 30th Street on the West Side of Manhattan. You can walk either north or south. Admission: free.

Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is an incredible tribute of remembrance, honoring the 2,977 people killed in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. The attacks took place at the World Trade Center site in New York City, near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon. It also honors the six people killed in the World Trade Center bombing on February 26, 1993.

The Memorial is free and open to the public seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The 9/11 Museum is open to the public six days a week (closed Tuesdays) and requires an advance ticket purchase . Museum tickets range from $15-26, and an additional $20 for a guided tour. The tour is the best way to experience the museum and understand its many exhibits.

A visit to the Memorial and Museum is a moving experience, especially for those old enough to remember the horrific day.

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is located at 180 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10007.

Enjoy Central Park and a Winter Carriage Ride

New York’s  Central Park  doesn’t close in the winter – it just takes on a different, beautiful aura.

Yes, some facilities, such as boating on the lake, close for the season, but its roads and trails remain open for the myriad of walkers and joggers who continue to take advantage of this mid-city oasis.

It’s also a great time to take a  carriage ride  through the park, bundled up under a heavy blanket. You’ll find the horses and their carriages lining 57th Street from Fifth Avenue to Columbus Circle.

If you’re on a budget, just be aware rides are $50 for the first 20 minutes and $20 for each 10-minute increment afterward.

Any season, winter included, you’ll find horse-drawn carriages on the corner of Fifth Avenue and West 59th Street near the  Plaza Hotel .

In New York in the Winter, Times Square is Still Abuzz

It’s one of New York’s clichés that you must visit  Times Square  because it is the “Great White Way.” But you need to see it at night to feel the overwhelming nature of the neon and giant screens all about you.

I can’t count the number of times I’ve been in Times Square, and I’ve found that it always seems to be at its gaudiest-best in New York in the winter when the air is clear and sharp.

If you want the best view of the “Crossroads of the World” for a photo op, climb the red stairs above the  TKTS Booth  at the square’s southern end.

Times Square is in Midtown Manhattan at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. Subways stopping in Times Square include the N,  Q , R,  S , W, 1, 2, 3 and 7 trains.

The Rockefeller Center Skating Rink Comes Alive in New York in the Winter

Winter is one of the most popular times to visit Rockefeller Center. Only then can you see the massively beautiful Christmas tree (late November to early January) and the  famous skating rink .

Tickets for skating range from $11-73, depending on the day and time. Skate rental is an additional $12.

For a less-costly option, go to the  Bryant Park Winter Village  behind the main building of the NYC Public Library. It’s the only free-admission ice skating rink in New York City and is open daily through March 5, 2023.

Since it’s become very popular, you must  reserve your skate time  in advance. Each skater is allowed one 55-minute session per day. Skate rentals are from $18.

You’ll find additional ice skating at  Wollman Rink  in Central Park and Rooftop skating at  Pier 17 .

The Rink at Rockefeller Center is located at 600 5th Avenue, between 49th and 50th Streets .

Tour Rockefeller Center

If you’re at Rockefeller Center for skating or sightseeing, visit the buildings of  Rockefeller Center  to admire their spectacular art-deco interiors. The tours, conducted by expert historians, take place daily from 11am – 7pm. Visitors are shown Rockefeller Center’s most significant buildings, gardens, and spaces, including Radio City Music Hall.

Unfortunately, they don’t show you the most historical office in the complex. During World War II, the highly secret SIS (Special Intelligence Service), the precursor of today’s CIA, had its headquarters in room 4332 at 30 Rockefeller Center. They ran all of the American spies in Europe and around the world.

All the spy stuff was there – fake bookcases disguising doorways, etc. The name on the door was Importers and Exporters Service Company . Unfortunately, the office no longer exists since it was destroyed to provide an area with an open floor plan.

The large Rockefeller Center complex is located between 48th and 51st Streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenues in New York City .

Enjoy a Show or Concert in Radio City Music Hall

See the annual Christmas Show with the famous Rockettes at the Radio City Music Hall for a unique New York winter treat. If your timing isn’t right for the Christmas show, many other concerts and events are held there every year. Also, take a backstage tour if you can. Like the SSI Headquarters across the street, Radio City Music Hall also has secrets from World War II. These secrets relate to its huge movable stage, in which a series of elevators are powered by hydraulics. The system was so innovative that the U.S. Navy used identical hydraulics to construct World War II aircraft carriers.

Radio City Music Hall is located at 1260 Avenue of the Americas and is part of Rockefeller Center.

On a New York Winter Day Visit Fifth Avenue’s Shops

Unquestionably, one of the things to do in New York is to see the fabulous (and fabulously expensive)  stores along Fifth Avenue …Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, Henri Bendel, Tiffany, et al.…all along the stretch from 39th to 59th Streets.

During the winter holiday season, many of their windows are filled with beautiful seasonal decorations you’ll find nowhere else.

At any time of year, visit the towering Neo-Gothic  St. Patrick’s Cathedral  right across the street from Rockefeller Center.

Although there is shopping all along Fifth Avenue, the leading upscale stores (Saks, Ferragamo, Tiffany’s, Bergdorf Goodman, etc.) are located between 49th and 59th streets.

In New York in Winter Visit a Museum…or Two…or Three

New York City is museum heaven, and during the winter months, it’s heaven on earth. That’s not only because they’re a great refuge from the cold but also because, in January-February, many museums also bring in new exhibits.

If you’re on a budget, you’ll find that some of the most well-known museums, such as the  Metropolitan Museum of Art  and  Museum of Natural History , among others, only have suggested entrance fees, allowing visitors to pay whatever they’d like. They’re great for families (if you can keep the kids entertained).

While the city lists 80+ museums scattered throughout the five boroughs, there are also many more small, niche institutions.

There are museums scattered all about New York City. In each of its boroughs, you’ll find a grouping of them. In Manhattan, for example, you’ll find the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, the Neue Galerie, etc., all located along  “New York’s Museum Mile.”   The “Mile” is on Fifth Avenue between 82nd Street and 105th Street.

Major Sites in New York Have Fewer Crowds in the Winter

Undoubtedly you’ll want to go downtown and visit the  9/11 Memorial and Museum  on the World Trade Center site. You’ll likely find it to be an incredibly moving experience.

In winter or any season, your visit soars to new heights when you go to the observation deck at  One World Trade , also known as the “Freedom Tower.” It is the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere and contains the fastest elevator in the hemisphere. It’s an incredibly smooth and quiet ride, whisking you up 102 stories in one minute.

The view from the top is incredible – and best seen in New York in the winter since that’s when the air is clearest. Tickets are $32 per adult, $26 per child, and $30 for seniors.

Admission to the Reflecting Pools at ground level – each set within the footprints of the original Twin Towers – is free; entrance to the National September 11 Memorial Museum is $24 per adult, $15 per youth (7-17 years), and $18 for seniors, veterans, and college students. Admission is free on Tuesdays after 5 pm.

Subways to the World Trade Center include the A, C, E, 2, and 3 lines. Other nearby stations include the 4 and 5 at Fulton Street station at Broadway and the J, M, and Z subway lines at Fulton Street station at Nassau and Ann streets.

Visit the Financial District

Walk around the Financial District to see Federal Hall and the New York Stock Exchange – an easy walk since the street is now a pedestrian area – and take a photo of the famous bull on Wall Street.

Afterward, walk down the block to beautiful Trinity Church , and then a few clocks over to Pearl Street and visit Fraunces Tavern , the historic restaurant where Washington bid farewell to his officers. It’s also a good place to take a break and have lunch especially on a New York winter day.

If you go up the stairs at the entrance to the small museum on the second floor, you’ll see the actual room in which Washington made his speech.

The New York Stock Exchange, in the heart of the Financial District, is at 11 Wall St. Nearby is historical Trinity Church at 89 Broadway and Fraunces Tavern at 54 Pearl Street, about an eight-minute walk south from either.

Take a Ride on the Staten Island Ferry

The  Staten Island Ferry , described as “the cheapest ocean-going ride in the world,” is free.

It’s certainly a great ride that provides spectacular views of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty, and well worth the half-hour it will take you in each direction.

If you’re visiting New York in the winter, for an extra-special ride, time your “cruise” for late afternoon, when you’ll have both a beautiful sunset view and a fantastic view as Manhattan’s buildings light up.

The boats to  Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty  are nearby.

The State Island Ferry is at the southern tip of Manhattan. It is reached via several subway lines: #1 (Broadway – 7th Avenue Local to South Ferry), #4 and 5 (Lexington Avenue Express) to Bowling Green, J and Z (Nassau Street Express) to Broad Street, and the R train (Queens Boulevard – Broad – 4th Avenue Local) to Whitehall Street station. During the day, the ferry operates every 15 minutes on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends – totally free!

Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Many New Yorkers have never been to the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island. I’ll admit I was once one of those New Yorkers. In fact, I never went to either until I returned to New York City on a visit years later. And now, I’d enjoy going back.

Do you need a (very) short history lesson? Here it is: the Statue of Liberty was given to the American people in 1884. The gift commemorated the friendship between the people of the United States and France. It was shipped to New York in 1885. Its actual name is  Liberty Enlightening the World .

It is 151 feet, 1 inch tall, and was the tallest structure in the U.S. when it arrived. The statue sways 3 inches (7.62cm) in the wind; the torch sways 5 inches (12.7cm). Be sure to visit the museum to view the statue’s original torch and other memorabilia.

The Ellis Island National Immigration Museum on Ellis Island is also an incredible place, especially for Americans. Here you’ll find voyages to America, perhaps including your ancestors, come to life through a stunning collection of artifacts. Visit the American Family Immigration History Center on the first floor to discover if your family arrived in the U.S. via Ellis Island.

Remember that during the winter, it will be cold on the islands, so dress appropriately.

You reach the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from Castle Clinton, in Battery Park on the southern tip of Manhattan island, or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The ferries from both locations stop at the Statue of Liberty before continuing to Ellis Island. Your round-trip ferry ticket includes stops at both islands, entrance to the museums on both, and audio tours in 12 languages. Prices are $31 per adult, $25 per senior (62+), and $19 per child (4-12 years).

Have a Bagel

In the winter or anytime, New Yorkers (as well as many others) love bagels, and you can’t get them as good or tasty anywhere else in the world.

Although you’ll find them in just about every bakery, restaurant, or diner throughout the city, the two places reputed to have the best are  Zabars  on the Upper West Side (2245 Broadway, at 80th Street) and  Murray’s Bagels  (242 8th Ave at 22nd Street). They’re also sold from many food carts, and are popular with many New Yorkers on the go.

Wherever you get your, order it “wid a schmear” if you like cream cheese.

You can buy bagels from many street carts or in most diners/luncheonettes. Zabars (2245 Broadway, at 80th Street) and Murray’s Bagels (242 8th Ave at 22nd Street)  are two popular shops for bagels.

Visit a NY Deli in New York in the Winter

For many deli aficionados, there’s nothing else in the world quite like a New York Jewish Deli.

They are where you can get a thick, delicious sandwich (pastrami is perennially popular, but there’s quite a selection) that’s almost too thick to eat. It’s one of those quintessential New York experiences regardless of the season.

Unfortunately, only a few of these famous institutions are left, including the  2nd Avenue Deli ,  Katz ,  Barney Greengrass , and Carnegie.

See this popular review of the best famous delis in New York City.

Enjoy Great Dumplings in Chinatown

New York’s  Chinatown  is as world-renowned as the dumplings you’ll find there.

So why not turn your New York in the winter lunchtime into an adventure by searching for the best dumplings in Chinatown, as we did in our “ Quest for the Best Dumplings in Chinatown “?

The best thing to do is just wander about Chinatown until you find a restaurant to your liking. If you want to make your visit extra special in any  Chinatown in North America , visit during Chinese New Year.

In lower Manhattan, Chinatown borders the Lower East Side to its east, Little Italy to its north, Civic Center to its south, and Tribeca to its west.

Take a Tour of Grand Central Station

The city’s most famous transportation hub, Grand Central, is a magnificent and historic building in Midtown.

It’s instantly recognizable by the zodiacs on its ceiling and the famous information booth in the center, which is still one of the best meeting points in the city.

Whether it’s in the winter or any other time of year in New York,  take a tour of Grand Central . You’ll learn about its history and operations (the 75-minute tours depart daily at 12:30 p.m. from the Terminal’s Main Concourse and are led by docents trained by the Municipal Art Society; the cost is $25 for adults, $20 for children, and seniors).

Before or afterward, you can grab a bite in the plethora of small restaurants and cafés on its lower level, or in the late afternoon, join commuters for a drink in its famous Oyster Bar or in one of the balcony bars.

Grand Central Station is on East 42nd Street and Park Avenue.

Visit a Church in New York in Winter

If you want to visit a place of worship in New York City, you’re in luck. In the City, you’ll find thousands of Christian churches, about 1,000 synagogues, 100 mosques, dozens of Hindu and Buddhist temples. There are also more than a dozen Christian Science Reading Rooms, two Quaker meeting houses, and many others. 

It’s also home to the colossal Cathedral of St. John the Divine, known locally as “St. John the Unfinished.” Its construction began in 1892 and continues to this day.

Above all of these, however, are two famous churches you should visit if you’re in their neighborhoods: St. Patrick Cathedral and Trinity Church.

St. Patrick  occupies a city block directly across Rockefeller Center on Fifth Avenue between 50th and 51st Streets. The mid-19th-century cathedral is the largest Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral in North America. It’s a beautiful church worth seeing if you’re strolling about Rockefeller Center or spending the kid’s inheritance in the stores on Fifth Avenue.

Also worth visiting, especially from a historical perspective, is  Trinity Church  in lower Manhattan. Initially constructed in 1698, it’s at the intersection of Wall Street and Broadway. (Historical records state that the tackle for hoisting the stones for its construction was lent to the church by Captain William Kidd from his ship.) Today’s church, however, was built in 1846 and was the tallest building in the United States until 1869.

St. Patrick Cathedral is located on 5th Ave between 50th/51st Streets; Trinity Church is at 89 Broadway near Federal Hall.

Enjoy Great Theater in New York in the Winter

New York is synonymous with great theater, and Broadway shows are especially popular in the winter. And although theater tickets can be ridiculously expensive for some shows (think of a number followed by a comma and three zeros for prime seats at hit shows), there are ways to cut costs.

You’ll find good and much less expensive shows off-Broadway, for example. And you can purchase cut-rate tickets for top shows which are up to 50% off. Purchase the latter at the popular  TKTS Discount Booths in Times Square , South Street Seaport, and Downtown Brooklyn.

The TKTS Booth is in Times Square at Broadway and West 47th Street.

New York in the Winter – a Perfect Time for a Hot Chocolate or Hot Toddy

While you can order hot chocolate in many places in New York, why not do something special?

Instead, enjoy a Viennese hot chocolate in the beautiful  Old-World Café Sabarsky  in the Neue Galerie. It’s an excellent small museum at 1048 5th Avenue, across from the  Metropolitan Museum .

And if you’re in New York in the winter, you’ll find a hot toddy an excellent way to ward off those winter chills. You’ll find them in many high-end bars in the city.

The King Cole Room in the St. Regis Hotel is a popular place to enjoy yours in a spectacular setting. Its atmosphere will make your drink all the more pleasant.

The King Cole Room in the St. Regis Hotel is at Two E 55th Street, on the corner of Fifth Avenue.

January 27, 2016 at 8:04 pm

I was there for the storm and it was not nearly as bad as they made it out to be on the news. Midtown was snowy but not two feet worth – it was walkable and ok except the snow blowing in your eyes walking eastward. The bummer of it was that everything was closed and my tickets for the theatre had to be refunded and rescheduled.

The one thing I noticed is that NYC does need to take a lesson from snow emergency plans in Minneapolis and St. Paul – the roads there are a mess even days after. Planes, trains and automobiles are still feeling the effects but on foot, all you need is a waterproof pair of boots.

January 27, 2016 at 8:53 pm

Oh, you hearty Mid-Westerners! You can teach us Easterners a thing or two about coping with the fury of winter. I hope you had as good a time there as I did, despite all the closures.

February 12, 2016 at 7:22 am

Winter season is my favourite, every year we plan an outing in the winters as it is the best season to enjoy. I really liked reading this post and going through the pictures, the winter experiences mentioned in the post are worth experiencing whenever we visit New York. Thank you for the inspiration.

February 12, 2016 at 7:31 am

I’m glad you enjoyed it Afreen. Each season in New York is unique.

February 12, 2016 at 11:22 am

Hey, you have a knack of writing. Very nice and informative article. Keep up man 🙂

February 24, 2016 at 12:45 am

Jim,I think visiting NYC in winters is a great idea. There will not be too much touristy rush plus I will love to see the city in snow. The sandwich in the photo looks ginormus! Thanks for the post.

February 24, 2016 at 6:22 am

New York can be fun any time of year. The sandwich is typical of the old New York Jewish delis. Yum…

September 14, 2018 at 1:42 pm

I just wanted to tell you that your 15 great NYC experiences post is wonderful! (your whole blog is great, actually! I’ve been living vicariously through your posts haha!)

As a mother of 3 boys (Lord help me HA!) we recently took a family trip to visit my sister in law in New Jersey over Labor Day weekend. Being from Ohio, we had never been to NYC before…our boys (12, 9 and 7) are finally at the age where I thought they could appreciate it, so we wanted to do a family sightseeing tour to get the full experience. I didn’t know where to go or what to do, so your page definitely gave us some ideas. Thanks again!

I also wanted to pass along this NYC tour company that we ended up doing – https://www.topviewnyc.com/

My oldest son, Kyle, was actually the one who found it for us! (His Scout leader recommended it when he heard we were going to NY!)

It was fantastic. They have these big red buses (like you see in England!) that are open on top and they drive you around and give you a tour. As someone who has never done the NYC tourist thing, it was wonderful. My boys couldn’t stop talking about how much fun they had. They felt like they were in the movies LOL!

I didn’t see it on your site, but I thought you might want to add it to your list of ‘if you go’ resources…I think other families would love it too!

Anyways, thanks again for your help in planning our trip! I’ll definitely be coming back to your page the next time we head to the city!

September 14, 2018 at 1:51 pm

Thank you Sarah! I’m glad I was able to make your trip a bit easier and (hopefully) more enjoyable. And thank you Kyle for the good tip on TopView. I’m going to try it during my next trip to NYC! And thank your Scoutmaster for me also.

May 26, 2020 at 2:00 pm

Winter season is my favorite, every year we plan an outing in the winters as it is the best season to enjoy. I really liked reading this post and going through the pictures, the winter experiences mentioned in the post are worth experiencing whenever we visit New York. Thank you for the inspiration.

May 27, 2020 at 7:22 am

New York is great in any season. And you’ll find each NY season is unique. Glad you liked the post.

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22 Best Things to do in NYC in Winter

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: February 6, 2024

Categories New York City

NYC in winter is a magical time of year that is filled with snow, hot chocolate, twinkling lights,  ice skating, and vibrant winter markets that are brimming over with goodies that are just waiting to be bought.

Sure, it can be hella cold once the polar vortex of doom rolls into town. You also may want to avoid stepping in giant puddles of slush that look smaller than they really are (they routinely come up to your knees) but on the whole, winter in NYC is pretty dang awesome.

And I should know. I’ve been a local New Yorker for well over 30 years and want to share all my insider winter tips with you so that you know all about some of the best things to do in NYC in winter.

This way, you can quickly and easily plan the NYC in winter itinerary of your dreams.

So, what are you waiting for? Check out this expert’s guide to all of the best things to do in winter in NYC and enjoy amazing activities like holiday lights displays, extravagant holiday windows, giant Christmas trees, immortal ballet productions, and so much more.

Plus, even when Christmas is but s distant memory, you can still enjoy Jazzfest, restaurant week, Chinese New Year, and more – and all without the intense crowds/high prices of summer because once January comes around, the off-season really begins.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

🎄 Looking for an epic things to do in NYC in winter? I recommend taking a tour through Dyker Heights . It doesn’t get better than this! 🎅

What are the Winter Months in New York?

Good question! And the answer varies based on where you are in the state. If you happen to be in upstate New York, winter typically starts in November and ends in April – a long and rough season indeed the farther north you go.

Now, if you’re planning to spend winter in NYC then you’ll be happy to know that winter isn’t quite as long in southern New York and extends only from December through March in most southern parts of the state (with winter bring super cloudy in western parts of the state thanks to the great lakes).

But for most residents of the city, “winter” really starts after Thanksgiving (basically once the Thanksgiving parade rolls into Herald Square.

At this time of year, the coldest months are definitely January and February, with snow possible any time between November and April (in reality it really only snows between December and February but we usually get 66 cm of snow per year).

And while temperatures vary by month, NYC winter highs typically hover around 43°F (6°C) and lows are around 27°F (-3°C) with wind chills whipping through the city and making it feel like the outside temperature is 14°F (-15°C).

So, the moral of the story? Use my local guide on what to wear in NYC in winter so that you can dress like a champ and be a comfy, cozy human.

Where to Stay this Winter in NYC

While there are a ton of great hotels in New York City, a lot of them can be excessively expensive or just generally less than stellar. Therefore, it can be difficult (to say the least) for even the best travelers to find beds in a hostel that cost less than $100 per night (sad but true) in some of the best areas to stay in NYC .

However, fear not faithful reader because we at Girl with the Passport are big-time people-pleasers who want to help you find some of the best and most affordable hotels in all of NYC . So, here are my picks for all of the best hotels for winter in NYC, regardless of your budget.

BUDGET 

Pod 39 – Located in the Murray Hill neighborhood (home to the best Indian food in the city), this sleek, modern pod hotel offers a fantastic selection of rooms that start at just $120 per night. Sure, they’re a bit small but this is a pod hotel after all.

Plus, if you book a room here, you’ll get to stay inside a historic home from 1918 and can choose between queen-size beds or stainless-steel bunk beds with TVs and bedside shelves.

The Jane Hotel – Located in the trendy West Village, The Jane Hotel was initially built in 1908 as lodging for out-of-town sailors.

Since then though, this budget-friendly place has morphed into an awesome accommodation where you can find nautically-themed rooms with flat-screen TVs (with DVD players), iPod docks, bunk beds, terraces with river views, and more. There’s also an on-site restaurant with a great brunch menu and bikes that are free for guests to use.

James New York – The James New York can be found in the popular SOHO neighborhood and is a stylish hotel with clean, and refreshing rooms that start at just $177 per night.

They feature fabulous high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, glassed-off bathrooms, complimentary toiletries, and a collection of linens that are made from all-natural fibers,

The Bowery Hotel – This supremely posh, five-star hotel in Nolita is where I’d stay if money wasn’t an issue. And while rooms here start at around $300 per night, you’ll enjoy free Wifi, free bike rentals, and stellar city views.

As you might expect, service is also top-notch, which we help make you feel like the king of New York that you are (Newsies anyone?).

Should I Get the New York Pass for NYC in Winter?

Yeah, this is easily the most frequent question that I get from my readers. And there’s not really a simple answer since it really depends on who you are and what you plan on doing while visiting NYC in winter.

Because while there are a variety of different discount passes out there, they’ll really only save you tons of of money on top New York City attractions if you know how to use them.

So, for a more detailed answer to this question, feel free to check out my detailed review of almost every NYC discount pass on the market today.

Otherwise, the short and overly simplified answer to your questions is that if it’s your first time in the city and you’re planning on seeing a bunch of big-name attractions the New York Pass  will be worth it.

However, if you’ve been to NYC more times than you can count and are looking for some more unusual things to do in New York then you may want to take a hard pass on the New York Pass .

But, to make the most informed decision possible. definitely check out my full review . No really! It’s super in-depth and even does a comprehensive price breakdown while comparing different discount passes. Because yes, I really am THAT anal-retentive.

Is New York in the Winter Fun? Should I Visit NYC in the Winter?

The short answer is yes! New York is loads of fun in the winter – cold but super fun. I mean, it’s the city that never sleeps so there are always lots of unique things to do in NYC in winter.

Just be forewarned that if you visit during the official holiday season, you’ll encounter large crowds and high prices. That’s why, if you can, try and visit in either January or February when you can get great deals on hotels and flights since it’s the off-season.

Best Things to do in NYC in Winter

1. rockefeller center christmas tree.

Easily one of the best things to do in winter in NYC is see the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. It’s big, it’s bright, it sits in Rockefeller Center, it has an iconic skating rink at its base, and is typically put up around Thanksgiving every year (aka at the end of November).

The lighting of the Christmas Tree here is also a nationally televised event so you can either attend in person or watch it live on TV because yeah, this ginormous tree is a BIG deal during Christmas in NYC .

Other than that, just be prepared for a mega-dose of holiday spirit as you are inundated with ethereal angels that play trumpets, holiday window displays, bright lights, and huge crowds.

And if you want to avoid the crowds, try and visit on Christmas Day, after Christmas, or early on a weekday morning.

Pro Tip: Do not skate at the rink here. It’s small, expensive, crowded, and not worth your time. Instead, skate at one of the many other larger and more reasonably priced rinks scattered throughout the city. My pick would be the rink on the North end of Central Park since it’s cheap and a lot less crowded.

Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, New York

Hours: Open all day daily.

Price: Free

How to Get There: Take the M50 bus to E 50th street and walk from there. It’s also an easy walk (10-minutes) from Times Square .

2. Inhale Some of the Best Hot Chocolate in the City

Nothing screams, “nyc in winter” quite like a giant mug of piping hot, super delicious, hot chocolate. And while many people flock to Serendipity 3 to try their legendary “frozen hot chocolate”, I think that place is a giant NYC tourist trap that is best avoided by basically anyone with a pulse.

So, if you’re looking for the best things to do in winter in NYC and need a hot cholate fix like whoa, then here are my top local picks for some of the best hot chocolate spots in the city.

• Bar Pisellino (West Village) – This place feels like an old-world Italian cafe and serves up some of the best hot chocolate in the city. So, if you like SUPER rich hot chocolate (akin to drinking warm brownie batter) then give this place a try. Their hot chocolate also comes with freshly whipped Panna on top that slowly melts into your hot chocolate (#yum).
• Daily Provisions (Flatiron District)  – Part bakery, part cafe, this place is run by legend Danny Meyer and serves up a decadent hot chocolate that is made with no less than 3 different kinds of chocolate – Guanaja dark chocolate, Bahibe milk chocolate, and Guittard chocolate ganache. And some fresh whipped cream and a homemade vanilla marshmallow on top and you have the perfect winter treat.
• Dominique Ansel Bakery (SOHO) – This place is known for their cronut but they serve a pretty rad, totally unique hot chocolate too. See, it has a marshmallow flower that appears to “bloom” as soon as warm liquid hits it, to reveal a chocolate truffle inside. Yup, the perfect place to go for anyone with kids.
• Squish Marshmallows (East Village) – This place is known for its over-the-top marshmallows, which come in flavors like smores and banana pudding. So, if you hardcore LOVE marshmallows, then give this place a try since the hot chocolate here will serve as a nice backdrop to their homemade marshmallows.
• Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery (West Village) – Brought to you by acclaimed pastry chef Umber Ahmad, this place whips up (pun intended) a truly classic hot chocolate that is made with Valrhona chocolate and steamed milk and served with a toasted, homemade vanilla bean marshmallow on top. So stinking; good.

3. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral

⭐️ Rating: 3.8/5 (36 Reviews) Price: $25 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Gift shop on the north side of the street, opposite the Cathedral. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Another one of the best things to do in NYC in winter is visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s located on Fifth Avenue, right across the street from Rockefeller Center, and is easily one of the best and most iconic churches in the city .

So even if you stop by for just a few minutes since churches aren’t your thing, do take some time to walk through this Cathedral and admire the exquisite, neo-Gothic architecture here.

Because this place was first built in 1878 for a hefty sum of $2 mullion and is currently the largest Catholic Church in the United States.

And some of the church’s most important features that you might want to look at include a Louis Tiffany altar, a 7000-pipe organ, and a Charles Connick’s Rose Window.

Plus, there’s even a creepy basement crypt here where people like Pierre Toussaint (a famous advocate for the poor and the first African American to become eligible for sainthood) are buried.

And although there are infrequent walk-in guided tours of the church available, I highly recommend doing this joint tour of 5th Avenue and St. Patrick’s Cathedral .

Not only are tickets just $35 per person, but you’ll embark on a personal, hour-long tour of Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center and even enjoy Fastpass admission to the church itself before doing a self-guided audio tour of the building. Yup, just another one of the best things to do in NYC in winter.

Address : 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022

Hours: Open daily from 7:00 am to 8:30 pm.

How to Get There: Take the M train to 53rd street station and walk from there.

4. Ring in the New Year

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in New York is easily one of the best things to do in NYC in winter. And although I definitely wouldn’t recommend spending the holiday in Times Square (it’s awful) there are definitely a ton of other fun things for you to do in the city that never sleeps.

You could always go the traditional route and opt for a VERY expensive pre-fixe dinner at top restaurants across the city (most include an appetizer, entree, dessert, and drinks or an open bar. Bar Boulud and Carbone are two good options) while counting down the minutes until the ball drops.

Conversely, you could go always go a more alternative route and try:

• Enjoying Fireworks at Prospect Park
• Do the New York Road Runners Midnight Run
• Do Some New Year’s Eve Yoga at Laughing Lotus
• Attend the Naked Show
• Watch the Poetry Project’s Marathon Reading
• Catch a Show at a Comedy Club
• Attend a New Year’s Concert at St. John the Divine
• See Phish at Medison Square Garden
• And more! For the full deets, read this post here.

Yes, there are so many fun things to do in winter in NYC and so little time so be sure to choose wisely.

Pro Tip: Please do not watch the ball drop in Times Square for New Year’s Eve. Not only will you have to stand in the freezing cold for 12+ hours (the streets in the area routinely close off at noon or earlier), but it’s super crowded, hard to go to the bathroom, and just not a lot of fun. I promise they are many other infinitely more fun things to do in NYC in winter.

5. Watch the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall

Not sure about the best things to do in NYC in winter? Then why not check out these dancing ladies of awesome? They are known as the Rockettes and their nigh-kicks on the stage of Radio City Music Hall have made them famous the world over.

Yes, I have seen these high-kicking dancers a time or two in my life, and their show is a great way to kick off (pun intended) the holiday season in NYC.

Now, is the show the best thing I have ever seen? No, but it’s a whole lot of fun and perfect for children. It also provides you with a fantastic opportunity to see the stunning art deco interior of Radio City Music Hall without doing a formal tour.

Also, it’s not overly Christmasy (when I saw it there was a nativity scene at the end but that’s about it) so people from a variety of different faiths can easily  enjoy the Radio City Christmas Spectacular .

The parade of the wooden soldiers is also super cool to see and a real highlight of any performance.

Pro Tip: Book your tickets now since this show is popular and regularly sells out well before Christmas. Also, if you’ve seen the Rockettes before, you really don;t have to see them again since the show doesn’t change all that much from year to year.

Address: Radio City Music Hall at 1260 Avenue of Americas, New York, New York

Hours: The show is around ninety minutes long and runs from November through early January, with performances sometimes daily at 2:00 pm, 5:00 pm, and 8:00 pm. For information on exact times, visit this website now.

Price: Tickets range in price from $49 to $225 per person. (You may be able to get discounted tickets through TodayTix and Groupon)

How to Get There: You can easily walk from Tines Square since it’s only about 7-minutes away.

6. Catch a Broadway Show

New York’s Broadway is famous as one of the best theater districts across the world and Christmas brings a whole new persona to the area. Here you will find all the best themed musicals and plays in the best theaters that the city has to offer. 

It can’t get better than this right? Oh but it can! While everyone else is walking through the frigid breeze and clammy snow, you will be nice and toasty indoors! It is definitely one of the top recommended things to do in NYC in winter.

Pro tip: I advise checking out the schedules beforehand. That way you can head straight to the theater of your choice without plowing through the winter slush. Why is it important? Well because Broadway is huge! It runs the entire length of Manhattan and you really don’t want to keep walking up and down in the cold now do you?

Hours: Open daily

Price: Dependent on the show and theater.

7. See the Nutcracker Ballet at Lincoln Center

One of the best things to do in NYC in winter is enjoy a special performance of The Nutcracker by the always incredible New York Ballet Company at the David Hi. Koch Theater in Lincoln Center.

Not only will this show instantly transport you back to your childhood, but it’s a truly magical production that traces its origins back to 1892.

So, grab your tickets today to see a complex theatrical performance and an immortal staged ballet that includes a variety of dances/characters that we all know and love.

Because in total, 62 musicians, 90 dancers, and 125 children work together to seamlessly bring Tschaikovsky’s music to life and create the production of a lifetime.

Additionally, intricate sets and awe-inspiring lighting help illuminate popular elements of the show, like a Christmas Tree that grows from 12 feet to 41 feet, the Kingdom of the Sugarplum Fairy, Mother Ginger (the costume weighs 85 pounds and is nine feet wide), the Snowflake Waltz, and more.

Pro Tip: Not sure where to eat either before or after the show? Try some of my fave restaurants in the area like P.J. Clarke’s (great burgers), The Smith, Lincoln Restaurante (Italian place right in Lincoln Center), Cafe Fiorello (try the pizza bolognese), and Rosa’s Mexicana (orde the guacamole/queso fundido).

Address: David H. Koch Theater, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, United States

Hours: The season runs from the end of November through the beginning of January and performances are held almost daily at either 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm, or 8:00 pm. The first act is roughly 49 minutes while the second act is 41 minutes.

Price: Tickets range in price from $89 to $280 per person.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to 66th street and Lincoln Center station and walk from there.

8. Enjoy Pop Up Holiday Markets All Across The City

As you probably already guessed, once the temperature goes down and the holiday season quickly approaches, holiday/winter markets seem to pop all across the city.

So, whether you’re a total shopaholic or are just in it for the food, one of the best things to do in NYC in winter is visit one of these amazing markets.

Because not only will you encounter a sea of charming AF winter chalets that double as vendor stalls, but you’ll find a wide variety of local products, delicious foods, and decadent drinks that are eagerly waiting to be purchased.

Plus, many of these markets even have their very own skating rinks (yes Bryant Park Winter Village, I’m talking about you) where you can stop and take a spin on the ice as you admire the vibrant holiday decor all around you.

But, if you’re still not sure exactly where to go this winter in NYC, here are some of my picks for the best holiday markets in the city .

• Bryant Park Winter Village and Holiday Market
• Columbus Circle Christmas Market
• Union Square Holiday Market
• Grand Central Holiday Market
• Artists and Fleas at Chelsea Market

9. Visit The Museums

I think that winter is one of the best times of the year to visit museums and NYC is full of them. Did you know that some of the theaters like the Metropolitan museum of art are world famous? The Museum of the American Indian is another intriguing place to visit!

No matter what museum you pick, you can’t go wrong because you leave the cold outdoors and walk into the cozy warm museum interiors. It truly doesn’t matter where your interest lies. In New York City, there is literally a museum for everyone.

Pro Tip: Check out the free museum days or pay what you wish options for the museums before you select your destination. That way you can visit the museums on a budget!

10. Go Ice Skating at Bryant Park

Whether it’s winter or spring I absolutely love visiting Bryant Park at basically any time of year. That’s because it’s beautiful, the New York Public Library sits right on the perimeter of the park, and there’s a lovely classic, French-style carousel here too.

However, this park gets infinitely more awesome once the Winter Village comes to town and a dynamic array of holiday vendors set up shop here.

Add in an insanely large, 17,000-square-foot ice skating rink at the center of it all and you easily have one of the best things to do in NYC in winter.

You’ll also love that unlike the expensive AF rink in Rockefeller Center, skating here is totally free (the only free rink in the city) – unless you need to rent a pair of skates to go for a twirl on the ice.

And when you start to feel a bit chilly, you can always cozy up inside the nearby Lodge (a food hall right next to the rink) or visit the awesome observation deck on the second floor of the Skating Pavillion.

But if you’re not a huge fan of crowds, some other cool ice rinks in the city include:

• The Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers
• The Rink at Brookfield Place (you can also see the luminaries here too)
• LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Prospect Park
• Wollman Rink in Central Park
• The Rink at Industry City
• The William Vale

Pro Tip: Stop by the Breads Bakery kiosk here and get a loaf of Chocolate Babka. It’s easily one of my favorite foods in NYC. You can also check out the Morgan Library and Grand Central Terminal while you’re since both are within walking distance.

Address: 35 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018

Hours: The rink is open daily (once the winter village is set up) from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: Around $22 per hour to rent a pair of skates.

How to Get There: It’s a short walk from Times Square.

11. Visit the Butterfly Conservatory at the American Museum of Natural History

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5 (2,685 Reviews) Price: $28 per person Duration: Valid for 1 day 📍 Meeting Point: Will Call desk on the lower level of the Rose Center for Earth and Space Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Each winter towards the end of November, the Butterfly Conservatory comes to the American Museum of Natural History.

So, if you want to escape the cold and walk among more than 500 free-flying butterflies that take over the Whitney Hall of Oceanic Birds on the second floor of the museum, then this is one of the best things to do in NYC in winter for you.

“The museum is very big and beautiful. The exhibitions in each floor are very organized and interesting. The price is very reasonable because the information it’s a lot. The location is the best too. The subway entrance in both size of the Central Park and the one at the museum is very convenient.” Ofelia ( read more reviews now! )

Trust me, you’ll stand in awe of these awesome creatures as they visit a lush area of tropical plants that are kept inside a habitat that is regularly 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

You’ll also be able to spot a diverse array of butterflies that come from three of five different families of butterflies, making this one of the best things to do in winter in NYC for families.

Pro Tip: If you are a New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut resident with a valid ID, you can pay what you wish but must book tickets in advance .

Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024

Hours: This year the exhibition opens on November 20th and you can purchase tickets daily (except Mondays and Tuesdays) from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $23 for adults, $13 for children (3-12), and $18 for seniors (60+)/sutdents with a valid ID.

How to Get There: Take the C or B train to the 81st street/Natural History Museum station and walk from there.

12. Visit Holiday Window Displays in New York City and Window Shop on Fifth Avenue

Not gonna lie, visiting the holiday window displays that pop up over the holiday season is easily one of my favorite things to do in NYC in winter.

And while they are all great, I particularly enjoy the one at Saks Fifth Avenue since it’s different every year, is usually incredibly intricate. and tells an elaborate story across six-well though-out, mechanical window displays.

Just don’t cut. the line since are usually long queues to get up close and personal with the annual window display here.

However, if you’re not in the mood to wait, you can always catch the ten-story light show that illuminates the Saks Building every 10-minutes between 5:00 pm and 11:00 pm daily throughout the holiday season.

You can also escape the crowds of Saks Fifth Avenue and check out some of the other holiday window displays in the city, like the ones at Macy’s, Barney’s, Bloomingdales, Lord and Taylor, Tiffany and Co., Bergdorf Goodman, and Henri Bendel, just to name a few.

Seriously, you could spend an entire day hopping from one holiday window to the next and experience some of the best things to do in winter in NYC.

Address: 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022

Hours: The window display is open twenty-four hours a day.

How to Get There: It’s only a half-mile away from Times Square so you could walk for 10-minutes or take the M-50 bus.

13. Check Out Harlem Meer in Central Park

You cannot in good conscience create a list of the best things to do in New York City in winter without mentioning Central Park. I mean, this ginormous greenspace is magical any time of year, but particularly in the winter when the area’s awesomeness is amped up with holiday lights and ice skating rinks.

However, Central Park is huge and if you try to see it all at one time, you might get a wicked awful case of frostbite, die of exhaustion, or get lost and end up on an episode of Law and Order (just kidding).

And while Wollman Rink on the southern side of the park is SUPER popular, you can escape the crowds this winter in New York City by heading to the Harlem Meer section of the park instead.

It’s located on the east side of the park, between 106th and 110th street, and features a beautiful lake since “meer” actually means “lake” in Dutch.

So, imagine a glassy lake that shimmers with the reflection of all the glistening lights that adorn the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center and you have some idea of just how awesome this place is.

Next, throw in some ice skaters and a ton of Beech and Gingko trees, and you have a remarkably beautiful part of the city that is not to be missed this winter season.

Address: Harlem Meer, Central Park

Hours: Open twenty-four hours a day, every day.

How to Get There: Take the 5/6 train to 103rd Street station or the 2/3 train to Central Park North (110th Street) and walk from there.

14. Celebrate Chinese New Year in China Town

Each year, right around the start of February (it varies from year to year), New York’s China Town neighborhood erupts with colorful dragon-filled parades, exciting street performances, and amazing traditional dances in honor of the Chinese New Year.

Additionally, you may see rogue lion dancers and vibrant fireworks displays as you inhale delicious dim sum from Nom Wah Tea Parlour, aka one of the places you must eat in NYC .

After all, it’s a holiday that is enjoyed all throughout Asia (not just in China) since the Lunar New Year is a time when people slow down, spend time with their families, honor their ancestors, and praise otherworldly deities.

So, stop by Manhattan’s Chinatown and check out the annual Chinese New Year Parade and Firecracker Ceremony since these special events are easily some of the best things to do in winter in NYC.

Pro Tip: The parade route typically goes down Mott and Canal Streets before heading down East Broadway toward the Manhattan Bridge. It then makes its way to Forsythe and Eldridge Streets in the direction of Grand Street.

15. See the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Okay, I know this is more of a fall in NYC activity than a winter in NYC activity but honestly? Nothing ushers in winter in NYC quite like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

And, you know what? I think that’s true for most of the country since this event is nationally televised and immortalized in a ton of iconic and semi-iconic movies.

Although, there truly is nothing quite like watching Santa roll into Herald Square and officially start the holiday season in New York City.

So, if you want to see a supremely awesome array of bands, musical/theatrical performances, and floats in person, be sure to nab a spot along the parade route sometime before sunrise since the parade officially runs from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm on Thanksgiving day.

Yeah, the route is basically a 2.5-mile path that runs from 77th Street and Central Park West to 34th Street and Herald Square. And if you’re not a fan of crowds, do try and stay as far away from Herald Square as humanly possible.

Instead, hang out somewhere between 59th Street and 75th Street on Central Park West for the best parade viewing experience possible this winter in NYC.

Pro Tip: I never see the parade live and ALWAYS watch Macy’s blow up the parade balloons the night before. So, if you want to be like a local and see the balloons get blown up, enter at 74th Street and Columbus Avenue between 1:00 pm and 8:00 pm on Thanksgiving Eve. The area is pretty big and extends from West 77th all the way to West 81st street.

16. Christmas Lights in Dyker Heights

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (541 Reviews) Price: $59 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: In front of the Treehaus Liquor Store Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you’re looking for some of the best things to do in NYC in winter then do not miss the  Dyker Heights Christmas lights .

And just in case you have no idea what Dyker Heights is, it’s an affluent community in Brooklyn that sets up extravagant holiday light displays that attract thousands of visitors each year from across the country.

Yeah, we’re talking next-level awesome Christmas lights that can cost upwards of $20,000 to create. So, stop by this neighborhood any time after Thanksgiving and enjoy a wide array of animatronic reindeer, angels, soldiers, angels, and more.

“Mike was awesome! He was very informative from the time the tour started to the time it ended. He gave plenty of time to see everything and take pictures. The bus was very comfortable and it had a restroom that was really convenient. I would definitely recommend this tour, it is definitely worth it!” Roy ( read more reviews now! )

Now, the  Dyker Heights Christmas Lights  can typically be seen anywhere from 11th to 13th Avenues and from 83rd to 86th Streets. However, this place is NOT super close to Manhattan will take about an hour to get to via subway.

Therefore, I highly recommend booking a 4-hour bus tour of the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights so that you can stay warm, see as many lights as you want to without spending an hour on the subway (or getting lost), and enjoy expert commentary with all these fabulous lights displays.

Pro Tip : Book your tour tickets well in advance since they sell out quickly. But, if you choose to DIY it, dress warmly, bring a hot beverage (you’ll be outside for a while), and consider grabbing something to eat at one of the restaurants on 3rd, 4th, or 5th avenue.

Fun Fact : This obsession with Christmas lights started back in the 1980s when residents here decided to compete to see who would have the ultimate Christmas lights display in the area.

Address: From 83rd St. to 86th St. between Eleventh Ave. and Thirteenth Ave, in Dyker Heights Brooklyn.

Hours: Lights come on after sundown (best seen between 5 pm and 9 pm), daily, from late November through early January (if you go after December 25th, it will be a lot less crowded).

Price: Free, unless you do the tour which is around $56 per person.

How to Get There: Take the D train from Rockefeller Center to 71st Street station and walk from there.

17. Watch Winter Jazzfest

Starting in 2005 as a small, one-day event, Winter Jazzfest has quickly become an integral part of the winter season in New York City.

That’s why the event is now a week-long spectacular that features performances, in a variety of different locations, from more than 700 different artists on ten different stages.

In particular, the Friday and Saturday night performances are extra special and are not to be missed if you happen to be in New York City around the second week of January.

Therefore, if you love jazz and want to enjoy live performances from established artists, as well as vibrant newcomers, then add Jazzfest to your list of the best things to do in winter in NYC.

Added bonus? The festival also has a wide array of free seminars that are open to the public and that cover important topics like social justice, mental health, the jazz community, etc.

18. Enjoy Fashion Week

If you’re a fashionista of even the smallest measure then run, don’t walk to New York Fashion Week. Because this semi-annual event lasts for between 7 and 9 days in September and February and routinely showcases collections from some of the greatest designers in the world.

So, if you’re looking for some of the best things to do in New York City in winter and love clothes, then stop by NYC in February to see some of the world’s greatest models strut their stuff.

Now sadly, the fashion shows themselves are invite-only (a no-go for us mere mortals). But, there is still a ton of excitement in the air and plenty of public events that are hosted at venues like Lincoln Center and Bryant Park.

Parties also routinely pop up all across the city so who knows, you might be able to snag a highly coveted invite to one. If not though, you can always attend several panels that examine the future of fashion and various other topics that are related to the industry.

19. Take Advantage of Restaurant Week

Foodies of the world rejoice because this is one of the best things to do in winter in NYC for you! See, Restaurant Week is a magical time of year (usually in June/July or early January) when diners can enjoy insane discounts at some of the finest restaurants in the city.

Now, restaurant week deals typically consist of two or three-course pre-fixe menus that are offered at participating restaurants on select days of the week for either lunch or dinner (or both).

Menus cost either $21, $39, or $125 per person for new, Signature Dining Experiences.

However, not every restaurant in the city participates in this event (you know, just 300 or so) so definitely do your research and figure out exactly what your dream eateries are offering.

You’ll also want to book a table as far in advance as possible since this event is super popular and tables at top restaurants routinely fill up fast (Reservations open up on the website about 2 weeks before the event starts but lunch reservations for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are always easier to get).

But, for the most up-to-date info possible, keep your eye on the official website since details for the winter event are routinely released in mid-November.

Pro Tip: There is also a New York Hotel Week that typically runs for 10 days throughout the first and second weeks of January. Like restaurant week, you can get unbelievable deals on rooms at participating hotels for between $100 and $400 per night. 

FYI, Broadway Week (where you get two tickets for the price of one) is also typically held around this time of year during either the last week of January or the first week of February.

20. Uncover Hidden Treasures at the Indoor Brooklyn Flea

Any New Yorker worth their salt knows that one of the best things to do in NYC in winter is to check out the indoor Brooklyn Flea in Chelsea (aka Chelsea Flea).

Sure, this place is better known for its sprawling outdoor summer markets that are brimming over with rad antiques, vintage clothes, and old-school records that local New Yorkers love.

But, Brooklyn Flea has become SO popular that the market now moves indoors for the winter so that shoppers can browse merchandise from more than 60 different vendors without hardcore freezing to death.

So, stop by on any Saturday or Sunday you like and haggle your way to NYC flea market shopping  nirvana as you hunt for buried treasure and take a hidden gem or two home with you.

Plus, you’ll love that New York’s beloved Smorgasburg now has an outpost here so that you can enjoy some of the best food and drinks in NYC as you shop til you drop like a boss.

Address: 29 W 25th St, New York, NY 10010

Hours: Open Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Depends on what you buy.

How to Get There: Take the R/W train to 28th Street Station or the F/M train to 23rd Street station and walk from there.

21. Admire the Christmas Decor at Rolf’s

If you’re looking for things to do in winter in NYC that will help get you into the Christmas spirit then be sure to stop by this old-world German restaurant near Gramercy Park.

Because while you might think this place is known for its delicious cuisine, it’s actually famous for its totally insane Christmas decor – vibrant Christmas baubles, ornaments, twinkling lights, and strands of garland that typically emerge towards the end of November and stay up through May every year.

So, attempt to step inside in December and you might just wish you had a pair of sunglasses – it’s that bright.

Pro Tip: Visit at an off time during the week (the crowds are insane) and skip the food. Just grab a drink at the bar and enjoy the epic Christmas baubles all around you. My personal faves are the warm mulled wine, the spiked apple cider, and the Holiday Martini (Bailey’s Vodka, Godiva liqueur).

Address: 281 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010

Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Price: Entrees start at $25.00 each.

How to Get There: Take the 6/R/W train to 23rd Street Station and walk from there.

22. New York Botanical Gardens Holiday Train Show

Another of the many best things to do in New York City in winter is to check out the New York City Botanical Gardens Holiday Train Show.

After all, it’s been a staple of the New York holiday season for the past 30+ years since creator Paul Busse first started it way back when.

So, be sure to stop by and see these pint-sized trains as they whizz by on a half-mile-long track that takes them past more than 150 scaled-down versions of NYC’s most immortal structures – a track that has been beautifully bedazzled with all sorts of sparkly holiday lights.

You’ll also love that artist tries to intertwine a wealth of natural materials, like twigs and barks and leaves, into the exhibit since, helo, this is the botanical gardens.

Whatever you do though, don’t forget to look up so that you can catch some aerial trains chugging by just overhead. Also, definitely book your tickets well in advance since this is a popular event among families in NYC and sells out quickly.

Pro Tip: The Bronx Zoo is also nearby and has a fantastic outdoor, winter lights display (starting around Thanksgiving and running through the holiday season)  that the kids will love.

Address:  2900 Southern Boulevard Bronx, NY 10458-5126

Hours: The show typically runs daily from the last week of November through the last week of January. Times vary but they are typically open 9:30 am to 4:00 pm daily.

Price: Tickets are $32 for adults, $30 for seniors (65+)/students with valid ID, $18 for children (2-12), and free for anyone under 2. Book your tickets now!

How to Get There:  Take the B, D, or 4 train to Bedford Park Blvd. Station. From the station exit, take the B26 bus east to the Botanical Garden’s Mosholu Entrance.

23. Chill At A Bathhouse In Brooklyn

So if you’ve been to NYC in December you know that it is cold AF! Most people are always looking for things to do in NYC in winter that involve being warm. I mean I get it. You can’t really stay outdoors all the time when your fingers and toes are cold to the bone. Anyways, I digress! One of the best ways to warm up is to head to a spa or bathhouse.

The World Spa in Brooklyn is an epic setting. It spans a 50,000 square foot area and has one some of the most modern facilities that you could desire. You actually get to pick from a variety of different bathhouses from across the world.

Thinking Russian? Go with the banya! Or maybe you are in the mood for a Finnish sauna? The Turkish and Moroccan hammans are never a bad idea either! So take your pick and really indulge in the warmth. Trust me! You’ll thank me for this tip!

Address: 1571 McDonald Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230, United States

Hours: Sun – Thur: 10am – 9pm, Fri – Sat: 10am – 10pm

Price: Massages start out at $155

How To Get There: Take the Subway to Avenue N and walk from there.

24. Get Cozy Next To A Fireplace

You know how cold it is in NYC at this time of the year? Well one of the best things to do in NYC in winter is to cuddle up next to a nice fireplace. It is uber cozy and so de-stressing. Pair it with a cup of hot cocoa or a nice glass of mulled wine and you will have a good thing going. Honestly pick any of the uber cozy bars in NYC that offer this experience. Some of my top picks are:

• Black Mountain Wine House
• Fraunces Tavern
• One if by Land, Two if by Sea
• Lobby Bar, Bowery Hotel

Pro Tip: This is one of the top activities in NYC during winter so make sure to call in advance and book a place in order to avoid disappointment.

Things To Do In NYC In Winter FAQ

How can i enjoy nyc in winter.

NYC is a winter wonderland! The first tip when it comes to enjoying the city is to pack right for winter . If you are warm, you can stay out for longer and enjoy the city so so much better! Make sure to check out all the highlights that are trending when you are visiting. Don’t forget to take in all the Christmas displays and make sure that you stroll through Central park at least once!

What Should I Do When It Is Cold In NYC?

Head indoors!! Luckily there are a ton of indoor activities in NYC in winter. Head to one of the numerous museums, soak in a bathhouse or get a massage. You could even get cozy next to the fireplace at one of the top bars in the city. Your options are endless!

Is NYC Fun In December?

December in NYC is one of the best times in the city. NYC comes alive with magical Christmas displays. Trees are set up all over the city and the shopping scene is crazy. Plus it gets blanketed in a layer of snow which gives everyone a epic white Christmas that they were longing for!

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Map of the Best Things to do in Winter in NYC

Additional New York Travel Resources You’ll Love

• Best Things to do in Chelsea, NYC
• Best Grocery Stores in Manhattan
• Best Christmas Lights in NYC
• Coolest Museums in NYC
• Best Things to do on the Upper East Side

There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to all of the very best things to do in NYC in winter. Tell me, did all your fave winter in NYC activities make the list? 

If not then let me know in the comments below so that i can check them out. and fi you found this post useful, be sure to join our email list before pinning this pin now so that you can read it again later. .

Tuesday 19th of December 2017

Great post, love your sense of humor! Visiting NYC for the first time Dec. 22 and 23 and this list will be used, especially the drinking hot chocolate part

Ali Dunnell

Monday 13th of November 2017

What a thorough and informative guide to NYC in winter... and you also put a clip of Elaine one of my favourite sitcom characters in it too! I have always wanted to visit New York in the winter and this has just confirmed that I must do it. Thanks for sharing :)

Sunday 12th of November 2017

I love your style of writing.. The humour in your posts keep the reader engaged. This is a lovely post. With the mention of hot chocolate, snow boots, blankets of snow and Christmas lights, I can actually feel the chills of winter. Didn't know there are so many things to do in New York in Winters. Thanks for sharing the list! :)

Alexander Popkov

Someone from NY tries to scare a Russian who lives in Finland with cold winter *evil laugh*. I just loved your post and never knew there is so much life in NY in winter. I honestly thought people stay at home and complain about wether :) Hotel and restaurant week look insanely cool! Seem that restaurant days in Finland just cannot compare to that. Wanna go NY :)

Love your (mostly) budget-friendly list of things to do in the winter! I had no idea Radio City Music Hall had tours, though that's a little less budget-friendly, it sounds super interesting.

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15 Best Things to Do in New York City in the Winter

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If you’ve never visited New York City in the winter , you’re missing out. The festivities and activities during this time of year are totally unique and suitable for all ages. In addition to NYC’s top attractions , you can enjoy limited-time events and pop-up experiences to help you through the winter blues.

While NYC’s winter weather can be harsh, if you bundle up and prepare for the wind, snow, and temps, you’ll be fine. Plus, there are plenty of ways to stay warm, including visits to world-class museums, Broadway shows, and delicious dining options.

Moreover, the reward for braving the weather is that you’ll deal with fewer crowds and cheaper prices. We’ve traveled to the Big Apple many times, and I can say that the city has a completely different ambiance during the colder months. In this guide, I’ll share the best winter activities in New York City so you can have the most amazing visit during the most wonderful time of the year.

1. Central Park, a beautiful place to see in NYC in the winter

First, Central Park is a must-see in all seasons, although it transforms into a winter wonderland starting in November. This is one of the best places to visit in New York in the winter , especially if you want to celebrate the holidays.

The park comes alive with Christmas spirit thanks to its annual tree lighting ceremony. There is also the Columbus Circle Holiday Market , which includes over 100 vendors. I recommend browsing the stalls for unique gifts and artisanal products or just strolling through with a hot chocolate.

In addition, Central Park is a haven for sledding and ice skating . You can rent a pair of skates at Wollman Rink and glide along the ice (skating aids are available for the kids). You can also skate at Lasker Rink by Harlem Meer.

2. Go to a museum, an indoor activity to do in New York City in the winter

If you prefer an indoor winter activity in NYC , I highly recommend visiting one of New York City’s best museums . For example, The Met has over two million objects from around the world, making it easy to spend hours here. If it’s your first time visiting or you’re short on time, I suggest checking out the extensive Egyptian and Roman collections.

Another art museum you’ll like is the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Recognized as one of the top museums in Manhattan , MoMA chronicles the most pivotal modern and contemporary art movements like Abstract Expressionism, Impressionism, and Cubism. It also has an impressive array of design and architectural exhibits. If you love modern art, the Guggenheim Museum is another place to consider. In addition to its galleries, it has one of the most unique buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

If you’re traveling with kids, the American Museum of Natural History is always a big hit. Along with its huge dinosaur fossils, it has meteorites, animal skeletons, and a planetarium. I also think the 9/11 Museum is an important place to visit. This poignant museum honors the victims of the 9/11 tragedy and the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center. It also has a beautiful outdoor exhibit, and it’s close to One World Observatory .

A museum day is one of the best winter activities in NYC , and if you plan on visiting one or more of these institutes, you can save money on tickets with the New York Pass .

3. See a Broadway show, a fun thing to do in the winter in NYC

Another fun thing to do in NYC in the winter is to see a Broadway show . You’ll stay warm and cozy while enjoying some of the top performers in the country.

Besides, there are so many options to choose from, including Broadway shows for adults, families, and theater aficionados. We’ve seen Wicked , The Lion King , The Phantom of the Opera , and Chicago , and each performance was spectacular. I would recommend any of these shows, although if you’re visiting during the holiday season, you can take advantage of special events.

Some of the most popular winter shows in NYC include ELF The Musical and Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet . No matter which show you choose, the lights, costumes, choreography, and music will be incredible. Also, don’t forget that you can get discounted Broadway tickets at the TKTS booth in Times Square. While you’ll get a steep discount, you won’t be able to choose which show you’ll see.

4. New York Botanical Garden, a cool place to go in NYC in the winter

New York Botanical Garden is a beautiful place to visit year-round, even during the colder months. In the winter, you can see Japanese camellia, hardy maple trees, bush clover, and other cold-weather species.

You can also experience one of the city’s most exciting traditions: the NYBG Garden Glow . This New York City winter attraction includes a 1.5-mile trail of holiday lights and whimsical displays. As you make your way through the garden path, you can enjoy pop-up performances, Christmas carols, hot beverages, and more.

Inside, the Holiday Train Show features several gorgeous model trains and impressive sets with nearly 200 replicas of famous New York landmarks. It’s a fun activity for all ages and the perfect thing to do in NYC with kids during the winter season.

5. Go ice skating, the best winter activity to do in NYC with kids

Back outside, an ice skating session is a fun thing to do as a family, with friends, or with your partner. Again, Central Park has two places to ice skate, Wollman Rink and Lasker Rink . Skate rentals cost just $10, so this is a cheap thing to do in NYC in the winter .

You can also go skating at Rockefeller Center ’s famous ice rink. Located in front of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the rink is open for skating all day and into the evening hours. It’s an entertaining outdoor winter activity in NYC , and the rink is close to several luxury stores where you can do your Christmas shopping.

6. Radio City Music Hall, one of the best places to visit in NYC in the wintertime

Radio City Music Hall is right next to the Rockefeller Center, so after some ice skating or shopping, you can see a world-class performance by the Rockettes. The Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes is a New York City tradition and one of the best shows out there.

The spectacle includes around 150 performers and the Rockettes’ signature dances and flashy costumes. In addition to a nativity scene and the parade of the wooden soldiers, the show features classic songs like “Jingle Bells”, “Blue Christmas”, and “Let It Snow”. Tickets are in high demand, so if you want to see this winter show in NYC , get yours in advance here .

If you can’t get tickets to see the Rockettes, there are other wonderful options. You can’t go wrong with the NYC Ballet and their rousing rendition of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker , one of the most well-known Christmas stories.

Also, attending the Winter Jazzfest is one of the coolest things to do in NYC in January . The festival welcomes musicians from around the globe and includes shows at several venues throughout downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn. So, if you’re looking for something to do in NYC at night , check out this winter attraction.

7. Go shopping, something to do in NYC during the winter season

It’s no secret that the Big Apple is a haven for shopaholics, so if you want to go window shopping or search for Christmas presents, you can do it here. Of course, the luxury retailers along Fifth Avenue are a huge hit for people in search of designer brands like Armani and Gucci. If you want to make your wintertime visit to NYC extra special for the kids, check out the American Girl Place.

For those in search of deals, head to one of the open flea markets in NYC like the Brooklyn Flea . Here, you can find vintage items, clothing, jewelry, antiques, and much more. Chelsea Market in Manhattan is another shopping hotspot and a great place to grab artisanal products and baked goods. The outlets in New York and the surrounding area also have lots of bargains.

You’ll also find holiday-specific gifts like ornaments and decorations at Christmas Cottage , the oldest Christmas shop in the city. And if you’re always looking for fashion inspiration, New York Fashion Week is your chance to see the latest designs and trends. It’s one of the top things to do in New York City in February , so if you’re visiting during this time, keep it in mind.

8. See a holiday lighting in NYC, another way to spend winter in New York City with family

During the most wonderful time of the year, New York City is aglow with holiday lights . Many of the stores along Fifth Avenue have a tradition of setting up elaborate displays and lights for Christmas in NYC .

Macy’s at Herald Square is one of the best spots to check out thanks to its impressive indoor attraction, although it’s also worth seeing Bloomingdale’s on Third Avenue. You can also see Christmas lights at Barney’s New York , Bergdorf Goodman , Lord & Taylor , Saks Fifth Avenue , and Tiffany & Co . There is a different theme every year, and you can explore all the whimsical displays on this holiday lights walking tour .

The city’s Christmas tree lightings are another fun winter activity in NYC . Several tree lighting ceremonies take place throughout the Big Apple, although the Rockefeller Center is known for having one of the grandest. Its Norway Spruce measures 80-100 feet tall and is adorned with over 50,000 lights, so it’s a magnificent sight to see.

9. Dyker Heights Holiday Lights, an awesome winter attraction in Brooklyn, NYC

Speaking of holiday lights, you can see the marvelous array of festive cheer in Dyker Heights , one of the most popular neighborhoods in Brooklyn . The residents here have a tradition of decorating their homes and gardens for the Christmas season, so the streets are aglow along Dyker Heights Boulevard from 83 rd to 86 th Streets.

Neighbors go all out with inflatables, illuminated gingerbread houses, exquisite nutcrackers, light-up candy canes, and much more. Some of the displays are even synced to Christmas music and carols, creating a cheerful winter wonderland. It’s one of the best things to do in Brooklyn in the winter, and you can even take a bus tour to make sure you don’t miss anything.

10. Enjoy New York Restaurant Week, something to do in NYC in the winter as a couple

Twice a year, New York Restaurant Week brings mouthwatering lunches and dinners to patrons for a fraction of the price. Delighting in a warm meal is one of the most comforting things to do in New York when it’s cold , and there are plenty of options to suit any appetite.

Winter Restaurant Week actually lasts for four weeks from mid-January to February. Two-course lunches and Sunday brunch cost about $25-$35 per person, while prix fixe dinners are around $45 (two-course) and $60 (three-course).

The participating restaurants vary by year but include dozens of establishments offering everything from Asian fusion and Italian cuisine to Mexican specialties and New American dishes. You can grab a table at the STATE Grill and Bar in the Empire State Building, Stella 34 Trattoria at Macy’s, or on the City Cruise by Hornblower , one of the top boat tours in NYC .

Even if you miss Restaurant Week, I still recommend reserving a table at one of New York City’s best restaurants .

11. Check out the Christmas markets, the best thing to do in NYC in December

The luxury shops in Manhattan are open year-round, but the Christmas markets are a winter attraction in New York City that you can only see during the holiday season. These quaint markets are full of charming vendor stalls selling all kinds of knick-knacks and one-of-a-kind gifts, so they’re the perfect place to go if you’re still crossing off your shopping list.

I already mentioned the Columbus Circle Holiday Market , and the New York Botanical Garden also has vendors on-site. It’s also worth visiting Bryant Park’s Winter Village , an open-air market where you can shop, ice skate, and hang out as a family.

The Union Square Holiday Market is another impressive attraction with over 100 vendors, while the Grand Central Holiday Market in Vanderbilt Hall is inside, so it’s warm and cozy. If you can’t make up your mind, I suggest taking this walking tour , which goes through several markets.

12. Celebrate the New Year’s Eve, one of the most famous winter events in New York City

Without a doubt, celebrating New Year’s Eve at Times Square is one of the best things to do in New York City during the winter . The Times Square Ball Drop is a tradition that began in 1907 when the ball was made of wood and just a few lightbulbs. Today, it’s a gorgeous sphere of Waterford crystals with over 32,000 LED lights, and it’s programmed to have different light and color patterns.

Over a million people come to Times Square to ring in the New Year, so if you go, expect lots of crowds and be sure you bundle up. The celebration includes concerts, celebrity appearances, and the countdown to midnight as the ball descends its perch atop One Times Square. It’s definitely a one-of-a-kind experience and a popular addition to many NYC winter bucket lists .

13. Heated igloos at 230 Fifth rooftop, a nice place to go in the winter with friends in NYC

Looking for a romantic thing to do in New York City in the winter ? Put a new spin on a night out by visiting 230 Fifth , one of the best rooftops in NYC . This rooftop bar is open year-round, but from November to April, you can enjoy its outdoor heated igloos.

The igloos are transparent and have blankets and Snuggies for you to keep yourself warm and toasty. Thanks to the bar’s location on the 20 th and 21 st floor, you’ll have incredible panoramic views of Manhattan, making this an awesome place to visit during the New York winter .

Moreover, 230 Fifth has an enclosed lounge and an open-air bar, so you can comfortably enjoy a night out with friends or your partner. In addition to alcohol, the bar serves hot beverages and occasionally hosts movie nights. Hands down, this is one of the coolest things to do in NYC at night and our favorite rooftop, so don’t miss it!

14. NYC Winter Lantern Festival, another fun family thing to do in NYC in the winter

The NYC Winter Lantern Festival is a family-friendly event that you can enjoy all season long. It runs from mid-October to early January and takes place across three venues: Snug Harbor Cultural Center in Staten Island; the Queens County Farm Museum ; and the Nassau County Museum of Art on Long Island. The latter is a drive-through attraction and one of the best things to do in Long Island .

The Staten Island and Queens festivals feature walk-through displays with illuminated tunnels, arches, and pathways. There are thousands of lanterns included in the attraction, an homage to the lantern-making tradition of the Han Dynasty in China. Keep your eyes peeled for all the different shapes and creations, such as flowers and animals. Performances also take place during this New York City winter festival , such as street artists and Tibetan folk dancers, so it’s a wonderful activity for the whole family.

15. Winter Spa at The William Vale, a romantic wintertime thing to do in New York City

Finally, when you need some alone time with your special someone, head to the Winter Spa at The William Vale . A spa session is one of the most relaxing things to do as a couple in NYC , and as one of the best hotels in Brooklyn , The William Vale pulls out all the stops.

The luxurious setup is inspired by the alfresco spas of Scandinavia and includes red cedar saunas and outdoor hot tubs. The saunas are enclosed and have large dome windows so you can enjoy the view while staying warm and cozy.

During your visit, you can relax your muscles and find your bliss while lounging in a plush bathrobe and admiring the wintry views outside. And if you want to extend your winter vacation in New York City , book a room and stay overnight at this lovely hotel.

That’s it for the best things to do in NYC in the winter . I hope this article helps you plan your winter trip to NYC or at least convinces you that the Big Apple is well worth visiting during the colder months. Once you’re ready to make your itinerary, use this map to easily locate the top attractions I mentioned:

I’d also love to hear from you! Let me know your thoughts about visiting NYC in the winter , and don’t hesitate to leave me your questions below. Safe travels and have a blast exploring New York!

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20 Things to Do in New York City on Cold and Snowy Days

Ozgur Donmaz/Getty Images 

If you're visiting New York City during the winter, be prepared for cold weather or even snow as well as temperatures dropping well below freezing many days from December through March each year.

Although it isn't the coldest destination you could visit in the northeastern United States, you're likely to spend a lot more time outside in NYC than you would at home, so warm clothes and shoes are essential for staying comfortable outdoors.

Fortunately, there are many great things to do when it's snowy or cold in New York City, whether you want to embrace the weather or escape it. From visiting one of the city's many ice rinks—both indoor and outdoor—to roaming through the snow-covered New York Botanical Gardens, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Go Ice Skating

Sure, ice skating is a cliche winter activity, but New York City's ice skating options are pretty spectacular.

If you don't mind braving the crowds, you can skate at the Ice Rink at Rock Center , but if you want to experience New York City as a winter wonderland, you might prefer Wollman Rink in Central Park . From there, you can see skyscrapers surrounding the potentially snow-covered treetops of the park itself. There is also a free ice skating rink in Bryant Park and several other ice skating rinks around New York City.

Spend the Day at a New York City Museum

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

One great way to escape the cold and snow in New York City is to visit one of New York City's fantastic museums , many of which are free or "pay what you wish."

It's easy to spend an entire day or more at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the American Museum of Natural History , but many smaller New York City museums offer wonderful collections, as well as a perfect way to warm-up for a few hours. Smaller museums worth visiting include the Lower East Side Tenement Museum and the Frick Collection .

Take a New York City Boat Tour

Taking a boat tour might not be the first thing you think of when you are looking to escape from the cold or snow of New York City's winter, but it can actually be a great way to relax and stay warm while still seeing the city. All boat tours that operate during the winter have closed-in areas, but keep in mind that tour schedules are more limited during the winter months, so call or check the schedule online before you head to the dock.

Stay Warm While You Shop

Winter in New York City is actually a great time of year for shopping because of all the post-Christmas sales that offer great savings and the wide variety of shopping destinations available throughout the season.

While a cold day in New York City might not be the best one for popping in and out of Madison Avenue shops, it's easy to waste away the hours in one of New York City's great department stores like Barney's New York in the Upper East Side, Bergdorf Goodman or Bloomingdale's in Midtown, or Macy's in Herald Square. On the other hand, if you're looking for a discount, visit Gabay's Outlet in the East Village, Century 21 in the Financial District or upper west side, or Nordstrom Rack in Union Square or Downtown Brooklyn.

The Shops at Columbus Circle, a large shopping mall located inside the Time Warner Center at the southwest corner of Central Park, is another great place to go if you want your choice of premium brands without having to venture out in the cold for too long.

Check Out the Brooklyn Flea Indoor Winter Market

Every Saturday and Sunday throughout the cold season, you can also get your shopping done at the unique Brooklyn Flea, a huge indoor winter flea market that features over 200 vendors selling food, crafts, clothing, and trinkets. Guests can also search through collectibles and vintage items as well as handcrafted art and goods or take home some home-grown produce at this expansive flea market.

Brooklyn Flea is open year-round on Saturdays in Williamsburg at the Williamsburg Hotel and Sundays in DUMBO at Pearl Plaza beneath the Manhattan Bridge.

Catch a Show on Broadway

One of the biggest attractions in New York City are the shows on Broadway, and you can warm up this winter while watching a play or musical every day of the week.

The cold weather means that lines at the TKTS Booth tend to be shorter, but if you're not into braving the cold to save some money, you can buy tickets directly at the box office. Sometimes, you may even find discounts if they offer standing room only or student rush tickets .

Warm up at a Movie in New York City

New York City is a wonderful city for film-buffs and is home to a number of interesting movie theaters including the Film Forum and the giant AMC Times Square. In New York City, there is a far wider array of movie-watching options than you might find in your hometown, and there are also yearly film festivals around the city for true cinephiles.

Get Boozy at Brunch

New York City socialites love brunch, and there are literally hundreds across the city that offer daytime service. Whether you're hankering for a light snack or you want to enjoy a full meal accompanied by Bloody Marys and Mimosas, there's no shortage of options in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.

Some of the best brunch spots in Manhattan include The B Bar and Grill in midtown, EJ's Luncheonette on the Upper West Side, and Elmo in the Village.

Laugh the Cold Away at the Comedy Cellar

Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0 

One of the city's most famous venues for great standup comedy is the Comedy Cellar, which offers nightly shows year-round. If you want to spend the evening warming up by laughing your pants off, this is definitely the place to go. Be sure to check the full calendar for the lineup of upcoming shows—the Comedy Cellar is known to feature some of the biggest names in comedy throughout the year.

Take a Class

New York City isn't just a city for entertainment, dining, and nightlife—you can also learn a thing or two from some of the best schools and institutes in the country while you're visiting. From craft beer lessons in Brooklyn to photography courses and cheese-crafting and tea tasting workshops in Manhattan, there are plenty of classes offered throughout the winter season. TimeOut New York maintains a list of ongoing classes that residents and tourists alike can enjoy during the winter.

Cuddle With Cats at the Meow Parlour

Christa Hamilton Photography 

There's no better way to beat the winter cold than to cuddle up with your beloved pet while enjoying a warm beverage, and in New York City, you can do this even if you left your pet at home thanks to the Meow Parlour. Known as New York City's first cat cafe, this unique venue invites guests to enjoy coffees and teas while hanging out with dozens of feline friends.

Visit Times Square

Although getting between venues, stores, and attractions will require you to go out into the cold, Times Square is packed full of places where you can spend hours indoors. From M&M World to the Museum of Wax, there are plenty of great attractions within the three-block by 10-block area that encompasses Times Square. You can even dine in some nationally-recognized chain restaurants, but keep in mind that prices will be inflated in this popular tourist area.

Get Active at Chelsea Piers

Heather Cross

Chelsea Piers is home to an entire complex full of activities that can keep the family warm and entertained all day long. Featuring youth classes and camps, a fitness club, adult and youth leagues, drop-in activities like rock climbing and bowling, and a variety of special events throughout the winter, you'll have no problem staying warm and active on cold and snowy days at Chelsea Piers.

Tour the City by Subway

Wikimedia Commons

Although a majority of the subway lines in Manhattan are below-ground, you can get skyline views of the city if you take the F train out to Coney Island in Brooklyn and some great views of the city itself in Queens on the 7 and N lines. However, the subway can get quite confusing for tourists—and even some residents still struggle with directions—so be sure to check the map and ask for directions if you feel lost.

Go International at the United Nations

A little known fact about New York City: A part of the island of Manhattan is considered international territory since it's home to the United Nations. While you're visiting New York City, you can take a quick trip "abroad" on an hour-long tour the U.N. Headquarters. Available Mondays through Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the tours offer guests a behind-the-scenes look at the inner-workings of the U.N. including the Security Council Chamber, the General Assembly Hall, and the Economic and Social Council Chamber.

Visit Grand Central Terminal

Jackie Craven

Whether you're arriving in the city by train or you just want to visit one of its most famous landmarks, a trip to Grand Central Terminal is a must-see for first-time tourists and a great way to stay warm in the winter. While you're there, you can't miss the giant mural on the ceiling of the main hall, and on the underground level, there's a full food court with some of the best food in the city. 

Visit the New York Botanical Garden's Holiday Train Show

 Susan Breslow Sardone.

A great destination year-round, the New York Botanical Gardens (NYBG) are especially lovely during the winter season if you're a fan of model trains. Each year, the NYBG hosts a spectacular model train display inside the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

The Holiday Train Show features over 175 New York landmarks constructed out of natural materials like bark, leaves, and flowers as well as the signature New York Central model trains. Located in New York City's northernmost borough of the Bronx, NYBG is easily accessible via a 20-minute train ride from Manhattan's Grand Central Terminal on the Metro-North Harlem line or via the NYC subway B, D, or 4 trains.

Explore Coney Island Attractions

Arthur Levine

Although the beach at Coney Island is closed for the season and the windchill can be downright frigid near the waterfront all winter long, there are still many attractions to enjoy in Brooklyn's southernmost neighborhood.

To stay out of the cold, visit the world-class New York Aquarium right on the waterfront, which features year-round exhibits and fish-feeding shows at an indoor reef filled with sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Afterward, stop in at the Coney Island Museum to explore the unique history of this storied New York neighborhood, especially if you're interested in the freak show side of Coney Island's past.

Alternatively, you can embrace the cold by walking along the famous Rigelmann Boardwalk to witness stunning views of the amusement park, Atlantic Ocean, and beach. To really embrace the cold on New Year's Day, watch or join the Coney Island Polar Bear Club's Polar Bear Plunge, which takes place each year on January 1 at 1 p.m. During the event, hundreds of participants take an icy dip in the frigid waters and splash around as part of the nation's oldest winter bathing club's annual celebration.

Go to Radio City Music Hall

From seeing the famous Rockettes' Christmas show to taking tours of this historic attraction, there are many things to do and see at Radio City Music Hall in the winter.

One of the most iconic experiences for New York visitors each winter is seeing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which features 36 of the famous Rockettes dancers in each performance. However, performances start in November and end in January, so you have a limited time to catch a show this season. Book your tickets in advance to get better deals and seats for the show.

Alternatively, you can also tour Radio City Music Hall for a behind-the-scenes look at the inner-workings of the venue—including a gallery of past performances and construction projects that made Radio City what it is today. During the tour, you'll also get to meet a Rockette and even stand on the famous block-long stage where the Rockettes perform.

Watch the Westminster Dog Show

Mario Tama/Getty Images

Each February for two days, the Westminster Kennel Club Annual Dog Show comes to New York City to pit purebred dogs against one another for various titles including best in breed and best in show.

A number of more intimate preliminary daytime events for the dog show take place Piers 92 and 94 while the larger dog show itself takes place in the evening of both days of the show at Madison Square Garden. While tickets can cost up to 200 dollars to attend, you can also score cheap seats if you book early.

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25 Things to Do in New York City in Winter

New York City is a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis with unrivalled adventures and activities to suit any visitor. No matter what time of year you visit NYC, you’re sure to be dazzled.

Wintertime is no exception. In fact, many events only happen in New York City during winter, making it a truly unique time of year to experience the city.

Is visiting NYC in winter worth it?

If you enjoy culture, heritage, the arts, and places at the forefront of design, fashion, and innovation, you’re bound to enjoy the Big Apple.

A trip to New York City in winter is worth it, if you’re looking for a magical and festive way to spend the holidays. The city is transformed into a veritable winter wonderland that’s buzzing with Christmas cheer and holiday glitter. And when the New Year has come and gone, there are still plenty of fun winter activities to enjoy.

Why visit New York in winter

There are so many reasons to visit New York in the winter—so we’ve listed a selection of our favorite events and activities for you to enjoy. There’s everything from open air ice-skating, festivals, and Christmas markets, to breathtaking displays, shopping, performances, restaurants and museums. And there are plenty of non-Christmasy, quirky things to do in NYC as well.

ⓘ BUDGET TIP: Looking for some fun things to do in NYC this weekend? You can save up to 65% on admission prices with the easy-to-use Sightseeing Day Pass. You can choose up to 12 attractions and have 30 consecutive days to visit them.

Where to stay in NYC

Hotels in New York City aren’t cheap, so be prepared. Here are some of the best places to stay in Manhattan. Other boroughs in NYC are generally lower priced.

• Hostel: American Dream Hostel
• Budget: West Side YMCA
• Mid-range: Yotel Times Square
• Splurge: Mandarin Oriental New York

Plum Guide is your best resource for renting high-quality homes, condos, and apartments in New York City.

Things to do in New York City in December

Let’s begin with what to do in New York City during the holidays.

1. Visit the Winter Village at Bryant Park

This winter wonderland in the heart of Manhattan is New York City’s only free-to-enter ice skating rink. You can enjoy skating to retro music on Wednesdays, sip on a festive cocktail and indulge in delicious food at the Lodge Deck, try your hand at iceless curling at the trendy Curling Café – or spend time with friends inside your very own cozy igloo.

Bryant Park hosts hundreds of free activities, events, and classes throughout the year. Some that have occurred in the past include chess, game nights, and art workshops. Click here to see a list of upcoming programs.

2. Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden & NYBG Glow

One of the coolest attractions in NYC – particularly for families and children – is the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Gardens (NYBG) .

Featuring miniature recreations of iconic NYC landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Brooklyn Bridge – all made from natural materials like bark and moss, the Holiday Train Show has model trains that zip along circuits as they take you on a visual journey around the city.

The New York Botanical Gardens belong on every New York itinerary during the holidays. After dark the area turns into a nighttime glowing spectacular of thousands of dazzling, colorful Christmas lights. Known as the NYBG Glow, this annual event also features activities like ice-sculpting and live performances.

3. Christmas markets

Christmas shopping can be stressful, but you can make it a festive experience by visiting one of the various New York City Christmas markets. These are an opportunity to buy local, handcrafted and unique gifts while also sampling some great food and drinks.

Some of the top Christmas markets in the city include:

• Bronx Holiday Market
• Artists & Fleas in Soho
• the open-air Chelsea Flea
• Union Square Holiday Market
• Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair
• Columbus Circle Holiday Market
• and the Holiday Market at The Oculus.

4. Window shopping on Fifth Avenue

The holiday season window displays on NYC’s iconic Fifth Avenue are a sight not to be missed. The stores on this street (from Bloomingdale’s down to Macy’s) have some of the most well-planned and elaborate holiday displays you will ever see. The animated windows take window dressing to a whole new level.

We recommend going at night when all the festive lights add a magical flair to the displays.

5. Hanukkah celebrations and menorah lightings – the world’s largest menorah

Every year to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, public menorah lightings take place around the world. The world’s largest menorah is near Central Park. Standing at 36 feet high outside the Plaza Hotel, this menorah lighting has been celebrated here annually for over 40 years.

Brooklyn’s largest menorah is only slightly smaller, 32 feet high. Standing at Grand Army Plaza, it has been a tradition for nearly 40 years. Every night during Hanukkah, children receive special gifts while thousands celebrate with live music and hot latkes for all.

6. See the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center

Winter in New York wouldn’t be the same without the Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan. For over 80 years, people have been coming to see the giant tree alight—it’s one of the most quintessential NYC holiday attractions.

The tree lighting ceremony occurs the Wednesday after Thanksgiving and is televised nationally. This event marks the official beginning of New York’s Christmas season, and the tree stays up until January 6 of the new year.

If you want to witness the ceremony, be prepared for crowds, standing, and cold weather. You’ll need to get there before 3 pm for the 7 pm event.

ⓘ TIP: Alternatively, you can attend an exclusive tree lighting party and watch the event from a comfortable location. Tickets are hard to come by and expensive, but it’s definitely going to impress someone special!

Another popular holiday tradition is skating on the Rockefeller Center’s ice rink. There are many shops and nearby restaurants to enjoy while you gaze up at the tree, a magnificent symbol of the season.

7. See the holiday lights at Dyker Heights in Brooklyn

If you’re in Brooklyn and searching for “winter activities for toddlers near me” online, Dyker Heights will top the list.

Dazzling with spectacular decorations and festive lights, the houses at Dyker Heights in Brooklyn are definitely an attraction to remember.

Many families have an annual tradition of doing a Christmas lights walking tour of the neighborhood, which is located between 11th and 13th Avenues and from 83rd to 86th Street.

All those Santas, reindeer, snowmen, and festive décor are sure to make you feel like you’ve been transported into a Hallmark Christmas card.

8. Celebrate Unsilent Night in Washington Square Park

If you’re looking for cool things to do that are a little more arty and quirky, then you may be keen to participate in New York City’s Unsilent Night , which is the brainchild of composer Phil Kline.

Participants usually meet at Washington Square arch, armed with a boombox or smartphone, and they all play four chosen tracks of music simultaneously while walking through the streets of the city. Unsilent Night usually lasts about 45 minutes and ends at Tompkins Square Park.

9. Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Another must-do is to watch the Rockettes live at the Radio City Music Hall perform their annual Christmas Spectacular. The extravagant Christmas-themed show always features Santa Claus, the Toy Soldiers, Nativity scene, famous NY department store windows, Rockefeller Christmas Tree and more.

These magical productions are world famous and a great way to experience the festive season in New York. Theater lovers can also take a guided tour of the art deco theater and meet one of the famous Rockettes.

10. Concert for the Winter Solstice at St. John the Divine

The annual Paul Winter celebration of the winter solstice at the St. John the Divine Cathedral offers a truly remarkable experience in one of the world’s largest cathedrals.

Led by the award-winning jazz saxophonist, this spectacular event celebrates the shortest day of the year with dance, music and guest performances.

11. New Year’s Eve Ball Drop at Times Square

A quintessential tradition during New York in winter is to watch the ball drop in Times Square when the clock hits midnight on New Year’s Eve. Thousands of people gather in the square to watch the event and celebrate the new year, while many others watch it on television.

Before the ball drops, there are performances to watch which will keep you entertained as you wait.

Where’s the best place to watch the ball drop in Times Square? One of the best places to watch the ball being dropped is between 42nd and 48th Streets, where Broadway and 7th Avenue intersect. It’s best to arrive quite early to get a good spot to view the ball and entertainment – which means getting there at around 3pm. Use the bathroom before claiming your spot, as you won’t be able to leave once you do.

Things to do in New York City in January

12. nibble on roasted chestnuts.

If you’re looking to connect with the nostalgia of wintertime in New York City, there’s nothing quite like the smell of roasted chestnuts wafting through the air. Chestnuts have been imported from Italy for centuries and have become a beloved tradition.

You can find these smoky morsels sold by street vendors throughout the city. Their sweet, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the chill in the air, and a bag makes a perfect hand-warmer as you explore the city.

But be warned: They can be addictive! Be sure to bring extra cash for seconds (and maybe even thirds).

13. NY Boat Show

Whether you’re a boating enthusiast, an experienced boat owner, or you’re keen to see some of the world’s most incredible super-yachts – the New York Boat Show has something to offer everyone.

14. Go ice skating

If you’re looking for active things to do in NYC, a favorite winter pastime is ice skating. There are many ice skating rinks in New York to choose from.

In addition to the rinks at the Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park, the Wollman Rink and Lasker Rink in Central Park are some of the most popular options. Conservatory Water offers free skating when the conditions allow. There’s also a rooftop rink on the skyline at The William Vale.

Things to do in New York City in February

15. celebrate valentine’s day in nyc with chocolates, champagne, dinner cruises and more.

If you’re looking for ideas of how best to celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14th, then New York City won’t disappoint. There are so many ways to spend a romantic day or night with your loved one – including a sunset cruise on the Hudson River that comes complete with chocolates and champagne.

16. Take a carriage ride in Central Park

One of our favorite ways to see Central Park during winter is in a horse-drawn carriage. Cover up with a blanket and take a carriage ride through Central Park . It’s a comfortable way to see the sights and get to know more about the history of the city.

Your coachman may even be able to customize your ride, should you want to see the Empire State Building or another major New York attraction.

17. Chinese New Year in Chinatown

Manhattan’s Chinatown is the heart of the annual Lunar New Year celebrations , also known as Chinese New Year. These celebrations include a Lunar New Year Parade and Festival as well as a Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival each year.

People travel from far and wide to attend the parade. It’s a great way to learn about and celebrate Chinese culture and to enjoy the holidays with family and the entire community. The parade is quite an extravaganza – complete with floating dragons, marching bands, elaborately-costumed dancers and acrobatic performers.

18. NYC Restaurant Week

Hundreds of restaurants across the five boroughs of NYC take part in New York Restaurant Week in winter, which gives you an eclectic array of cuisines to choose from.

Whether you’re having lunch or dinner, it’s important to reserve a table beforehand. You don’t want any disappointment during this busy time.

19. Glitz and glam at New York Fashion Week

Held annually in February and September, New York’s Fashion Week is one of the trendiest events of the year. Although many of the shows are just for people in the industry, there are some public shows that you can buy tickets to attend.

If you’re feeling inspired to buy some of the latest fashions, NYC has some of the best designer shops in the world and many of them organize their own events to celebrate New York Fashion Week.

Other things to do in New York in winter

20. visit nyc museums.

Home to some of the world’s best curated and most extensive collections, New York City has so much choice when it comes to museums. The most popular ones include:

• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
• Frick Collection
• American Museum of Natural History
• Jewish Museum.

ⓘ TIP: Admissions can add up, but some entry fees are covered by Sightseeing Day Pass mentioned above.

21. Be dazzled by Broadway shows

New York City is brimming with cultural activities and one of the highlights is going to see a show on Broadway . There are usually hundreds of musicals and theatre productions on show each year with over 40 performance venues.

Some of the most popular Broadway shows are The Lion King, Hamilton, Aladdin, Chicago, and Wicked. Tickets sell out quickly, so be sure to buy yours ahead of time.

Also, if you want to kick it up a notch, you can visit the Broadway Museum to learn more about what goes into producing a Broadway hit.

22. See the New York City Ballet

If you enjoy watching dance performances, the New York City Ballet has some of the best classical and contemporary ballet shows and dancers in the world.

Tickets sell out fast so be sure to book early.

23. Go shopping for bargains at Brooklyn’s largest flea market 

if you love searching for treasures, then you’re sure to enjoy the Brooklyn Flea – a range of outdoor markets in Williamsburg.

Bargains abound here in Brooklyn’s hippest neighborhood , which is known for trendy shops and artisanal markets. So whether you’re looking for antiques, furniture, vintage clothes, jewellery, art, or vinyls – you’re certain to find something charming and special.

24. Take a food tour of NYC

New York City is a foodie’s dream. It has a vibrant and eclectic mix of cultures and cuisines, where visitors can indulge in some of the best street food and world-class restaurants across the five boroughs.

This is a great place for a food tour. Your guide might introduce you to New York bagels, egg creams, or Katz’s Delicatessen, where the sandwiches are big enough to share. Their pastrami is so legendary that it’s shipped nationwide.

Some of the best NYC food tours include:

• a private New York City food tour of East Village and Greenwich Village ,
• the Chelsea Market and High Line food tour ,
• Williamsburg tasting and walking tour in Brooklyn,
• and a New York Secret Food Tour of historic Greenwich Village (with a private tour option) .

25. Sip high tea at the Russian Tea Room

Feast on delectable assortments of teas and treats (including caviar on blinis) at the Russian Tea Room in New York City , and enjoy the opulent and luxurious decor.

This NYC cultural institution is world renowned and has a magical private event venue, some of the finest selections of vodka and they also cater for vegetarians and those who are gluten-free.

How to dress for winter in New York

If you are used to living somewhere with cold, snowy winters then you will likely be quite prepared for a winter in New York. But if you’re used to a warmer annual climate then you may need to buy a few important items of clothing to keep you warm.

Dressing for cold weather is easy. The most important thing is to wear multiple layers instead of one single, heavy piece of clothing. That way, it will be easy to strip off various layers when you go indoors or the temperature changes.

While a warm winter jacket is an absolute necessity, a thin down jacket or woollen sweater is also a great idea for layering. Gloves, a scarf, a hat and warm socks are also imperative – as is an umbrella.

You’ll also need some warm, waterproof and comfortable boots – whether it’s snow boots or waterproof leather boots. Thermals will also go a long way to keeping you warm – especially if you plan to do lots of walking around the city.

ⓘ TIP: Visit our Amazon shop to find a collection of cold weather travel essentials for men and women. Everything is based on what we’ve personally used.

Winter weather in New York City

Winters in New York can be bitterly cold when it’s snowing (often dripping below zero degrees) and very wet when it’s rainy. Winter can also be quite cloudy and windy as well.

Average daily temperatures in NYC during winter are just above freezing – ranging from around 37.4 °F in December to around 34.7 °F in February. However, temperatures can also drop dramatically at times to as low as 5 °F. The windchill can also be quite severe and snowstorms do happen. Average rainfall in winter is around 3.9 inches in December dropping to about 3.1 inches in February.

ⓘ TIP: With 360-degree views from the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, One World Observatory tops the list of things to do in Tribeca—and maybe all of the city. But it’s best to visit this attraction in the summertime. Unless it’s a super clear and sunny winter’s day, the cloud cover will ensure that you won’t see a thing.

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Winter holidays in New York City

New York City has always been one of our favorite places to spend the winter holidays. There’s so much to do that you will never get bored. In fact, you’ll be constantly surprised and in awe of how much one city has to offer.

ⓘ Need some more wintertime destination inspiration? If you’re an American, we’ve covered the best New England winter getaways , things to do in NYC in winter , warm winter vacations in the USA , and the top day trips from Orlando and Miami . For winter in Europe, read about the best European Christmas markets , Christmas in Crete , and places to visit in Europe in December , We also have cold-weather guides to Vienna , Munich , Salzburg , Hallstatt , Zagreb , and Ljubliana , as well as a winter packing list . We’re here to help you enjoy traveling in the winter!

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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Ultimate Guide To Visiting New York City In Winter + Christmas

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: September 28, 2021

UPDATED: May 21, 2024

Are you thinking about visiting New York City in winter ? We are going to explain everything you need to know about planning the perfect New York winter vacation including key information on weather, costs, Christmas and the best things to do in NYC in December, January and February.

Is it worth visiting New York City in winter?

Yes! Winter in NYC is far more affordable, there are no crowds at the most famous attractions and it is a magical place when it snows. After living in New York City in winter ourselves, we can tell you from experience that the cold months around Christmas in New York should not be missed.

In this guide we will cover:

• What is NYC like in the winter?
• Is New York cheaper in winter?
• Christmas in NYC
• Winter weather in New York City
• 10 best things to do in NYC in winter

Let’s start planning your NYC winter vacation!

Our NYC Winter Experience

Kristen is a New York native and after Mark moved to the US, we spent a year living near the peaceful New York Finger Lakes during the coronavirus pandemic.

We moved to New York City at the end of December in 2020 and spent 4 amazing months in the city until the end of April in 2021. We arrived into NYC at Christmas and left as the last of the snow was melting.

You might be questioning why we would choose winter of all seasons?!

The answer is very simple; December, January and February are fantastic months to explore New York City because tourist numbers are so low. Plus, we just really wanted to experience NYC in the snow!

We were able to visit every single New York attraction on our own bucket list with ease. Long lines, overpaying and even waiting for tables at restaurants were non-existent.

After 4 months non-stop exploring NYC in the winter, we left with thousands of photos, a completed bucket list and memories that will last a lifetime.

Here’s our favorite way of looking at it:

Winter in New York City is harsh and cold, but New York City in winter is extraordinary and unique.

Why Are You Visiting New York In Winter?

Let’s consider your intentions for a moment:

• Are you visiting NYC in winter because you want to experience the city in snow like you have seen in the movies?
• Or are you planning a winter NYC visit because you are a savvy money saving traveler who also prefers to avoid the crowds?

Both are excellent intentions!

We actually moved to NYC for those reasons combined. Winter was the perfect time for us to get a taste of life in the city, see Central Park covered in snow and do New York on the cheap.

We can’t guarantee you will get that quintessential NYC December snow at Christmas. But we can guarantee you will save money in New York in January and February compared with visiting any other time of year.

What Is NYC Really Like In The Winter?

Grab that New York bucket list, tear it up and re-write your heading as the most magical city break, ever . Christmas in NYC is every kids dream, every proposers idyllic get-down-on-one-knee scenario and every retail therapists paradise.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of visiting New York in December, January or February:

• Hotels have a lower occupancy rate and much better value for money when compared to peak season.
• Flights to and from the major New York airports are more affordable.
• You won’t have to book attractions in advance or wait in any really long lines.
• New York is one of the most iconic places in the world to spend Christmas and New Year.
• When it snows, NYC really is the magical winter wonderland you have seen in Home Alone 2, Miracle on 34th Street or When Harry Met Sally.
• Walking through Central Park in the snow is one of the most amazing things you will ever do!

Imagine seeing iconic New York City landmarks like Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building blanketed in deep white snow.

Now picture yourself ice skating in Bryant Park with a hot chocolate or shopping on Fifth Avenue with snow falling all around you.

Sound good? Well that is the idyllic fairytale version of New York in winter!

• New York can be extremely cold in the winter months.
• It doesn’t snow as much as you might think.
• Flights can be delayed or cancelled in adverse weather.
• You won’t be able to eat outside or soak up the buzz of the city that you would get when it is warmer.

The reality is that NYC in December, January and February is usually freezing cold, daylight hours are short and chances of delays with transport are higher than you might imagine.

Do the cons outweigh the pros? Absolutely not!

We love New York in winter and as long as you don’t mind putting up with the cold for a few days you will love it too.

Is New York City Cheaper In Winter?

New York is undoubtably cheaper to visit in the winter months of January and February. You can save a small fortune on flights and hotels when compared to summer months.

Even the first half of December during the build up to Christmas isn’t as expensive as you might think.

However, we must stress that hotel prices and flights spike emphatically in price from around December 20th through Christmas and New Years.

Let’s put Christmas and snow to one side for now. Here are some of the more practical reasons as to why it is a great idea to plan a New York City winter vacation:

1. Amazing Deals On Flights, Hotels, Shows And Dining

NYC is one of the top bucket list places to visit in the USA but in the harsh winter months of January and February, tourism naturally plummets.

That means airlines, hotels, broadway shows and even restaurants need to go the extra mile in order to tempt people to spend their hard earned cash.

The result is a considerable drop in prices compared to the typical average price point.

How Can You Save?

For instance, a London to New York return flight might cost US $1,000 in August, but you can pick up return flights for US $400 in January. Airlines still need to fill their seats, right?

Similarly, hotels still need to fill hotel rooms. So when searching for the best New York City hotels in January and February, allow yourself to look at more luxurious options than you typically would because the higher end hotels will be cheaper.

Even around Christmas you can find better value at hotels than you would in July or August. Be as flexible as possible with your dates of travel and read our guide on how to get cheap hotels for our expert tips.

Broadway shows struggle to fill theaters throughout the Manhattan winter months because there are far fewer punters in town. This is the perfect time of year to pick up discounted broadway tickets, or at the very least you will pay the going rate rather than a peak season rate.

2. Less Crowded At The Top Attractions

There are few places on Earth you can visit in the depths of winter, visit its most famous attractions and still leave feeling the same amount of wow factor as you would in spring, summer or fall.

We can tell you from experience that every single thing on your wishlist of the best things to do in New York City is just as amazing in winter as it would be any other time of year.

But with one major (and we really mean major!) benefit; no crowds .

We visited New York in late summer a few years before moving to NYC in winter. Every landmark and attraction felt like a theme park ride. Top of the Rock was like being at a music festival with no capacity limit and Brooklyn Bridge was practically impassable!

If you visit New York in winter you will have the freedom of the city. You can essentially turn up to anything and walk straight in. Trust us, that is not something to take for granted.

Christmas In NYC

Fabled Christmas trees, colorful lights, ice rinks, snow falling and the best shopping in the world make a New York Christmas vacation one of the most sought after trips in the world.

What does your New York winter itinerary look like? A quick weekend break from another US city? Maybe a 4 day NYC itinerary if you are flying across the Atlantic from London or Paris?

No matter how long you stay, we can tell you that the weeks leading up to Christmas in New York are incredibly popular among families and couples. There is a perpetual feel good buzz in the air and despite the cold everyone just wants to be outside.

Does it get any more romantic for couples than NYC at Christmas? Maybe Paris?

We can guarantee romance will flourish if you strike it lucky with a bona fide New York snow day during your visit.

Who hasn’t always dreamed of a romantic stroll through Central Park arm in arm with a loved one in the pouring snow?!

Things To Do In NYC On Christmas Day

Are you going to be in New York on Christmas Day?

There are so many unique things you can do around New York that would be completely different to any Christmas you have had before.

Here are some things we would consider doing in New York City on Christmas Day:

• See the Rockefeller Christmas tree
• Ice skate in Central Park or Bryant Park
• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge with a coffee
• See a Broadway show
• Go out for a high end Christmas dinner
• See the Dyker Heights Christmas lights

Marriage Proposals

New York City plays host to hundreds of couples saying YES each year and Christmas has to be up there with most wonderful times of the year to pop the question.

Here are some of the most popular places you can expect to see a proposal in NYC:

• Bethesda Terrace and Fountain – Gorgeous spot in Central Park
• Brooklyn Bridg e – Both on it and near Jane’s Carousel
• Empire State Building and Top of the Rock – Stunning city views
• Ice Rinks – Classic NYC winter proposal locations
• Rooftop Bars – Views, drinks and an audience cheering

Winter Weather In New York City

One of the most important considerations when planning your NYC winter vacation is weather.

After 4 months living in New York in winter, here is the most important thing to remember; it is usually cold but it rarely snows .

Upstate New York sees a huge amount of snow each year (we spend a lot of time in upstate NY and know real snow!) but NYC only sees a handful of days with significant snowfall each year.

Let’s take a closer look at NYC winter weather:

When Does It Snow In New York City?

We are going to show you how much it snows throughout winter in NYC and we think you will be shocked by what you see.

Each year snow will fall in NYC, that much is almost guaranteed. Occasionally November and March will get snowfall but it is not worth planning a trip around.

It is important to know that some years can see far more or far less than average amounts of snow in New York through December, January and February.

Here are averages for how much snow has fallen in New York City between 2010-2019:

Average NYC Winter Snowfall Volume

• December – 4.4 inches
• January – 12.9 inches
• February – 11.8 inches

Average Amount Of Snow Days In New York City

• December – 1.1 days
• January – 2.6 days
• February – 2.5 days

Days With Over 1 Inch Of Snow On The Ground

• December – 2.9 days
• January – 7.9 days
• February – 9.1 days

Source: Current Results

So why does it appear as though you see NYC covered in snow so much?

Because the temperature often stays below zero after significant periods of snowfall, which means ground snow can stick around for quite some time.

Ground snow still means you get to see New York white over but it isn’t the same as experiencing actual snowfall.

We highly recommend you plan your trip for late January or early February if your main priority is a New York snow day.

Our Snow Day

We had to wait a long time for our dreamy snow day in New York.

It wasn’t until February 7th that we finally had one of those fairytale downpours with huge thick snowflakes. Once it happened, everyone in New York beelined for Central Park.

We spent hours gleefully walking through Central Park ticking off classic movie locations with deep snow all around and heavy snow falling. Kids were flying around the park on sleds, friends were throwing snowballs at each other and dogs were having so much fun.

It was one of our all time favorite content collecting days since starting this travel blog back in 2018 and we have everything crossed hoping that you will get to experience the same on your visit to New York City.

How Cold Does It Get In New York City In The Winter?

It is no secret that New York is cold in the winter. You already know it is going to be chilly and you plan to pack heavy coats, right?

However, it is important to know that the temperatures can vary quite significantly in New York City in December.

Just look at Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in 2020, when average high temperatures in NYC ( according to historical weather data ) were a balmy 62F and 63F respectively. Sunscreen was more of a possibility than a winter coat!

So if you are planning a New York Christmas vacation, you might not have to deal with below zero temperatures as often as you might have initially expected.

But we have to say that January and February are pretty brutal!

January is the coldest month of the year in NYC. It has the most amount of days where the temperature drops below freezing and February is only slightly less frigid.

NYC December Weather

• Low – 34F (1C)
• High – 45F (7C)

December is actually quite pleasant in New York as far as temperatures are concerned, especially if you visit earlier in the month.

Mark grew up in (the original!) York in England and the average temperatures are very similar to NYC in December.

NYC January Weather

• Low – 29F (-2C)
• High – 40F (4C)

January is the coldest month of year in New York City. Temperatures plummet after New Year and they stay low throughout the month.

NYC February Weather

• Low – 30F (-1C)
• High – 42F (6C)

February remains very cold in New York but there is light at the end of the tunnel, especially if you visit later in the month.

Source: Weather Spark

Now those cheap flights and hotels are starting to make more sense, right?!

We spent months walking around New York in sub-zero temperatures. There were some challenging sunrises, sunsets and night photo shoots!

READ : Visiting New York City in April

What To Pack For Winter In New York

Packing for your New York winter vacation is fairly straightforward:

• Pack for late fall and early winter conditions if you visit New York in December.
• Pack exclusively winter gear if you visit NYC in January or February.

No matter when in the winter you plan to visit NYC, we suggest erring on the side of caution. That means overpack with more layers and warm clothes than you think you might need.

You might end up with a heavy suitcase but you will quietly thank us when you arrive.

We would not have survived winter in NY without our heavy parka jackets with wooly hood liners. You must wear or pack a coat that is going to keep you warm.

Hats , gloves and scarves are essential to keep warm and you can even dress them up. You might think it but sunglasses are very important when the sun is out and snow is on the ground.

Packing base layers is not overkill. We often wore high quality moisture wicking base layers like under-layer pants underneath our jeans for added warmth.

Footwear is important if it snows. That fluffy pair of Ugg boots isn’t going to cut it in the snow! Nor will running shoes or fashionable shoes for that matter.

Even if it doesn’t snow, you will still need thick pairs of socks and a robust pair of shoes to keep your feet warm. Cold toes were one thing we struggled with despite our best efforts.

Best Things To Do In New York City In Winter

New York is one of just a few cities you can visit any time of year and it will be an experience you will never forget.

Each season brings its own blend of amazing benefits to the table, but we have to say winter (especially around Christmas) is the most magical time to visit NYC. And it is so much quieter!

What is the most important thing to know about planning a New York City winter vacation?

You can see and do almost all of the same things as you would in spring, summer or fall, plus more unique activities you can only do in winter. As a result, there are actually more things to do in New York in winter than any other time of year .

Crowd free attractions, discount prices, a cheerful atmosphere and a bit of help from the weather gods will make this a trip for the scrap book.

Let’s take a look at the top 10 things to do in NYC in December, January and February.

Need help planning your visit to NYC?

Our popular New York City travel guidebook will help you with planning every aspect of your trip, including airport links, the subway, top attractions, itinerary ideas, restaurants, hotels and map!

1. Explore Snowy Central Park

When it comes to iconic New York City winter landmarks and attractions, we can’t think of a better place to begin than Central Park.

Central Park is one of the most famous urban escapes in the world. Local New Yorkers run, cycle and walk dogs while tourists explore every nook and cranny of the diverse landscape.

Here’s what you can expect outside of winter in Central Park:

• Spring – Beautiful soft pink cherry blossoms.
• Summer – An ocean of emerald green.
• Fall – A vibrant array of golden yellows, burnt oranges and fiery reds.

But there is just something so special about Central Park in winter.

Here’s a little of what you can expect at Central Park in December, January and February:

• Stunning trees, movie scene benches and historic statues lining The Mall covered in a foot of snow, kids hurtling down shallow hills on improvised sledges made from dustbin lids and maybe even a giant octopus sculpture expertly crafted in snow.
• The exquisite tiled ceiling of Bethesda Terrace Arcade glowing orange next to heavy snowfall blanketing Bethesda Fountain and professional photographers snapping wedding shots.
• A maze of narrow winding paths intricately transporting tourists through The Ramble , passing by frozen ponds and underneath ornate stone arches.

Don’t forget to buy a hot cup of coffee before you begin exploring the park!

READ : Best places to visit in Central Park in winter

2. See The Legendary Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Home Alone fans rejoice! After the movie locations extravaganza in Central Park, you finally get to see the enormous Christmas tree from the end of Lost in New York.

The world famous Rockefeller Christmas tree is symbolic of the holiday season in New York City and no NYC winter trip would be complete without seeing it up close.

Here’s what you need to know:

• The Rockefeller Christmas tree is a Norway Spruce and stands at anywhere between 65 – 100 ft tall.
• A televised lighting ceremony takes place the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving.
• So in 2023, the lights will illuminate Rockefeller Plaza from November 29th.
• Typically, the tree will be lit for around 30-35 days.
• The star on top is Swarovski crystal.
• One of the best viewing points is from Fifth Avenue, through the Channel Gardens.
• The tree is positioned between the Rockefeller Center and the Rockefeller ice rink, with golden statue of Prometheus at its base.

If you are lucky enough to get a snow day at Christmas in December, do not miss a visit to the Rockefeller Christmas tree in the early evening once darkness descends over NYC.

3. Watch The New Year’s Eve Ball Drop In Times Square

Sydney’s Harbor Bridge, Rio’s Copacabana Beach, London’s Big Ben and New York City’s Times Square host some of the biggest New Years Eve parties on the planet.

Fireworks, bells chiming, thousands of people cheering and a ball slowly dropping down a flagpole from 11.59pm until 12.00am on December 31st bring in the New Year for millions in New York.

Times Square ball drop facts:

• The fifth (and current) iteration of the NYE ball is 12ft in diameter and has been in use since 2009.
• It is lit by over 32,000 LED lamps and weighs almost 12,000lbs.
• You will find the ball on its flag pole perched atop the One Times Square building.
• If you want to see the ball drop, plan to arrive at Times Square no later than mid-afternoon.

You might be wondering what type of magic we used in the photo of us at Times Square above. How could we possibly be the only 2 people in shot?

Well, it isn’t a Photoshop edit, it is real and we were the only 2 people in all of Times Square. We took the photo at 6.00am on a Tuesday morning in January in the later stages of the coronavirus pandemic.

Travel tip : The Renaissance Hotel on Times Square has a handful of rooms and a bar overlooking the NYE ball drop and celebrations. Rooms sell out for New Year a long way in advance so get in quick!

4. Go Ice Skating On A New York City Ice Rink

Does your home town have an ice rink in winter? Can you see the Empire State Building from it?!

Taking to the ice is classic bucket list NYC in winter, especially for families, couples and groups of friends visiting the city. Ice rinks in New York are open throughout the winter season.

We have already mentioned the famous ice rink at Rockefeller Plaza but be warned, despite its iconic status the rink is very small.

If you are looking for a bigger ice rink with room to move, you can venture out a handful of alternatives including:

• Central Park – Wollman Ice Rink
• Bryant Park – Winter Village
• Pier 17 – Rooftop Skyline Ice Rink

We took the photo above of skaters circling around Bryant Park ice rink. We had already whizzed round a few times ourselves before taking the photo from a table as we sipped on Belgian hot chocolate and ate waffles to refuel.

New York’s ice rinks aren’t huge, they are overpriced and they are a little gimmicky, but that’s not going to come as a surprise to you. Embrace it, you are in NYC in winter!

5. Shop Fifth Avenue And Enjoy NYC Winter Holiday Displays

During the winter in New York City, the most famous and expensive shopping street on Earth comes to life in a dazzling display of Christmas colors and design.

Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan is a shopping haven for millions each year and Christmas presents couldn’t be purchased from a more legendary place.

High end designer boutiques to popular flagship high street stores line the flanks of Fifth Avenue, including renowned department store Saks Fifth Avenue . Don’t miss the varied window displays as you walk alongside the Saks building.

Macy’s Herald Square might not be on Fifth Avenue (it is on 34th street between 6th and 7th avenue) but it more than deserves to be included on your NYC Christmas or winter shopping bucket list.

The world’s largest store is unmissable for shopping lovers any time of year, so the bright red sign with white letters spelling out Macy’s is another iconic stop on your NYC winter itinerary.

Travel tip : If you visit NYC at the end of November just before winter begins, you can watch the fun filled Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade.

Best Christmas Lights In NYC

Are you visiting New York for the most Christmassy Christmas trip ever?! You simply have to make the effort to visit Dyker Heights in Brooklyn.

The residents of 11th avenue to 13th avenue and from 83rd to 86th street put on a festive Christmas extravaganza each December. It is a hugely popular NYC winter attraction but it is a bit of a pain to reach.

Expect the trip from Manhattan take around one hour each way via subway, or you can take this popular guided bus tour of Dyker Heights instead.

Either way it is well worth the effort for lovers of Christmas!

6. New York City Winter Walks

There is no better way to see New York City than by foot. Sure, the subway is great if you need to cover a longer distance but walking really allows you to get a taste for the vibe and atmosphere of a new neighborhood or part of town.

We walked as much as we possibly could in four months living in NYC, despite it being winter. Since moving out we have been back to New York several times and we always walk.

If you visit New York in summer you are going to share sidewalks with a whole lot of other people, but the colder winter months mean sparsely populated walkways are more accessible.

Here are just some of the best places to take a leisurely Christmas or Winter stroll around NYC:

• The High Line – Pictured above, one of the most popular walkways in the city.
• Brooklyn Bridge – The famous bridge is far less chaotic in winter.
• Central Park – Without snow the huge park will be very quiet in winter.
• Brooklyn Bridge Park – Shop, eat, photograph bridges and see the Lower Manhattan skyline.
• Financial District – Hit the touristy sites around Wall Street.
• SoHo – If Fifth Avenue isn’t high end enough, try glitzy SoHo instead.
• Broadway – Central Park to Union Square passing a host of famous sites in Midtown Manhattan.

Just be sure to wrap up, grab a hot chocolate and enjoy seeing the city with barely any crowds.

7. Watch The Rockettes Perform In The Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Did you know New York’s Radio City is the largest indoor theater in the world?

The entertainment venue was opened at the end of 1932 as part of the sprawling Rockefeller Center complex and it seats up to 5,931 patrons.

In recent years, the music hall has played host to various tv shows, awards ceremonies, concerts and even the NFL draft from 2006 through 2014.

New : Radio City is undergoing development for the construction of a rooftop garden, 90 years after original plans were shelved.

But the biggest event of the year comes right around Christmas in NYC, when the Rockettes perform their precision dance show as part of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.

Shows typically run from the beginning of November and end around the beginning of January. In the winter of 2023/2024, tickets are on sale from November 17th until January 1st.

Search ticket prices and availability to watch the Radio City Rockettes.

Broadway Week

If your winter NYC vacation will be later in the season you won’t get the chance to see the Rockettes perform a NYC Christmas classic. However, there are many more shows and experiences to enjoy in New York, and you will find them at discounted prices in January and February.

Broadway theater shows are among the very best in the world. Elite actors, dancers and performers wow locals and tourists alike with a wide range of theater hits from classics to the most modern shows.

Each year around late January and early February, Broadway Week is a highly anticipated slot in the NYC winter calendar for theater lovers and all shows sell 2-for-1 tickets for roughly a 20 day period.

The most popular shows sell out incredibly quickly, so keep an eye on dates and when tickets are released. NYTix is showing Broadway Week dates as January 12th to February 4th for 2024.

8. Explore The Best New York City Museums In Peace

Are you a history buff or an art aficionado?

If the answer is yes, you are going to love New York City. And better yet, you are going to love NYC in winter even more once you step foot inside the top museums and see how quiet they are.

Not only is winter the perfect time to explore museums because it is freezing cold outside, but by far one of the greatest aspects of visiting NYC in winter is a distinct lack of crowds at the most popular attractions.

We visited a dozen or so museums during our time living in New York in winter and we never felt overwhelmed by hordes of people.

For reference, we visited The Louvre in Paris a few years back in summer and we couldn’t even get into the room that houses the Mona Lisa. Similarly, our summer visit to The Vatican in Italy was insanely busy. And we suspect summer in New York’s top museums is likely the same story.

There are hundreds of amazing NYC museums you could visit in winter, but here are our top recommendations.

Top NYC Museums

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET)
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• Intrepid Air, Sea & Space Museum
• American Museum of Natural History
• Solomon R Guggenheim Museum
• The Morgan Library & Museum
• Tenement Museum
• Ellis Island Immigration Museum
• New York Transit Museum

The MET and 9/11 were our two personal favorite museums and you should plan to spend several hours at each one.

If you are interested in the history of NYC mass transportation or want to visit a unique museum, you will also like the New York Transit Museum.

9. See NYC From Above And Have Room To Move

What is the one thing you can’t miss when you visit New York City?

For us, it was photographing the world’s most recognizable skyline from high up among its most iconic skyscrapers.

Even if architecture and buildings aren’t of particular interest to you, we can guarantee you will be blown away by the immense urban landscape of Midtown and Lower Manhattan.

Throughout several visits and our time living in New York, we have been to the top of all major observation decks in New York City on several occasions.

Here are the 5 NYC observation decks you can visit for sweeping city views:

• Empire State Building
• Top of the Rock
• One World Observatory
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

We can’t possibly tell you which one to visit because they are all amazing and offer unique aspects.

But what we can tell you is that each observation deck will be easily accessible and relatively crowd free if you visit New York in winter.

During previous summer visits to NYC, we have both stood on the top floor at Top of the Rock for sunset and seen how ridiculously packed it gets.

Well, at sunset on a Saturday night in February we were two of only 5 people on the very same top floor at Top of the Rock.

Different Take On NYC Observation Decks:

• Top of the Rock vs Empire State Building
• NYC Helicopter Tour Review (not an observation deck but see NYC from above in luxury!)

READ : The 5 NYC observation decks compared

10. Dine Out On Cheap High End Meals During Restaurant Week

Foodies are going to love this one.

Twice a year, once in the summer months of July and August and once again in winter months of January and February, some of New York City’s best restaurants offer us the chance to eat top quality food at bargain bin prices.

Since 1992, Restaurant Week in both winter and summer has been celebrating New York’s world famous culinary culture by allowing the average local or tourist to taste luxurious food samples from high end eateries and the best chefs in the city.

If you are planning a to visit New York City in January or February and right now you are thinking man, I hope our 4 day trip falls into restaurant week, you will be happy to know that restaurant week actually lasts for around a full month.

• Typically, the winter week runs from around January 20 through February 20, give or take a few days either side.
• You can pick up prix fixe (multiple courses charged at a fixed price) meals at lunch or dinner.
• Prices are $21, $39 or even $125 for a signature dining experience.
• Most restaurants only have this offer available Monday through Friday.

Sorry, NYC Christmas visitors but you will miss out on this awesome perk!

Best Places To Stay In NYC In Winter

Picking an affordable and high quality hotel in a great neighborhood can be the hardest part of planning a visit to New York any time of year.

However, you stand a much better chance of ticking all the boxes if you visit NYC in January or February thanks to lower demand.

Our extremely popular where to stay in New York City neighborhood guide will help you work out the best area to book a hotel.

If you would prefer to take a deeper look at hotels, we have also written a complete guide to the 30 best hotels in NYC on our sister site Best Hotels Anywhere.

Don’t have time to read our detailed guides? Here are four of the top rated New York hotels we see get the most action:

• The Archer Midtown Manhattan – One of our personal top picks located near Bryant Park with views over Empire State Building.
• CitizenM Times Square – Centrally located at Times Square, close to Broadway and Rockefeller Center.
• MOXY NYC Times Square – Rooftop bar and good value between Penn Station and Times Square.
• Cambria Hotel Chelsea – Affordable highly rated hotel with rooftop terrace located between Midtown and Chelsea.

Hotels do tend to book up rooms between mid December and the end of December, so we would recommend you get your hotel booked early if planning a visit to New York City at Christmas or New Year.

Be sure to have a good look around if you visit New York in January or February. You stand an excellent chance of picking up a luxury hotel room at very reasonable prices.

Search all New York City hotels on Booking.com to find your winter bargain .

Best Winter Month To Visit New York City

After reading all of the information we have provided so far, when do you think is the best time for you to visit New York City; December, January or February?

Here’s a brief summary of what you need to know about each month:

New York In December

The lead up to Christmas and New Year in December is a wonderful time to visit NYC. The atmosphere is electric, you can buy gifts on Fifth Avenue or at Macy’s, watch the ball drop in Times Square or eat and drink your way through the festive period with locals.

December is busier and more expensive in New York compared to January or February but that might be what you are looking for anyway. Hustle and bustle, socializing and soaking up the NYC lifestyle.

There is less chance of snow in NYC in December and it might even be surprisingly mild during your visit.

New York In January

If you want to pick up the very best deals on flights and hotels, January in NYC is your month. It is also the time to visit if you are dead set on avoiding the crowds.

January will most likely be brutally cold, but you will have the freedom of the city. All museums and attractions will be quiet and foodies can take advantage of restaurant week toward the end of the month.

New York In February

The first three weeks of February fall into restaurant week in New York. You will also have the highest probability of snow but it will still be cold.

Flights and hotels are still much cheaper, and top attractions remain quiet in NYC in February.

Don’t forget the next celebration after Christmas is Valentines Day. NYC might just see a couple hundred more marriage proposals next February!

New York City Attraction Passes

If you are planning to visit the top attractions when you visit New York in winter, we recommend you purchase a New York City attraction pass .

The idea is simple with these attractions passes;  the more attractions you visit, the more money you will save .

Having used the NYC attraction passes ourselves when we lived in New York, we recommend the New York Sightseeing Pass because its extremely easy to use while offering both flexibility and big savings.

Many of the attractions included in this New York winter guide are included with the NY Sightseeing Pass and we have an exclusive 10% discount just for our readers.

Want To Save Money In NYC?

Click the button to get our exclusive 10% off discount on any NY Sightseeing Pass.

You can also read our guides below to help decide which is the perfect pass for your visit to New York City in the winter:

• NY Sightseeing Pass Review  – The most popular NYC attraction pass option for visitors who want to see as many attractions as possible.
• New York CityPASS and C3 Pass Review  – How to visit select attractions in New York City at a competitive price point.
• New York Pass Comparison  – Detailed comparison between each of the 4 major New York Passes and which one you should buy for your visit.

Travel Tip : If you have a New York attractions pass, you will not have to pay the extra fee for a sunset time slot at the any of the NYC observation decks when you reserve your timed entry ticket online.

Our Popular NYC Guides

• 50 best things to do in New York City – Our enormous collection of the best things to do on a visit to NYC after three months of relentlessly exploring tourist hot spots throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn.
• 4 days in NYC itinerary – The best and most efficient way to fit all of the very best things to do in New York City into four unforgettable days.
• Where to stay in New York City – Our top ranking guide to the best hotels and neighborhoods to stay in New York City has helped thousands of visitors find their ideal NYC hotel.
• Best Pizza in NYC – Roundup of the top rated pizza joints across New York City.
• Best Bagels in NYC – Our collection of the best places to eat delicious bagels in New York City.

More NYC Guides

• Central Park winter – 12 places you can’t miss on a Winter walk through Central Park.
• Statue of Liberty – How to take the ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
• Brooklyn Bridge sunrise – Photography locations and walkthrough for sunrise.
• Brooklyn Bridge at night – What you can expect from walking the bridge at sunset and at night.
• Manhattan Bridge – Try a new NYC skyline perspective with a walk over the Manhattan Bridge.
• Afternoon Tea NYC – Review of a wonderful Afternoon Tea at The Whitby Hotel in Manhattan.
• Lower Manhattan – 18 things you can’t miss on a first visit to Lower Manhattan.
• New York City photography – Over 60 of our favorite NYC photography locations.

Want more New York City content?  Head to our  New York Travel Guides  to explore more from the Big Apple as well as beautiful upstate NY.

We hope this ultimate guide to visiting New York City in winter helps with planning your dream trip to NYC around Christmas!

Please let us know if you have any questions about planning your NYC winter vacation in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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Visiting New York In Winter: 71 Fun Things To Do December-March

By Jessie Festa & Michele Herrmann. This post contains affiliate links to some of our favorite products that we think you’ll love!

Visiting New York in winter?

Despite the temperature drop from December through March, New York City during winter is full of fun things to do.

The season unofficially begins in November, as Thanksgiving ushers in the holidays, which peak in December as the city is transformed into a festive whirlwind of decorated displays, pageantry and communal gatherings.

January, February, and March move slower, though there are both indoor venues and outdoor sites — if you don’t mind the chill — that make it worth venturing out of your hotel.

Plan a New York winter trip to explore the city’s five boroughs, try a new dish, embrace a holiday tradition, get cultured or blow off some cabin fever while keeping your hat, coat, and gloves handy.

Without further adieu, let’s dive into the New York trip guide ! Here is your ultimate winter guide to NYC, written by a local.

Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York winter spots? Book a Private Photo Journey , a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot . Email [email protected] with inquiries.

Table of Contents

Visiting NYC In Winter [FAQ]

Q: when does winter start in nyc.

Datewise, winter in NYC begins on December 21 or 22 — on the day of the year with the fewest hours of light.

In terms of weather and ambiance, though, it can start to feel like winter in mid-to-late November.

Once Thanksgiving takes place the city really “feels” like winter due to the holiday decorations in NYC.

Q: How long is winter in New York?

Officially, the winter season in New York lasts about three months — taking place between the winter solstice in December and the spring equinox in March.

That being said, the cold in New York can last before winter officially starts and after it officially ends, so pack a warm coat.

Q: How cold is New York in winter?

During the winter months in New York, you can expect to average high and low temperatures of 44° / 31° in December, 39° / 26° in January, 43° / 29° in February, and 52° / 36° in March.

According to the National Weather Service, the coldest day New York City ever recorded in history was on February 9, 1934 when it hit negative 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

Note that if you’re thinking of taking an upstate road trip from NYC , you’ll experience colder temperatures up north. For instance, in Buffalo in December the average high and low temperatures are 36° / 24°.

Q: When is the best time to visit New York in winter?

While December brings the holiday lights and festivities, visiting New York in January means a quiet and less-crowded experience.

During this time you’ll find loads of deal events, too, like Restaurant Week, Broadway Week and Hotel Week — many of which spill into February, where you’ll also see special Valentine’s Day menus (awe, romance in NYC !), events surrounding Black History Month and the Chinese Lunar New Year, and more money-saving events like Off-Broadway Week.

Basically, you can’t go wrong when choosing when to visit New York, as there always fun things to do.

By the way, NYC Photo Journeys operates year-round, so you can book your photo tour during any season.

Just note that if you’re visiting New York City in the winter that December slots tend to fill up quickly with guests wanting to capture beautiful holiday memories, so make sure to book in advance.

What To Pack For New York In Winter

To help you figure out what to wear in New York in winter to stay warm and enjoy your trip, I’ve compiled a list of my personal essentials as a local who spends a lot of time walking around outdoors with tour guests.

• Thermals  or  moisture-wicking leggings  to wear on their own or underneath your jeans or trousers
• Moisture-wicking shirts to wear on their own or underneath other clothing (I love  these turtleneck-style shirts and dresses )
• A long down jacket ( like this one )
• A warm hat (like  these Merino Wool options )
• Original BUFF  (to wear under a scarf; very necessary on super cold days)
• Speakeasy Scarf  (my favorite travel scarf as it has hidden pockets)
• Glider Gloves  (warm and comfortable — and you can still text)
• Hand warmers (simple ones  like these  to put inside your gloves)
• Poncho for when it rains in NYC

The above New York packing list for winter can really help you stay warm and beat the chill.

Things To Do When Visiting NYC In Winter

1. book a winter photo tour.

Visiting New York in winter time doesn’t need to mean hiding out in your hotel room. In fact, the city is beautiful in winter and, depending on when you visit, you might even enjoy holiday decorations, snow, and other seasonal sightings.

NYC Photo Journeys, a photo experience company owned by Jessie on a Journey, offers private New York photo tours that can help you make memories and capture them through gorgeous photography.

Part tour, part photoshoot, tours are led by licensed sightseeing guides who are also skilled photographers. This means that along with learning interesting facts and stories about New York, you’ll also leave with professional photos of your group to keep!

During winter in New York, some of the most popular tour spots include Central Park, Rockefeller Center, and Bryant Park.

Click here for full details .

2. Book a winter photoshoot

Along with private photo tours, NYC Photo Journeys also offers professional photoshoots that can be customized to fit your goals.

These come with even more photos, looks, and poses than the tours!

Additionally, your booking includes a planning call to go over exactly what you hope to get out of the shoot. Whether you’re wanting to capture some family photos in beautiful locations or you dream of doing a winter wonderland-themed shoot, it’s all up to you.

There are two different packages to help fit different budgets, too!

3. Gaze upon the many holiday trees in NYC

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the top things to do in NYC in winter…

…which means it can get quite crowded.

Luckily, there are other trees worth seeing where you’ll have more personal space while getting to explore non-touristy places in NYC .

For instance, the American Museum of Natural History ’s Origami Holiday Tree — decorated in partnership with OrigamiUSA —features more than 800 hand-folded paper models designed by local, national and international origami artists.

Madison Square Park is where NYC’s first Christmas tree came in — sorry, Rockefeller Center — along with the first public holiday tree displayed in America.

On a private NYC Photo Journey , guests love visiting the Bryant Park Tree , which you can get up close to for fun holiday pictures.

And that’s not all.

The Met Fifth Avenue ’s Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche is a 20-foot blue spruce that’s adorned with figures of angels and stands over an 18 th -century Neapolitan Nativity scene in the museum’s Medieval Sculpture Hall. Bonus: The Met is one of the top things to do in the Upper East Side , making the visit extra special.

On Broad Street in Lower Manhattan, between Wall Street and Exchange Place, the New York Stock Exchange ’s 60-foot tree gets stocked with 100 strands of multi-colored lights, 500 ornaments and a six-foot star on top.

The Peace Tree at St. John the Divine in Morningside Heights is adorned with 1,000 paper cranes and other peace symbols. It’s quite a magical sight when visiting New York City in wintertime.

In search of fun things to see in New York in December?

Early in the month,  Lincoln Square holds its holiday festival,  Winter’s Eve at Lincoln Square , with a tree-lighting ceremony and a lineup of accompanying musical acts.

Other holiday tree locations in Manhattan include:

• South Street Seaport  in Lower Manhattan
• Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village
• the Park Avenue trees along the Upper West Side
• Carl Schultz Park  in the Upper East Side

If you’re wondering what to do in Brooklyn in the winter, there are beautiful holiday trees set up:

• along Atlantic Avenue in Boerum Hill
• at the Pearl Street Triangle in DUMBO
• at Grand Army Plaza in Prospect Park
• at the historic Lott House in Marine Park
• in Carroll Park in Carroll Gardens
• at Brooklyn Borough Hall in Brooklyn Heights

Queens has tree lightings in Astoria Park and at the Queens Botanical Garden , while Hawkins Park on City Island in the Bronx and Little Italy on   Arthur Avenue , also in the Bronx, brings people out for festive fun.

4. Be amazed by a gigantic gingerbread village

Every year, the “Gingerbread Lane” at The New York Hall of Science in Corona, Queens is all about making and maintaining the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest gingerbread villages.

For this event, Chef Jon Lovitch drafts, designs, bakes, and constructs these homemade houses, which are made of edible gingerbread, royal icing, and candy.

This is truly one of the best places to take pictures in NYC !

5. Stare at NYC’s best holiday window displays

One of the main reasons why NYC is so famous is its holiday spirit, and nothing screams “ uniquely New York ” like the holiday window displays!

NYC winter tourist attractions abound, though one not-to-be-missed seasonal experience is exploring local department store windows.

In New York City it’s a tradition for these windows to get dressed up for the holidays — in a stunning display that often takes each store 10 months to plan.

They’re usually revealed around Black Friday, the major shopping holiday that falls on the day after Thanksgiving.

To see some of New York’s best holiday windows, head to Bloomingdale’s on the Upper East Side, Macy’s in Herald Square, and Bergdorf Goodman ,  Saks Fifth Avenue  (which also puts on a spectacular light show) and Tiffany & Co in Midtown East.

6. Shop for presents at New York holiday markets

Visiting New York during winter means you’ll get to shop charming holiday markets that aren’t open at other times of the year.

Whether you’re buying presents for a loved one, gifts for the solo female traveler in your life or getting something nice for yourself, NYC’s holiday shopping markets offer much to choose from.

These seasonal markets are located throughout the city, bringing local vendors and small businesses to booths within one setting.

In Manhattan, a few favorite holiday markets — that are also top places to find unique NYC souvenirs — include:

• Union Square Holiday Market by Urbanspace
• Columbus Circle Holiday Market by Urbanspace
• Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
• Holiday Fair at Grand Central

In Brooklyn, ReFAD Market’s Holiday Pop-up comes to the Brooklyn Cultural District, along with the annual  Danish Seamen’s Church Holiday Market .

Visiting Queens ? The Astoria Market happens within the Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden.

These beautifully-decorated markets are perfect for those interested in NYC winter photography !

7. Watch toy trains go by

At the New York Botanical Garden Train Show , one of the top NYC winter attractions, model trains chug along past beautifully-crafted miniatures depicting New York made entirely out of plant parts.

The Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge and Yankee Stadium are among the more than 175 landmarks that form a rendered city landscape built from seeds, bark, leaves, and twigs, serviced by a robust half-mile of track within the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

8. See house decorations

During the holidays, there are a number of historic and modern homes around NYC known for their incredible decorations.

Richmond Town , a historic village in Staten Island, gets charmingly dressed up for Christmas ( check their events here ), while Vander Ende – Onderdonk House  in the Ridgewood section of Queens showcases its Dutch history with a St. Nicholas Day celebration.

The over-the-top Garabedian Christmas House in Pelham Gardens in The Bronx blends red carpet flair, magical Disney and classic Christmas for a wild holiday mix you need to see to understand.

In the Charleston section of Staten Island, Lights for Life was started by a homeowner whose wife died on 9/11. He turned the house into a holiday attraction and fundraiser.

9. Gaze at the bright lights of Dyker Heights

Looking for classic winter activities in Brooklyn?

Each holiday season, Dyker Heights gets the nickname, “Dyker Lights,” due to its residents going all out on decorating the homes’ exteriors with enormous light shows and ornamental lawn displays.

Walk around and enjoy the Dyker Heights Christmas lights on your own with some spiked hot cocoa.

Or, to really immerse yourself in the holiday cheer, book a Dyker Heights Holiday Lights tour . 

10. Watch “The Nutcracker” come to life

Since 1954, the New York City Ballet has been bringing choreographer George Balanchine’s famous performance to the stage each holiday season. It’s one of the most beloved places to go in NYC in winter.

Moreover, the Brooklyn Ballet puts a modern spin on this classic story with a one-day performance.

Seeing one of these performances is fun whether you’re going to New York alone or in a group!

11. Catch Brooklyn’s Largest Menorah

Happening at  Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn since 1985 , an over-30-foot-tall menorah is placed here and lit for every night of Hanukkah.

A crane is used to hoist those individuals who set off the lighting, making it quite a sight.

12. Feast on latkes

At the Brooklyn Museum in Prospect Heights, the annual Latke Festival has chefs preparing creative versions on this potato pancake that’s served during Hanukkah.

The event’s proceeds get donated to The Sylvia Center, a nonprofit that teaches cooking skills to underserved communities.

13. Peek into The Plaza Hotel

As one of NYC’s grandest hotels, New York’s Plaza Hotel really outdoes itself during Christmas, when it gets a merry makeover with wreaths, garland, and ornaments being strung outside and on every window.

You’ll find the centerpiece of the transformation — An 18-foot tree with 5,000 lights and 500 ornaments — when stepping through the property’s Fifth Avenue entrance.

In 2017, the Plaza celebrated the 25 th  anniversary of the film,  Home Alone 2: Lost in New York , with décor tied to its most noted hotel guest, Kevin McCallister (aka Macaulay Culkin).

If you’re thinking of living in a hotel in New York City , this opulent accommodation offers extended stays, too!

14. Watch Christmas movies on the big screen

There are plenty of fun things to do in Brooklyn in the winter, as unique indoor attractions and seasonal festivals abound.

And sometimes you can even combine the two.

Watching a holiday flick is a fun Christmas activity and Nitehawk Cinema in Williamsburg, Brooklyn puts on an annual holiday film series that shows the best of the best of these seasonal movies.

15. Light up over lanterns

Taking place from mid-November through January, the NYC Winter Lantern Festival on Staten Island brings forth a world of light and color.

This year’s edition will have over 1,000 lanterns on display, sculpted into magnificent figures of luminescent art.

16. Fill up on gingerbread at NYC’s best bakeries

Craving this seasonal treat?

Make your first stop  Two Little Red Hens , one of the top Upper East Side attractions  thanks to its delicious baked goods and gingerbread cookies.

Doughnut Plant  puts out a gingerbread flavored donut, while Billy’s Bakery , in Chelsea, Tribeca, and the Upper West Side, makes a sweet butterscotch gingerbread cookie.

Another seasonal favorite:

Krumville Bake Shop in Brooklyn’s Bedford Stuyvesant neighborhood, which sells a knock-your-socks-off gluten-free gingerbread cake.

World-renowned  Ladurée  in Manhattan serves up a tasty gingerbread macaron, Schmackary’s in Hell’s Kitchen has a Ginger Rodgers cookie, and LadyBird Bakery in Park Slope bakes up a seasonal cake called Ginger Baby.

17. Spot Manhattan’s Sixth Avenue Ornaments

One of the top places to visit in New York in winter is the Sixth Avenue ornament installation. This is one of the city’s most famous — and photographed — holiday decorations.

Each year, these big red Christmas ornaments find their way outside of Rockefeller Center and other Midtown addresses.

18. Attend a Christmas pageant

Looking for unique things to do in NYC with kids in winter?

You’ll love this one.

Get this fun fact:

“Twas The Night Before Christmas” is tied to NYC through its author, New Yorker and 19th-century author Clement Clarke Moore.

The Church of The Intercession in Washington Heights puts on a yearly Christmas pageant that ends with the reading of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and then a procession to the adjacent Trinity Church Cemetery where Moore is buried.

Each year, a major NYC public figure is chosen to read this Christmas story.

19. Listen to a Charles Dickens’ reading

The British author who penned  “A Christmas Carol” came to NYC in December 1867 for a month of sold-out performances of his beloved holiday classic.

At the Merchants House Museum , a 21st-century presentation of Dickens’ visit is reenacted by an actor from late November through early January.

20. Gather in NYC bars with holiday decorations

Rolf’s German Restaurant  in Gramercy Park is one of the top places to visit in NY during winter as it gets decked out in elaborate decorations, while Miracle on 9 th  Street is a Christmas-themed, pop-up cocktail bar that returns to NYC annually (see its website for the exact locations).

Lillie’s Victorian Establishment in both Union Square and Times Square also embraces some holiday decor, and The Late Late on the Lower East Side gets its “Tacky Christmas Takeover”  with all the tchotchkes that can fit.

There there is  Leyenda in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, which celebrates by transforming the venue into Sleyenda. 

21. Partake in a parranda

There are many reasons to visit New York in wintertime, one of which is parranda.

Parranda is a Puerto Rican musical tradition that’s similar to caroling, with singers visiting cultural spaces.

In the Bronx, “Melrose Holiday Parranda” takes place in mid-December.

22. Add your wish for the new year

From December 1 through December 28, the “NYE Wishing Wall” in Times Square gives us a chance to start off the new year on a thoughtful note.

Placed at TSq Plaza 43-44 — at Broadway between 43rd-44th streets — visitors can write out their wishes on Post-its and attach them to the wall.

Wishes will be added to the confetti that flutters down in the heart of Times Square on New Year’s Eve.

Can’t make it in time?

You can also submit your wish digitally.

23. Celebrate Kwanzaa

Visiting New York with kids in winter?

In late December, the  Brooklyn Children’s Museum puts on its annual Kwanzaa celebration.

The fun takes place over the course of five days and teaches about this African-American holiday, exploring Kwanzaa’s seven principles.

In Manhattan, the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side hosts a similar program. Visiting this institution is one of the top things to do on the Upper West Side , too.

24. Be a concertgoer on New Year’s Eve

The New York Philharmonic , one of the top New York winter attractions, welcomes in the New Year with its annual New Year’s Eve concert at Lincoln Center with various themes and musical focuses.

This year is all about composer Stephen Sondheim.

Attending a show at Lincoln Center is one of the top things to do in Manhattan ! It’s also a great pick if you’re looking for things to do in New York in winter at night.

25. Race into the next year

On New Year’s Eve, the   New York Road Runners (NYRR) puts on their four-mile Midnight Run which kicks off at 11:59 p.m. in Central Park and culminates in a fireworks display.

It’s one of the top things to do in New York in winter, particularly if you want to support a good cause as your entry fee benefits NYRR’s free youth and community programs.

26. Light up like a firework

Other New Year’s Eve fireworks happenings are in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park and Coney Island .

27. Go to a top New York City comedy club

Get a good laugh on December 31st, as the comedy club Caroline’s puts on two New Year’s Eve shows, and you can step out on Broadway in Times Square amidst all the after-ball drop activity — though if you’re looking for things to do in Times Square in January and other months this venue is also a great option.

A few other great comedy theaters not-to-be-missed, particularly if you’re looking for fun but cheap things to do in NYC ,  include:

• The Magnet Theater
• QED Astoria
• Brooklyn Comedy Collective

28. Plunge into the new year

If you’re visiting New York City in January, consider planning your trip around a fun albeit quirky tradition.

On New Year’s Day, put on a bathing suit and join in the Coney Island Polar Bear Plunge .

Organized by the  Coney Island Polar Bear Club , this annual tradition of swimming in the waters of this Brooklyn beach is open to the public — if they don’t mind the temperatures.

29. Celebrate Three Kings Day

In East Harlem, you can attend El Museo del Barrio ’s Three Kings Day Parade.

The tradition dates back more than four decades, and marching begins at 106th Street and Lexington Avenue and travels to Third Avenue to end at 115th Street and Park Avenue.

30. Pick up a good read

Start off the new year with a new book by browsing and buying a title or two from NYC’s best independent bookstores.

To start, The Strand in the East Village is stacked with countless hardcovers and paperbacks in all subjects and interests.

Proceeds from sales at Housing Works Bookstore Café & Bar in SoHo benefit the nonprofit’s work in serving New Yorkers with HIV/AIDS.

Culinary types will stir up finds at Bonnie Slotnick Cookbooks in the Bowery, while Idlewild Books in the West Village and Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill increases your wanderlust with their focus on world travel.

ALBERTINE is a reading room and French book store on the Upper East Side with a beautiful celestial ceiling.

Dashwood Books in NoHo centers on the subject of photography.

McNally Jackson Independent Booksellers & Cafe   in Nolita and the Seaport District in Manhattan and in Williamsburg has their own book clubs and arts-related programming.

31. Grab that sled

Take advantage of a snowy New York day by going sledding in some of NYC’s noted parks that have spots perfect for dashing through.

Some of the top places to visit in New York in winter for sledding include Pilgrim Hill in Central Park, Inwood Hill Park’s trails on the Upper West Side , and Riverside Park alongside the Hudson River.

32. Skate on ice rinks

The Rink at Rockefeller Center gets a lot of attention, but there are many other places to skate in NYC during winter.

Pier 17 in NYC’s Seaport District has the city’s first rooftop ice-skating rink, with nice views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan.

Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park offers only free admission for skating, but you do pay for ice skate rentals and lockers.

Looking to explore Central Park during a New York winter? Here you’ll find the   Lasker Rink and the Wollman Rink — not to mention great hiking in Manhattan — while Brooklyn’s Prospect Park showcases LeFrak Center at Lakeside , with roof-covered and uncovered rinks on site.

33. Tune into jazz

Each January, Winter Jazzfest puts on this musical genre around NYC, sharing it in classic and contemporary ways.

The event features nine nights of veteran and up-and-coming performers at gigs around various downtown venues, culminating in a two-night jazz marathon in Greenwich Village.

34. Practice “Dry January”

There are many popular New York activities in January, such as “Dry January.”

If the first month of the new year will involve more of a mocktail than a cocktail, head to these bars with non-alcoholic options.

Reception Bar on the Lower East Side has elixirs with ingredients based on Korean home remedies.

Additionally, Jean-Georges’ abcV has reviving tonics, while Sunday in Brooklyn has a Zero Proof list showcasing creative alcohol-free cocktails. Bonus: Both of these restaurants are also considered to be some of the most Instagrammable restaurants in NYC !

Not practicing Dry January? Then check out some of the amazing brunch places in NYC with bottomless mimosas !

35. Dine out during NYC Restaurant Week

One of the best things to do in NYC in the winter?

The winter version of  NYC Restaurant Week returns for two weeks, with participating restaurants creating lunch and/or dinner pre-fixe menus.

The program often includes establishments within all five boroughs of NYC and a multitude of cuisines.

Don’t wait to make reservations through the program’s website, as seats tend to book up quickly.

In between meals, explore the exhibits and events put on by the Museum of Food and Drink in various locations around the city to discover how food connects to us in so many ways.

36. Be theatrical over NYC Broadway Week

No visit to NYC is complete without experiencing Midtown Manhattan’s Theatre District, where dozens of historic venues stage bold new musicals, long-running hits, and fascinating dramas every night of the week.

If you’re on a budget, you’ll especially want to visit this neighborhood during NYC Broadway Week to take advantage of two-for-one ticket deals.

37. Go pantless

Get ready to freeze your behind off during the No Pants Subway Ride, an annual Improv Everywhere event ,

On the designated date and time, meet up with hundreds of sparsely clad others.

You’ll receive instructions from an Improv Everywhere representative, which is basically to start riding the subways but leave your pants behind, acting like nothing is out of the ordinary.

38. Go under the radar

Held at The Public Theater in Astor Place, and partnering NYC venues each January, the  Under The Radar Festival is described as a premier launching pad for new and cutting-edge performances from acts within the U.S. and abroad.

These artists provide a snapshot of contemporary theater and points to the future of the art form.

39. Watch the Super Bowl at a team fan loyalty bar

While New York has three NFL teams, fans all across the board can go watch the game at these respective football team bars.

Slattery’s Midtown Pub is where Miami Dolphins fans meet, while Pittsburgh Steelers fans flock to Dylan Murphy’s on the Upper West Side. Then there is The Joyce Public House , a gathering place for fans of the New England Patriots.

40. Observe Lunar New Year festivities

This major Asian holiday is celebrated throughout NYC with stunning performances and parades.

Chinatown is the location of an afternoon street party that welcomes in each Lunar New Year with floats and dancing dragon puppets that wind through its main streets and neighboring Little Italy.

On the first day of the Lunar New Year, there’s a Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival with fireworks.

While in the neighborhood visit the Museum of the Chinese in America , which hosts special programming tying into the Lunar New Year.

Similar Lunar New Year events happen within Sunset Park, Brooklyn and Flushing, Queens.

41. Watch Jewish films

New York Jewish Film Festival   is a collaborative effort between the Jewish Museum and the Film Society of Lincoln Center with two weeks of cinematic offerings, including shorts, documentaries and feature-length narratives celebrating the Jewish experience.

42. Get cozy in a winter-inspired New York City bar 

From December through March, The Arlo SoHo ’s “Après Arlo” stages a winter wonderland in the courtyard with heated cedar cabins, comfy furnishings, and a holiday cocktail bar menu.

At its heated igloo rooftop bar, 230 Fifth warms up guests with adult spins on hot chocolate, cider, and coffee. This is a great spot for those looking to explore NYC after midnight , too, as it’s open late.

Eataly Flatiron decks out their rooftop space with winter furnishings and decorations, and The McKittrick Hotel’s Gallow Green space becomes a winter lodge.

The Snow Globe in the Sky at Ophelia — the rooftop lounge on the 26th floor of the Beekman Tower in Midtown East — resembles a shimmering snow globe looking out over New York City.

Mr. Purple atop the Hotel Indigo Lower East Side   becomes the scene for the Clicquot Chalet , a fun après ski-themed sky lounge with lots of bubbly and fondue to go around.

43. Warm-up at an NYC fireplace bar 

Black Mountain Wine House in Carroll Gardens has a comfy fireplace in the back to warm you up while you sip unique wines and beers.

Moreover, the one at the beer hall Spritzenhaus33 in Greenpoint gives off a ski lodge vibe, while  Art Bar — a hotspot in the West Village — has a working fireplace in its backroom and a big comfy couch to crash on.

If you’re in Union Square,  Cibar has multiple fireplaces within this after-work spot as well as an excellent happy hour featuring $11 craft cocktails plus budget-friendly beer ($6) and wine ($8).

Finally, The Campbell Bar has a grand stone fireplace, a nod to its past life as a private office of 1920s financier John W. Campbell. This bar is one of numerous excellent watering holes within Grand Central Terminal and is a great spot to cozy up on a chilly New York winter night.

44. Drink up on specialty hot chocolate

Skip the powdery packets and splurge on the city’s finest of this warm beverage.

At Jacques Torres on the Upper West Side, sip on some hot chocolate while watching the chocolatier’s staff at work on the factory floor.

There’s also  Blue Stripes in Union Square , which has a chocolate playground that takes partaking in this confection to a whole new level.

Dominique Ansel Bakery   in SoHo puts a flowering marshmallow in its hot chocolate cups, while Snowdays in the East Village and Bay Ridge warms up with vegan, matcha or peanut butter hot chocolate.

45. Play indoors

Aside from some time at a gym, other venues have ways to both stay fit and have fun.

Royal Palms   is a walk-in shuffleboard club in Gowanus, Brooklyn, with courts being rented on a first-come, first-served basis.

There is Full Circle Bar in Williamsburg, known for its bar constructed from old Skee-Ball machine parts.

Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center is an arcade with nostalgic games, while Kick Axe in Gowanus, Brooklyn is a bar that’s all about axe throwing.

Along the Hudson River, Chelsea Piers has sports leagues, a bowling alley and a fieldhouse where you can participate in or practice just about any sport of your choosing.

46. Celebrate true love in Times Square

This popular Manhattan neighborhood isn’t just a special place to be on New Year’s Eve, but also Valentine’s Day.

On this romantic holiday, the annual Love In Times Square event takes place. Couples can renew their vows, pop the question or get married in front of a Valentine Heart display.

Talk about romance in NYC ! Couples should definitely add this to their NYC winter bucket list.

47. Pop the question at The Empire State Building

Here is another option for getting engaged in NYC — or even married.

While a City Hall Wedding is a great option, couples who would prefer to tie the knot at a famous New York City landmark can do so at the Empire State Building.

Here’s how:

Every year, 14 couples get chosen as part of the annual Valentine’s Day Wedding Contest. In order to win you will need to submit your love story via their official Facebook Page .

By the way, if you’d like to learn more about this iconic building, consider booking one of the many top NY architecture tours available in the city.

48. Splurge on a romantic dinner

If you’re looking for fun date ideas during NYC winter , maybe even for Valentine’s Day, know there is no shortage of ambient places to dine for two. The following spots also make for romantic anniversary ideas in New York City :

Buvette is an elegant French bistro in the West Village, while the chandelier-clad One If By Land, Two If By Sea is dripping with romance as well as a unique history of being a former carriage house of Aaron Burr.

Also, not-to-be missed:

The River Café, is known for offering some of the best views in NYC looking out at the skyline thanks to its location under the Brooklyn Bridge.

The dimly-lit Zenkichi , a Japanese restaurant in Williamsburg, serves Tokyo-inspired small plates or a tasting menu.

Il Buco in NoHo gives off an Old World Italian charm, while Saggio in Washington Heights produces modern Italian dishes lovingly by hand.

If you love cocktails, Macao Trading Company is a Tribeca venue inspired by the 1930s era of this Chinese-Dutch-influenced country. Recommendation: the “Instant Millionaire” featuring mezcal, pineapple, green curry, and coriander seeds.

The Loeb Boathouse in Central Park has an adjacent lake adorned with rowboats drifting along that can be rented out for use.

Exploring or traveling solo ?

Go on a date with yourself at Cafe Lalo on the Upper West Side. You might recognize this dessert stop from the movie, You’ve Got Mail.

With two Brooklyn locations, The Chocolate Room is noted for their house-made cocoas, confectionaries and cakes.

49. Spice up your relationship

Here is one way to warm up on a cold winter day in NYC:

Explore the many sex shops throughout NYC offering special devices and toys.

Babeland has locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn with classes and customer service help. Their Upper East Side location also regularly hosts comedy shows featuring female comics and free drinks.

A few other locally-loved venues include Shag   in Williamsburg and The Pleasure Chest   on the Upper West Side and in the West Village .

50. Take an interesting walk 

Don’t let the cold stop you from exploring NYC’s best strolls.

One favorite is the Williamsburg Bridge walk from Manhattan into Brooklyn , with much to explore in Williamsburg once you arrive.

Shop for unique goods at the Artists & Fleas weekend market, take in a stunning 360-degree view from the Westlight rooftop bar, and savor NYC’s best chicken and waffles at Pies-n-Thighs, just to name a few of many things to do in Williamsburg .

Other walks featuring lovely outdoor setting include:

• The Brooklyn Heights Promenade in Brooklyn Heights
• The Brooklyn Bridge, a popular stop for an NYC Influencer Photo Shoot
• The High Line along Chelsea and the Meatpacking District
• Orchard Beach along The Bronx’s Hunter Island
• Long Island City Piers,  offering some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline from Queens
• and Heather Garden in Fort Tryon Park  in Manhattan’s Hudson Heights and Inwood neighborhoods.

51. Buy some artisan chocolate

Give yourself or your sweetie an indulgent gift of NYC’s finest chocolate.

Royce’ Chocolate is a Japanese brand with flavor combos including green tea and nama, while Li-Lac Chocolates — the oldest chocolate house in Manhattan — offers treats like gourmet truffles, caramel bars, salted caramels, glacé fruits, and creams.

If you’re in need of gifts for the culture carnivore in your life ,  Kee’s Chocolate is a globally-inspired candy store drawing upon ingredients such as Spanish saffron, French sea salt, and Japanese yuzu.

And if you’re looking for Instagrammable cafes in NYC ,  MarieBelle makes artful chocolates that look as delectable as they taste. Head to their SoHo cacao bar to try them.

52. Get a peek at Fashion Week

During the winter portion of   this bi-annual showcase many events are for industry members and A-listers only, but there are some happenings that are sometimes open to the general public.

If you can get a ticket it’s quite the exclusive NYC experience.

53. Honor Black History Month

During February — as well as every month before and after — you can learn about Black culture and history at numerous locations in Harlem.

Part of the New York Public Library system, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is a trove of literature and memorabilia relating to Black culture and the African diaspora. The Center hosts jazz concerts, film, lectures and tours.

The Apollo Theater has had James Brown, Billie Holiday and countless other noteworthy performers grace its stage and still puts on its famous Amateur Night.

Also don’t miss Studio Museum , the first Black fine arts museum in the world. This important NYC attraction features contemporary works by African American artists.

In Corona, Queens, the Louis Armstrong House was the residence of the famous jazz trumpeter. It’s now a museum.

The Weeksville Heritage Center in Brooklyn’s Crown Heights tells the story of one of America’s first freed Black communities.

54. Pay your respects at an African burial ground

In Lower Manhattan, the  African Burial Ground National Monument was a burial ground for free and enslaved African Americans from the mid-17th and 18th centuries.

It was rediscovered in October 1991 during an excavation for a planned new federal building.

The public outcry and response from community leaders resulted in this national landmark and the internment of the remains of those who were once laid to rest here.

55. See orchids in bloom

From February through April, the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx provides color and warmth with its annual orchid show.

It’s a showcase of blossoming orchids of all shapes, sizes, and species.

Click here to pre-purchase your ticket .

56. Learn more about Asian art

During Asia Week New York , galleries and cultural institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Met Fifth Avenue and China Institute showcase works from the continent.

Additionally, the festival features a full schedule of films, lectures, symposia, curator talks, tours, and auctions.

57. See The Armory Show

Located on Piers 90 and 94, The Armory Show is a top international art fair that combines a selection of the world’s leading galleries—more than 200 of them from 30 countries around the world—with a program of art events and exhibitions at the fair venue and throughout New York City.

58. Celebrate St Patrick’s Day

As this holiday rolls around, parades abound in NYC.

The official   NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes place in Manhattan and can be viewed along 5th Avenue between 44th and 79th streets.

Brooklyn has its own version on that same day, too, while Queens has its share of St. Patrick’s Day Parades during March.

In The Bronx, their annual parade happens in Throggs Neck.

Also, visit the Irish Hunger Memorial , a gorgeous multi-level garden in Battery Park highlighting this difficult period that resulted in Irish immigration. You’ll find 60+ types of Irish flora, geology representing every Irish county, recreations of 19th-century Irish cottages, and quotes and poems about famine.

59. Hang out in Irish pubs

NYC has lengthy ties to Irish American history and its bars reflect this heritage.

Enjoy a pint at Molly’s Sheeben Pub in Gramercy Park, Swift Hibernian Lounge in NoHo, Peter McManus Cafe in Hell’s Kitchen, The Shannon Pot in Queens, and McMahon’s Public House in Brooklyn.

One Irish pub that also serves incredible craft cocktails is The Dead Rabbit in the Financial District. They’re renowned for their Irish coffee and Guinness, too.

Of course, one can’t miss a stop into McSorley’s Old Ale House in the East Village.

60. Peek at the Macy’s Flower Show

At this annual presentation at the store’s Herald Square location, the Macy’s Flower Show   brings bursts of color on dreary days with its indoor floral displays based on a single theme.

61. Honor Women’s History Month

One great way to spend a winter day in NYC:

Recognize and remember women’s contributions to NYC throughout the years.

You can head to the New-York Historical Society’s Our Center for Women’s History , which looks at the lives of women who have shaped the American experience.

In Brooklyn,  The Lesbian Herstory Archives holds the world’s largest collection of materials by and about lesbians and their communities.

On Staten Island, the Alice Austen House Museum honors this trailblazing female photographer.

Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan credits Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis for saving the site from being torn down, with the terminal’s main entrance being dedicated to her.

By the way, this fascinating Grand Central Terminal tour talks about Jackie O’s contributions. It’s a lot of fun to take on a chilly day. I’ve done it twice!

Arts patron Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney founded an artists’ studio that evolved into what’s now the Whitney Museum of American Art .

62. Eat at women-owned & operated restaurants

Incredible NYC restaurants abound.

You can get your fill at these delicious eateries while also supporting gender equality by dining out at women-owned restaurants in New York City.

Some of our favorites include:

• Lilia , an Italian spot bringing homemade pasta and cocktails to Williamsburg
• Mimi Cheng’s , known for their organic Taiwanese-Chinese dumplings in the East Village
• Dimes , a tasty deli, market, and restaurant in the Lower East Side
• Dirt Candy , a creative vegetarian enclave on the Lower East Side
• Via Carota , an Italian trattoria in the West Village that transports you to 17th-century Tuscany
• Cosme , a contemporary Mexican spot in the Flatiron District
• Vinateria , a women-owned Harlem wine bar that also works to support other female producers

63. Peruse New York City libraries

Next to Bryant Park, the New York Public Library – Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is home to New York City’s most famous lions — Patience and Fortitude — named in the 1930s by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia. These were the two qualities he said New Yorkers would need to survive the Great Depression.

Inside, you’ll find the Rose Main Reading Room , home to a stunning sky and cloud mural on the ceiling.

For outdoor beauty, the  Jefferson Market Branch Library in Greenwich Village was once a Victorian-era courthouse and is now a National Historic Landmark — though you should also check out the Central Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library for its lovely 1941 Art Deco design.

And what does theater in NYC have in common with local libraries?

Actually, the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts is based within Lincoln Center and has the Billy Rose Theatre Collection — one of the world’s largest collections of performing arts works.

In Battery Park City, Poets House is a national poetry library and literary center that keeps this literary art form thriving with public readings and thousands of stacked works.

Then there is  The Morgan Library & Museum in Murray Hill. This is the private library of financier John Pierpont Morgan that puts on exhibits relating to authors and other literary and fine art subjects. Its collection showcases top pieces, ranging from the Gutenberg Bible to rare first editions by Charles Dickens and Mark Twain.

64. Slurp on soup dumplings

This Chinese delicacy — known as Xiao Long Bao — is warming, though biting into their hot liquid requires some carefulness (so maybe skip wearing that brand new shirt).

Joe’s Shanghai in Chinatown is noted for its crab and pork meat versions while Shanghai Zhen Gong Fu in Flushing puts a yummy black truffle base in theirs.

Also in Flushing is the Michelin Guide-rated Nan Xiang Xiao .

In Astoria, don’t miss Bund On Broadway ‘s delicious pan-fried soup dumpling.

65. Sip a warm beverage at locally-owned coffee shops

Starbucks may have the most coffee shop locations, but there are plenty of independent spots — many of which are truly unique NYC cafes — worth spending time at.

Some recommendations for places to go in winter in New York to warm up with a cuppa include:

• Stella & Fly in the Upper East Side blends coffee and wine with events like music and trivia
• Coffee Project NY experiments with deconstructed lattes and nitro cold-brew coffee
• Little Collins brings Melbourne’s coffee scene to NYC with flat whites and pour-overs, not to mention a delicious avocado toast
• Zibetto Espresso Bar is an Italian coffee bar with espresso directly imported from Italy
• Third Rail Coffee attracts NYU students and makes a sweet iced mocha
• and the Puerto Rican brand 787 Coffee Shop has a gratitude wall where customers write down what they’re thankful for on cup sleeves.

66. Learn how to knit

Looking for the perfect winter sweater?

You can make your own!

Grab a pair of knitting needles and get educated on how to create hats, gloves and more with classes.

Brooklyn Craft Company in Greenpoint, Brooklyn General Store in Carroll Gardens, and  School Products Yarn in Murray Hill hold regular courses.

67. Pour some tea

Wondering what to do in NYC on a cold day?

One warming option is to explore the destination’s tea culture.

Tea & Sympathy serves British comfort foods alongside tea, while Té Company emphasizes Taiwanese oolong teas.

Then there is Floating Mountain , which specializes in Chinese teas and also offers courses on tea, meditation, and other self-care topics.

Love novels?

Alice’s Tea Cup draws inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” books.

Other NYC tea houses include Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon , Janam Tea , and Cha-An Teahouse .

68. Surround yourself with cats

NYC’s cat cafe trend is still purring, with advance reservations for playtime required. Check out:

• Brooklyn Cat Cafe, a cat adoption center and social space in Brooklyn Heights
• Koneko , a Japanese-style cat cafe in the Lower East Side
• and Meow Parlor , the city’s first cat cafe, also on the Lower East Side, where older felines roam as they please.

Apparently, there’s also a dog-friendly cafe in NYC. In the East Village, Boris & Horton invites owners to bring their pets, which hang out in a doggie den.

69. Dine inside a New York City food hall

More and more food halls are, thankfully, opening up in NYC.

In Sunset Park, Brooklyn,   Industry City ‘s main food hall is a global cornucopia of cuisines from different parts of NYC and the world — including Japan Village, a marketplace with establishments serving traditional Japanese food and drink.

A Lower East Side institution, the Essex Market has been around since 1888 and recently got a 21st century makeover, with new and returning eateries and a new location.

In Flushing, Queens, HK Food Court reflects this neighborhood’s Asian population with Tibetan, Thai, Japanese, Vietnamese, Taiwanese, and regional Chinese cuisine.

Did you know  Chelsea Market was once the NABISCO factory, with its claim to fame being the birthplace of the Oreo cookie? Explore the attraction on a Chelsea Market & High Line Food Tour .

70. Explore stunning indoor gardens

Find flora and fauna in the colder months at beautiful places around New York City.

For instance,  The Frick Collection on the Upper East Side has a Garden Court, while  The Ford Foundation Building in Midtown has a light-filled atrium garden with 39 species of plants and a reflecting pool.

Both the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the New York Botanical Garden have conservatories and ongoing programs, respectively; and Wave Hill in The Bronx has one as well.

Then there’s the Astor Chinese Garden Court at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Butterfly Conservatory at the American Museum of Natural History .

For something quirky, view the New York Earth Room   on Wooster Street — one of the most interesting things to do in SoHo .

There’s also the Winter Garden Atrium at Brookfield Place in Battery Park City and the Urban Garden Room   at One Bryant Park in Midtown West.

71. Warm up with ramen

This savory Japanese noodle broth dish is warming and can be ordered at various top spots.

One popular local favorite is  Ivan Ramen   on the Lower East Side. Personally, I love the “Tokyo Shoyu” with soy sauce, dashi and chicken broth, pork belly, soft egg, and toasted nori with rye-based noodles.

Another top pick is Ippudo in the East Village, which simmers their pork-bone tonkotsu broth for days.

Then there is Totto Ramen , whose delicious and simple yet dense soups have led to them opening up numerous locations — in Midtown, Hell’s Kitchen and Flushing.

72. Celebrate Pi Day

Pi Day — an occasion when people celebrate the mathematical constant π — takes place on March 14 each year, since 3, 1, and 4 are the first three significant digits of π.

If this sounds a bit complicated, don’t worry. You can head to the National Mathematics Museum near Madison Square Park to learn about the subject in a more approachable way — including interactive exhibits and fun events.

73. Head to distilleries

There are plenty of New York Places to visit in winter, particularly if you want to melt off the chill with a warming libation.

And while craft beer production is flowing throughout the city, distilleries are opening up throughout the boroughs and offer an especially nice experience on cold winter days in New York City.

One unique option:

In the Bronx,  Port Morris Distillery   produces pitorro, a Puerto Rican moonshine traditionally sipped on special occasions and holidays.

Kings County Distillery concocts handmade moonshine, bourbon, and other whiskeys out of the 119-year-old Paymaster Building in the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Also in Brooklyn, Greenhook Ginsmiths holds public tours on Saturdays in Greenpoint, while Van Brunt Stillhouse makes whiskey and offers one of the best experiences in Red Hook .

Where To Stay In New York City In Winter

Looking to stay overnight in NYC?

There are so many incredible hotels, like NoMo SoHo , the Williamsburg Hotel , and The Ludlow .

Click here for a full list of New York City hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!  

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Best Winter Tours In NYC

Make your New York winter vacation even more memorable by adding some of the following tours to your itinerary:

Private NYC Photo Journey

Private Professional New York Photoshoot

Dyker Heights Brooklyn Christmas Lights Tour

New York Christmas Holiday Small-Group Walking Tour

Rockefeller Center Architecture and Art Walking Tour

Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour

Radio City Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes Ticket

Click here for a full list of unforgettable NYC tours .

Travel Insurance For Winter In New York

When visiting New York City — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Visiting New York in winter? Add your suggestions below!

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About mherrmann.

Michele Herrmann is a travel and lifestyle writer and editor who is based in New York. She contributes destination features and articles on travel trends and culinary finds to Fodor’s, Frommers, Budget Travel, Zagat Stories, Forbes, Smithsonian Magazine, and more. Additionally, Michelle provides editorial and marketing content to national and international media outlets and B2B and B2C companies. She previously led Twitter chats for Fareportal's OneTravel and CheapOAir, wrote blog posts for HomeExchange.com, managed article submissions for Pink Pangea, and contributed articles to amNewYork, Yahoo Travel, Time Out New York, TravelPulse, Travelzoo, RoamRight, and ShermansTravel.

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I had to slow down my reading when I got to “go pantless,” but that’s literally what it is! Love NYC anyone of year. There’s so much to do!

What a great and thorough guide! I’ve always wanted to visit NYC in the winter and this solidified that for me. I have to go one year! Thanks for sharing 🙂

What an incredible list! I’m sharing it with my friend who lives in NYC because I think it’s good for locals as well as people just visiting! That ramen looks so good and is quite possibly the best wintery meal!

Darn, I wish I had this list when I visited last winter! So many great ideas. I plan to go back to New York so I’ll be sure to refer back to your post! Thanks for sharing all these awesome things to do there in winter.

I am glad to see this stuff and wanna tell you that have a joyous time period day trips from new york in last days and that was wow for me.

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What to do in New York City in Winter

Updated December 4, 2020

// By Margherita

Planning to visit New York City in winter? It will indeed be cold, but it is actually a really good time to visit NYC, to enjoy the magic of the ‘holiday season’ and then admire the city covered in snow. Here is what to do in New York City in winter, and how to prepare to the cold!

First things first – New York City in winter is amazing. True, the city is wonderful all year round, but winter time is especially magical. After Thanksgiving, the Christmas lights go up, and the holiday mood takes over. Even the busiest New Yorkers will be in good spirits , with a smile on their face, remembering that – indeed – ’tis the season!’

Come January and February, the Christmas cheer is gone, but New York City looks just magical covered in snow , sparkling under a bright blue sky.

Moreover, winter in New York is the time for unique festivals and events – from Christmas markets to parades, from ‘nostalgia trains’ to Christmas shows, you won’t get bored.

After all, winter or no winter, you are in New York City! Let’s have a look at how to get ready for New York City in winter , and what to do when you get there!

For more inspiration, check out our unusual things to do in NYC post – many of these places can also be enjoyed in winter!

Don’t forget to arrange travel medical insurance before you leave for your trip! We recommend SafetyWing , especially aimed at long-term travellers and digital nomads. SafetyWing offers medical assistance all over the world , including your own country!

Get your Travel Insurance Quote Here!

New York City in the Winter Months

Winter in New York City includes the months of December, January, and February. However, since weather and seasons are getting more and more unpredictable, the chilly winter weather may start as early as November and continue all the way through to mid (or even late) March.

We’ve included Thanksgiving events in our list of winter activities in NYC , even though being in late November, Thanksgiving is not technically ‘winter’ just yet. Speaking from experience, I can tell you that it can be very, very chilly indeed – in 2018, we had a beautiful sunny day, but temperatures reached -10°C.

So, if you’re visiting New York City between November and March , be ready for subzero temperatures. How cold? Keep reading to find out!

Winter Temperature in New York

The coldest month in New York City is January , with an average daytime high of +3°C, dipping to -3-5°C at night. December and February are slightly warmer, about 5-6°C during the day decreasing to -2°C at night.

Don’t forget these are average NYC winter temperatures. Freak storms may occur at any time, and it may be considerably colder with all the wind and snow. Temperatures of -10 or even -15°C are not uncommon, even in November and March!

In terms of weather, you may have beautiful, sunny and crisp days, but the best way to describe winter weather in New York is cold and windy. Rain, sleet and snow are also to be expected, so dress accordingly – I’ve included more info at the bottom of this post!

Looking for more New York tips? Check our Wowanders diary with New York restaurants, places to see and other tips!

Thanksgiving in New York

1) macy thanksgiving day parade.

This is THE iconic Thanksgiving experience in New York City , and it officially marks the beginning of the winter holiday season in the city! The Macy Thanksgiving Day Parade has taken place yearly since 1924, with floats, balloons and thousands of people marching down the 2.5 mile route – not to mention, many, many spectators.

The best known features of the  Macy Thanksgiving Day Parade are the floats and giant balloons depicting pop-culture characters – and when I say GIANT I actually mean it! These balloons are held by up to 90 people!

The parade starts at  77th Street and Central Park West then continues along the edge of Central Park to Columbus Circle, where it turns down into 7th Avenue and continues all the way to the store, on 34th Street. It typically lasts from 9 am to 12 pm.

2) Have a Traditional Thanksgiving Meal

After watching the Macy Thanksgiving Day Parade, there’s only one thing to do – going for a traditional Thanksgiving meal , with roasted turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings, followed by a tasty pumpkin pie.

Many restaurants close on Thanksgiving Day , but most of those who stay open offer a Thanksgiving-themed meal, sometimes with live music as well. Here are some cool places!

• Celebrate and admire the NYC skyline in style with a Thanksgiving buffet lunch cruise!
• Bustan – Middle Eastern-inspired Upper West Side classic, offers Thanksgiving a la carte menu
• The Leopard at Des Artistes –  just off Central Park West, the Thanksgiving menu here has an Italian vibe and is also a la carte
• Hearth –  opt for a full Thanksgiving menu for about $98 in this welcoming East Village restaurant
• Market Table –  another Village option, this time in the West, with a three-course menu for $95

Christmas in New York City

3) winter village at bryant park.

You can find lots of Christmas markets (or holiday markets as they’re locally known) in New York, but if you want to visit just one I would definitely go for the Winter Village at Bryant Park , just behind the New York Public Library in the block between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, and 40th and 42nd Streets.

The Winter Village at Bryant Park opens even before Halloween with a collection of holiday shops and some street food purveyors , all set in cute wooden houses surrounding an ice rink, which is totally FREE to use (provided you’ve got your own skates!)

It’s definitely one of the coolest places to get into the Christmas mood in New York City and stock up on some presents for your friends and family… and for yourself!

4) Christmas Lights at Dyker Heights, Brooklyn

If you’re after a dazzling Christmas light display , complete with giant blow-up Santa,  and Christmas music playing at full blast, leave Manhattan and make your way over to Dyker Heights , in the southern part of Brooklyn.

Dyker Heights is home to the most spectacularly-decorated private houses in the city. The very best displays can be found in the area between 11th to 13th Avenues (also known as Dyker Heights Blvd), and between from 83rd to 86th St. The decorations are put up on the weekend after Thanksgiving, and left all the way to Christmas. Houses are usually lit up between sunset and 9 pm, so plan your visit accordingly!

It’s quite a long journey from Manhattan, but it’s fairly easy to visit Dyker Heights independently –  just take the D Train to 79th St and New Utrecht Ave. The displays are about 15 minutes walk from the subway stop. Don’t miss it if you’re spending Christmas in New York City!

In case you don’t fancy such a long journey on the subway, you can easily visit Dyker Heights on a tour – here are some of our favourites!

• Brooklyn: 1.5-Hour Dyker Heights Holiday Lights Walking Tour
• From Manhattan: 3.5-Hour Brooklyn Christmas Magic Tour
• Half Day Christmas Lights Luxury Minibus Tour
• From Manhattan: Half Day Multi-Lingual Dyker Heights Bus Tour
• 3.5-Hour Bilingual Brooklyn Holiday Bus Tour

5) Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is ‘the’ quintessential Christmas tree in NYC. Inside the building, just in front of the lift to Top of the Rock, there’s a quick video showing how the Christmas tree is individually sourced and picked out each year by a team of specialists before being flown in – it’s a spectacular tree for sure!

The Tree Lighting Ceremony at Rockefeller Center is another iconic activity for those spending Christmas in New York. It usually takes place on the Wednesday after Thanksgiving, and the tree remains up until early January. The tree lights are switched off at 9 pm, except for Christmas when they stay on 24 hours.

6) Christmas Lights and Displays

If you can’t make it all the way to Dyker Heights, fear not – all the Midtown department stores have stunning Christmas lights displays and windows all through the holiday season, from Thanksgiving to Christmas.

Saks Fifth Avenue is probably the best known, turning its façade into a castle of twinkling lights. Bergdorf Goodman is also worth visiting, and so is Lord & Taylor and naturally Macy’s!

Here are also two fun Christmas tours to join!

• New York Christmas Markets and Lights Walking Tour

Holiday Lights Extravaganza Walking Tour in Manhattan

7) Ride the Nostalgia Train

This is another super fun New York winter activity , I am so upset we missed it during our last visit and really hope we can return soon! As a treat to New Yorkers, the New York Transit Museum organises ‘Nostalgia Rides’ on the Sundays between Thanksgiving and Christmas , on vintage subway trains dating back between the 1930s and 1970s.

The Nostalgia Train travels along the F line from 2nd Avenue to 125th Street about once every two hours – a schedule can be seen on the  New York Transit Museum website. Everything on the subway cars is original, and some people even dress up in period fashion for the occasion.

8) Radio City Christmas Spectacular

You can’t visit NYC in winter (or any other season, really) without catching a show, right? If you’re around during Christmas time, the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes is definitely worth going to.

This show has been a New York Christmas tradition since the 1930s, with 90 minutes of Christmas-themed dances and songs performed by the legendary Rockettes , some of the best dancers and performers in the country.

Don’t forget to buy show tickets in advance – you can do so just below!

• Radio City Christmas Spectacular and Holiday Window Tour
• Christmas in New York with the Rockettes + Holidays Lights
• NYC: Radio City Christmas Show & Downtown Double Decker Tour

Winter in New York City – January/February

9) new year’s eve in times square.

Every major city has its iconic New Year’s Eve celebration , and New York’s is the Ball Drop in Times Square.

You can see the famous ball any time during the year , located on the roof at One Time Square – seeing drop right on the stroke of midnight, surrounded by neon lights and cascading confetti, is definitely an experience to remember.

However, don’t forget that it’s winter, and New York City is COLD. To see the ball drop, you have to reserve your spot in Times Square as early as 2 pm on the day, which means standing for hours in the bitter cold.

The Ball Drop is worth experiencing at least once , but if you can’t bear being outside, it’s worth booking a dinner with Times Square view!

10) NYC Winter Jazzfest

Early January is also the time for Jazzfest , a music festival attracting jazz musicians from all over the world to NYC. If you’re visiting in winter and love jazz , you can’t miss it!

The coolest thing about the NYC Winter Jazzfest are the marathons , held at venues around the Greenwich Village and Lower Manhattan. Various artists take turns on stage, playing non stop from 6 pm to midnight or later. Check the official Jazzfest site for info!

11) No Pants Subway Ride

This probably wins the prize for craziest winter event in New York City. The No Pants Subway Ride is exactly what it sounds like – one random day when people ride the subway with no pants.

It all started out with a prank in 2005. Nowadays, No Pants Subway Ride has turned into an event taking place in a dozen cities worldwide, with thousands of participants. The New York ride usually happens in the first half of January , and dates change every year.

12) Chinese New Year in Chinatown

Those visiting New York between late January and mid February should check whether their visits coincide with the Chinese Lunar New Year. Dates change depending on the moon cycle – in 2020, it will fall on Jan 25th and in 2021 on Feb 12th.

In New York, Lunar New Year is celebrated with a huge parade down Mott and Canal Street in Chinatown, including lion and dragon dances, drum concerts and martial arts performances.

After the parade, it’s a good idea to warm up with noodles or dumplings – Xi’an Famous Foods in Chinatown is a good choice, or you can head to Chelsea Market for my favouritest bowl of biangbiang noodles in town!

Other New York City Winter Activities

13) ice skating rinks.

Another typical New York in winter activity is heading to an ice rink. There are many to choose from all over the city, each of them offering something different.

The Bryant Park one is free if you have skates , while the one by the Rockefeller Center is probably the most scenic of them all, and a true classic. Another well known New York ice rink is the  Wollman Rink in the southern part of Central Park, and  Pier 17 at South Street Seaport is Manhattan’s only rooftop ice rink. What about skating with a view?

14) Visit a Museum

I think by now we’ve established that in winter, New York is COLD. It can be so cold, in fact, that being outdoors for the whole day may indeed get uncomfortable. Luckily, New York offers an incredible variety of museums – including some of the best art galleries in the world. 

Can you imagine a better way to while away a winter day in New York than visiting a museum? The only issue would be which museum to choose – here we’ve listed 8 of our favourite museums in New York , including mainstream classics and some offbeat gems. All perfect to spend a day during winter in New York!

-Metropolitan Museum – if you have time to see only one museum during your trip to New York in winter, make sure you choose the Met. Don’t miss the temple of Dendur in the Great Hall , the only complete Egyptian temple to be found in a museum.

If you want to dedicate your entire day to museums, remember that your Met ticket also allows you to enter the Met Breuer , dedicated to modern and contemporary art, and the Cloisters at the northern tip of Manhattan, with five reconstructed medieval cloisters. 

-Guggenheim Museum – another unmissable stop during your winter trip to New York City! This museum is worth visiting for the daring architecture alone , but the wonderful array of contemporary art makes even more worthwhile.

-MoMA PS1 – the new Long Island City outpost of the super-famous MoMA, with cutting-edge contemporary art.

-Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum –  perfect for those on a NYC winter break with kids or teenagers! This museum on a pier in Hell’s Kitchen has a collection of ships that can be visited, including an aircraft carrier.

-American Museum of Natural History – one of the world’s greatest natural history museums and top winter thing to do in NYC with kids. Two tips – don’t miss the dinosaur section and the planetarium show!

-Mmuseumm –  from mainstream to quirky, don’t miss this tiny museum in a Chinatown elevator with rotating exhibitions. As the smallest museum in town, you won’t have much respite from the New York winter cold, but it’s still worth a visit!

-New York Food Museum –  as far as weird goes, this museum probably beats all the competition! It’s not a food museum in New York, it’s a museum about New York food – think pickles, oysters, and Brooklyn breweries. There’s no physical location as the museum organises pop-up events – just check their website to know more.

15) Check out the Views

There’s probably no better place than NYC when it comes to city views , and winter is probably the best time of the year to enjoy them – think about those clear winter days after a snowstorm, when everything shines under a blue sky. Plus, winter in New York also means less tourists , so you won’t have to share your favourite viewpoints with thousands of others!

Here are 7 of our favourite places to check out amazing views of NYC – in winter especially!

-The Empire State Building –  this viewpoint needs no introduction! The Empire State Building is the tallest skyscraper in New York , and its 86th floor observatory is the place to go for incredible views covering the whole of Manhattan.

-Top of the Rock –  in my opinion, this is the best place for views in the city , especially if you’re in New York in winter and it’s all full of snow! This viewpoint on the top of the Rockefeller Center is lower than the one on the Empire, but it means you can get top views of the Empire itself, and of Central Park covered in snow!

-Brooklyn Bridge Park – this is the place to head to for those iconic views of the Manhattan skyline. Walk all the way to the end to get this iconic picture with wooden pier poles sticking out of the water!

-DUMBO – the view made famous by Woody Allen in Manhattan can be found at the corner of Washington and Water Streets in DUMBO , the neighbourhood between the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge.

-Roosevelt Island Tram –  another top place to get pics of the Upper East Side from an unusual perspective, and it’s included in your subway pass!

-Domino Park –  if Brooklyn Bridge Park and Brooklyn Heights are too ‘mainstream’ for you, head to this little-known park in Williamsburg, in the location of the former former Domino Sugar Refinery. Don’t miss it if you’re in NYC in winter!

-Staten Island Ferry – this is a true classic and the best way to see the Statue of Liberty without taking the pricey Liberty Island tour. Just head to Battery Park on the southern tip of Manhattan to jump on this free 24-hour ferry zipping you all the way to Staten Island, the most offbeat in the 5 boroughs, passing Liberty Island enroute.

Once you get there, either spend the day exploring Staten Island, or head back!

16) Head to a Spa

Is there anything better than a spa day in winter? Well, actually there is – a spa day in New York in winter. Most five-star hotels boast their own spa – like Mandarin Oriental , whose award-winning Asian-inspired spa also welcomes day guests. 

There are also many unusual, yet uber-lavish spas all over New York City that are perfect to spend a winter day of total pampering. Haven SPA is probably the most ‘New York’ of all New York spas, with an exclusive SoHo location, exposed bricks and a la carte treatments including a ‘Geek Massage’ for those living a laptop lifestyle; while Aire Ancient Baths aims to recreate the feel of an Ancient Roman bathhouse in NYC. 

Yet, for a NYC winter spa treat , the best place to head to is The William Vale in Brooklyn, offering sauna and treatments in six glamping tents on its legendary rooftop.

What to Wear in New York City in Winter?

Ok, so NYC in winter is COLD – and that may range from mildly cold, to freezing cold. The question is, what to wear?

During my own trip to New York in winter, I was really NOT prepared , so here are my best tips – please learn from my mistakes and pack accordingly!

Don’t think sneakers will be enough – New York in winter is snowy and rainy, and your sneakers will be wet and cold in no time. Opt for c omfy, cosy boots like Sorel – New Yorkers swear by them!

Remember to layer up , including thermal base layers if the temperature plummets below 0°C – and more than likely, it will. Make sure you pack a good jacket – a ski jacket will do the trick, or you can opt for any winter jacket or parka. Extra points if it’s windproof and waterproof!

Also, very very important – don’t forget to pack earmuffs or a beanie, gloves and a scarf. You’ll need them!

If you find yourself in need of winter clothes in NYC, head to the REI SoHo flagship store at 303 Lafayette, full of excellent outdoor wear from REI and other top brands, including thermals, jackets, gloves and anything else you may need!

26 Festive Things to do in New York City in winter

Planning a winter trip to the Big Apple and looking for the best things to do in New York during the winter?

New York City in the winter is a magical place.

Downtown Manhattan has beautiful holiday lights and ice rinks, the skyscrapers are adorned with wreaths, the shopping windows are full of Christmas goodies, and a variety of holiday events take place all over the city!

And if you are lucky enough to spend Christmas in New York – that’s a special delight!

However, the city gets exceptionally cold during winter and careful planning is needed to enjoy your New York in winter trip!

Our Ultimate New York in Winter travel guide is full of holiday tips and activities, must see attractions like the Rockefeller Christmas tree, as well as useful packing tips for spending winter in New York!

Things to know before visiting New York in winter

Fun fact and – True story – The first time that I visited New York was in winter – on Christmas Day to be precise!

But no, I didn’t see the Rockefeller Christmas tree. Or any of the holiday displays in store windows. 

Rather, my first trip to New York in winter was a big disaster and basically, a giant list of what not to do in New York in winter .

For starters, I took the Staten Island Ferry in an attempt to save money.

I had to sit inside for the entire trip because the few times that I did venture out on the deck to catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, it was so windy that I had tears in my eyes.

The ferry dropped me in Lower Manhattan – far away from all the major attractions.

And yet, instead of taking the subway or can I tried to walk all over downtown!

Then, I chose to walk the Brooklyn Bridge – in the icy winds – never again!

Add to that, I wasn’t dressed for the weather.

I lived in Chicago and thought I could wing it in New York in leggings and a stylish winter coat. Just nope.

Thankfully, I did learn a lot from my first winter trip to New York and my subsequent trips were much more fun.

And armed with that knowledge, I’m here to help you plan the most fantabulous trip to New York City in the winter. 

Basically there are a few simple rules to planning a winter trip to New York:

• Plan your trip months in advance to get the best deals on hotels and airfare
• Pick a place to stay that is closer to major attractions
• Do not include a whole lot of walking on your itinerary – use the public transport and cabs
• Dress in multiple layers and take all the accessories including warm hats, scarves, and clothes
• Wear excellent walking shoes
• Combine outdoor attractions with indoor things to do to minimize weather exposure

More New York travel guides In this holiday special blog post, we talk about the winter special or holiday-themed things to do in New York City. If this is your first visit to the city, then you should also check out our post on 37 Best Things to do in New York for the first time visitors where we focus on year-round attractions including Empire State Building Observation Deck, the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, One World Center, 9/11 Memorial, and more!

Where to stay in New York in winter

During the summer or peak tourist season, we’d totally recommend you to find a cheap hotel away from Manhattan to save money.

However, winter is not the time to see New York while staying outside downtown, trust me!

The wind and the cold will leave you so tired that you won’t have much energy to see the attractions.

Plus you will be wasting precious daylight hours in the traffic.

Instead, book as early as you can and find accommodation close enough to all the major tourist attractions.

Also, try to find a Manhattan hotel near the subway station so you can easily take public transport.

What to pack for visiting Manhattan in winter

Visitors need to pack for the extremely cold weather and dress in layers New York winter vacation.

Be sure to carry a pair of thermal clothes. Pack thick, warm leggings or denims and cozy t-shirts, shirts, and blouses.

Sweater dresses are great for fine dining and enjoying the New York City nightlife.

Thick and warm jackets are a must.

Need a new trendy travel coat or jacket for your trip? Read our post on the best travel jackets for women!

Also, pack in a scarf, gloves, and a warm hat.

The accessories are vital in keeping you warm and protected in the chilly air.

You also need a comfortable pair of walking shoes that can stand the snow and are waterproof.

Visiting New York in winter: how many days to spend?

New York is big and vast.

The city is sprawling and attractions are spread all over the area.

It is very hard to see New York on a day trip – especially in the winter.

We recommend planning to spend two to three days in New York to see the city and its major attractions.

If you have 4 days, then that is the perfect amount of time to make the most of New York in the winter months.

Best Seasonal Things to do in New York City in the winter

New York City in winter is a stunning, spectacular winter wonderland. 

From extravagant holiday light displays and mesmerizing department store windows to gigantic Christmas trees and sparkling ice skating rinks, New York City has it all.

You will find a variety of holiday events and activities going on in the city in winter.

From family photo ops to romantic experiences, Manhattan has enough winter attractions for all types of travelers.

Here are some of our favorite Christmas-themed things to do in New York in winter.

Check out the beautiful Christmas Markets

A variety of Christmas markets, Pop-Up holiday shops, and elaborate holiday markets can be found throughout New York in the winter months leading up to Christmas.

Taking a stroll through these holiday markets is a delight.

The markets feature eye-catching holiday décor and are perfect to shop for unique and handmade Christmas gifts, ornaments, and holiday treats.

The wonderful ambience resembles a European Christmas market and is something to be experienced for yourself!

Some of the most popular Christmas markets in New York include

• The Shops at Bryant Park
• East Village Holiday Market
• Union Square Holiday Market
• Columbus Circle Holiday Market near Central Park
• The Grand Central Holiday Fair

Enjoy the Frozen landscape at Central Park

While most visitors to New York in the cold months do not think of visiting the famous urban park in the country, there are actually many things to do in Central Park in winter.

You won’t catch much snow in downtown – it all gets cleared up immediately but head north towards Central Park and you will see iced streams and lakes, snow-covered bridges, and frosted trees – a wonderful spectacle.

If you should take a stroll through the park, the whole area resembles a snowy winter wonderland.

You can go cross country skiing or snowshoeing in the park if you don’t feel up for the walk through the snow.

You can also go ice skating at Wollman Rink, they have ice skate rentals in a variety of sizes.

Sledding is also allowed at specific locations in the park when there is sufficient snow on the ground.

Or you can have fun building a snowman with your loved one or the kids.

Many of Central Park’s year-round attractions including the Central Park Zoo and Tish Children’s Zoo are also open in winter.

We love visiting the Central Park Zoo with our kids to see the penguins, snow leopards, and seals.

The famous Central Park carousel is also open during the Holiday season and is a favorite with families.

The Columbus Circle holiday market is good for shopping for holiday gifts. 

Holiday Window Displays

New York is famous for its holiday winter displays.

The department stores debut their festive holiday arrangements as early as November and thousands flock to see them.

The most elaborate displays are located in Midtown: Macy’s is the most famous one but Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, and Bergdorf Goodman also have spectacular displays.

The holiday displays are the most Instagrammed spots in New York during the winter. 

I would recommend walking down Fifth Avenue to see the most iconic displays.

Statue of Liberty

I know, I know – I just mentioned that taking the Staten Island Ferry in December was bad.

And now I’m telling you to take another ferry in the biting cold?

But hey, you can sit inside on the ferry and if you are in New York for the first time, you simply can’t miss the Statue of Liberty.

It is a national icon and one of the most visited attractions in the world.

Visiting Liberty Island and seeing the statue up close is a thrilling experience.

The ferry starts from Battery Park in Manhattan as well as from Liberty State Park in New Jersey and takes visitors to Ellis Island along with Liberty Island.

On Ellis Island, you can visit the Ellis Island Immigrant Hospital which makes for a great history tour into the country’s immigration past.

You can also trace when your ancestors first came from the boat in Europe in the historic immigration records.

Also the views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline from the ferry are stunning.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is one of the biggest parades in the country and the best festive start to the Holiday season.

Thousands flock to New York to watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade and locals from all over the Tri-State area stake their places early in the morning to watch the huge event.

The parade features over the top floats and balloons, including the famous Snoopy balloon, and popular stars lineup to provide entertainment.

Other balloons include snowflakes, candy canes, and other holiday-themed balloons along with popular characters.

You will also see marching bands and  Empty spots along the parade route fill up early and the most popular places to watch include along Central Park West Street or 6th Avenue.

For a map of the parade route, check here . 

If you are planning a visit to New York in the fall, coinciding with Thanksgiving, then check out our post on Best Things to do in New York in the Fall.  

See the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is a beloved New York Christmas tradition!

No visit to New York around Christmas is complete without seeing the beautiful Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and surrounding holiday lights.

The Christmas Tree is lit in early December in an event attended by hundreds of people.

While you are there, don’t miss ice skating in the Rink at Rockefeller.

Surrounded by the tree and holiday lights, the rink looks magical at night and is one of the hottest date spots in NYC.

Other holiday activities at the Rockefeller Center include holiday shopping and listening to musicians play Christmas carols.

Travel tip – If you have kids, don’t forget to step into the nearby Lego Store and shop for Christmas presents!

Attend New York Fashion Week

The world famous New York Fashion Week is one of the most anticipated winter events in New York City!

Brooklyn Bridge

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge and taking in views of the skyline as well as the bridge architecture is one of the most popular things to do in New York.

In winter, it does get quite chilly over the bridge, so make sure you are wearing warm clothes with gloves, hats, and scarves, and comfortable walking shoes.

The best time for the walk is mid-day when the sun will be up and you won’t feel as cold. After you walk across the bridge, explore the Brooklyn Bridge Park.

From the park, you see fantastic views of the skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

You can also sled down the hills and follow it with lunch in Brooklyn.

On your way back to Manhattan, take the subway.

Or do the other way round, take the subway to Brooklyn and walk across the bridge to Manhattan. 

Winter Village, Bryant Park

From Sean Lau of Living Out Lau

Winter in New York City is brutal.

The weather drops below freezing on most days and with the wind gust, there is no chance of feeling your fingertips.

However, that doesn’t stop the locals and many travelers from enjoying all that New York City has to offer in the winter. 

One of the most popular winter attractions in New York City is the Winter Village at Bryant Park, located on 42nd street between 6th Ave and 5th Ave.

Winter Village has many holiday-themed events as well as an ice rink and pop bar.

Bryant Park’s big lawn is converted into a free admission artificial ice skating rink while charming Holiday shops are set up all around it.

The Winter Village is the best way to get into the Holiday Spirit. 

Visitors come from all parts of the world to skate in the rink and enjoy the Winter Village.

Skate rentals are available at the rink and occasional ice skating classes are also conducted for those who want to learn.

Other popular activities at the park during winter include the carousel for kids, bumper cars event, shopping for one of a kind Christmas gifts, and drinking hot chocolate.

The rink and the park look magical at night when the holiday lights come on. 

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

By Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

There’s a reason people say Christmas time in New York is the most wonderful time of the year.

But most of the tourists who descend onto the Big Apple in December never make it out of Manhattan.

That means they’re missing out on one of the greatest displays of Christmas lights in the country – the stunning electric confections in the Dyker Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn. 

These insane Christmas lights were started by a woman named Lucy Spata.

She moved to the neighborhood in the 1980s and was disturbed to find that people in the area didn’t decorate their houses for Christmas.

Mrs. Spata wasn’t afraid of a little controversy, so she decided to cover her house in lights, which displeased the neighbors.

Mrs. Spata showed them how much their complaints bothered her by adding more and more crazy lights every year. 

Eventually, the neighbors came around, and so did the tourists.

Now every house in the neighborhood goes nuts for Christmas lights every year.

Even some neighboring communities like Bay Ridge get into the act.

The most convenient way to see the Christmas Lights in Dyker Heights is by driving to the neighborhood in your own car.

You can easily expect to see over tens of thousands of lights during your visit along with inflatable Santas, reindeer, snowmen, and more. 

There’s no convenient public transportation to some of the houses, so if you don’t have a car, you can take the ‘Slice of Brooklyn’ company’s Christmas Lights of Dyker Heights tour.

They’ll give you the history and point out all the best houses.

Plus their bus is heated and leaves from an easy to get to location in Manhattan.

Whether you chose the DIY or guided tour, just don’t forget your camera!

The Village

Exploring Greenwich Village is a delight year-round.

You get to see charming holiday decor on the historic brownstone buildings and walk along cobblestone streets.

We also love taking a stroll through Washington Square Park or Highline Park when it has freshly snowed.

Don’t forget to stop by the famous Magnolia Bakery for some cupcakes. 

I had never heard of Santacon until my friend who lives in NYC mentioned that’s she’s taking part.

Santacon is an annual winter pub crawl/parade where all attendees wear – guess what – Santa Claus costumes!

While Santacon occurs in many cities, the NYC version is the largest of them all.

However it does get rowdy and crazy towards the end, so attend at your own risk! 

New York Botanical Garden

The New York Botanical Garden is not just a spring or fall activity.

The garden is beautiful in winter as the icy trees look ethereal and the ground is carpeted in snow.

Also must watch is the Holiday Train Show consisting of model trains in a miniature New York City.

Needless to say, this is a favorite with kids.

While you are there, do not forget to visit the Conservatory.

It features stunning architecture and great collection of tropical indoor plants ferns, as well as cacti.

Another option is to visit Brooklyn Botanical Garden, which is equally beautiful in the winter. 

Times Square Ball Drop

The Times Square Ball Drop is the most widely attended and watched New Year’s Eve celebration in the world.

Thousands visit New York just to see the ball drop and countdown to the New Year.

While the ball drop begins at 11:59 pm and takes exactly 60 seconds to complete, many live entertainment events are held before the ball drop time.

While the event is free, partygoers actually line up since 4 pm to stake their place.

Yes, that means over 6 to 8 hrs of standing in the cold to attend the festivities.

Alternatively, you can attend parties held in nearby hotels and restaurants with a view of Times Square but they are quite expensive and get sold out several days in advance. 

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

New York’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are pretty spectacular and if you aren’t up for the crowds at Times Square then consider checking them out from alternative locations like Brooklyn Bridge or Prospect Park.

Another great and romantic alternative is to go for a fireworks cruise and watch the sparkling stars over the Manhattan skyline.

Chinese New Year in Chinatown

The fun doesn’t stop with the New Year’s Eve ball drop.

Come January and Chinatown will be the place to be for the Chinese New Year celebrations.

The Lunar New Year is celebrated with great pomp and splendor and dozens of events are held in NYC Chinatown.

The most elaborate is the Chinese New Year Parade featuring colorful costumes, martial art performances, traditional dances, and firecrackers.

Many of Chinatown’s restaurants have delicious offerings including dim sums.

This is also a great time to walk in Chinatown and spot the murals, local shops, traditional dresses, karaoke bars, and more. 

Best Indoor Things to do in New York City in winter

Visiting New York in winter does not mean you have to be out in the cold all the time.

There are many awesome indoor things to do in New York which work perfectly for snowy or windy days.

The winter is also a great time to explore New York’s renowned museums in a cozy environment.

Here are our favorite things to do in New York to keep yourself warm in the winter:

Museum of Street Art 

From carol guttery of wayfaring views.

New York City is a world-class destination for street art. But, spotting murals and graffiti in New York can be a mighty frosty proposition in the winter.

However, you can see a great indoor collection of murals from local artists at the Museum of Street art on the lower east side.

The Museum of Street Art (or MOSA), is a “vertical love letter” to New York which has been sprayed into 20 floors of the stairwell in CitizenM hotel in the Bowery.

The idea for the exhibit was conceived by the hotel’s designers and they partnered with artists from the 5 Pointz graffiti community to execute it.

5 Pointz was a derelict building complex in Brooklyn which was torn down to make way for new development.

There was a lot of sadness and anger in the New York graffiti community when they lost that space.

The MOSA has given twenty artists the opportunity to express their art and their love of New York in the MOSA stairwell.

Murals range from portraits of Ru Paul and Allen Ginsberg to Puerto Rican pride to caricatures of whacky pickles.

You start at the top and make a delightful descent through a colorful love letter to NYC.

Tip for visiting: Touring MOSA is free but the hotel asks that you book ahead for a slot on their schedule .

American Museum of Natural History

From Chrysoula Manika of Historic European Castles

Visiting the Natural History Museum in New York is an ideal thing to do in winter when the chill is in the air and the city is caked in the snow!

You really can spend hours wandering the halls of the Natural History Museum, with everything from dinosaurs to the current climate crisis being covered in the exhibitions and events held by the museum.

Whether you have a particular interest in something, be it ammonites, anthropology or astronomy, or simply want to roam the museum in order to learn something new, the American Museum of Natural History has something for you.

The museum spans a whopping 2 million square feet (190,000 m2) but despite its size, it is unable to display every item within their collection.

This is understandable when you consider the whole collection contains 33 million specimens!!

Even if you spend all day in the museum, you’ll only just scratch the surface of the planet’s natural history, but you’re bound to learn some new facts and see things you’ve never seen before.

The American Museum of Natural History features 40 halls of permanent exhibits as well as a range of ever-changing galleries and exhibitions so there’s always something new to discover.

The vast museum is located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, just across the street from Central Park.

It is, therefore, a great addition to your New York itinerary, even if just for a few hours while you warm up from the cold winter weather outside!

Broadway Show

From stephanie craig of history fangirl.

One of my favorite things to do in New York to escape the cold is to take advantage of the city’s amazing arts scene by seeing a show!

If you get tickets for a Broadway production, you’ll have three blissful (warm hours) to enjoy inside.

Yet, you’ll be doing one of the best New York activities that you can be doing any time of year!

While I truly love visiting places like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park, but Broadway is just as famous as these sites with the added benefit of being completely protected from the elements!

If you want to be a little trendier or artsier, you can see an off-Broadway production or another kind of more Avant-garde performance.

Just as cozy, but potentially less expensive and more off the beaten path.

While many will want to see big-name productions like Hamilton or the Lion King, don’t forget that you can add an extra layer of holiday cheer to your trip by attending a Christmas or holiday show.

The Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall is just one option as there are many Christmas shows and pageants in New York each holiday season.

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza’s Palm Court

From mar pages of once in a lifetime journey.

What better way to spend a freezing cold New York day than in the spacious Plaza Hotel’s iconic Palm Court with a piping hot cup of tea and gorgeously delicious desserts.

Escape the snowy sludge as you recline on the velvet olive sofas surrounded by greenery and the impressive stained-glass dome.

The decor mimics Central Park, which is across the road but is a more opulent affair. 

While the Palm Court is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner I would recommend visiting for High Tea.

What you get is a three-layered stand of treats of all kinds with some really swanky China dinnerware and branded silverware.

There are plenty of high quality imported teas to choose from, coming from all over the world like India, China, South Korea, and South Africa.

Then comes the luxurious menu options, three in total. 

The most popular choice is the Eloise, named after the 1950s children’s book by Kay Thompson, where the main character has a shop at the Plaza.

As you can imagine, this menu option is a flurry of pinks and will bring out your kidult sweet tooth.

Imagine a three-tiered tower with everything from raspberry macarons and vanilla éclairs to chocolate mousse cups and even pink cotton candy.

Those come along with other delights like devilled eggs, roasted turkey with apricot chutney, prosciutto cotto, gruyere, and freshly baked seasonal scones and vanilla cupcakes. 

Take your winter jacket off, recline under the crystal chandeliers and indulge in a winter feast that only NYC can provide.

Watch the Radio City Christmas Spectacular Rockettes Show

From Martina Benedetto of As Far As You Can

Love holiday musicals? Be sure to watch the Radio City Christmas Spectacular while visiting New York in winter!

The musical show featuring The Radio City Rockettes can be seen at the Radio City Music Hall during the winter holiday season.

The Rockettes are one of the most well-known dance troupes in America and known for their extraordinary talent and discipline performance.

The perfectly synchronized dance performance features a variety of high-precision moves including the famous eye-high kicks.

The show is held from early November to early January of every year.

It is 90 minutes long and just breathtaking!

The Christmas Spectacular musical is one of the most popular holiday performances in America and tickets can get sold out months in advance.

New York Public Library

If you are like me and love books, then you must visit the New York Public Library.

This historic library is among the best libraries in the world and is a delight to explore on cold, wintry days.

You can either explore it on your own or join a free guided tour that will take you around the building and exhibits.

I love exploring the library by myself but have heard great things about the tours.

The library architecture is fabulous and I would also recommend seeing the building from outside.

The two lions by the door are iconic and many times you see local writers conducting book signings near the entrance – though not that often in winter.

The Library is also a featured filming spot in Sex and the City: you guessed it right, Carrie’s wedding to Big was supposed to be held here! 

Chelsea Market

If you love food halls, you will love Chelsea Market.

The market is huge, spread over three levels, and has over 40 eateries serving a wide variety of cuisines.

We love eating at the famous Los Tacos No. 1.

The lines can be super long – last time I went it was almost closing time and I still had to wait for 20 mins.

And yes, the famous Adobada pork tacos were sold out.

Other things to eat include lobsters and seafood at Lobster Place and the Israeli food at Miznon. 

Strand Bookstore

New York City is famous for its independent bookstores but nothing can beat the Strand.

The Strand is huge – so huge that if you stack its books, the collection would be over 18 miles long.

My favorite part about the Strand though is it’s used book collection.

The musty smell makes you feel as if you have walked back in time to a 1950s New York!

Their comics and children’s books section is also pretty solid.

The Strand is also a favorite with celebs, so you never know who you might spot. 

By Jeremiah Pittmon of Smiles on Arrival

A great way to enjoy New York in the winter and get a break from the cold is to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

You probably want to visit this spectacular cultural site during any season as it is one of the premier museums in the world.

The museum contains an extensive collection of artifacts that covers some 5,000 years of history.

One highlight is its Egyptian exhibit.

This section contains 26,000 pieces from the ancient Egyptian empire spread over 39 rooms.

Other areas include Arms and Armor, Charles Sheeler Photographs and one of the world’s largest Asian art collections.

The Asian collection contains artwork that spans the artistic contributions from Afghanistan to the islands of Japan.

Considering the grand size of the museum you can stay busy (and warm) for hours.

Why not make a day of it? No matter how much you see, there’s always more that will catch your interest.

The vast array of art from paintings, to armor to sculptures will keep you wandering from one room to the other.

Even for a site of the size of the Met Museum, it can be a treat for kids as well.

The museum offers family guides and downloadable maps in PDF format to help make your adventure with little ones a good one.

Perhaps best of all, kids aged 12 and under are free.

When making a winter visit to New York City, make sure you add the Metropolitan Museum of Art to your itinerary.

Winter Jazzfest

If you love the blues, then the annual Winter Jazzfest is the place to be in New York.

The event takes place across multiple venues in the city including a closing marathon concert in the Village.

At the event, you will find local performers, upcoming musicians, as well as famous artists.

All events are ticketed with tickets starting about $10 for single shows and going up to $100 for the final marathon with multiple events.

Holiday treats at cafes and bakeries 

Wintertime in New York is quite easy on the stomach.

Plus winter always somehow makes me want to eat a lot.

If you are visiting New York, then you should totally take advantage of this by visiting some of the famous restaurants and cafes including Max Brenner, Magnolia Bakery, Levain Bakery, Junior’s, etc.

Also, try the Nutella crepes in the Village or the Dinges at Wafles & Dinges food truck. 

Did you like our epic list of things to do in New York in winter?

Hopefully, we made planning a winter trip to Manhattan a little bit easier. Happy Holidays!

1 thought on “26 Festive Things to do in New York City in winter”

Your post is perfect for me as I’m planning our trip to NYC early December. Thanks so much for all this good info. I’m so excited about seeing all the holiday magic in New York!

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Off-season delights: a guide to New York in winter

When most people think of the Big Apple, they think of Times Square, sunny days in Central Park, and walks down Fifth Avenue. But what about visiting New York in winter?

Fewer crowds, quieter streets, ice rinks, and snow-capped trees are some of the benefits of a trip to New York in winter . It’s also a brilliant time to tuck into delicious treats for less (say hello to Restaurant Week) and experience some sensational seasonal events. And, let’s not forget that festive cheer!

From what to expect to the top things to do, this is your one-stop shop for all things wintery in New York. Ready to jump in?

Why visit New York in winter?

There are few places you can visit during the depths of winter and leave with the same enthusiasm as the summer, autumn, or spring.

In my opinion, winter is one of the best times to visit New York for two reasons. Firstly, there are far fewer tourists around. And two? Due to fewer visitors, everything is a bit cheaper . This makes it a great season for a cheap(er) holiday to NYC

When is the best time to visit New York in winter?

There are a few things to consider when choosing the best month to visit New York in winter. January is your month if you’re looking for the best deals . However, January is easily one of the coldest months, so wrap up and expect snow.

December is busier and more expensive than both January and February, but it’s hard to beat the buzz of the Christmas build-up . Fancy a trip in February? All of the attractions in the city are still quiet and the weather isn’t quite as cold as in January. Plus, with Valentine’s Day on the agenda, you could witness numerous marriage proposals amid the snowfall.

Things to do during winter in New York

New York is hands-down one of the best cities to visit during the winter. It’s sure to be an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Thanks to all of the attractions being open all year round and fewer people, you’ll feel like you’re in a winter wonderland all of your own.

Not sure what to add to your New York winter itinerary? Here are a few things to do for inspiration:

1. Explore Central Park (hopefully blanketed in snow)

Name me a park more famous than Central Park! It’s an urban escape for both local New Yorkers and visitors alike. The park is lined with beautiful trees, historic statues, and benches that you’ll recognize from movies. In winter, you can add snow sculptures, kids sledding, and ice skaters to the picture.

Take the time to wander along the winding paths, passing stoned arches and frozen ponds . If you get cold buy a hot cup of coffee and sip on it as you leisurely meander.

2. Watch the Times Square Ball Drop on New Year’s Eve

Times Square is one of the city’s top attractions and a truly iconic viewpoint. In winter, it’s the site of one of New York’s most iconic events: the midnight ball drop.

Alongside places like London’s Big Ben and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Times Square hosts one of the largest NYE parties in the world . The excitement of being there for the ball drop is hard to describe.

Bells are chiming, fireworks are going off and hundreds of people are cheering. Amidst all of this, the famous ball gradually drops down, counting the time down to midnight.

3. Admire the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Visiting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is another classic thing to do in New York at Christmas. It’s one of the city’s symbols of the holiday season. The tree itself has a televised lighting ceremony that usually happens after Thanksgiving .

The tree stays lit for almost a month and typically has a Swarovski crystal star atop it. For a front-row view, head down to the Channel Gardens along Fifth Avenue and have a gander. The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is an absolute must-see if you’re lucky enough to catch a snowy day during December. For more festive visit the ice rink afterwards (more on that below).

4. Go ice skating at one of the city’s rinks

Who doesn’t love spending time on an ice rink? Breathe in cool air while you move around feeling like a champion figure-skater or ice hockey player. Want to know the difference between a standard ice rink back home and the ice rinks in NYC? You probably can’t see the Empire State Building from the former.

There are a few rinks to choose from if you want to skate in the city. This includes the world-famous rink in Rockefeller Plaza . Other options include Central Park’s Wollman, Pier 17’s Skyline Rink, and Bryant Park’s Winter Village . Although the ice rinks may be a little gimmicky, a trip to one has to be on your agenda if you’re visiting New York during the holiday season.

5. Visit the top NYC museums in peace

If you’re an avid history or art fanatic, you’re in for a treat. Heading to some of New York’s top museums during your winter visit is a must. Grab a New York CityPASS if you plan on visiting multiple . It’ll save you a fair amount of money, plus you get to check out a whole load of world-class institutions.

My top pick of museums to check out include The Morgan Library and Museum, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET), the New York Transit Museum, and the Intrepid Air, Sea and Space Museum.

6. Walk the streets of NYC

Wandering the city’s streets of New York City is on many people’s bucket lists. It’s a must-do throughout the year. The benefit of doing it in winter? You’ll have the streets to yourself and the chance to admire wonderfully crisp scenery.

There’s a wide range of places worth walking to when visiting New York in winter. My favorites include Brooklyn Bridge, The High Line, Central Park (of course), Brooklyn Bridge Park and Dumbo, Broadway and Fifth Avenue.

Brooklyn Bridge Park is particularly great if you want to grab a bite to eat (fresh lobster rolls or yummy pizza). You can also gaze out at the Lower Manhattan skyline and capture a few pictures of the bridge.

7. Stroll around NYC’s most festive neighborhood

If you’ve purposefully planned a New York vacation to experience its festive side, there’s one place you have to visit: Dyker Heights. This corner of trendy Brooklyn is often nicknamed the city’s most Christmassy neighborhood. That’s all down to its enchanting light displays which adorn its houses from late November.

Venture to the area, hot chocolate in hand, to stroll among the twinkling displays. You can also join a guided tour of the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights to make sure you glimpse all of the best ones.

8. Attend a seasonal festival

Heading to the city after December? Consider going at the end of January/the beginning of February to experience Broadway Week. This is your chance to grab 2-for-1 tickets to some of the city’s top shows.

January is also typically when the winter edition of New York Restaurant Week is held. It’s the perfect time to tuck into delicious discounted dishes at the city’s best restaurants — both new, old, and world-renowned.

New York in winter FAQs

Is it worth visiting New York in winter?

Definitely. As well as being much quieter than the high-season summer months, New York offers plenty to see and do in winter. Get in on the festive cheer with a December vacation . Or make the most of cheap food and half-price theatre tickets in February.

How cold does it get in New York in winter?

There’s a strong chance you’ll experience icy weather during your winter trip to New York. The average temperatures in December tend to sit between 42 °F and 32 °F , while January (the coldest month) has an average temperature of 33 °F. The snow season in NYC usually happens from mid-January to late February, though every year is different.

What do I pack for New York in winter?

No matter what month you visit, you’ll need to pack warmly. In December, pack a few base layers as you may get lucky with a few warmer days. If you’re heading to New York during January or February, you’ll want layers and a good winter coat. Thermal gloves and a hat are also essentials if you plan on spending time outside. And make sure you bring a sturdy pair of waterproof boots to keep your feet dry and warm.

Regardless of when in the winter you visit, remember to do your research, pack accordingly, and prepare to enjoy your time immensely.

Looking for more end-of-year vacation options? Check out the best places to visit for Thanksgiving and the 10 best winter vacations in the US .

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Best Times To Visit New York City

The best time to visit New York is anytime . Each season in Gotham offers visitors plenty of reasons to visit. Early fall offers crisp breezes, bright sun and comfortable temperatures while late fall and winter make merry with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and holiday decorations. Deep winter – January and February – is cold, but that also means cheaper hotel rates . Spring is glorious and New Yorkers celebrate the thaw by taking to the streets, shopping at outdoor markets, frolicking in Central Park and dining outside. Summer is hot, but hey, so are lots of places, and at least this is New York. No matter when you decide to visit New York City, consider travel protection – such as a  travel insurance policy or a cancel for any reason plan – in the event you encounter weather issues or trip delays.

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Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Winter in New York

When the cold settles in and snow falls, winter adventure begins in New York State. Get outside and spend a day on the slopes  skiing or snowboarding , skate around iconic  ice rinks , or ride a dog-sled across a frozen lake. All out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers can also take part in two free snowmobile weekends in 2024. Whether you're warming up by the fire on a cozy getaway , getting pampered on a spa trip , or wandering winter wonderlands in charming small towns and villages, it's easy to love New York in winter.

Make winter a season to remember and plan your New York getaway today! 

Winter Sports and Outdoor Fun

Skiing and snowboarding.

With terrain for all levels and over 50 ski resorts, find your dream slope in New York! more

Snowmobiling

Race through more than 10,000 miles of trails all over New York State. more

Frozen Waterfalls

There's something special about these natural wonders in winter.  more

Dog Sled Tours

Experience a dog sledding tour on the scenic Mirror Lake. more

Easy Winter Walks

Take these walks with a view to get outside and enjoy New York State.  more

Adaptive Skiing

Adaptive snowsport programs at ski areas throughout New York State. more

Cross-Country Skiing

Glide through the trees and take in New York's gorgeous vistas.  more

Ice Skating

Your guide to amazing indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks all over the state. more

Snowshoeing

Enjoy the winter air and scenic views with this fun and easy sport. more

Ice Fishing

Bundle up and hit the ice for some ice fishing, a classic New York winter sport.  more

Wondrous Winter Hikes

See our guide on 10 of the best hikes to take in winter. more

Explore the Great Indoors

From baseball and pinball to photography and sculpture, NY's museums have it all. more

Here's a list of 15 indoor pools so you can escape the cold this season. more

Brewery Experiences

Brewing is a huge part of New York’s history—here are 11 of the best breweries to... more

Unique Shopping Experiences

From 5 & 10 cent stores to craft communities, see our list of unique shopping... more

10 Spa Getaways

Visit New York's blissful spas for a glow-inducing getaway! more

Find Your Winter Inspiration

23 things to do this winter.

See our ultimate guide to everything New York State has on offer throughout winter! more

Cozy Winter Getaways

 Your guide to cozy and romantic getaways across New York State. more

What's New in New York for Winter

With a new season comes exciting new openings and New York has plenty! more

NY's Best Winter Photo Spots

Add these wonderful winter photo spots to your next New York adventure.  more

Affordable Winter Getaways

Get cozy in winter wonderlands with your wallet in mind! more

All Your Winter Weekends Planned

Looking for some winter fun? We’ve got you covered with plans for every... more

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15 of the best things to do in New York City in 2024

Mar 23, 2024 • 9 min read

A trip to Central Park is a classic stop on any NYC itinerary © Marco Rubino / Shutterstock

Three life-changing words: New York City .

Millions are drawn to it; some never shake it. Monumental, artistic, cultural, commercial, cosmopolitan – the City That Never Sleeps is everything you've imagined. You'll never be bored here – the only problem is narrowing down what to do from the endless list of possibilities.

To help you get started, here's a list of my favorite inspirational highlights – all perfect experiences for your next trip. However, the big sights lure big crowds, so brace yourself. If you're after a calmer NYC experience, sights in the "outer borough" (beyond Manhattan) will generally be less crowded. 

Ticket costs can also be substantial, so consider purchasing a New York CityPASS , which offers good discounts on top attractions.

Where Locals Go: NYC locals share their favorite nearby vacation spots

1. Visit the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The iconic copper-green  Statue of Liberty dominates a small island in New York Harbor, casting a protective shadow over neighboring Ellis Island , the site of a stirring Immigration Museum . Still symbolic today, these two landmarks served as an uplifting gateway through which over 12 million soon-to-be-Americans passed from 1892 to 1924.

Planning tip: Boats to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island leave from The Battery in Manhattan and Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The monuments are often visited on a combined ticket – book well ahead, especially if you hope to spend time in Liberty's pedestal or crown.

2. Soak up the views from the Empire State and Chrysler Buildings

The tallest building in the world when it opened in 1931, the 1454ft  Empire State Building remains a much-loved character on the NYC skyline, although somewhat controversially, street-level views of this New York City skyline icon are about to be obscured by a luxury condo apartment. Vistas from the outdoor, 360-degree view, 86th-floor deck and the indoor 102nd-floor observatory are breathtaking, though – particularly at sunset. Look northeast at the art deco Chrysler Building , also once the world's tallest before being dethroned by the Empire State.

Planning tip:  Buy tickets in advance and devote a few moments to the second-floor Story of an Icon museum.

3. Pay tribute to lost lives at the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum

The National 9/11 Memorial is located where the World Trade Center Twin Towers once stood. It features sobering tributes to the lives lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, most poignantly two sunken pools with cascades of water pouring into the fallen towers' footprints. Adjacent to the memorial is a profoundly moving museum with remnants and reminders of the tragic day.

Planning tip:  The memorial is free; museum tickets are best bought online in advance.

4. Have family-friendly seaside fun at Coney Island

Jutting like a Brooklyn thumb out into New York Harbor's Lower Bay, Coney Island boasts a wide beach, a popular seaside boardwalk and a lively amusement park, all reachable by subway in about an hour from Midtown Manhattan. Popular attractions include the family-friendly New York Aquarium , Nathan's Famous hot dogs , Deno's Wonder Wheel and thrill-filled Luna Park , featuring the wooden Cyclone rollercoaster – a city and national historic landmark.

Planning tip:  Walk to nearby Brighton Beach for classic Russian and Ukrainian eats.

5. Tour the vast collections at NYC's major museums

The Met  is NYC's most visited museum for very good reasons. With 5000 years of art from all over the world, two million individual objects and 17 acres of exhibition space, it's massive, astounding and seemingly inexhaustible.

An inside tip – the Met's often bypassed uptown Cloisters were cobbled together from authentic sections of European medieval monasteries. Tickets cover three-day admission to both Met branches.

Directly across Central Park from the Met is another significant museum with a broad scope: the American Museum of Natural History , where your ticket grants you access to more than 50 exhibits and 34 million artifacts!

Art lovers will find modern masterpieces from Warhol, Pollock and more in the Museum of Modern Art ; book ahead to skip the line, particularly at weekends. Somewhat smaller and less crowded, though definitely still comprehensive, is the Brooklyn Museum .

Detour: For something much more contemporary and free of hordes, try Brooklyn's Bushwick Collective Street Art .

Use this guide to plan the ultimate museum tour of New York City

6. Hang out in Central Park

Hemmed in by buildings, Central Park serves up 843 acres of green space – meadows, groves, gardens and lakes, as well as restaurants, theaters, concert venues, fountains, skating rinks, ballfields, playgrounds and much more. Park Drive, although often crowded, is a favorite route for runners, skaters and cyclists.

Seeking some green space with fewer people? Brooklyn's Prospect Park , created by the same landscapers as Central Park, has all the same charm with far less throng.

Detour: For a leafy overview of Manhattan, consider cycling along sections of the 31-mile Manhattan Waterfront Greenway , especially the Hudson River Greenway segment.

Can't get enough of Central Park? Our local tells you where to find Central Park's best corners

7. Walk across Brooklyn Bridge to Brooklyn Bridge Park

Undoubtedly NYC's most beautiful river crossing, the 1596ft-long, stone-towered Brooklyn Bridge was one of the world's first steel suspension bridges when it opened in 1883. Today, a walk along its pedestrian passageway delivers delightful Manhattan and Brooklyn skyline views.

Brooklyn Bridge Park , the 1.3-mile, 85-acre green space on Brooklyn's East River shoreline, prolongs the pleasure (and the Manhattan views). Check out the waterfront, glass-enclosed Jane's Carousel and multiple revitalized pier-based leisure and activity areas.

Save these restaurants to your Brooklyn itinerary

8. Gaze upon the Manhattan skyline  

Manhattan's tumble of buildings is a mesmerizing spectacle, changing in natural and artificial light, particularly at dusk and night. Harbor cruises are a fantastic way to enjoy it, but there are also numerous land-based vantage points along the East River.

In Brooklyn, head for Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn Heights Promenade, East River State Park in Williamsburg and Transmitter Park in Greenpoint. Over in Queens, go to Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City and Astoria Park.

Planning tip:  For a once-in-a-lifetime splurge and unbeatable views, take a helicopter tour over NYC; yes, it's pricey, but it's worth it.

9. See art and architecture on the High Line and at Hudson Yards 

The 1.5-mile-long High Line is one of New York's great surprises. This art-filled, community green space – featuring gardens, events, and amazing city outlooks – was crafted from an abandoned elevated railway. It can be packed on warm evenings when the unique modern architecture on all sides is illuminated.

The northern terminus of the High Line is at the Hudson Yards , Manhattan's newest luxury development, with gourmet restaurants, upscale shops and singular attractions like Vessel , a multilevel public landmark, and The Edge , the city's highest (101st-floor) open-air observatory.

10. Visit the landmark Rockefeller Center

Perhaps best known for its winter backdrop – a world-famous ice-skating rink and New York's giant ceremoniously-lit Christmas tree – the art deco Rockefeller Center is a busy, art-filled national historic landmark all year round.

Named for its entrepreneurial developer – John D Rockefeller Jr, America's first billionaire – it claims highlights such as the 70th-floor Top of the Rock observation deck, the Radio City Music Hall and NBC Studios Tours , as well as plenty of Midtown shopping and dining.

11. Be dazzled by the lights of Times Square and the Theater District

The neon lights really do shine bright on Broadway, especially in Times Square at the heart of the world's most celebrated theater district. Day and night, it provides billboarded sensory overload. In the area are dozens of marquee-fronted playhouses hosting box-office hits, alongside Madame Tussauds and National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey . Bryant Park, Midtown's small but activity-filled green oasis, and the lion-flanked entrance of the New York Public Library , a national historic landmark, are also nearby.

12. Ride the New York City Subway and Staten Island Ferry

The wheels never stop turning in NYC, aided by its sleepless subway , one of the world's biggest mass transit systems. Another iconic part of the New York transport network is the free, orange Staten Island Ferry , the cheapest way to grab pics of Lady Liberty.

For NYC urban transport history, the kid-friendly Transit Museum has climb-aboard subway cars from all eras. There's a museum annex and shop in Grand Central Terminal , a Midtown beaux-arts wonder with an unforgettably grand main concourse.

13. Support conservation at the Bronx Zoo and New York Botanical Gardens

Who'd have thought the US's biggest and oldest zoo is in NYC? The conservation-minded Bronx Zoo hosts 6000-plus animals in 265 acres of specially designed habitats. Adjacent to it is the New York Botanical Garden , a 250-acre, year-round nature showcase with dozens of indoor and outdoor gardens included in your ticket.

Planning tip: Smaller but impressive alternative zoos can be found at Central Park, Prospect Park and Flushing Meadows Corona Park (Queens). The 50-acre Brooklyn Botanic Garden is famous for its seasonally blossoming cherry trees.

14. Find art and entrepreneurs in Brooklyn

In a city that places a high premium on space, Brooklyn now claims three hip, rehabilitated industrial areas commandeered by entrepreneurs, artisanal makers, retailers, artists, start-ups and nonprofits. Industry City occupies six large warehouses on the Sunset Park waterfront.

Further south, 100-plus companies fill the vast and storied Brooklyn Army Terminal . And east of Downtown Brooklyn, the expansive, historic Brooklyn Navy Yard is a modern made-in-Brooklyn manufacturing hub.

15. Go to a game at a New York stadium

New Yorkers take outsize pride in their sports teams, so how better to absorb the city's energy than at a game? The Bronx's Yankee Stadium and Mets' Citi Field in Queens are grand open-air stadiums, while Manhattan's Madison Square Garden , home of Knicks and Liberty basketball and Rangers hockey, and Brooklyn's futuristic Barclays Center , where the Nets basketball and Islanders hockey teams play, are enclosed, so good for rainy days.

Planning tip:  If you'd prefer to see the Giants and Jets compete in the National Football League, their arenas are in nearby New Jersey .

And now for the hard part: should you go to a Mets or Yankees game? Two local experts weigh in

Keep planning your trip to NYC:

• Find out which NYC neighborhood fits your vibe
• Find the best time of year to visit
• Getting around NYC is fairly straightforward –  find out how in our full transportation guide
• Even better, read on for top tips to see New York on two wheels

This article was first published May 25, 2021 and updated Mar 23, 2024.

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Ann's Entitled Life

Travel. Food. Wine. Gardening. Life Is Good When You're Retired.

10 Best Places to Visit in New York State in Winter

By Ann Leave a Comment

Winter does not need to stop your travels. Just consider new adventures that take advantage of playing in the snow, such as skiing, sledding, skating or even cross country skiing. How about building a snowman on the same grounds where the United States won a gold medal in men’s hockey? Or, touring New York’s wine region, but in addition to checking out the local wines, maybe go ice fishing, too. You can also visit your favorite wineries while in the Finger Lakes region. Whatever you decide to do, do not let the snow prevent you from having fun, embrace and enjoy all that winter has to offer in beautiful New York State! Here are a few spots around the state that make for great winter getaways.

Live in New York State and looking for a winter day trip, or weekend trip to enjoy with your family or significant other? Or perhaps you live south of the Mason-Dixon and would like to experience a great northern ski and snow season?

If you are ready to have a fantastic winter vacation, here are the top Winter Vacation Spots in New York State to visit this year:

1. Adirondacks

From winter skiing to summertime hiking, the Adirondack Mountains and their communities offer outstanding experiences year-round. During the winter, explore the mountains with a hike via snowshoes or cross-country skis. With about 200 miles of trails, snowmobile enthusiasts will find plenty of space to enjoy speeding along snow-covered lanes, including Lake George and Lake Champlain.

With festivals taking place throughout winter, winter is party time with Adirondacks towns and villages. Lake George celebrates its winter carnival throughout February. Ice sculptures, great food, and a polar plunge highlight the events. Other communities celebrating winter include Brant Lake, Indian Lake and Inlet.

Don’t forget to check out shopping opportunities at Adirondacks outlets and boutiques, such as Lake George Outlets with its variety of shopping opportunities. Small town shops feature unique foods and products, including maple syrup, cheese, meats, and crafts. Check out the area’s bed and breakfast inns for your winter getaway.

2. The Catskills

The Catskills can look like a pristine white quilt as snow covers its rolling hills, mountains and forests. Yet, that beauty invites you to be part of the winter fun. With outstanding ski resorts, as well as lodges and bed and breakfast inns, the area is ripe for a winter getaway. From fantastic skiing and snowboarding spots to trails for fun cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the Catskills is a winter enthusiast’s paradise. Rev up the snowmobile and enjoy racing along mountain trails.

But, if you are not in the mood for winter sports, how about farm life? The Catskills are home to farm stays, where people can spend a weekend staying on a working farm and help with chores, such as milking cows and feeding animals. It provides an opportunity to learn firsthand what goes into farm living.

3. Chautauqua County

Hugging Lake Erie along in western New York, Chautauqua County sees lake effect snow often during the winter (when you hear “Buffalo got snow” on the national weather station, it is usually here in ski country), creating a white canvas waiting to be explored via snowmobile, cross-country skis or snowshoes. With more than 25 ski slopes and trails available, as well as five challenging terrains, Peek ‘n’ Peak Resort offers great winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding. With hiking trails giving way to snow-covered paths, cross-country skiing fans and snowshoe enthusiasts will find the trails inviting for their winter adventures.

At the end of the day, you will want to relax and enjoy the evening. Find your way out of a locked room experience with Escape Rooms Jamestown . A locked room experience challenges you to solve puzzles and answer clues that lead your team to a safe exit from your room within the allotted time limit. You can also unwind with a glass of beer or sip a wine at Jamestown’s wineries or breweries.

4. Cooperstown

Winter may be the best time to visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame as you can reserve a custom tour that focuses on your favorite team. The tour features memorabilia and exhibits specific to your team. New York Yankee fans may have to plan a whole day to tour their team’s accomplishments. Don’t forget a visit to the Fenimore Art Museum and its beautiful courtyard looking out to Lake Otsego.

Otsego Lake is beautiful no matter the time of year. During the winter, grab some skates and go ice skating on the lake (weather permitting, of course). Cooperstown may be best known for baseball, but the area is home to outstanding areas for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snow tubing.

Cooperstown is home to some excellent lodging options, such as the Inn at Cooperstown, Tunnifliff Inn, Rose and Thistle B&B and the Holiday Inn Express and Suites.

5. Finger Lakes

With lakes in the region’s name, you know that ice fishing has to rank as one of the fun things to do in Finger Lakes during winter. Drilling a hole in one of the frozen lakes and taking part in a favorite winter activity is perfect for the Finger Lakes. Rainbow trout, bigmouth bass and perch are the fish most commonly caught during winter. Do not forget your New York State fishing license. You can print it out online (I have done this before) if you decide on a last-minute trip and do not want to wait for it in the mail.

Ganondagan State Historical Park features about 500 acres that are perfect for snowshoeing. As you walk across the snow, be on the lookout for wildlife such as fox or deer. You may also want to explore the park’s history, including the Seneca Bark Longhouse, a 17th- century tribal home.

Since the Finger Lake area is known for its wine, create your own winter wine trail, with stops at any of the dozens of wineries open year-round. Pair your favorite drink with cheese or chocolates, and you have an impressive winter outing. While you are in the Finger Lakes, if you would like to do some winery exploration, I’ve been to more than a few: * Estate Wineries on Seneca Lake * Wine Tasting On Canandaigua Lake * Wine Tasting On the West Side Of Seneca Lake * Wine Tasting On the east Side of Seneca Lake * Wine Tasting On Cayuga Lake

6. Letchworth State Park

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park offers a bounty of outdoor activities to warm you up during winter. Situated about an hour south of Rochester, the park has more than 60 miles of trails that can be used for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Or even snowshoeing. The park also features excellent terrain for snow tubing. Considered one of the nation’s best state parks, Letchworth State Park’s trails are perfect for exploring nature year-round.

Stay in the park at the Glen Iris Inn or consider one of the area’s hotels, only a few miles from the park’s main entrance.

7. Lake Placid

Of course, the spot of the USA’s 1980 Olympic gold-medal winning hockey team must be visited. Located in the Adirondacks, does any other place really say winter in New York better than Lake Placid?

Home to the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, you can learn about the history of the winter sports. Possibly even more fun would be taking a luge or bobsled ride down the same runs as Olympians. If Olympic sports may be too fast or challenging, grab a pair of skis and head out for some cross-country skiing or try snowshoeing area trails. The Lake Placid area is perfect for the activities. Sledding is fun anytime, but there is something special about sledding at Lake Placid. Avid skiers and snowboarders can enjoy a challenging course down Whiteface Mountain.

If you just want a relaxing weekend at Lake Placid, check out area spas , museums, and art galleries.

The snow may cover the mountains, but it doesn’t stop Lake Placid from offering a great winter getaway. Click here for lodging options.

8. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is beautiful in the winter. Here are some of the photos I have taken of its frozen, beautiful wintertime majesty.

Niagara Falls State Park is simply breathtaking in the wintertime. Enjoy the lightshow, the view from the Observation Tower, and walk the trails on Goat Island and Three Sisters Island. After a half-day spent walking the park, you can enjoy some of the Niagara County regional wines, including New York State Ice Wines! Yum!

10 Free Things to Do in Niagara Falls Here is a great place to find a Niagara Falls hotel: Niagara Falls hotels.

10. Syracuse

When you’re considered the snowiest city in the United States with more than 100 inches annually, you can either hide away for three months or embrace all-things snow. Syracuse grabs winter by the horns and owns it. The home of Syracuse University basketball is also home to Winterfest. For 10 days and nights Feb. 13-23, the city welcomes locals and visitors to celebrate the area’s food, cocktails, and attractions such as ice sculptures, skating, and a treasure hunt! With local attractions open for visits, including the Erie Canal Museum and the Onondaga Historical Association museum, where you can learn about the area’s history as well as enjoy special exhibits.

Of course, with all that snow, Syracuse has to be a great spot for winter sports, right? Try ice skating at Clinton Square or Meacham Park. Located about a 30-minute drive south of the city, Song Mountain Resort offers excellent skiing options. Strap on your skis and enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing along trails in Syracuse parks, including Beaver Lake Nature Center, Highland Forest, and Onondaga Lake Park . Snowmobiling fans will enjoy zipping along Highland Forest Park, as well as nearby Oneida Shores Park and Erie Canal towpath.

During your visit, Syracuse hotels offer several options for comfortable stays.

With some of the snowiest cities in the United States in Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo, not to mention the fabulous ski slopes of Chautauqua County and the beautiful Adirondacks, New Yorkers truly enjoy winter and revel in playing in the white stuff. From snowmobiling to snowshoeing, as well as festivals and wine trails, there is plenty to do and places to explore in New York State during the winter.

So come and embrace the winter and enjoy a fun and adventurous winter getaway in New York.

Looking for more New York State seasonal delights? Here are some great New York State getaways for you and your family to enjoy:

● 10 Best Christmas Towns in New York State – While we may take it for granted sometimes, those of us who live in New York State know that it is a magical place to live during the holidays. Whether you are a New York resident, or you are visiting for the holidays, you can find some pretty amazing places to visit here in the Empire State.

● 10 Fabulous New York State Springtime Getaways – While we may take it for granted sometimes, those of us who live in New York State know that it is a wonderful place to live and play during the springtime. Whether you are a New York State resident, or you are just vacationing in this beautiful region, you can find some pretty amazing places to visit here in the Empire State.

● Best Summer Family Getaways in New York State Summer means vacation time! New York State is home to many inviting spots to spend a long weekend or a full week (or two) with the family. From retracing the steps of great Olympians to camping and fishing outdoors to checking out some of the scary and fun attractions at amusement parks, New York State invites you to enjoy some great quality time with your loved ones on a terrific family getaway.

● For more New York State Travel posts on Ann’s Entitled Life, click here.

● If you enjoyed this post, be sure to sign up for the Ann’s Entitled Life weekly newsletter, and never miss another article!

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The Epic Alaska Adventures to Embark on This Winter

Embrace the cold with dog sledding, ice fishing, steamy hydrotherapy spas, and the most captivating train rides in the country..

A team of dogs pulls a sled across a frozen wonderland, exuberant tongues lolling. Yogis bend and stretch in a windowed dome as the northern lights ripple and glow overhead. Steam rises from heated pools in a boreal forest, and somewhere in the distance, a helicopter touches down on a glacier beside Gatorade-blue water. Is this a dream? Maybe, but it’s also a reality that’s accessible to those who crave cold weather adventure. All you have to do is visit Alaska in the winter.

The 49th state is covered in vast swaths of wilderness, with thousands of miles of coastline—which means many of the state’s best attractions involve spending time outdoors, even in the chillier months. But whether you stick to milder coastal areas or brave the state’s icy interior, enjoy longer days in southern Alaska or endless polar night beyond the Arctic Circle, adventure awaits. And if you’re lucky, so does the aurora borealis.

So bundle up and get ready to visit the Last Frontier this winter. Here’s what to do while you’re there.

Explore the snowy wilderness by dogsled

Learn to mush with Alaska’s first ecotourism dog sledding company Arctic Dog Adventure Co. and form a greater connection to the wild places in the state's arctic and interior—and to your team of huskies, of course. You can choose from a bunch of incredible adventures, like sledding from cabin to cabin in the White Mountains, braving the closed, snow-covered Denali Highway along the Alaska Range, or embarking on a multi-day adventure through the remote backcountry to Tolovana Hot Springs for a few days of soaking. No matter which experience you choose, you have a good chance of glimpsing the aurora at night.

The tours include an orientation in Fairbanks, where the tours begin and end, and you aren’t necessarily required to have mushing experience.

Practice yoga in geodesic igloos in the Arctic

The northernmost yoga studio in the country lies 63 miles above the Arctic Circle and some 270 miles north of Fairbanks, nestled in the Brooks mountain range. It’s part of Arctic Hive , a wilderness retreat center accessible via the famed Dalton Highway, a long and remote road with enormous wilderness views. Arctic Hive picks up guests in Fairbanks, so you can spend the drive looking out the window, rather than worrying about road conditions.

Book the retreat center’s ReWild retreat for five days of snowy self care. You’ll practice yoga and meditation in igloos with celestial views, venture out into nature on snowshoes, cross-country skis, or dogsleds, and learn about the subsistence lifestyle of the nearby village. Guests stay in cozy, off-grid cabins, and eat healthy plant-based meals.

Go ice fishing under the northern lights

Ice fishing can get monotonous for those who aren’t passionate about the hobby—but things are simply better in Alaska. When you book an ice fishing experience with Alaska Fishing and Rafting Adventures , you’ll catch Arctic char and grayling through holes cut into four-feet-thick ice on Chena Lake. If you book an overnight experience, you’re likely to catch some views of the northern lights, too.

For overnight guests, Alaska’s first permanent solar-powered fishing cabins are situated on the ice and insulated for warmth. Anything you happen to catch on your line will be cooked up by your guide in the wood-burning oven to enjoy alongside those aurora views.

Learn about the many Indigenous cultures in Alaska

There are numerous ways to experience ancient traditions from the many Indigenous groups in Alaska. Start off at the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, where Culture Bearers take travelers on private tours to six traditional dwellings set around the mountain-rimmed Lake Tiulana. The Heritage Center also offers demonstrations of Alaska Native games, dance performances, tea with a community elder, and storytelling. While in Anchorage, you can walk, bike, or cross country ski along the Chester Creek Trail , which is home to one of Anchorage’s first place names as part of the  Indigenous Place Names Project .

If you're interested in learning more about the land and animals of Alaska, you should also pay a visit to the  Kodiak Brown Bear Center , which is owned and operated by Kodiak Island’s Alutiiq people. If you sign up for a bear viewing excursion, a guide will take you by boat to a spot where you can observe bears in their natural habitat and learn more about these incredible creatures.

Enjoy some hydrotherapy at a Nordic spa

There’s no cold weather wellness ritual quite like a Nordic one. And if you can’t get to Finland this winter for hot saunas and cold plunge, Alyeska Nordic Spa in Girdwood, Alaska might be the best stateside substitute.

Situated in the Chugach Mountains, the wellness retreat is an all-out oasis surrounded by boreal forest. Spend your days in a hydrotherapy haze, rotating between multiple types of saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, heated pools, and cold plunges. You can book a massage, eat at the onsite restaurant, take fitness classes, and just generally feel your best. If you want to spend the night, the Alyeska Resort next door has plenty of rooms and even offers skiing.

Ride north through the scenic backcountry on the Alaska Railroad

Climb aboard Alaska Railroad ’s winter train for a chance to admire the landscape in relative comfort. The Aurora Winter Train is utterly scenic, running 12 hours from Anchorage to Fairbanks with ample views of the backcountry and maybe an occasional moose. On a clear day, you might even see Denali Mountain from the warmth of your passenger car. The train heads north on Saturdays and south on Sundays, and offers onboard dining.

To turn things up a notch, the Hurricane Turn Train travels from Anchorage to Hurricane Gulch just once a month from October to May, along the highest bridge on the entire Alaska Railroad system. Bring your own food, as there’s no onboard dining service. If you travel this route, you’ll likely see locals with hunting gear disembarking at flagstop requests along the way, off to live out some winter weeks (or longer) at remote cabins. It might even make you rethink your own adventure threshold.

See Alaska from a helicopter

No flying experience is required to take part in an exciting helicopter adventure with Alaska Helicopter Tours , departing from Anchorage. Take in stunning aerial views from a snug three-person Robinson 44 as you’re taken to a glacier for a tour, or an ice formation for winter climbing. The tour company provides everything you’ll need for your activity of choice, including crampons, ice axes, helmets, harnesses, and hot drinks. If you opt to ice climb, you can explore glacial ice caves and climb a frozen waterfall.

After your icy-cool jaunt, it’s back into the chopper and off to Anchorage in time to grab a beer at one of our favorite local breweries, like the Anchorage Brewing Company or Midnight Sun Brewing Co .

Embark on an 11-day Iditarod adventure

If you want to leave all the planning to the experts, join John Hall’s Alaska Cruises and Tours for its epic Iditarod and Aurora Adventure . Hang with the mushers at a banquet marking the official, ceremonial start of the famous Iditarod race. Then, take a flight over the Arctic Circle to check out behind-the-scenes race drama at a remote checkpoint on the course. During the rest of the tour, you’ll spend two nights at Borealis Basecamp in Fairbanks, try your hand at curling while checking out the World Ice Championships, go dog sledding, and visit a musk ox farm. You’ll even spend a day in Anchorage with relaxing spa treatments and the opportunity to fly over a glacier. The tour is all-inclusive , so all you need to worry about is having the best time ever.

Hit the slopes at a nonprofit ski resort in the Talkeetna Mountains

Drive an hour north from Anchorage to Skeetawk alpine ski resort at Hatcher Pass in the Mat-Su Valley. With just a dozen trails and a single 30-chair lift, Skeetawk is hardly the gigantic and famous Vail. But the nonprofit resort offers an intimate Alaskan ski experience that’s accessible to those who might not be ready to ski the backcountry just yet. For harder-core skiers and snowboarders, the mountain does have four black diamond runs, but the majority of the runs are comfortably blue.

Ski confidently alongside the state’s rugged locals (including many volunteers who helped build the resort), and de-ice between runs in a multi-purpose yurt at the mountain’s base. And if you’re not sure the mountain is worth the trip, just know that your lift ticket will be much, much cheaper than what you'd find at the Vails and Aspens of this world.

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Stephen Hiltner/The New York Times

The sculpted facade of a 2,000-year-old tomb glows in the late-afternoon sun at Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Crowds of Muslim pilgrims gather outside the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.

Camels march through the desert on the outskirts of the Empty Quarter, the world’s largest sand sea.

For many years these Saudi Arabian scenes, including the lively open-air markets in Jeddah, were off limits to most travelers.

But not anymore. As it undergoes a profound transformation, Saudi Arabia is spending lavishly to lure tourists with its luxe new resorts ...

... its rich cultural heritage ...

... and its sublime natural beauty.

Can the Saudi government persuade would-be visitors to look past — or reconsider — its longstanding associations with religious extremism, ultraconservatism and human rights abuses?

Will the kingdom’s $800 billion bet on tourism pay off?

Supported by

Surprising, Unsettling, Surreal: Roaming Through Saudi Arabia

To witness the kingdom’s profound transformation and assess its ambitious tourism projects, a Times journalist spent a month on the road there. Here’s what he saw.

By Stephen Hiltner

An editor and photojournalist for the Travel section, Stephen Hiltner drove 5,200 miles and visited all 13 of Saudi Arabia’s provinces while reporting and shooting this story.

Wandering alone along the southern fringes of Saudi Arabia’s mountainous Asir Province, some eight miles from the Yemeni border, in a nondescript town with a prominent sculpture of a rifle balanced on an ornately painted plinth, I met a man, Nawab Khan, who was building a palace out of mud.

Actually, he was rebuilding the structure, restoring it. And when I came across him, he hadn’t yet begun his work for the day; he was seated on the side of the road beneath its red-and-white windows — cross-legged, on a rug, leaning over a pot of tea and a bowl of dates.

Two weeks earlier, on the far side of the country, a fellow traveler had pointed at a map and described the crumbling buildings here, in Dhahran al-Janub, arranged in a colorful open-air museum. Finding myself nearby, I’d detoured to have a look — and there was Mr. Khan, at first looking at me curiously and then waving me over to join him. Sensing my interest in the cluster of irregular towers, he stood up, produced a large key ring and began opening a series of padlocks. When he vanished through a doorway, I followed him into a shadowy stairwell.

This, of course, was my mother’s worst nightmare: Traveling solo, I’d been coaxed by a stranger into an unlit building in a remote Saudi village, within a volatile border area that the U.S. Department of State advises Americans to stay away from .

By now, though, more than halfway through a 5,200-mile road trip, I trusted Mr. Khan’s enthusiasm as a genuine expression of pride, not a ploy. All across Saudi Arabia, I’d seen countless projects being built, from simple museums to high-end resorts. These were the early fruits of an $800 billion investment in the travel sector, itself part of a much larger effort, Vision 2030 , to remake the kingdom and reduce its economic dependence on oil.

But I’d begun to see the building projects as something else, too: the striving of a country — long shrouded to most Westerners — to be seen, reconsidered, accepted. And with its doors suddenly flung open and the pandemic behind us, visitors like me were finally beginning to witness this new Saudi Arabia, much to Mr. Khan’s and all the other builders’ delight.

Few countries present as complicated a prospect for travelers as Saudi Arabia.

Long associated with Islamic extremism, human rights abuses and the oppression of women, the kingdom has made strides in recent years to refashion its society and its reputation abroad.

The infamous religious police, which upheld codes of conduct based on an ultraconservative interpretation of Islam, were stripped of their power. Public concerts, once banned, are now ubiquitous. Women have been granted new rights — including the freedom to drive and to travel without permission from a male guardian — and are no longer required to wear floor-length robes in public or to cover their hair.

These changes are part of a broad set of strategies to diversify the kingdom’s economy, elevate its status in the world and soften its image — the last of which is a tall order for a government that has killed a newspaper columnist , kidnapped and tortured dissidents , precipitated a humanitarian crisis in Yemen and imprisoned people for supporting gay rights , among a number of other recent abuses .

Central to the transformations led by 38-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom’s de facto ruler, is a major push for international visitors. It represents a sea change in a country that, until 2019, issued no nonreligious tourist visas and instead catered almost exclusively to Muslim pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina, Islam’s two holiest cities. In February, by contrast, my tourist e-visa was approved online in minutes.

Saudi Arabia has already transformed one of its premier destinations — Al-Ula, with its UNESCO-listed Nabatean tombs — from a neglected collection of archaeological sites into a lavish retreat with a bevy of activities on offer, including guided tours, wellness festivals, design exhibitions and hot air balloon rides.

Another project will create a vast array of luxury resorts on or near the Red Sea.

Still more projects include the development of Diriyah , the birthplace of the first Saudi state; the preservation and development of the coastal city of Jeddah ; an offshore theme park called the Rig ; and Neom , the futuristic city that has garnered the lion’s share of attention.

All told, the country is hoping to draw 70 million international tourists per year by 2030, with tourism contributing 10 percent of its gross domestic product. (In 2023, the country logged 27 million international tourists, according to government figures , with tourism contributing about 4 percent of G.D.P.)

At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was the birthplace of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is now the centerpiece of the $63 billion Diriyah project, a new center of culture just outside Riyadh.

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve on a remote island in the Red Sea, opened in late May. (A one-bedroom villa costs about $2,500 per night, excluding taxes and fees.) It is one of 50 properties scheduled to open in the area by 2030.

The preservation and development of Jeddah, a coastal city famous for its historic district built largely from blocks of coral, comes with a price tag of some $20 billion.

Al-Ula is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambitions. Part of the city’s Old Town, long crumbling in neglect, has now been painstakingly restored.

To get a sense of these projects and the changes unfolding in Saudi society, I spent a month exploring the kingdom by car. I traveled alone, without a fixer, driver or translator. Per New York Times ethics guidelines, I declined the government’s many offers of discounts and complimentary services.

Much of the time I felt I’d been tossed the keys to the kingdom. But there were moments, too, when I faced a more complicated reality, one epitomized by a road sign that forced me to abruptly exit the highway some 15 miles from the center of Mecca. “Obligatory for Non Muslims,” it read, pointing to the offramp.

To me, the sign broadcast the lines being drawn to compartmentalize the country, which is now marketing itself to two sets of travelers with increasingly divergent — and sometimes contradictory — expectations: luxury tourists at ease with bikinis and cocktails, and pilgrims prepared for modesty and strict religious adherence. It’s hard to know whether the kingdom can satisfy both without antagonizing either.

My trip began in Jeddah, where, after spending two days exploring its historic district, I rented a car and drove eight hours north to Al-Ula, a benchmark for the new Saudi tourism initiatives.

Saudi Arabia

Reporter’s route

Dhahran al-Janub

Wadi al-Disah

Red Sea Resort

The name Al-Ula refers to both a small city and a broader region packed with attractions: Hegra , the kingdom’s first UNESCO World Heritage site and its biggest archaeological draw, is a 30-minute drive north of Old Town, a maze of crumbling mud-brick buildings now partly restored. Between the two, and fanning out to the east and west, are several other archaeological sites, as well as a smattering of resorts, event spaces and adventure outfitters. Farther northeast, beyond Hegra, is the Sharaan Nature Reserve , a vast protected zone used for conservation efforts.

My first priority during my five-day stay in Al-Ula was a visit to Hegra.

Like Petra , its better-known counterpart in Jordan, Hegra was built by the Nabateans, an ancient people who flourished 2,000 years ago. The site contains more than 100 tombs that were carved from solid rock, their entrances adorned with embellishments. Most impressive among them, set apart and standing some 70 feet tall, is a tomb colloquially called the Lonely Castle.

Not long ago, visitors could hire private guides and wander the area on foot, climbing in and out of — and no doubt damaging — the many tombs. Not anymore: I boarded an air-conditioned tour bus and zipped past most of them, stopping at just four locations.

At the penultimate stop, we exited the bus and trudged several hundred feet along a sandy path to the front of the Lonely Castle. Even in the late afternoon, the heat was stifling. I craned my neck to take in the details of the sculpted facade, which emerged like a mirage from one side of a massive boulder: its four pilasters, the rough chisel marks near the bottom, its characteristic five-stepped crown. Ten minutes evaporated, and I turned to find my group being shepherded back onto the bus. I jogged through the sand to catch up.

A few miles north of Hegra, I hopped in the back of a Toyota Land Cruiser — accompanied by an Italian graduate student and his mother — for a drive through the sandy expanse of the Sharaan Nature Reserve.

The scenery was sublime: Slipping through a narrow slot canyon, we emerged into a vast, open desert plain, then settled into a wide valley enclosed by an amphitheater of cliffs. Occasionally our guide stopped and led us on short hikes to petroglyphs, some pockmarked by bullet holes, or to lush fields of wildflowers, where he plucked edible greens and invited us to sample their lemony tang.

Gabriele Morelli, the graduate student, had first come to Al-Ula a few years ago — a different era, he said, given how quickly the place had transformed. He described a version that no longer exists, rife with cheap accommodation, lax rules and a free-for-all sensibility.

Some of the changes, of course, have been necessary to protect delicate ecosystems and archaeological sites from ever-growing crowds. But several people I met in Al-Ula — Saudis and foreigners alike — quietly lamented the extent of the high-end development and the steady erosion of affordability. Many of the new offerings, like the Banyan Tree resort, they pointed out, are luxury destinations that cater to wealthy travelers.

These hushed criticisms were among my early lessons on how difficult it can be to gauge the way Saudis feel about the pace and the pervasiveness of the transformations reshaping their society.

I got a taste of Al-Ula’s exclusivity — and of the uncanniness that occasionally surfaced throughout my trip — at a Lauryn Hill concert in an event space called Maraya . To reach the hall, I passed through a security gate, where an attendant scanned my e-ticket and directed me two miles up a winding road into the heart of the Ashar Valley, home to several high-end restaurants and resorts.

Rounding the final bend, I felt as if I’d stumbled into a computer-generated image: Ant-size humans were dwarfed by a reflective structure that both asserted itself and blended into the landscape. Inside, waiters served hors d’oeuvres and brightly colored mocktails to a chic young crowd.

The surreality peaked when, midway through the show, I left my plush seat to join some concertgoers near the stage — only to turn and see John Bolton, former President Donald J. Trump’s national security adviser, seated in the front row.

Where else, I wondered, could I attend a rap concert in the middle of the desert with a longtime fixture of the Republican Party — amid a crowd that cheered when Ms. Hill mentioned Palestine — but this strange new corner of Saudi Arabia?

The mirrored facade at Maraya, a vast event space in Al-Ula, warps and reflects the surrounding desert landscape.

The building is in some ways a precursor to the kingdom’s most ambitious architectural design: the project at Neom called the Line, a 106-mile linear city that will also feature a mirrored surface.

Lauryn Hill performing in front of a large crowd at Maraya.

After Al-Ula, I drove to another of the kingdom’s extravagant schemes: the Red Sea project, billed as the “world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destination.” After weaving through a morass of construction-related traffic, I boarded a yacht — alongside a merry band of Saudi influencers — and was piloted some 15 miles to a remote island, where I disembarked in a world of unqualified opulence at the St. Regis Red Sea Resort .

I was chauffeured around in an electric golf cart — past 43 beachside “dune” villas and onto two long boardwalks that connect the rest of the resort to 47 “coral” villas, built on stilts over shallow turquoise water. Along the way, I listened to Lucas Julien-Vauzelle, an executive assistant manager, wax poetic about sustainability. “We take it to the next level,” he said, before rattling off a list of facts and figures: 100 percent renewable energy, a solar-powered 5G network , plans to enhance biologically diverse habitats.

By 2030, he said, the Red Sea project will offer 50 hotels across its island and inland sites. Citing the Maldives, he mentioned the kingdom’s plans to claim a share of the same high-end market.

Another prediction came by way of Keith Thornton, the director of restaurants, who said he expects the resort to legally serve alcohol by the end of the year. (While a liquor store for non-Muslim diplomats recently opened in Riyadh, the Saudi government has made no indication that it plans to reconsider its broader prohibition of alcohol.)

The hotel was undeniably impressive. But there’s an inescapable irony to a lavish resort built at unfathomable expense in the middle of the sea — with guests ferried out by chartered boat and seaplane — that flaunts its aspirations for sustainability.

Toward the end of my several-hour visit, I learned that every piece of vegetation, including 646 palm trees, had been transplanted from an off-site nursery. Later, reviewing historical satellite images, I found visual evidence that the island — described to me as pristine — had been dramatically fortified and, in the process, largely remade. Its footprint had also been significantly altered. It was, in a sense, an artificial island built where a smaller natural island once stood.

Something else struck me, too: The place was nearly empty, save for the staff and the Saudi influencers. Granted, the resort had just opened the month before — but the same was true at the nearby Six Senses Southern Dunes , an inland Red Sea resort that opened in November. Fredrik Blomqvist, the general manager there, told me that its isolated location in a serene expanse of desert — part of its appeal — also presented a challenge in drawing customers. “The biggest thing,” he said, “is to get the message out that the country is open.”

Since the country began issuing tourist visas, influencers have been documenting their experiences in places like Jeddah and Al-Ula, their trips often paid for by the Saudi government. Their breezy content contributes to the impression that the kingdom is awaiting discovery by foreign visitors with out-of-date prejudices. To an extent, for a certain segment of tourists, that’s true.

For many travelers, though, the depiction of the kingdom as an uncomplicated getaway could be dangerously misleading.

Speech in Saudi Arabia is strictly limited; dissent is not tolerated — nor is the open practice of any religion other than the government’s interpretation of Islam. In its travel advisory , the U.S. Department of State warns that “social media commentary — including past comments — which Saudi authorities may deem critical, offensive, or disruptive to public order, could lead to arrest.” Punishment for Saudi nationals has been far worse: In 2023, a retired teacher was sentenced to death after he criticized the ruling family via anonymous accounts. As of late 2023, he remained in prison.

Other restrictions are harder to parse. L.G.B.T.Q. travelers are officially welcome in the kingdom but face a conundrum: They might face arrest or other criminal penalties for openly expressing their sexual orientation or gender identity. As recently as 2021, an independent U.S. federal agency included Saudi Arabia on a list of countries where same-sex relationships are punishable by death , noting that “the government has not sought this penalty in recent years.”

When asked how he would convince a same-sex couple that it was safe to visit, Jerry Inzerillo, a native New Yorker and the group chief executive of Diriyah, said: “We don’t ask you any questions when you come into the country or when you leave.”

“Maybe that’s not conclusive enough,” he added, “but a lot of people have come.”

Female travelers might also face difficulties, since advancements in women’s rights are not equally distributed throughout the kingdom.

The changes were more visible in big cities and tourist centers. Ghydda Tariq, an assistant marketing manager in Al-Ula, described how new professional opportunities had emerged for her in recent years. Maysoon, a young woman I met in Jeddah, made extra money by occasionally driving for Uber. Haneen Alqadi, an employee at the St. Regis Red Sea, described how women there are free to wear bikinis without fear of repercussions.

Outside such places, though, I sometimes went for days without seeing more than a handful of women, invariably wearing niqabs, let alone seeing them engaged in public life or tourism. My photographs reflect that imbalance.

As an easily identifiable Western man, I moved through the country with an array of advantages: the kindness and cheery curiosity of strangers, the ease of passage at military checkpoints, and the freedom to interact with a male-dominated society at markets, museums, parks, restaurants, cafes. Not all travelers could expect the same treatment.

Roaming in the far north and south, I often found the earlier version of the kingdom — with lax rules and less development — that had been described to me in Al-Ula.

I trekked to the northern city of Sakaka to see an archaeological site promoted as the Stonehenge of Saudi Arabia: a set of monoliths called the Rajajil Columns thought to have been erected some 6,000 years ago but about which little is definitively known.

My heart sank when I pulled into the parking lot after a five-hour drive and found the columns blocked by a tall fence. Approaching on foot, though, I noticed that a section of the fence had been peeled back and that visitors were wandering freely among the stones, which protruded from the earth like isolated clusters of crooked teeth. I joined the small crowd, if hesitatingly, and was surprised to find no footpaths, nor anything to keep us a safe distance from the columns. In the end I wondered if our access had been officially approved or informally arranged.

My travel experiences were sometimes awkward in other ways, too.

Standing just outside the grounds of the central mosque in Medina, where the Prophet Muhammad is buried, I was detained by a stern member of the Special Forces. (Even after 2019, non-Muslim tourists remained barred from Mecca and Medina, Islam’s two holiest cities. The ban was relaxed in parts of Medina in 2021.)

The guard interrogated me and, after calling a colleague to confer, demanded that I leave the area. “Go,” he said threateningly. Another traveler who witnessed the encounter scurried away to avoid a similar fate.

The unsettling exchange cast a pall over my time in the city, which few non-Muslims have seen. As far as I knew, I’d abided by the rules by staying outside the grounds of the Prophet’s Mosque — a boundary line that I’d confirmed with tourism officials beforehand.

Peering through the perimeter fence — the boundary line for non-Muslims — at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.

The Mosque of Al-Ghamamah, one of the oldest in the holy city.

A sprawling maze of ramshackle residential buildings sits less than a mile from the Prophet’s Mosque.

A guide speaking to a group of visitors near the Hejaz Railway Museum, visible in the distance. (The museum was closed for renovations at the time.)

A group of young men, most of whose families emigrated from Sudan, playing soccer in a field just outside the center of Medina.

More than anything, family and friends wanted to know if I felt safe on my trip — and I did, almost without exception. Petty crime in Saudi Arabia is exceedingly rare. And while parts of the country are under a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory , even my rambling itinerary was approved by a security expert.

Instead of fearing for my safety, I was often preoccupied with how I’d fairly portray a place that elicited such a range of conflicting emotions: joy and distress, excitement and apprehension, sincerity and doubt. So much lay hidden from public view — like the collective anguish over the war raging in Gaza . And so little was easy to categorize, in part because the warmth of everyday Saudis was strikingly at odds with the ruthlessness of their authoritarian government.

In Riyadh, a young man warned me not to speak openly with strangers. “People get arrested here for a tweet ,” he said. “Can you imagine?”

I could, actually. The Saudi columnist Jamal Khashoggi had chronicled his government’s increasingly draconian responses to criticism. “Repression and intimidation are not — and never should be — the acceptable companions of reform,” he wrote in The Washington Post in 2018, just months before he was killed and dismembered at his country’s consulate in Istanbul.

Were we to travel only where we feel comfortable and unchallenged, we’d all be poorer for it. But the question of whether to travel to Saudi Arabia is thornier than that.

It’s easy to see one response, “No,” as yielding to closed-mindedness at the expense of ordinary people — like the kindly vendor Abdullah, who served me local honey at his shop in the southern mountains.

But it’s easy, too, to see “Yes” as an affirmation that might makes right, that amusement outweighs morality, that princely wealth can wipe a stained slate clean.

Sunrise over the mountainous village of Fayfa, some six miles from the Yemeni border.

Abdullah Ghaleb Zaid, a honey vendor, at his shop atop a mountain pass near the southern city of Abha.

Sunset near Jabal Soudah, the kingdom’s highest peak.

Ten days into my trip, I ventured to Wadi al-Disah, a steep-walled valley where I’d booked a tent at a campsite I found on Airbnb. For an additional 300 riyals ($80), my host, Faisal, led me on a four-wheel-drive tour, departing the paved road and weaving through a path along the bed of an ephemeral river. Continually jolted by the uneven terrain, we eased past thick reeds, lofty palms and small bands of visitors who’d nestled into clearings.

As we left, I met a group of young men gathered for a picnic, their sandals scattered around a carpet on which they were preparing their dinner. Delighted to meet an American with a camera, they asked if I’d take a group portrait, then exchanged information with me so I could send them a copy — a scenario by then so familiar that I hardly thought anything of it.

A full day later, some 200 miles away, I was cruising along a lonely highway near the Jordanian border when a Land Cruiser blew past me at an astonishing speed. I felt my compact car rock from its turbulence — and then I watched with a twinge of dread as the car abruptly braked, slowing hard in the left lane until our front ends were aligned. It held steady there.

For a moment I stared straight ahead, hoping to avoid a confrontation. When I finally turned to look, I saw a group of boys grinning wildly and waving through an open window. Then I realized: Improbably, it was three of the young men I’d met the day before. Somehow we’d all followed the same route. And somehow, in the split second it took them to fly past, they’d recognized me. I lifted my camera from the passenger seat and snapped a photograph.

The picture shows three young Saudis on a precipice: endearing, erratic, captivating. I have a sense of where they came from but no certainty about where they’re going. Two are flashing peace signs, and none appears to be wearing a seatbelt. No one is watching the road as their car drifts out of its lane, careening a little recklessly into a hopeful and uncertain future.

Stephen Hiltner’s recent work includes a photo essay about his childhood in Budapest , an examination of A.I.-generated guidebooks and an investigation into the deaths of Russian soldiers in Ukraine . You can follow his travels on Instagram .

Got a question about this story? Drop a note in the comments section. Got a tip? Send him an email .

Stephen Hiltner is an editor, writer and photographer for the Travel section of The Times. More about Stephen Hiltner

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• Heather contributes wedding, honeymoon, travel and relationship content for The Knot and WeddingWire.
• Heather also writes for publications including Apartment Therapy, StyleBlueprint, MyDomaine, HelloGiggles and The Everygirl.
• She holds a degree in Art History and Architectural History from the University of Virginia.

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Houston Hall in New York, New York

For an event space with an industrial chic look and a warm and inviting ambiance, look at Houston Hall . This 1907 building was once an FBI garage, but now it's been transformed into a glittering venue where you can dance the night away. Imagine evergreen swag adorning the tables with the shimmering chandeliers shining like stars above for a Christmas season wedding . You can truly make this versatile event space all your own.

Guest Capacity: Up to 200

The Box House Hotel in Brooklyn, New York

If you want to feel enveloped by the city skyline even in the middle of winter, book The Box House Hotel . This rooftop wedding venue surrounds you and your guests with windows on the penthouse terrace, and you can turn the space into something straight out of a wintertime fairy tale with twinkle lights, candles and evergreen details. Have an unseasonably warm day? The rooftop is retractable—the only one in Brooklyn.

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Jw marriott essex house new york in new york, new york.

Throw your big city soiree at the JW Marriott Essex House New York , where you can celebrate with your nearest and dearest while looking out at the larger-than-life New York City skyline. The ballroom is pure NYC glamor, which is perfect for turning into a festive winter celebration. Imagine tables of glittering candles, centerpieces of monochromatic winter white florals and a towering snow-white cake . You don't have to go far for your first night as a married couple—the newlyweds' suite and terrace are pure luxury.

One if by Land, Two if by Sea in New York, New York

Gather your nearest and dearest for an intimate winter celebration at One if by Land, Two if by Sea . This romantic restaurant has been a NYC establishment since the 1970s and its warm ambiance has welcomed generations of couples through its doors. Celebrate with a seasonal-inspired party in the main dining room with exposed brick and dramatic chandeliers or bring together a smaller group for a cozy dinner on The Mezzanine.

Guest Capacity: Up to 130

The Harold Pratt House and Peterson Hall in New York, New York

A grand Park Avenue mansion is the perfect place for a Christmas wedding venue . The circa 1919 Harold Pratt House and Peterson Hall is hidden away on the Upper East Side, and its elegant rooms were designed for entertaining. Whether your look is light and bright or old-world romance, there's a space within the winter wedding venue in NYC that will work for your wedding day vision. With original chandeliers, a marble staircase and fireplaces, celebrate like NYC royalty. You can practically hear the decades of "Auld Lang Syne" ringing through its halls.

Virgin Hotels New York in New York, New York

Have a more modern celebration in mind? Virgin Hotels New York is a unique event space that has panoramic views of the NoMad district and the city. From atop the 38th floor, you'll have views of the glittering winter skyline, yet you'll stay warm inside—and on the dance floor. Picture this space decked out in winter white florals for an icy aesthetic. It's sleek sophistication at its best. The hotel also has 460 guest rooms so family and friends won't have to go far when the party winds down.

Guest Capacity: Up to 150

Glasshouse Chelsea in New York, New York

Say "I do" with waterfront views even in the midst of winter. Glasshouse Chelsea is a high-rise venue just above the Hudson River. With floor-to-ceiling windows, you get the breathtaking city vistas and, if you time it right, the magic of seeing the snow settle upon the Big Apple. Adorn the space in evergreens draped from the ceiling to give it a sleek and festive holiday look or lean into a minimalist and white winter aesthetic.

The Pier Sixty Collection in New York, New York

Create your own winter wonderland at The Pier Sixty Collection , which has three separate waterfront venues that incorporate modern design and incredible views. Located within the Chelsea Piers Marina, the spaces allow you to create an icy winter look thanks to sleek design and soaring windows. Drape the spaces in winter white fabric, add dramatic centerpieces, cover the tables in glowing candles and watch your dream of a modern winter wedding come to life.

Guest Capacity: 300+

Carnegie Hall in New York, New York

Have you always dreamed of being the star of the show at Carnegie Hall ? That dream can come true on your wedding day at this New York City landmark. Carnegie Hall opened in 1891 and it welcomed generations of New Yorkers and celebrities through its doors. Walk down the aisle in The Weill Terrace Room, May Room or the Weill Music Room and, with each step towards your future, you'll be surrounded by the history of a cultural icon. The stunning spaces within Carnegie Hall are perfect for a winter wedding and your guests will love the chance to catch a show during their seasonal getaway.

The St. Regis Hotel in New York, New York

Nothing says Christmas in the city like a night at a fancy hotel, and no one does fancy better than The St. Regis Hotel . This is the place to host your holiday wedding, and with 15 event spaces throughout the hotel, you can accommodate any vision of a festive fete. Host a deliciously elegant afternoon tea with your wedding party, then dance the night away in an opulent ballroom with gilded chandeliers overhead. This is the winter wedding venue in New York to host your big day when you're looking for a legendary event for the ages.

Hotel Chelsea in New York, New York

Hotel Chelsea , circa 1884, is a classic New York City hotel that is now one of its most stately wedding venues. Whether you choose to celebrate in The Bard Room with an event that's the talk of the holiday circuit, gather a smaller group for a candlelit dinner in the 1930s-inspired El Quijote restaurant or host a cozy get-together in the swanky wine room, the Hotel Chelsea is the place for a wintertime celebration. And, if food is a high priority, then Hotel Chelsea will deliver, with dishes that your guests will be talking about long after the meal is over.

Guest Capacity: Up to 100

Housing Works Bookstore in New York, New York

If doing good is your goal when booking a wedding venue , consider Housing Works Bookstore . This charming and cozy Soho bookshop doubles as a wedding venue, and 100% of the venue proceeds for events go to supporting the homeless living with HIV/AIDS. Create a wintery ambiance that feels straight out of a movie amidst the spiral staircases, mahogany balconies and rows of books. There's truly not a better place for a pair of book lovers to write the first chapter of their love story than at this winter wedding venue in NYC.