20 Best Things to Do in NYC in Winter
I love NYC in the winter. The city’s combination of twinkling lights, busy holiday marketplaces and sharp air has something magical about it.
One of my favorite experiences was when I most recently visited New York in December.
All of these activities, from the iconic attractions to unique experiences specific to the locals, can generally be enjoyed between October and March.
If you’re going for the holidays, or just seeking some seasonal fun, here are suggestions for planning a memorable winter visit to the Big Apple.
1. Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center ice skating is a quintessential NYC winter activity. The rink rests beneath the massive Rockefeller Christmas tree — one of the most photographed holiday backdrops in the world.
The rink itself is tinier than you’d think, but that makes it more adorable.
If you want to avoid long queues, try to go early on or late in the evening. General admission varies; various ticket packages include skate rentals and VIP entry. It’s a little on the pricier side, but the experience is worth it for the ambience.
If you’re looking for a quieter location, other skating rinks in NYC, such as Bryant Park and Wollman Rink in Central Park, also feature beautiful views and fewer crowds.
2. Make a Trip to the Rockefeller Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting is a beloved tradition that brings the crowds out each year. It typically takes place at the end of November, but the tree stays on display through early January.
The tree itself is towering, 7o feet or taller, covered in thousands of LED lights and topped with a twinkling Swarovski star.
If seeing the tree without the masses is a must, try for early mornings or late at night when the precinct is less tied up.
And don’t forget your camera — this is one of those classic NYC holiday scenes you’ll want to document.
3. Grabbing good eats at Bryant Park’s Winter Village
Each year, Bryant Park turns into a winter wonderland with its Winter Village.
The main attraction is the free admission ice skating rink, although skate rentals incur a charge.
Surrounding the rink are dozens of holiday shops and food stalls, with everything from handmade crafts to gourmet snacks.
It’s lovely for sipping hot chocolate and walking around, particularly in the evening when the park is lit up with festive lights.
The Winter Village additionally features programs through the season, including live music and holiday-themed performances.
4. Stroll Through Central Park in the Snow
When snow blankets Central Park, it’s a tranquil escape. Among the best places in cold months to see the scenery are Bow Bridge, the Ramble and Bethesda Terrace.
If you want to get extra outdoor, you can go snowshoeing, cross country skiing or sledding.
Just walking around is enough to make you feel like you’re in a winter postcard.
Not only is snowy Central Park scenic, but it is also less crowded, making it an ideal place to appreciate the city’s natural beauty.
5. Fifth Avenue Holiday Window Displays
The holiday window display on Fifth Avenue is a wintertime must-see.
Decade after decade, major department stores from Saks Fifth Avenue to Macy’s to Bloomingdale’s pull out all the stops with elaborate, creative displays.
Each store plays a different theme — from traditional Christmas narratives to contemporary winter stories.
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds. You can even make a whole day of the excursion, beginning at Macy’s on 34th Street and heading uptown, pausing for coffee or a snack on your way.
6. Catch a Broadway Show
Winter is an ideal time to see a Broadway show. The theaters are nice and toasty, and there isn’t much better than dodging the chill with an exciting performance.
Some productions even make them seasonal, so it’s all part of the fun.
If you’re looking for best deals, head to TKTS booths for same-day discount tickets or download apps like TodayTix.
Remember to book ahead for Broadway, which is popular around the holidays, if you have a particular show in mind.
7. Get a Glimpse of the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square
One of the most iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations is ringing in the New Year at Times Square.
The ball drop is an age-old tradition with roots that go back more than 100 years, and the event is televised globally.
It is absolutely a bucket-list experience, but it does involve some advanced planning.
Be prepared for big crowds and chilly conditions, and arrive early (some folks line up in the morning).
Bundle yourself up and think about bringing snacks and water, as re-entry is not permitted once you’re in the viewing area.
For a more low-key experience, some hotels and restaurants in the area have special packages available with a view of the ball drop.
8. Go to the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show
The New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show is an enchanting exhibit of model trains traversing miniature versions of New York landmarks built from natural materials including bark and leaves.
It’s a fantastic spot for both families and couples.
Tickets sell out, particularly on weekends, so plan ahead.
The show typically takes place from mid-November to mid-January, and you can even pair your visit with the garden’s other seasonal offering, the “Glow” light experience.
9. Explore the Museums
Although you can enjoy NYC’s museums any time of year, winter is perhaps the season to make sure you have some museum visits on the books: They’ll keep you toasty warm as you take in art, history, and culture.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art are perennials, but don’t miss smaller gems like The Frick Collection or the Museum of the Moving Image.
Many museums also hold seasonal exhibitions (like the American Museum of Natural History’s annual origami holiday tree or winter-themed installations at The Met).
10. Attend a Winter Jazz Fest
Not one to miss for music lovers, Winter Jazz Fest features a plethora of worldrenowned artists, spanning jazz subgenres.
With its sweet penchant for the poor old music that dramatically changed this town and many others, the event stretches over several days, across various venues in the city: close, cozy little jazz joints, dark as the heart, in Greenwich Village; vaunted, massive theaters.
It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant music culture while staying warm inside.
Also check in advance on the schedule, because some shows sell out quickly.
11. Warm Up with a Hot Chocolate at a Quirky CaféDon
There is nothing better than warming up with a rich hot chocolate on a chilly NYC day.
City Bakery is known for its thick, rich hot chocolate, served with a house-made marshmallow, and Jacques Torres has quirky flavors, including “Wicked” hot chocolate, spiced with chili.
For a twist, order Dominique Ansel Bakery’s “Blossoming Hot Chocolate,” in which a marshmallow flower unfurls in the cup.
Settle into a corner and sip: a bit of winter decadence.
12. Check Out the Holiday Markets
New York’s holiday markets are ideal for finding unique gifts, sampling seasonal treats and soaking up the festive atmosphere.
Popular options include the Union Square Holiday Market and Columbus Circle Holiday Market, with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to gourmet snacks.
There are smaller markets around the city, too, including the Grand Central Holiday Fair, which offers a more intimate shopping experience indoors.
13. Take the Staten Island Ferry to See the Skyline
The Staten Island Ferry is a free, year-round ferry that offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.
Winter brings its own magic, with crisp air and the potential for views of snow, making the landmarks of the city seem more enchanting.
Dress warm, go out on the deck for the best views, and try to time the ride for sunset for an extra special touch.
14. Explore the American Museum of Natural History
Another great one is the American Museum of Natural History where you can escape the cold and immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits.
In winter, there are treated to special seasonal displays, like the annual Origami Holiday Tree, which is covered in hundreds of folded paper models inspired by items from the museum’s collections. [h/t Smithsonian]
With displays covering everything from dinosaurs to space exploration, there’s something to spark everyone’s interest.
Special holiday events and programming for all ages are also held at the museum.
15. Take a Helicopter Tour of NYC
A helicopter sightseeing tour is a thrilling way to take in the details of the city’s winter skyline, with expansive views of Central Park, the Statue of Liberty and iconic skyscrapers.
In winter, the cold air clears the vista — giving the skyline a distinct electric clarity — so the latter afternoon and just before sunset are prime for bold skies.
Wear warm clothes — some helos can get cold inside enclosed cabins.
16. Go to a Hockey or Basketball Game at Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden is where the New York Rangers play hockey and where the Knicks play basketball throughout a long winter season.
Tickets are sold online, but you should buy ahead of time if there’s a popular matchup.
Catching a game here is an authentic NYC experience where you can get a feel for the city’s energy in a heated indoor setting.
17. Eat in a Winter Rooftop Igloo or Heated Outdoor Space
Many rooftops have transformed into cozy spaces during winter, with heated igloos or cabins that allow one to keep warm while dining in peace over a glass of hot chocolate, and offering breathtaking views of the city to top it all.
Head to venues like 230 Fifth or Mr. Purple, both of which combine views with hot cocktails and winter-hearty dishes like truffle mac and cheese or warm chocolate lava cake.
18. Book early — these unique settings book fast over winter.
Go to One World Observatory, or Empire State Building at Sunset
Watching the setting sun from above the town is an extra special part of winter here, the light reflecting off sunny white rooftops and glistening seawater.
Get there early to avoid the throngs, and purchase skip-the-line tickets if you’d like to spend less time standing outside in the cold.
Indoor observatories offer panoramic views without the chill.
19. Take a Polar Bear Plunge at Coney Island
The Polar Bear Plunge is a bracing way to start the new year — participants jump into the freezing Atlantic Ocean at Coney Island on New Year’s Day.
This strange custom has existed for more than 100 years and represents kicking off the new year with a courageous dive.
Even if you’re not up for a dip, it’s still a delightful sight to see.
20. Visit the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair
Now its own holiday market, the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair is one of the city’s oldest and most historic, featuring handmade gifts, jewelry and seasonal foods.
Avoid the busiest times, and see this early on weekdays.
The Terminal itself is also an exquisite piece of architecture and is beautifully decorated for the Indie shops and boutiques contributing to the overall festive holiday shopping experience.
Conclusion, Top 20 Things to Do in NYC in the Winter
Winter in New York City is magical, with plenty of activities for everyone from outdoor adventurers to the indoor impractical.
At Madison Square Garden, embrace the season’s chill with these things to do: ice skating, holiday markets or a game.
So prepare, pack layers, and take advantage of these winter experiences for an unforgettable visit to NYC.
