More about: 10 Things to do in New York City in the Winter
Are you heading to New York in winter? It’s a very special time of year when you can enjoy plenty of fantastic activities, both indoors and outdoors. Take a look at these 10 things to do in New York in winter and don’t miss these tips to make sure you don’t freeze.
1. Get excited about the NBA
Whether basketball is your passion or you simply want to experience the electric atmosphere and excitement this sport generates in New York, you can’t leave without seeing the world’s best basketball league in person. So, don’t hesitate – book your NBA ticket now.
Even if you don’t like sport, come along! Attending an NBA match at Madison Square Garden is one of the most fascinating experiences you’ll have in the United States. What’s more, if you’re travelling to New York in winter, you’re sure to catch a match right in the middle of the season. You’ll have a blast! It’s a real spectacle of music, dancing, partying and, above all, sport, of course.
Nicknamed “The world’s most famous coliseum”, Madison Square Garden is located right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. It is a colossal indoor stadium known as the home ground of the New York Knicks (NBA) and the New York Rangers (NHL). Want to experience the magic of the legendary MSG? I’ll explain how to get tickets in a jiffy.
How to buy NBA tickets?
If you’ve already planned your winter getaway to New York and want to include an NBA game in your itinerary, my advice is to buy your tickets online from home before you head across the pond. Demand is extremely high, so it’s normal for tickets to sell out quickly.
The American ticket market is dynamic, which means prices rise as the match date approaches and availability decreases. If you wait too long, you run the risk of missing out on tickets altogether, or finding only a few left at a high price and in sections with less spectacular views. What’s more, by booking online, you can choose your favourite seat in the stadium yourself.
- Where?: 4 Pennsylvania Plaza. (Seventh Avenue between West 31st and West 33rd Streets).
- How to get there?: You can take the subway to 34th St. Penn Station (lines A, B, C, 1, 2 and 3) or the bus on routes M4, M10, M16, M34 and Q32.
2. Free entry to MoMA on Fridays
If visiting a museum wasn’t part of your travel plans, but the winter weather is working against you, I recommend you don’t brave the cold and instead take advantage of MoMA’s Free Friday Nights to explore the world’s most important museum of modern and contemporary art completely free of charge.
If you’re trying to stick to a budget during your trip, this is a great opportunity to tour this museum without spending a single dollar. What’s more, you’ll get to experience a place of great cultural significance and prestige for Americans. Furthermore, if you can’t make it on this day of the week, you can also book your ticket for MoMA without queuing.
Where can you get tickets for MoMA’s Free Friday Nights?
The queue for these free tickets is at the museum’s 54th Street entrance. With your ticket, you’ll have access to all MoMA’s exhibitions and galleries. During Free Friday Nights, MoMA is open from 4pm to 8pm. As your time is limited, my advice is to focus on the fourth and fifth floors, where you’ll find works by the most famous artists such as Pollock, Cézanne, Warhol and Matisse.
If you’re passionate about art, these four hours of free access might not be enough to take your time exploring its vast collection of artworks by the likes of Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Vincent Van Gogh and Andy Warhol, amongst many others.
If, by the end of your visit, you’re still craving more modern art and want to spend hours and hours exploring its galleries, I recommend getting a skip-the-line ticket to MoMA, which will grant you immediate access to the museum and its collection of over 100,000 works spanning painting, prints, sculpture, photography, drawings, design, film, architecture and publications. What’s more, with this ticket you’ll also be able to visit MoMA PS1, the contemporary art centre in Long Island City, for 14 days following your visit to the Manhattan venue.
- Where?: MoMA is on 53rd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues.
- When?: Open from 10.30 am to 5.30 pm every day. On Fridays from 10.30 am to 8 pm, with Free Friday Nights running from 4 pm to 8 pm.
- To find out more: read this article on how to visit MoMA.
3. Head up to the One World Observatory
If you’re not afraid of heights and fancy seeing the city from a bird’s-eye view, you should head up to the One World Observatory, New York’s highest observation deck at 386.5 metres. Unlike other observation decks such as Top of the Rock or The Edge, this observatory does not have an outdoor area from which to view the city, which is an advantage in the depths of a freezing New York winter, as you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful views of the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge or the Statue of Liberty without the icy wind freezing you to the bone and leaving you shivering with cold.
One World Observatory is situated on the top floors of the One World Trade Center skyscraper, specifically floors 100 to 102. The modern design of this Ground Zero viewing platform allows you to see up to 80 kilometres in all directions, and from here you’ll have 360-degree views to enjoy New York in all its splendour.
If you love modern architecture and skyscrapers as much as I do, you’ll love this experience. It begins the moment you step into the lift, which is covered in LED panels that make the ascent a treat by showing the development of New York from its very beginnings. In just 47 seconds!
- Where?: It is located at 285 Fulton Street.
- Opening hours: One World Observatory is open every day from 9 am to 8 pm.
4. Ice skating in New York
Whatto do outdoors when the temperatures drop in the Big Apple?Go ice skating, of course! Whether as a couple, with friends or with the family, it’s an unforgettable experience to enjoy in New York in winter and the perfect setting for taking fun photos.Which ice rinks do I recommend you visit in New York?
Wollman Rink in Central Park
This ice rink, located in the south-east corner of Central Park, is the most famous and picturesque. In my opinion, the feeling of skating at Wollman Rink is unrivalled, as you have the park’s beautiful winter scenery on one side and views of the iconic skyscrapers in the background. In fact, as you glide across the ice, you’ll feel like you’re part of one of the many Christmas films that have been filmed here.
- Where?: You’ll find it just a two-minute walk from the Central Park South entrance, between 59th Street and Sixth Avenue.
- When?: It’s usually open from late November until March or even April.
- Price?: Depending on the day of the week, between $12 and $19 (approximately €11.20 and €17.70). Skate hire is paid for separately if you need it.
The Rink in Bryant Park
Don’t let the cold get you down! Head to the Bank of America Winter Village to go ice skating at The Rink, a large, free-to-enter rink open from late October until early January. An iconic Christmas market is also set up here, brimming with decorative items, souvenirs and culinary delights. How can you resist the hot chocolate at Ice Bites?
What’s more, if you’re visiting New York in winter, you’ll have the chance to attend the Bryant Park Christmas tree lighting ceremony and watch the skaters’ acrobatic show set to music. Afterwards, The Rink opens to the public whilst musicians from Lincoln Center play live jazz.
- Where?: It is located on 42nd Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues.
- When?: The Rink is open from 8 am to 10 pm from late October to early March / The market is open Monday to Friday from 11 am to 8 pm and at weekends from 10 am to 8 pm.
- Price?: Entry is free (you’ll have to pay to hire skates if you don’t bring your own).
Rockefeller Rink at Rockefeller Plaza
When winter arrives in New York, one of the most traditional things to do is go ice skating at Rockefeller Rink, the rink located in Rockefeller Plaza.
There are plenty of options in New York and this may be one of the most typical, but because of the long queues that form and its small size, it isn’t one of my favourites. However, if you want to experience this quintessential New York winter activity at such an iconic rink as Rockefeller Rink, you can find all the information on the Rockefeller Center website.
- Where?: At Rockefeller Plaza, 45.
- When?: It is usually open from late November until March.
- Price?: Depending on the season, between $25 and $35 (approximately €23 and €32 depending on the exchange rate). Skate hire, if required, is paid for separately.
- Find out more: Rockefeller Center has plenty to offer visitors. Check out this article on Top of the Rock and discover more.
5. Celebrate Chinese New Year in Chinatown
A very special time to visit Chinatown is, in fact, in winter, when Chinese New Year is celebrated, the most important festival in Chinese culture. Although it usually takes place in February, the date depends on the lunar calendar.
I’ve been lucky enough to see it once and it’s well worth it because it’s celebrated in style. Every year, the streets of Chinatown are decked out with lanterns to welcome a different animal, and thousands of people take part in an impressive parade of floats, dragons, dancing and music. An ideal time to book a tour of Chinatown.
It’s a great event for all ages, attended by both New Yorkers and tourists alike. So, if you’re going to watch the New Year’s parade, I’d advise you to find a street corner where you can soak up the atmosphere and get a good view at the same time.
Where to eat?
Once it’s over, don’t hesitate to head to a restaurant or food stall to enjoy the best Asian cuisine right in the heart of Chinatown. If you’re a foodie who loves to eat, you’re going to have a great time in this neighbourhood.
6. Feel the magic of Broadway
During a stay in New York, whatever the time of year, one essential thing to do is see a musical on Broadway, the famous boulevard lined with theatres that runs through the heart of Manhattan, including Times Square.
Here you can see highly acclaimed shows such as The Lion King, Chicago, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, Aladdin or Frozen, the theme of which is particularly fitting if you’re visiting New York in winter, isn’t it? At this time of year, the city blanketed in snow almost looks like Arendelle, the home of Elsa and Anna.
What if I don’t speak English?
Some people are put off going to the theatre in the US because they don’t speak English, but this isn’t a problem on Broadway, as the storyline is interwoven with musical numbers that will help you follow the plot.
In any case, if you’re still unsure, my advice is to choose a musical that’s been adapted for the big screen, such as Chicago, The Lion King, Frozen or Aladdin. If you watch the film before you travel, you’ll find it much easier to follow the show as they usually follow the same script. What’s more, I promise you that the magnificent staging and musical numbers will leave you speechless. You’ll love going to Broadway!
How do I buy tickets for Broadway?
If you want to enjoy the experience of going to a Broadway musical, it’s best to buy your tickets online, as the theatres fill up quickly and the box offices soon put up the ‘Sold Out’ sign at Christmas.
From experience, I advise you to buy your tickets online as far in advance as possible to secure the best seats on your chosen date and at a better price than at the box office, where you’ll also avoid having to queue for ages.
If you wait to buy them once you’re in New York, you’ll run the risk of missing out. Don’t hesitate – buying your tickets online is easy, secure and quick.
7. Toast your trip to New York from a rooftop
You go to New York to have fun, and after a long day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than heading up to one of the city’s wonderful rooftops to enjoy a drink and the sunset in the best company.
One of New York’s most glamorous rooftops is 230 Fifth, situated right on Fifth Avenue. It’s a spectacular spot with the typical modern vibe of the Big Apple. Outdoors, it boasts the city’s largest rooftop garden, but inside there’s a large glass-enclosed lounge, ideal for when temperatures drop.
The views of the illuminated Empire State Building are magnificent from here, so if you don’t want to miss out on the terrace even in winter, my advice is to book a spot in one of their igloos to stay cosy and not miss out on the views of Manhattan. What’s more, at night 230 Fifth puts on a stunning light show that adds to the magic of the moment, and they provide guests with cosy robes to keep them warm.
- Where?: 230 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10001.
- Opening hours: Monday to Thursday from 2 pm to 2 am; Friday from 4 pm to 4 am; Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 2 am.
Want to know more about the rooftops of the Big Apple? Check out the post on the 10 best rooftops in New York.
8. Celebrate Valentine’s Day in New York
February is one of the coldest months in New York, but the chance to experience a different and unforgettable Valentine’s Day is reason enough to travel to the city with your better half. There are loads of romantic things to do!
One of them has been organised for several years in Times Square under the slogan “Love in Times Square”, where several couples in love pledge their eternal love by getting engaged, getting married or renewing their vows with New York as their witness. Can you imagine being one of them?
To be among the lucky couples on 14 February, you must register online in advance. A draw will determine who will experience a truly unique Valentine’s Day. Without a doubt, an unforgettable story to tell your grandchildren!
A tribute to love in Times Square
But this isn’t the only way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Times Square, as every year an interactive sculpture with a love-themed design is installed so that people can take some romantic photos of their trip to New York with lots of hearts in the background. And if you’re looking for another romantic plan to round off the day, remember that you can book a dinner cruise on the Hudson to end the day
9. Marvel at New York’s Christmas shop windows
New York is a dream destination for many travellers when it comes to shopping.It’s the shopping mecca of the US! Whilst the city is a real magnet for fashion lovers all year round thanks to the bargains to be found, at Christmas the shopping experience is taken to a whole new level, as shops decorate their windows with beautiful festive displays to catch everyone’s eye. And boy, do they succeed!
For several decades now, New York’s department stores have been pulling out all the stops to grab our attention and surprise us with their creative displays. For example, during the festive season at Macy’s, you can explore the North Pole without ever leaving the shopping centre. At this time of year, they recreate a winter village known as Santaland, where children can meet and chat with Santa Claus himself. Although this activity is free, you need to book a slot.
To tell the truth, all of New York’s shops deck themselves out in winter to embrace the Christmas spirit. So much so that there’s a tour of the Christmas shop windows. So, if you love shopping, I recommend you book this tour or plan your own route around the city’s shop windows, with special stops at Bloomingdale’s, Tiffany & Co, Lord & Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Barneys or Macy’s, amongst others. You’ll be amazed! You can read more here: what to do in New York at Christmas.
10. Experience St Patrick’s Day like an Irish person!
Don’t forget to pack something green if you’re in New York on 17 March, because that’s when St Patrick’s Day is celebrated in style. The Irish community is huge, and the St Patrick’s Day parade is one of the oldest traditions in the US, having been held since 1762.
Although it isn’t a public holiday as such, New York is one big party on St Patrick’s Day. People take to the streets to enjoy a huge parade down Fifth Avenue featuring police, firefighters and marching bands, starting at 11 am and finishing around 5 pm.
Where to go on St Patrick’s Day?
Hours after the St Patrick’s Day parade, the party continues in New York’s bars, where people head to enjoy a good beer in honour of Ireland’s patron saint and have a good time.
I recommend McSorley’s Old Ale House, one of the city’s oldest Irish pubs, dating back to 1854. Also Peter McManus Café, another historic Irish pub that has featured in TV series such as ‘Law & Order’ and ‘Seinfeld’. And remember to wear something green!
What else is there to see on this day?
On St Patrick’s Day, you can also take the opportunity to visit the Empire State Building, lit up in the patron saint’s colours, and St Patrick’s Cathedral, located opposite the Rockefeller Centre on Fifth Avenue. Entry to the cathedral is free!
What’s the weather like in New York in winter?
During this season, temperatures in New York are usually very low and it’s genuinely very cold. So much so that it can even snow in the early months of the year and the thermometer can drop below zero. Winter runs from 21 December to 21 March. Average temperatures range from 2°C to -6°C, although on the coldest days it can even drop to -10°C. Temperatures start to rise as early as March but remain low: the minimum is around 2°C and the maximum 10°C.
Many people are wary of travelling to New York in winter because it’s too cold outside to enjoy most of the interesting activities. However, I believe it’s a great opportunity to experience a different side of the city from what we’re usually used to.
You just have to adapt to the circumstances of the trip to have an unforgettable adventure. For example, seeing New York covered in snow is a magical experience and, as it gets dark earlier, you’ll get to enjoy the Big Apple all lit up for much longer. The city at night is spectacular! We should always try to see the glass as half full.
Advantages of travelling to New York in winter
If you’re desperate to travel to New York but I haven’t yet convinced you to do so in winter, let me tell you about some of the advantages of visiting the Big Apple at this time of year. The period from after Christmas until Easter is when there are fewer tourists in the Big Apple. This doesn’t mean the city is deserted during these months, but there are fewer people queuing at the main tourist attractions. What’s more, as it’s the off-season, it’s easier to find cheap flights to New York and accommodation in winter.
And that’s not all! Many tourist attractions, monuments and museums lower their prices to attract more visitors during the winter. Most New York tourist cards also launch special offers that you can take advantage of throughout the rest of the year.
If you’re travelling to New York in winter, from late January to early February, don’t miss NYC Restaurant Week, an event that lets you dine at New York restaurants at a lower price than usual. A great opportunity to discover new places and tuck into New York’s diverse cuisine.
What clothes should you pack for New York in winter?
Before packing for your winter trip to New York , I recommend checking the weather forecast from home for the days of your stay. That way, you can pack the clothes you’ll actually need and wear.
Winter in New York is harsh, with low temperatures and snowfall. It’s very cold, so you need to wrap up warm! However, the temperature on the streets is inversely proportional to the warmth inside its museums, restaurants and tourist attractions.
So, how do you choose what clothes to take to New York in winter? The key is to dress in layers, just like an onion. This way, you can easily put on or take off layers depending on the temperature of the place you’re in.
Clothing for a winter trip to New York
In any case, the essential outfit for exploring the freezing streets of New York in winter that I suggest consists of:
- A woolly hat.
- Wool or thermal fleece scarf.
- Thermal and touchscreen-compatible gloves, so you can use your mobile without taking them off and your hands won’t freeze.
- Wool jumper, sweatshirt or fleece.
- A T-shirt, in case you go somewhere warm and want to take off your jumper.
- Undershirt; if you feel the cold easily, choose a thermal one.
- Thick trousers or leggings.
- Thermal or thick socks to keep your feet warm.
- A coat that provides good protection from the cold, such as an anorak or a down jacket. Ideally, it should be long enough to cover your back as well. If the coat is waterproof and has a hood, all the better; you’ll be better protected in case of rain or snow.
- Boots that are comfortable for walking and keep you warm. Choose ones with a treaded sole, as in winter you’ll often be walking on slush and patches of ice.
Gadgets to combat the cold in New York in winter
As well as clothing, there are certain gadgets you can pack to help you cope with the low temperatures during your stay in the city.
- Hand warmer: Very useful when you’re walking through the streets of New York and it’s freezing cold. It’s similar to a power bank that uses all its energy to provide you with warmth wherever you are. You can also use it to charge your mobile, which is essential so you don’t run out of battery whilst you’re on one of the best tours in New York.
- Earmuffs with headphones: Another gadget to combat the cold is earmuffs. Not only do they keep your ears warm, but they also let you listen to music through your headphones whilst you’re out for a stroll.
- Thermos flask: A trick for warming up when it’s really cold is to drink a hot coffee or tea. In New York, it’s very common to ask a café to serve a hot drink in your own thermos flask to help the environment. Plus, carrying it in your hands will keep them warm for quite a while.