When winter blankets the city, New York transforms into a magical destination where adventure awaits at every corner. While other cities might slow down during the cold months, the city that never sleeps comes alive with an enchanting array of activities that captivate both visitors and locals alike.
SHOPPING EXPEDITIONS
• The Winter Village at Bryant Park stands as a testament to New York’s continuing holiday spirit, featuring an impressive collection of over 170 shopping kiosks alongside a complimentary ice-skating rink. Visitors can warm up in cozy winter igloos or retreat to the heated food hall, where seasonal delicacies and hot beverages await. Info: Now thru March 2nd
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
• While Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park’s Winter Village offer iconic skating experiences (complete with excellent food and beverage options), the city’s lesser-known rinks provide equally memorable adventures. Central Park has become a winter wonderland, offering ice skating at both Wollman and Lasker Rinks. After fresh snowfall, the park’s gentle slopes at Pilgrim Hill and Cedar Hill become perfect sledding destinations, while its winding paths transform into ideal cross-country skiing routes. Info: nyctourism.com
• The Brooklyn Botanic Garden invites visitors to discover winter’s subtle beauty through their “Winter Weekends” program. Expert-guided tours showcase winter-blooming flora and the garden’s stunning architecture, while the garden café offers seasonal tea services for the perfect winter warm-up. Info: Now thru the end of February; bbg.org
INDOOR ESCAPES
• Broadway Week returns with its beloved two-for-one ticket promotion, a tradition since 2011. Despite its name, this theatrical celebration extends well beyond a week, offering theater enthusiasts an extended opportunity to enjoy world-class performances at reduced prices. Info: From January 14th thru February 2nd; nytix.com
• When winter winds blow, New York’s prestigious museums offer warm refuge and cultural enrichment. The Metropolitan Museum of Art presents compelling winter exhibitions, while the American Museum of Natural History’s vast halls invite endless exploration. Info: Info: For the Metropolitan Museum of Art, visit metmuseum.org; for the American Museum of Natural History,
visit amnh.org
• The New York Botanical Garden continues to charm visitors with its annual Holiday Train Show, featuring intricate NYC landmarks crafted entirely from natural materials Info: For New York Botanical Garden, visit nybg.org
CULINARY DELIGHTS
• Winter brings NYC Restaurant Week, a celebrated tradition where hundreds of the city’s finest restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus at attractive prices. Additionally, hot chocolate festivals pop up throughout the metropolis, as creative establishments compete to craft the most innovative versions of this beloved winter beverage. Info: From January 21st thru February 9th; nyctourism.com
CHINESE NEW YEAR
• Chinatown comes alive during Lunar New Year celebrations with vibrant parades featuring traditional lion dances, cultural performances, and festive food markets. The celebrations extend to Flushing, Queens, home to one of the largest Asian communities outside Asia, offering an authentic cultural experience. Info: January 29th thru February 9th
COMMEMORATE MARTIN LUTHER KING
• Honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the youngest Nobel Peace Prize recipient and tireless advocate for nonviolence, on January 20th. Whether through park clean-ups, youth mentoring, community service, or participating in commemorative events, there are numerous ways to carry forward his vision of equality and justice.
• The city offers various celebratory events, from the soul-stirring performances of the World Famous Harlem Gospel Choir to family-friendly activities at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, featuring interactive performances, community art programs, and educational protest marches.
nyctourism.com