World Of Wanderlust

### The Big Apple in Winter: Must-Do Activities in New York City

New York City transforms into a magical wonderland during the winter months. The city sparkles with Christmas lights, decorations, and the cozy warmth of fireplaces in its many bars and restaurants. Plus, wintertime brings lower prices, making it an ideal season to explore the snowy streets and city lights without breaking the bank. There’s no shortage of things to do in New York over the winter, and we’ve compiled a list of 15 fantastic activities to enhance your trip.

#### Ice Skating in Bryant Park
Imagine skating in a sprawling ice rink surrounded by towering skyscrapers. Bryant Park turns into the “Bryant Park Winter Village” every winter, featuring green-tinted Christmas stalls, cozy cafes, heated bars, and a huge 17,000-square-foot ice rink. Best of all, the rink is free to use, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. Warm up with a hot cocktail or a bowl of soup at the rink-side Lodge Cafe while taking in the winter scenery.

#### Union Square Holiday Market
One of the top winter activities in New York is exploring Christmas markets, and Union Square Holiday Market is a must-see. The market boasts an array of stalls offering everything from ceramic souvenirs to beautiful Christmas ornaments. At night, the market is illuminated with stunning Christmas lights, creating a magical atmosphere. This year, the market runs from November 17th to December 24th.

#### Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
During December, the Brooklyn neighborhood of Dyker Heights turns into a dazzling display of Christmas lights. Homeowners go all out, creating festive porches and houses adorned with lights, turning their homes into scenes straight out of Santa’s workshop. You can join group walking tours to explore this iconic New York attraction with some company.

#### Holiday Displays on Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue is renowned for fashion and shopping, but in winter, it’s also a visual treat. The Saks area on Fifth Avenue is embellished with colorful, life-sized holiday decorations and twinkly lights. Storefronts showcase holiday-themed fashion items alongside elaborate light displays, making it a must-visit spot during the festive season.

#### Strolling in Central Park
Covered in pristine white snow, Central Park offers an ethereal experience during winter. The park’s blackened tree trunks and benches are blanketed in snow, creating a serene, picturesque setting. Warm yellow lights add to the park’s romantic atmosphere in the evening. It’s also a great place for building snowmen or sledding. Don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate to warm up afterward.

#### Exploring New York’s Museums
Winter is the perfect time to explore New York’s world-class museums, providing both educational and enjoyable experiences while escaping the cold. With fewer crowds, you can leisurely tour locations like the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Street Art, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

#### Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
A winter trip to New York City isn’t complete without seeing the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Starting in mid-November, this 75-foot-tall tree is decorated with thousands of colorful lights, standing out brilliantly against the city’s skyline.

#### Wandering Around Grand Central Station
Grand Central Station is a sight to behold, especially in winter. Its exterior glows warmly against the snowy backdrop. Inside, you’ll find the main hall with its golden tint and constellation-painted ceiling. Don’t miss the hidden gems like the Whispering Gallery.

#### Enjoying Seasonal Cocktails in Bars
Warm up with some winter-special cocktails at New York City’s bars. From regular bars to trendy rooftop venues, you’ll find chai-infused or spice-laden cocktails to keep the chill at bay. For a fantastic view of the snowy cityscape, head to bars like Panorama Room, Daintree, Watermark Winter Wonderland, and Ophelia Lounge.

#### Sipping Hot Chocolate in Legendary Bakeries
What better way to warm up than with a cup of hot chocolate and a tasty pastry? Legendary bakeries like Dominique Ansel Bakery offer delightful treats like blooming marshmallow hot chocolate and cronuts. Another excellent spot for hot chocolate is Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery.

#### Feasting at Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market, the largest food and retail market in New York City and the birthplace of the Oreo cookie, offers a variety of delicious, warm, seasonal dishes. You can savor everything from bite-sized chocolates to sumptuous lobster. Use the market’s directory to plan your culinary adventure.

#### Watching a Broadway Show
Broadway shows are a perfect way to enjoy captivating entertainment while staying warm. Special holiday shows like the Christmas Spectacular or Disney’s Frozen offer unforgettable experiences. The heated theaters make the experience even cozier.

#### Winter Jazz Fest
Jazz enthusiasts will love the Winter Jazz Fest, an annual event featuring around 700 musicians from around the world. Taking place from January 12th in 2023, this festival includes impressive performances and insightful discussions and seminars.

#### Cultural Festivals
Winter in New York is a great time to experience the city’s cultural diversity. From the colorful Chinese New Year Festival in February to the lively St. Patrick’s Day Festival in March, there are numerous events that celebrate different cultures throughout the city.

#### Skiing Getaways
For outdoor enthusiasts, New York’s nearby ski resorts offer the perfect escape. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, places like Gore Mountain, Windham Mountain, and Bristol Mountain provide thrilling skiing opportunities close to the city.

Winter in New York City is brimming with activities and experiences to make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re skating in Bryant Park, exploring holiday markets, savoring seasonal treats, or taking in a Broadway show, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this winter wonderland. Plan your visit and dive into the urban charm of the Big Apple this winter.