World Of Wanderlust

New York City becomes a magical place during winter. As snowflakes fall, the city is illuminated with Christmas lights, festive decorations, and cozy fireplaces in bars and restaurants. Another perk of visiting during winter is that prices tend to drop, so you can experience this winter wonderland without breaking the bank. There are loads of activities to enjoy during this season. Here are 15 awesome things to do during your winter trip to New York!

Best Things to Do in New York in Winter

Go Ice Skating in Bryant Park
Have you ever dreamt of ice skating on a huge rink surrounded by towering skyscrapers? Visit Bryant Park to make that dream a reality. Every winter, the park transforms into the “Bryant Park Winter Village,” featuring green-tinted Christmas stalls, cozy cafes, heated bars, and a 17,000-square-foot ice rink. Best of all, the rink is free to use, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. After skating, you can warm up with a cocktail or soup in The Lodge, the rink-side cafe, all while enjoying the picturesque winter scenery.

Head to the Union Square Holiday Market
Another must-visit Christmas market is the Union Square Holiday Market. It’s filled with charming stalls and exciting shops offering everything from ceramic souvenirs to Christmas ornaments. The market is also home to award-winning restaurants and twinkles beautifully with Christmas lights at night, creating a magical atmosphere. The market runs from November 17th to December 24th, 2022.

See the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Every December, the Brooklyn neighborhood of Dyker Heights transforms into a dazzling display of Christmas lights. Residents decorate their homes with elaborate light shows, turning their porches into Santa’s house, featuring life-sized nutcrackers, bright snowmen, and much more. These lights are so popular that there are group walking tours to guide you through this festive spectacle.

See Holiday Displays on Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue is always a fashion hotspot, but in winter, it turns into a beautiful holiday display. The Saks Fifth Avenue area is adorned with colorful, life-size decorations and twinkling Christmas lights. The store windows showcase curated fashion items fitting the holiday theme, and you can also catch incredible light shows in the vicinity.

Stroll in Central Park
Central Park offers a dreamy winter landscape with everything blanketed in pure-white snow. At night, warm yellow lights twinkle throughout the park, creating a romantic atmosphere. It’s also a great spot to build a snowman or go sledding. End your visit with a cup of hot chocolate to keep warm.

Explore the City’s Museums
Escape the cold by visiting some of New York’s world-class museums. Not only do these heated locations offer a break from the snow, but they are also less crowded in winter. Check out the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Street Art, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Check Out the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
You’ve probably seen this iconic Christmas tree in movies and TV shows. Starting in mid-November, you can see the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in person. The 75-foot tree is decorated with thousands of multicolored lights, adding to the city’s festive glow. It’s a must-see during your winter visit.

Wander Around Grand Central Station
Grand Central Station shines with warm, yellow lights amidst the snowy surroundings during winter. Inside, you can marvel at the main hall’s golden hue and the constellation paintings on the ceiling. Don’t miss hidden gems like the Whispering Gallery.

Enjoy Seasonal Cocktails in Bars
There’s nothing like sipping a special winter cocktail in New York. Numerous bars, including rooftop options, offer chai-inspired or spice-infused cocktails. Rooftop bars provide panoramic views of NYC’s skyline, making your winter drink even more special. Some top picks are Panorama Room, Daintree, Watermark Winter Wonderland, and Ophelia Lounge.

Grab a Cup of Hot Chocolate in NY’s Legendary Bakeries
Warming up with a cup of hot chocolate and a pastry from one of New York’s legendary bakeries is a treat. Dominique Ansel Bakery offers blooming marshmallow hot chocolate and sweet cronuts, while Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery serves up delicious Valrhona hot chocolate.

Hunt for Some Food in Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market is New York’s largest food and retail market and the birthplace of Oreo cookies. You can find all kinds of tasty treats, from chocolates to lobster dishes. Before you start exploring, check out the market’s directory on a wooden pop-up wall at the entrance.

Watch a Broadway Show
No visit to NYC is complete without experiencing a Broadway show. The lively performance, catchy music, and impressive acting will leave you with memorable experiences. Special holiday shows like the Christmas Spectacular or Disney’s Frozen are also a treat. Plus, the heated theaters provide a cozy escape from the cold.

Book a Seat for Winter Jazz Fest
Jazz enthusiasts should not miss the Winter Jazz Fest, featuring around 700 musicians from around the world. The 2023 festival kicks off on January 12th and also includes discussions and seminars.

See Cultural Festivals
Winter in New York is a great time to experience the city’s cultural diversity. From early December to mid-March, various cultural events take place. Celebrate the Chinese New Year in February with dragon dances and traditional parades, or enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day Festival in March, when the city turns into a sea of green.

Go Skiing
If you enjoy outdoor activities, head to New York’s ski resorts. These spots are perfect for everyone, from beginners to seasoned skiers. Conveniently located near the city, places like Gore Mountain, Windham Mountain, and Bristol Mountain offer a great winter escape.

With so many winter activities, New York is a fantastic place to visit during the colder months. Are you excited to explore NYC in winter? If so, check out JoinMyTrip for an amazing travel experience with like-minded adventurers. Book your trip now and make unforgettable winter memories in the Big Apple!