Winter Activities in New York: Embrace
the Chill in the Big Apple
As soon as the winter sets in, New York City turns into a winter paradise with a lot of activities to do. Be it ice skating, holiday fairs snuggly indoor activities, and other things to do in NYC during winter season is full of engaging activities to keep everyone on the move. This is a blog of winter activities in New York suitable for residents and tourists.
1. Ice Skating at Iconic Rinks
One of the things to do in New York in winter will definitely include ice skating at some famous skating rinks. The free outdoor skating rink, with skate rentals available, is located at Bryant Park’s Winter Village; you can spin around under the stars and the holiday stalls. Then, they visit the skating rink of the Rockefeller Center where you can see the famous Christmas tree right next to the ice. If you want a more “real” experience, you should also consider visiting the Wollman rink in Central Park where you can skate and enjoy gorgeous views of the city and the Park.
2. Holiday Markets and Christmas Cheer
In case you are looking for the best places to visit in NYC during Christmas, you can’t miss out on the holiday markets in the city. These markets are great in terms of unique gifts and mouthwatering cuisines but also epitomize the essence of celebration in New York. The Winter activities in New York include visiting the Winter Village at Bryant Park which is a very active place with many shops, food counters, and an ice skating ring. Yet another favorite, Union Square Holiday Market, is famed for its crafty merchants and warm feel. Spending time in such markets while sipping a hot cup of cocoa is one of the best things to do in New York during Christmas.
3. Attend the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting
During the festive winters, the Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center is one such ray of hope. Crowds form for the yearly lighting event which usually occurs in the last weeks of November or the first weeks of December. At that place, which is absolutely breathtaking even without the New York decorations and craziness of the Midtown area, one simply cannot miss the experience this winter activities in New York.
4. Take a Winter Walk in Central Park
Winter is the prettiest season for Central Park, and no season compares to its enchantment, which is often felt during winter. Be it snowed out or simply cool and fresh, the park acts as a perfect escape from the city’s ceaseless activities. Wear warm clothes and walk the Mall, go to Bethesda Terrace, or walk around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir loop. If weather permits, and it snows, Central Park transforms from a park into a dream for every photographer.
5. See the Spectacular Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Dyker Heights, situated in Brooklyn, is known for tenants’ lavish display of Christmas lights. Year in and year out, the people in this community make extra effort to illuminate their houses with sparkling decoration lights, huge figures, and many other Christmas decorations. Considering that one of the most fun New York Christmas activities is usually going to Dyker Heights at night, the decorations are best viewed from the middle of December until New Year’s Eve.
6. Warm Up at Museums and Indoor Attractions
As delightful as outdoor winter activities in New York have to offer, at times the weather can be cold enough to necessitate one seeking cozy activities indoors. The splendid museums in New York offer an excellent refuge from the iciness outside the door. Plan to spend an afternoon at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), or The American Museum of Natural History. The Museum of Ice Cream may be a good alternative for a vibrant and engaging activity.
7. Experience Broadway Shows and Performances
With winter upon us, it is the best season to appreciate the theater world in New York. Go out for a Broadway show, be it a perennial favorite like The Lion King or a limited-season ballet performance such as The New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Additionally, as winter activities in New York tend to have holiday-beckoning performances as well, hence it’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.
8. Ride the Staten Island Ferry at Sunset
One of the most unique (free cost) unwinding activities in the city is taking a ride on the Staten Island ferry at dusk. All year round, the Staten Island ferry crosses the harbor giving cheap yet stunning views of the famous Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan’s skyline. There are no better views than this, especially as outdoor w when the air is crisp and rather refreshing.
9. Savor Winter Comfort Foods
One of the best things to do in NYC during winter is to indulge in the city’s culinary delights. It is a must-try to start one’s day with a hot cappuccino from the city bakery or Levain bakery. If it is dinner time, then you can have a bowl of ramen at Ippudo or fondue at Murray’s Cheese Bar. The gastronomical aspect of New York City is rich and full of varieties, winter being the most convenient time for heavy courses and hot drinks.
10. Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Times Square
The tradition of watching the dropping of the ball at Times Square on New Year’s Eve is something that is on the bucket list of many people. It can be tedious at times, (including enduring the extreme weather elements), however, the excitement of the whole event is simply one of a kind.
Conclusion
Every season has its charm, and when it comes to New York, it is accurately portrayed as a modern-day fairyland. In the case of New York City, its midwinter season is quite busy. Whether it is skating in Rockefeller Center, enjoying heartwarming delicacies at some of the many cafes in the city, or watching classic Broadway shows that are still relevant today – without doubt, there are many things to do in New York in winter for every person. Those, who dislike the holiday spirit, will instead visit uncountable museums and theaters taking a peek into the culture of NYC. So bundle up, grab a hot drink, and dive into the best winter activities in New York with the USA Holiday package.
However, looking at the city all dressed up with lights and decorations, there is no doubt that winter is also a season to love the cold and appreciate all the blessings New York comes with.
This was a well-written and informative piece. Great job!