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The Best of New York · Seasonal · Winter

The best winter things to do in New York City

Updated September 2026. 12 places.

Winter in New York City is an ideal time to visit the Big Apple for those who like to explore new cities at a slower pace without mind-boggling crowds. As the busy holiday season winds down, popular attractions like museums and observation decks are blissfully quieter.

Better still, hotels and airfare are more affordable, making it easier to indulge in a luxurious stay or extended visit. The only disadvantage to visiting New York City in winter is planning for inclement weather. But as long as you brace for the cold (I’ll give you some tips below), you’re bound to have a great time.

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best winter things to do in New York City, 2026

  1. Holiday Nostalgia TrainEvent · Midtown ManhattanI mean, riding in vintage trains is the last thing you\u2019d expect to find on a list of the best things to do in New York City during winter.
  2. Madison Square Garden (Knicks/Rangers)Other · Midtown ManhattanAs such, catching an NBA game at the Madison Square Garden (home to the New York Knicks) is a great call.
  3. Mo Lounge at The Mandarin Oriental HotelBar · Midtown ManhattanI recommend the Mo Lounge at The Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
  4. New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train ShowEvent · BronxThe Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is one of the most popular winter activities in New York City for families.
  5. New York Public LibraryLandmark · Midtown ManhattanI think everyone should make an effort to see it at least once.
  6. Winter Village at Bryant ParkMarket · Midtown ManhattanBryant Park is a worthwhile destination year-round, but there\u2019s something truly special about the winter season when the park transforms into a European-inspired holiday market.
  7. Wollman RinkRink · Central ParkWhen it comes to quintessential NYC winter activities, ice skating at the iconic Wollman Rink is hard to beat.
  8. Broadway WeekEvent · Theater DistrictBetter still, during Broadway Week you can score 2-for-1 tickets for select shows.
  9. Central Park (in the Snow)Park · Central ParkThe park is downright magical during the first snowfall of the year.
  10. Chinese Lunar New Year CelebrationEvent · ChinatownExperiencing the festivities in person is a must-do winter activity in New York City.
  11. Lincoln CenterTheater · Upper West SideA great way to stay warm while visiting New York City in winter is by attending a world-class performance at the Lincoln Center.
  12. Westlight Rooftop BarBar · BrooklynAnother great option is the Westlight Rooftop Bar in Brooklyn, which offers epic views of the Manhattan skyline but scoring a reservation is no easy feat.

On the map

Where they are

7 neighborhoods, Midtown Manhattan and Central Park most of all.

Midtown Manhattan

Central Park

Bronx

Brooklyn

Chinatown

Theater District

Upper West Side

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 20 Worthwhile Winter Activities in New York City.