When most people think of the Big Apple, they think of Times Square, sunny days in Central Park, and walks down Fifth Avenue with people pushing past. But what about visiting New York in winter?
Fewer crowds, quieter streets, ice rinks, and snow-capped trees are some of the benefits of an NYC winter. It’s also a brilliant time to tuck into delicious treats for less (say hello to Restaurant Week) and experience some sensational seasonal events. And, let’s not forget that Christmas cheer!
From what to expect to the top things to do, this is your one-stop shop for all things wintery in New York. Ready to jump in?
Why visit New York in winter?
There are few places you can visit during the depths of winter and leave with the same enthusiasm as the summer, autumn, or spring.
In my opinion, winter is one of the best times to visit New York for two reasons. Firstly, there are far fewer tourists around to dampen the experience. And two? Due to fewer visitors, everything is quite a bit cheaper than at other times of the year. This makes it a great season for a cheap holiday to NYC
When is the best time to visit New York in winter?
There are a few things to consider when choosing the best month to visit New York in winter. January is your month if you’re looking for the best deals.
It’s also much quieter than December, which still has a few tourists around from the late summer and autumn months. However, January is easily one of the coldest months, so wrap up and expect snow.
December is busier and more expensive than both January and February, but it’s hard to beat the buzz of the Christmas build-up. Fancy a trip in February? All of the attractions in the city are still quiet and the weather isn’t quite as cold as in January. Plus, with Valentine’s Day on the agenda, you could witness numerous marriage proposals amid the snowfall.
Things to do during winter in New York
New York is hands-down one of the best cities to visit during the winter. It’s sure to be an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Thanks to all of the attractions being open all year round and fewer people to jostle you, you’ll feel like you’re in a winter wonderland all of your own.
Not sure what to add to your New York winter itinerary? Here are a few things to do for inspiration:
1. Explore Central Park (hopefully blanketed in snow)
Name me a park more famous than Central Park! It’s an urban escape for both local New Yorkers and visitors alike. The park is lined with beautiful trees, historic statues, and benches that you’ll recognise from movies. In winter, you can add snow sculptures, kids sledging and ice skaters to the picture.
Take the time to wander along the narrow winding paths, passing stoned arches and frozen ponds. If you get chilly while visiting, why not buy a hot cup of coffee and sip on it as you leisurely meander?
Find more great parks to explore in New York.
2. Watch the Times Square Ball Drop on New Year’s Eve
Times Square is one of the city’s top attractions and a truly iconic viewpoint. In winter, it’s the site of one of New York’s most iconic events: the midnight ball drop.
Alongside places like London‘s Big Ben and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Times Square hosts one of the largest NYE parties in the world. The excitement of being there for the ball drop is hard to describe.
Bells are chiming, fireworks are going off and hundreds of people are cheering. Amidst all of this, the famous ball gradually drops down, counting the time down to midnight.
3. Admire the incredible Rockefeller Christmas Tree
Visiting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is another iconic thing to do in New York at Christmas! It’s one of the city’s symbols of the holiday season. The tree itself is close to 30 metres high and has a televised lighting ceremony that usually happens after Thanksgiving.
The tree stays lit for almost a month and typically has a Swarovski crystal star atop it. For a front-row view, head down to the Channel Gardens along Fifth Avenue and have a gander. The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is an absolute must-see if you’re lucky enough to catch a snowy day during December. Plus, you could spend time at the ice rink afterwards (more on that below).
4. Go ice skating at one of the city’s rinks
Who doesn’t love spending time on an ice rink? Breathe in cool air while you move around feeling like a champion figure-skater or ice hockey player. Want to know the difference between a standard ice rink back home and the ice rinks in NYC? You probably can’t see the Empire State Building from the former!
There are a few rinks to choose from if you want to skate in the city. This includes the world-famous rink in Rockefeller Plaza. Other options include Central Park’s Wollman, Pier 17’s Skyline Rink and Bryant Park’s Winter Village. Although the ice rinks may be a little gimmicky, a trip to one has to be on your agenda if you’re visiting New York during the holiday season.
5. Visit the top NYC museums in peace
If you’re an avid history or art fanatic, you’re in for a treat. Heading to some of New York’s top museums during your winter visit is a must. Grab a New York CityPASS if you plan on visiting multiple. It’ll save you a fair amount of money, plus you get to check out a whole load of world-class institutions.
My top pick of museums to check out include The Morgan Library and Museum, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET), the New York Transit Museum, and the Intrepid Air, Sea and Space Museum.
6. Walk the streets of NYC
Wandering the city’s streets of New York City is on many people’s bucket lists. It’s a must-do throughout the year. The benefit of doing it in winter? You’ll have the streets to yourself and the chance to admire wonderfully crisp scenery.
There’s a wide range of places worth walking to when visiting New York in winter. My absolute favourites include Brooklyn Bridge, The High Line, Central Park (of course!), Brooklyn Bridge Park and Dumbo, Broadway and Fifth Avenue.
Brooklyn Bridge Park is particularly great if you want to grab a bite to eat (think fresh lobster rolls or yummy pizza). You can also gaze out at the Lower Manhattan skyline and capture a few snaps of the bridge.
7. Stroll around NYC’s most festive neighbourhood
If you’ve purposefully planned an NYC trip to experience its festive side, there’s one place you have to visit: Dyker Heights. This corner of trendy Brooklyn is often nicknamed the city’s most Christmassy neighbourhood. That’s all down to its enchanting light displays which adorn its houses from late November.
Venture to the area, hot chocolate in hand, to stroll among the twinkling displays. You can also join a guided tour of the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights to make sure you glimpse all of the best ones.
8. Attend a seasonal festival
Heading to the city after December? Consider going at the end of January/the beginning of February to experience Broadway Week. This is your chance to grab 2-for-1 tickets to some of the city’s top shows.
January is also typically when the winter edition of New York Restaurant Week is held. It’s the perfect time to tuck into delicious discounted dishes at the city’s best restaurants — both new, old and world-renowned.
New York in winter FAQs
Is it worth visiting New York in winter?
Definitely! As well as being much quieter than the high-season summer months, New York offers plenty to see and do in winter. Get in on the festive cheer with a December getaway. Or make the most of cheap food and half-price theatre tickets in February.
How cold does it get in New York in winter?
There’s a strong chance you’ll experience icy weather during your winter trip to New York. The average temperatures in December tend to sit between 6°C and 0°C, while January (the coldest month) has an average temperature of 1°C. The snow season in NYC usually happens from mid-January to late February, though every year is different.
What do I pack for New York in winter?
No matter what month you visit, you’ll need to pack warmly. In December, pack a few base layers as you may get lucky with a few warmer days. If you’re heading to New York during January or February, you’ll want layers and a good winter coat. Thermal gloves and a hat are also essentials if you plan on spending time outside. And make sure you bring a sturdy pair of waterproof boots that’ll keep your feet dry and warm.
Regardless of when in the winter you visit, remember to do your research, pack accordingly and prepare to enjoy your time immensely.
Wondering where else to go during the coldest season? Visit Italy in winter for la dolce vita or set off on an awesome winter road trip.
