7 Fun Things to Do in NYC this Winter Season
2021 has been a whirlwind of a year, to say the least. While COVID-19 continues to plague our nation, there’s still socially distanced, safe, good ol’ fun to be had! I rounded up the best things to do in New York City this winter season and included COVID-19 safety measures. So, beat the winter blues (safely) with these top recommendations from me, a New York City native! Oh, and some of these are super Instagrammable spots too! Check them out, stay safe, and #nystrong:
Soak in the Views on a Sunset & Holiday Cocoa Cruise by Classic Harbor
A sunset cruise with Classic Harbor is a nice way to get a different perspective of the city during the holiday season. Invite friends and family, sip on hot cocoa, and take in the sights of the city like you’ve never seen before! Book your tickets here.
Stroll Through Central Park’s Most Iconic Spots
Explore the 840 acres of New York’s most important and largest park. Snap cute holiday photos at some iconic landmarks in the park like The Mall, a pedestrian promenade leading to Bethesda Fountain. Then check out Bow Bridge around the corner from the fountain. The bridge is popular for all kinds of photo and film shoots (you might recognize it from movies, and TV shows!). Next, grab a hot cocoa to-go nearby at the Central Park Loeb Boathouse cafe and then head to the Conservatory Garden for more stunning views and Instagrammable moments!
Check Out the New York Botanical Garden Train Show
NYC’s annual, famous New York Botanical Garden Train Show is returning on Thursday, November 12th, 2020 and will be on through Sunday, January 31st, 2021, with COVID-19 safety measures in place. Watch as model trains zip through NYC landmarks, like the Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge. They’re operating at limited capacity this year, so click here to reserve your tickets and learn more today.
Walk Along the Hudson River
The Hudson River is another scenic spot in NYC. There is a bike path that runs the entire length from Battery Park City on the southern tip of Manhattan all the way north to the Upper West Side. Rent a Citibike for the day and bike along the path, or simply stroll, taking in beautiful views of the river, the Statue of Liberty, and the city that never sleeps.
Visit the Holiday Markets
NYC is one of the most magical places during the holidays. And there’s no shortage of shopping, either! Sure, things are a little bit different this year, but there’s still lots of holiday markets popping up. Check out one of the holiday outdoor markets at Bryant Park. If you want to stay warm and stay indoors, check out the Grand Central Holiday Fair and holiday pop-up shops at Westfield in the World Trade Center.
Cozy Up at a Coffee Shop
There’s nothing better than cozying up to a delicious latte, or coffee of your choice, at an adorable coffee shop in NYC. My latest favorite is Bluestone Lane, an Australian cafe with amazing coffee and locations all around the city. Other cozy coffee shops include Irving Farm, with multiple locations across the city, and Devoción, with cafes in the Flatiron District & Williamsburg, and Downtown Brooklyn.
Indulge in a Weekend Getaway
We all need a little escape from time to time — especially after the year we’ve all experienced. So, pack your weekend bags, grab your BFF, and head out of the city for a much-needed breather. Click here to check out these Cool Spots in Upstate New York to visit.
While you’re here, take a look at these some of my favorite restaurants that are using heat lamps outside to enable an open-air dining experience into this unique winter season.