How to Spend Winter in NYC: What to Do & See

The city that never sleeps is far from sleepy this year. In fact, if you weren’t aware, New York City is full of fun things to do. So, if you’re a local in the city or are planning a trip to NYC, here are a few favorite winter NYC activities (don’t forget to bring your mask and hand sanitizer)!

Experience a holiday cruise from Classic Harbor line

Enjoy a trip around New York’s harbors on one of Classic Harbor Line’s stunning yachts. There's a wide array of holiday programming, including the Sunset & Holiday Cocoa Cruise (I did this one!), and the New York City Lights Holiday Cocoa Cruise! The holiday season officially kicked off and you can reserve your tickets here.

Winter Village at Bryant Park

Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland when you head to Bryant Park’s Winter Village. Booths are set up with boutiques, hot cocoa to-go, and an ice skating rink. New this Year: Ice skating at Winter Village is now a fully outdoor experience, and the Holiday Shops have been reconfigured to have fewer shops to allow for more spacious walkways. Click here for an updated list of protocols and events. Whether you’re visiting with the family, your date, or alone, a trip to The Winter Village is sure to put you in the holiday spirit!

see the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

A beloved NYC holiday classic tradition is the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. This year marks the 90th year of the Rockefeller Center tree lighting and it will take place on December 1st. Click here for more info on the tree lighting and how to visit safely this season.

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Volunteer

What better way to express your Thanksgiving attitude of gratitude than by giving a helping hand over the holiday weekend? Volunteer at Feeding NYC, which delivers more than 70,000 boxes filled with a Thanksgiving meal to families in need in NYC. 

Visit one of the city's ice-skating rinks

Whether it’s Central Park’s Wollman Rink, Bryant Park’s 17,000 square foot rink, or The Rink at Rockefeller Center, be sure to check out one of NYC’s famed skating rinks over the weekend.

Virtually enjoy Black Friday deals

It also goes without saying that Black Friday is the best day to score amazing deals in all your favorite stores. So, this Black Friday, be sure to shop ‘til you drop — HELLO, bargain-basement deals! Note: Consider online shopping this year due to the pandemic.

Looking for more ways to indulge in the holiday spirit? Here’s my full guide to safe and fun holiday events in NYC.