15 Things to Do in NYC During Winter

New York City, with its rich history, sure knows how to put on a show. Whether you’re strolling the streets of Midtown to window shop at Saks or Bloomingdales or heading to a cozy little wine bar in Soho, there’s energy and inspiration on every corner. 

And when this gemstone of a metropolis is sprinkled with a light coating of snow, its magic meter jumps up several notches. What do you say we pack our bags and go see what it’s all about? Together, let’s explore a blend of things to do – moments that every tourist must savor and a few adventures that, perhaps, only the locals know about. 

Skate Around Rockefeller Center

We simply must begin with the hub of the holiday season – Rockefeller Center. It’s where one of the prettiest Christmas trees in all the world lives for a few weeks, ice skaters abound, and Christmas shoppers find a bevy of delights. Purchase a decadent hot chocolate from Dean & Deluca before you step back onto Fifth Avenue to window shop at Saks Fifth Avenue, Cartier, Tiffany’s, and more. 

Take a Sip at Serendipity 3

If you’ve ever seen the John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale classic, you’ll know about the frozen hot chocolate. And, although ‘tis the season for steaming cups of hot chocolate, you might as well indulge, anyway. Watch the movie before you go to get inspired because Bloomingdales also stars in it, and that’s another department store that knows how to dress its windows for the season. 

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at The Plaza Hotel

Sticking close to Fifth Avenue, let’s head to one of the city’s most prestigious establishments, The Plaza Hotel. You might even want to watch Home Alone 2 before you go. But, we’re not here for Kevin McCallister’s antics; we’re here for the afternoon tea at The Palm Court. They serve a delicious selection of teas from Palais des Thés beneath the room’s signature stained glass dome. You’ll walk away from this experience with a full belly and a warm heart. 

Walk Around Central Park

You have countless options once you step into the park’s 843 acres. If you skipped the ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center, you can certainly do that here. You can also visit the zoo to wave hello to a snow monkey or two. Then, there’s the enjoyment of sitting on the iconic green benches to people-watch or stroll through Shakespeare Garden. If you’re properly bundled, Central Park turns into a Winter Wonderland that’s particularly beautiful when dusted in a light layer of snow.