New York

10+ Things to Do in New York in Winter – December & January Activities & More

By Casey Makovich

Winter in New York City is full of wonder and enchantment.

The city is one of the world's top destinations during the holiday season where you can delight in magnificent department store window displays, street performers and singers, fabulous shopping, outdoor skating, seasonal festivals, and so much more. You might even catch some magical snowfall...

So if you’re looking for things to do in New York in winter, check out our list of the best holiday activities and attractions.

Go Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center

New York City has a few places to enjoy the popular winter sport, so you have a few options to choose from:

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Ice skating at the Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center might be the most quintessential winter New York City activity and it's one of the most iconic places in the world to skate.

After some laps around the rink, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa at any of the nearby coffee shops or cafes; we like Rock Center Cafe for its prime views of the rink.

Snap a holiday card-worthy pic with the famous tree in Rockefeller Square, tour the center, and take a trip to the top of the building for sweeping winter views of the New York City skyline.

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Image credit: Bryant Park Facebook page.

If you'd rather avoid the hard-to-navigate crowds that are sure to be at Rockefeller Center, head to the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park for free admission for ice skating every day, through January. At Winter Village, you can get quality Skate rentals, sharpening, lessons, and there are bag checks and lockers available. Afterward, stop in Celsius for a bite to eat and festive drinks while you warm back up.

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Head to Wollman Rink in Central Park for skating with a picturesque background and a convenient location close to lots of attractions, including...

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

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If skating isn't your thing, Rockefeller Center Plaza is still worth checking out for its iconic Christmas tree scene. The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is carefully selected each year among candidates from across the country, this world-famous tree is the best of the best.

Lights go on just after Thanksgiving, and the tree is available on display for all to see for the entire month. It’s worth a visit to Rockefeller Center for even just a glimpse of this tree.

Celebrate New Year's Eve in Times Square

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It's iconic for a reason, tons of fun to be had celebrating the ball drop in Times Square. If you are planning on attending, be sure to check out these tips for New Year's Eve in Times Square – it's a long, long day waiting out in the cold, but can be all worth it if you plan properly.

Visit a World-Class Museum

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Want to get in a little culture during your visit to New York? Head to one of New York City’s top museums. Whether you're looking to experience the emotional tour of the 9/11 Tribute Center, explore all things weird at Ripley's Believe It or Not!, or want to experience a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece (the Guggenheim Museum) in person, you're bound to find a museum that suits your interests.

For a more traditional museum experience, some of our top picks are the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York’s most renowned art museum, with its special exhibitions during the winter months, and the Guggenheim Museum, the sensational modernist building with its famous 'corkscrew' interior structure that plays hosts to a number of works by impressionist masters.

Check Out Yankee Stadium

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For a taste of real New Yorker life, be sure to check out the legendary Yankee Stadium with a behind-the-scenes tour.

You'll learn some of the unique history that makes the stadium great (at least in the hearts of Yankee fans). It's a great opportunity to take photos of Yankee artifacts and exhibits, as well as the field, dugout, and other specialty areas. Indulge your love of baseball in the offseason!

Winter Jazzfest

What started as a one-day event has evolved into a full multi-day annual festival. Jazzfest features some of the best established and up-and-coming jazz artists to make for an unforgettable event that celebrates the history and culture of all things jazz. Check out this year's lineup and settle in for a week of smooth tones.

Under the Radar Festival

Photo credit: Under the Radar Festival's Official Facebook Page

The Under the Radar Festival at The Public Theater is one of the most exciting ways to experience New York City's famous theater culture. The annual event features diverse comedy troupes from around the world performing over a dozen shows.

These performances provide high-quality cultural entertainment at a fraction of the price you’d pay to see a show on Broadway. Take a look at their site for all the latest information.

Empire State Building Run-Up

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If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to work out more, consider heading to the Empire State Building for a totally unique and totally challenging workout: the annual Empire State Building Run-Up (ESBRU).

While only a quarter-mile in distance, a sprint to the top of the 86th floor is no easy feat. The trip to the top takes visitors under a minute by elevator, and the fastest runners can do all 86 floors in 10 minutes. Start training now for this event.

Check their site for more information and available dates. If you're interested in touring the Empire State Building but could do without the running, visit on another day to see the Art Deco interiors and amazing views from the exterior.

Radio City Christmas Spectacular
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Image credit: Radio City Christmas Spectacular Facebook page.

Attending the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a popular NYC bucket list activity for visitors and residents alike. The show is always a little bit different each year, making it a fun tradition for those who've even already seen it.

It’s got nutcrackers, dancing animals, flying presents, amazing special effects, and the world-famous Rockettes® – the best way to get in the holiday spirit! Can’t make the show? Take a tour of Radio City Music Hall and go behind the scenes of the famous show.

Admission to this event is separately ticketed, but Radio City Stage Door Tour tickets are available with a Go City® pass.

Remember to Save on Attraction Admission

So there you have it. Our list of a few things to do in New York in the winter, including holiday events, other seasonal activities in December, January, and more.

Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available with Go City. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available New York passes, attractions & prices.

Please note, the winter events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not available on a Go City® pass. We hope you plan to add a few of these fun options to your winter vacation itinerary.

Casey Makovich
Go City Travel Expert

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Is New York Safe?

In many ways, New York is the perfect place for recreation and exploration. From its fantastic cultural amenities and historical landmarks to great bars and restaurants, the city has it all. Still though, like any entity that reaches an immortal level of fame, the city has amassed quite the reputation. Rumors began to fly. So, it only makes sense for a person to wonder, ‘’is New York safe to visit?’’ Well, we’re here to tell you that the answer is a resounding yes! But, if you still need more convincing, or are perhaps looking for tips for how to stay safe during our visit, have a read through our guide to navigating the concrete jungle! How Safe is New York? There’s nowhere quite like the Big Apple. The city is one of the most visited destinations in America – and with good reason! Still, New York is not without its flaws. A fairly common issue for visitors to the city is petty crime, coming in a wide variety of forms. From bag snatching and pickpocketing to phone grabbing and mugging, it can sometimes seem like there’s much to look out for. A lot of the time, criminals prey on new visitors because they stand out and seem like they don’t know their surroundings. To avoid becoming an easy target, we suggest that you dress conspicuously and keep an eye out for suspicious activities wherever you go. Things to be Aware of When visiting New York, you might feel excited to buy tickets for some of your favorite events – and who wouldn’t be? Still, it’s important to stay especially cautious when looking at tickets, due to the rising prevalence of fraud. To ensure that you’re paying for what you get, we advise you to avoid buying tickets which are marketed on social media, instead purchasing directly from well-established companies and websites. This way, you’ll know for sure that your tickets are legitimate and won’t have to miss out on something truly special! Is New York Safe at Night? Forever bold and buzzing with life, New York is well-recognized for its great nightlife. Though a night out in the big city is a lot of fun, it can also present some risks. Whilst spiking and attacks are irregular incidences, they can and do happen – so it's important to take precautions to reduce the chances of becoming a victim. First off, we recommend going out in a group - remember, there’s always safety in numbers. Still, if this isn’t possible, then it’s best to let somebody know where you’re going for the night. In addition, you should drink in moderation and politely decline any beverages offered to you by strangers. We also suggest taking a taxi back to the hotel over other modes of transport, since walking or taking public transport at night could be dangerous. Though going out in New York might sound like a big deal, it doesn’t present any bigger issues than partying somewhere else in the world – plus it’s twice the fun! Is Transport in the City Safe? Another common concern of visitors to New York is if it's dangerous to travel around the city. The Big Apple presents many different methods of transportation, all of which are time-efficient, cost-effective and, yes, pretty darn safe! Still, of course, we suggest that you keep super vigilant of your surroundings and apply good ol’ fashioned common sense when exploring the city. For those who are planning to use public transport to get around, it's important to keep a close eye on your belongings and not show any cash. Also, be sure to plan your trip beforehand – this way, you won’t get lost, or potentially end up in a dangerous neighborhood. If you’re going opt for a taxi, you should steer clear of any unmarked cabs – you'll note that all NYC cabs are clearly display the cab driver's medallion number. Uber and Lyft are also a great cheaper safe alternative. If you want to walk around and soak up the atmosphere of the city, we suggest sticking to daytime hours and busier areas. How to Stay Safe in New York A common misconception about the city is that it can be dangerous to visit – however, if you stay in safer areas, you’ll have little to worry about. Some of the better areas of the city include Midtown, Greenwich Village, Chelsea, and the Upper West Side. Still, if you decide to venture into one of New York’s grittier neighborhoods, it's important to pay attention to your surroundings. The best thing to do is stay sharp and keep your wits about yourself whilst exploring the area. If you need to stop for directions, we suggest going into a local shop and asking an employee. Though discovering a new area can be quite daunting, there’s no reason not to if you take the right measures. Solo and Female Travelers Generally, New York is welcoming to all of its visitors. Still, with its sprawling cityscape and big reputation, it seems understandable that some would think it could pose a threat for solo travelers and women. Although we think New York is a great vacation spot, we still want to emphasize how important it is to be properly prepared for your trip. If you’re a solo traveler, make sure to research your destination ahead of time. When you arrive, you should keep in touch with friends and family back home so that they know what you’re up to. For female travelers, it's important not to share too much personal information about your itinerary or where you’re staying with strangers. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, don't feel scared to make a call or talk to someone in the vicinity. As with any city, New York can present its dangers, but if you’re careful and make smart decisions, you’ll get along just fine. Enjoying Your Time in the City Safely There are endless things to see, do and experience in New York. The list of remarkable attractions and cultural institutions run the gamut. Just think: the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and Grand Central Station. Still, every city has its issues, so it’s important to follow basic precaution measures whilst visiting. Though New York has a pretty strong safety record, we advise you to be cautious to avoid any incidents or inconveniences that could occur. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Blog

5 Days in New York

Spanning 59 community districts, each with their own unique vibe, New York offers countless attractions and points of exploration for every type of traveller. As exciting and innovative as ever, there’s no place quite like New York; the city’s art scene has some of the greatest institutions in the world, its architecture remains unmatched, and its nightlife boasts killer bars and restaurants. What’s more, the city is always coming up with new ways to surprise us, whether if it's with quirky fun hotspots or interesting hidden gems. No matter what you choose to do here, you’ll never be bored in the Big Apple! So, if you’re thinking about taking some time off to explore the concrete jungle, check out our list of the best things to do in the area. Whether you’re an art lover, a history geek, or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. See the Sites One of the most distinguishing features of New York is its striking and varied architecture. If you want to see more of the cityscape, there’s no better place to be than the Empire State Building. Truly one of the city’s most iconic attractions, the building stands out for its incredible height and stature. For the bravest of travellers only, the observation deck provides amazing views of the city from way up high. A thoroughly unmissable NYC attraction and one-of-a-kind experience, this stop should be at the top of everybody’s itinerary! Another one of our favorite things to do in New York is visiting the Statue of Liberty. A total must-see for those looking to learn more about the development of the United States, the historic monument serves as an emblematic symbol of freedom and hope. The statue is so much more than a beautiful structure; it stands as a tells the story of the American dream. Whilst visiting, it is also customary to check out Ellis Island, where you can discover the background of what was once the busiest immigration point in America. In fact, 40 per cent of Americans can trace their roots back to the island. The most popular thing to do here is visit the National Museum of Immigration, but there are other great activities, such as the hard hat tours and boats trips which we highly recommend looking into. A totally fascinating and incredibly moving experience, this one is great for those of all ages. Though New York is known for its modern skyscrapers, the city is also home to many incredible venerable structures. For those who are interested in the constructural integrity of the city, we recommend a walk along the Brooklyn Bridge. For architecture lovers and history buffs alike, this attraction offers a fine example of Gothic Revival architecture; get up close, and you can view its commanding towers and steel cables in all of their glory. Today, the bridge still maintains its beauty and offers spectacular views of the cityscape and the East River. We suggest wearing your comfiest shoes and checking the weather beforehand since it’s a pretty long walk! Take in the Atmosphere No visit to New York is complete without exploring Central Park. Situated right in the heart of the city, this manmade urban green space draws in millions of visitors each year – and with good reason! A quintessential NYC attraction and the most filmed location in the world, the park is one of the most picturesque spots in the city. Still, we’d argue that it’s much more than just a pretty face; it’s actually home to myriads of interesting attractions, events and activities. Here, you can visit the zoo, historic gardens and landmarks, or even kayak. Whatever your interest, you’ll be sure to find it right in the middle of Central Park! If you’re visiting New York, then you can’t leave without seeing Grand Central Station. We don’t want to be labelled as shallow, but the first thing that stands out about this place is its incontestable beauty. Still, though, that isn’t all that Grand Central Station has to offer; under its historic roof, you’ll be able to find a wealth of great shopping and dining options. As a bonus, you can take the subway to your next destination to live your true New York life! Learn Something New Teeming with art and culture, New York is undoubtedly one of the best cities in the United States for creative types. Though the city presents an impressive wealth of art galleries, our top pick has got to be the Whiney for its expansive collection of modern and contemporary American art. Walking around the institution, visitors can view a first-class repository of over 25, 000 pieces across all mediums. The museum is located in the Meatpacking District, which is a trendy neighborhood with lots of great sites and food markets to be explored. Long recognized for its incredible museums, New York is a total treat for any visitors with a thirst for knowledge. Situated on the Upper West Side, the American Museum of Natural History seeks to cultivate fascination and intrigue in the world around us. Covering over 2 million square feet, the institution is known for holding the largest repository of its kind in the world. Inside, you’ll be able to view an impressive collection of over 34 million specimens, including Native American artefacts, dinosaur bones, and of course, its famous blue whale. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. There are endless things to do, see and experience in New York. Cultural institutions, major historical landmarks, and fantastic attractions – it’s all at your fingertips. Whilst you certainly wouldn’t run out of interesting activities, you might struggle to narrow down your itinerary. If you’re only visiting for a short time, we recommend planning ahead to make your trip a little less overwhelming. Still, whatever you choose to do, we know it’ll be great – it's New York City, after all! To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Empire State vs One World
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Empire State Building vs. One World Trade Center

Two intriguing skyscrapers, two dazzling observation decks, each with an expansive view of the Big Apple. Which of these New York icons will you visit? Or - will you check out both?
Katie Sagal

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