New York in November

By Sarah Harris

There's something quite enchanting about wintertime in New York – the weather is brisk, the streets are lit up, and the air is filled with the first signs of holiday cheer. From the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to ice skating at the Rockefeller, the city has a little something to offer for everybody. If you’re planning on making the trip, have a read through our guide of some of the best activities and events taking place throughout the month. To ensure that you don’t miss out on a thing, check out our Explorer pass and All-Inclusive pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Get into the Holiday Spirit

Wintertime in the city brings a whole host of seasonal, family-friendly activities. Towards the end of the month, New York Botanical Garden’s beloved train show opens its doors. With around 200 intricate replicas of steam engines and iconic landmarks delightfully constructed from natural materials in their rawest form – think pinecones, acorns and seeds, this unique holiday experience is nothing but a sight to behold. In addition, the exhibit showcases antique models from the 1800s. Thoroughly captivating and festive, the show perfectly captures the beauty of the city in miniature.

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Each year, the city transforms into an other-worldly wonderland with millions of holiday lights right after Thanksgiving. Those who are interested in experiencing the stunning over the top displays up close should consider taking a Christmas Lights Tour. Along the route, you’ll move through dazzling displays of toy soldiers, Santa Claus and reindeer which illuminate the residences of Brooklyn. Totally exciting and Instagram-worthy, this is the perfect activity for any holiday lover.

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If it’s a unique shopping experience that you’re after, look no further. Every year, Union Square’s Holiday Market draws in millions of shoppers with a wide array of affordable, quality items. With over 100 booths offering everything from handmade accessories and souvenirs to delicious food and drink, you don't want to miss out on this one. Enjoy a hot chocolate, browse the stalls, or check out the live music – the day is yours!

See the Classics

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You’ve seen it in all the movies: the iconic Rockefeller ice skating rink. Every year without fail, this classic winter attraction ushers in the holiday season right in the center of Manhattan. Attracting more than 150, 000 skaters every season, this uber-popular attraction has never failed to delight. Family-friendly and fun, this place offers the perfect NYC ice skating experience for those of all ages. Since the rink is prone to long lines during this time of year, we suggest looking into special tickets if you’re trying to cut down on time.

One of our favorite things to do in November in New York is to head down to the city center to catch the Thanksgiving Day Parade. Since originating in 1924, the parade has grown to become the largest in the world, now drawing in a huge crowd of spectators each year. An iconic New York tradition as watched by millions of Americans, the event is sure to put a smile on anybody’s face. Featuring floats, giant character balloons, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend Thanksgiving Day.

Those who want to get into the Christmas spirit early should definitely look into booking tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. A classic New York holiday activity, this annual music stage show offers its own original music score, a flying Santa Claus, and of course, the much-vaunted dazzling precision of the Rockettes. An iconic spectacle of music, dance, and festivity, this one-of-a-kind tradition is nothing short of mesmerizing.

Find Fun Activities

If you’re trying to avoid the frosty weather, why not make time to visit one of New York’s most widely acclaimed cultural amenities? Located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, the American Museum of Natural History cultivates curiosity and interpretation in the natural world. Home to an expansive collection of over 30 million artefacts, you’ll be spoiled for choice with this one. Fascinating and fun, the museum provides a great educational experience for those of all ages.

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Art is everywhere in New York, so it’s no surprise that the city provides some fabulous creative institutions. Celebrating over 100 years of contemporary American art, the Whitney Museum serves to preserve, protect and interpret the works of great US artists. Arguably the finest holding of its kind in the world, the permanent collection features pieces by Jasper Johns, Cy Twombly, and Cindy Sherman. A great stop for all art lovers, this place would make the perfect day trip.

New York City is well-recognized for its thriving comedy scene. If you’re interested in seeing a show, why not check out the New York Comedy Festival? Kicking off mid-November, the event features an impressive lineup of some of the city’s biggest laugh-out-loud performers. Comedy fans will be delighted by the number of shows taking place across five boroughs. With previous performances from David Cross, Marc Maron, and even Conan O’Brien, there’s no excuse to skip out on this one.

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Another great indoor activity is the New York City Horror Film Festival. Attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees each year, this event has grown to become the largest and most highly respected film festival of its kind. From cult classics to newer contributions to the genre, the event offers a wide variety of screenings to suit every taste. Those who are especially interested in horror should be able to attend special events, masterclasses and celebrity Q&As.

November is one of the most fun and exciting times to see New York. Attractive events and holiday cheer all across the city make it a great time for tourists to go and explore. Whether you’re visiting unique landmarks, discovering world-renowned museums, or trying out different foodie attractions, one thing’s for sure – your trip won’t be boring! To make the most out of your vacation, check out our All-Inclusive pass and Explorer pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Quirky Things to do in New York   

What can we say? We love New York! With a long list of cultural amenities, interesting historical sites, and exciting events, we couldn't think of a better place to visit for a one-of-a-kind vacation. Whether you’re looking for unusual museums and attractions, or ideas for fun activities like kayaking on the East River, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, take a look at our list for some of the best unusual things to do in the city. We hope you love them as much as we do. Explore the City The urban landscape displays some of the most creative and provocative street art in the city. Those looking for something a little different from the usual gallery experience might appreciate a tour of the Bushwick area, which is known as a mecca for American and International artists alike. Along the route, you’ll be able to view popular Blek Le Rat stencils and Shepard Fairey murals as well as some inspiring pieces by some lesser-known artists. In addition, your tour guide will take you through the history of the New York graffiti movement and explain more about the various styles of artistry that developed in the area. If skyscrapers aren’t quite your thing, why not check out St. Patrick’s Basilica? A total must for architecture lovers and history buffs, this Neo-Gothic style Catholic cathedral offers a refreshing change from the ultra-modern cityscape. Visitors can take tours to appreciate and admire the beauty of this historic visual landmark and learn more about its background. Still, the real star of the show is the catacombs tour, permitting visitors to explore the awe-inspiring tunnels running beneath the city center. For curious adventurers only, we recommend a trip on the Staten Island Ferry. An undoubtedly major attraction and mainstay of New York City culture, the ferry grants stunning views of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and Lower Manhattan Skyline. We suggest putting a day aside to explore all that the island has to offer. Check out the South Beach Boardwalk, have a picnic at Silver Lake Park, or visit Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden – the choice is yours! Get Cultured Another one of our favorite unique attractions to see in the city is the New York Transit Museum. Built into an authentic subway station in downtown Brooklyn, the institute celebrates the fascinating history of the region’s public transportation network. The museum’s remarkable collection features everything from construction equipment and vintage subway cars to old photographs and tickets. Enthralling and enjoyable, the museum provides the perfect educational experience for those of all ages. Looking for a unique and artsy museum to pique your interest? Well, look no further. Located on Madison Avenue, The Morgan Library houses one of the largest on-paper collections in the United States. The perfect stop for bibliophiles and creative types alike, the library features a broad collection of art, books and historic documents that will keep you dazzled for hours. Highlights include Mozart’s handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony, Henry David Thoreau’s Walden, and the only remaining manuscript of Milton’s Paradise Lost. The experience of viewing these influential works up close is entirely unforgettable – don't skip it! Why see a museum when you could see a quirky museum instead? Just across the East River, the Queens Museum seeks to collect, exhibit and interpret global contemporary art for a wide audience. The institute’s main draw is its room-sized scale model of the five boroughs, which is continuously updated. Still, that isn’t to say that its other pieces aren’t well worth the visit – between their permanent collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass, huge map of the city water supply system, and collection of artifacts from the 1964 and 1964 World Fairs, there’s a lot to see here. Find Fun Activities One of the best alternative activities in the city has got to be kayaking on the East River. Yep, you read that right. The city’s coastal waterways serve as a unique urban paddling destination – and with good reason. This energetic and outdoorsy activity grants stunning views of the midtown skyline. If you’ve never kayaked before, there’s no need to worry – you’ll be guided by a professional team and provided with the right equipment to ensure total safety. All you have to do is show up with and a positive attitude and readiness to explore! Those who are travelling with family might want to check out the next item on our list. Situated in Lower Manhattan, the Museum of Ice Cream offers a fun and unique experience based upon our favorite frozen delight. Bring your sweetest dreams to life through a number of multisensory installations and imaginative concepts. Fan favorites include the 3-storey indoor Ice Cream Portal, the Rainbow Tunnel, and the Sprinkle Pool. Don’t forget to bring your phone to capture the colorful and whimsical exhibits up close. The city is filled with hidden gems – you just need to know where to look. Tucked away in the Lower East Side, the Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center offers an entertainment experience to remember. This historic video arcade presents a wide array of classic and newer games, with a particular focus on competitive fighting. With its vibrant atmosphere, underground vibe, and unique draw, this spot is perfect for hanging out with friends and family after a long day of exploring. If you’re looking for a bit of fun, this is where you want to be. The state of New York never ceases to amaze us with its fun and quirky attractions. The city is like a spectacular buffet of cultural experiences. From one-of-a-kind daytrips to interesting museums and tours, the area has plenty to offer those looking for a little something outside of the box. Those who visit seeking diversity, vibrancy and eccentricity won’t be disappointed. 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.
Sarah Harris
Van Gogh at MoMA
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Empire State Building Vs Statue of Liberty NYC Comparison

Ask your average Jane or Joe to name as many top New York attractions as they can in 10 seconds and it’s fairly likely the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building will be first out of their mouths. But how do they measure up? Which has been around the longest and which has stolen the most blockbuster movie scenes? We got up close and personal with these two titans of the Manhattan skyline to find out. History The Statue of Liberty arrived on US shores in 1885, a gift from the people of France. This beautifully rendered copper giant was designed by celebrated sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, with a metal framework by his engineering pal Gustave Eiffel. Yes, that Gustave Eiffel. The statue was dedicated on Liberty Island in October 1886, where she has stood ever since, her gorgeous patina earning her the nickname ‘Green Goddess’. Still the definitive emblem of American freedom after more than 140 years, the statue attracts around 3.5 million visitors every year. The Empire State Building joined the party a little later, and will reach its centenary year in 2031. Perhaps the most iconic Art Deco building on the planet, it stands at 1,453ft and was the world’s tallest building for over four decades, until topped by the World Trade Center’s North Tower in 1970. No other building has held the record for that long, just one of many accolades held by this monolithic Manhattan masterpiece, which attracts around four million visitors a year, primarily for the birds’ eye views afforded by its observation platforms on the 86th and 102nd floors, some 1,250ft from terra firma. At the Movies The iconic status of the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building mean both have featured in countless movies, TV shows and music videos over the years. How many can you think of? The image of King Kong at the top of the Empire State Building, clinging to his beloved Ann Darrow (Fay Wray) and swatting away airplanes like flies before succumbing to their gunfire, is one of the most recognizable in movie history. It’s the Empire State’s mic drop moment, but the Green Goddess is no cinematic slouch either, having appeared on the silver screen many hundreds of times, even as far back as the silent movie era, when she made what is thought to be her debut alongside Charlie Chaplin in 1917’s The Immigrant. As a proud symbol of American freedom, Lady Liberty has also done innumerable stints in disaster movies, representing hope – or the fall of humankind. We’re talking the haunting image of the statue half-buried in sand in the closing scenes of Planet of the Apes as well as appearances in – deep breath – Independence Day, Deep Impact, The Day After Tomorrow, Cloverfield and, um, Sharknado 2. What can you do at the Statue of Liberty? A trip out to the planet’s most famous torchbearer takes in both Liberty Island (where the statue is located) and its near-neighbor Ellis Island, home of the National Museum of Immigration. And it’s well worth visiting both while you’re here. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the rich history of New York and the USA itself, there’s no better place to start. Photographs, heirlooms and a database of searchable historical records track the history of immigration in the US, and you can even peep into the baggage rooms and dormitories once used by ‘the huddled masses’ who arrived in New York in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Of course, the statue herself is the main event, and there are various options depending on what you want to see. You can book to climb to the top of the pedestal on which Lady Liberty stands, or go the whole hog and climb the 162-step spiral staircase inside the statue for epic views from right up inside her famous crown. Tickets for these experiences are available via the Statue City Cruises website, while a pass from Go City includes your ferry ticket plus entry to the museums, as well as dozens more New York attractions including the Guggenheim, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and – yep – the Empire State Building. What can you do at the Empire State Building? Really the only downside of visiting the observation platforms on the 86th and 102nd floors of the Empire State Building is the fact that those crazy views don’t include... the Empire State Building itself. Instead, soak up some of the best selfie opportunities in town with backdrops that include Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge and many other icons of the New York skyline. The 86th floor is in pole position for photo opps thanks to its open air platform, while the top floor is higher up (obvs) but fully enclosed. You can pimp up your visit with a range of direct ticket options that includes skip-the-line tickets, premium champagne packages and guided tours of the building, including the incredible Art Deco lobby. Or go straight for the 86th floor with an attraction pass from Go City. How to get to the Statue of Liberty The Statue of Liberty’s location on Liberty Island means the only way of getting there is by ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or the Liberty State Park in New Jersey. All passengers are required to undergo a security screening before boarding, so we’d recommend arriving 30 minutes or so before your planned departure, to avoid missing the boat. The Staten Island Ferry is another option if you just fancy a close pass (with stacks of great photo opportunities of both the statue and Manhattan skyline) but without actually physically visiting the attraction. Check out our blog on the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty here. How to get to the Empire State Building Getting to the Empire State Building is an absolute cinch. It’s right in the center or the Big Apple and you really can’t miss it; it’s visible from just about everywhere. The nearest metro stations are Herald Square and Penn Station, or arrive in style at the awesome Grand Central, and make the 10-minute walk from there. Check out our blog on the best time to visit the Empire State Building here. Save on New York Activities and Attractions And that concludes our deep dive into the world of the Empire State Building vs the Statue of Liberty. We hope, in the unlikely event that you choose to visit only one of these big attractions, that in some small way our guide can help you make your decision. If not, and if indecision continues to dog you, remember you can easily visit both and save money thanks to Go City’s All-Inclusive and Explorer passes for New York. So what are you waiting for?
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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