New York City transforms into a magical wonderland during the winter season, perfect for both travelers and locals to enjoy ahead of the holidays. From light displays to cozy indoor activities, there's something to do for everyone. Explore our favorite things to do during the winter season in NYC below!
Unique Photo Opportunities
1. Empire State Building - A Holiday Extravaganza You Can’t Miss
Travel up to the world-famous Empire State Building Observatory this winter for an unforgettable holiday experience. The iconic landmark will host a series of festive activities, which includes highly anticipated holiday movie nights that feature classic films such as "Elf,” “Home Alone,” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Additionally, the Observatory will host a delicious Ghirardelli pop-up cart on the iconic 86th Floor Observatory to offer one-of-a-kind hot chocolate flavors, and a fun photo opp corner that features holiday greenery, a candy cane arch, and the chocolatier’s fan-favorite peppermint bark squares.
Don’t miss your chance to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus during his special visits! For the second year in a row, Santa will visit the Observatory on select dates and times for no additional cost to spread holiday cheer and pose for photos with guests of all ages! Learn more about how the Empire State Building will celebrate the holiday season.
2. Central Park Winter Wonderland
Bundle up and take a leisurely stroll through snow-dusted pathways through Central Park. For a limited time, visitors can rent skates and glide across the ice at Wollman Rink. Don’t forget to capture some beautiful photos at Bethesda Terrace, where the landscape is transformed into a picturesque winter scene.
Holiday Markets
3. Union Square Holiday Market
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Union Square Holiday Market. With over 150 vendors that offer unique gifts, artisanal crafts, and delectable treats, it's the perfect place to find holiday presents for loved ones. Savor the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies and sip on a warm cup of mulled wine as you explore the vibrant stalls.
4. Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Located at the entrance to Central Park, Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a treasure trove of unique items and seasonal snacks. Browse through handcrafted jewelry, rich chocolates, and cozy winter accessories. The market’s cheerful atmosphere, complete with cheerful lights and festive music, will surely put you in the holiday spirit.
Food and Beverages
5. Winter Rooftop Igloos
Experience NYC's skyline from a unique perspective as you dine in a rooftop igloo. At 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, you can enjoy panoramic views as you indulge in seasonal cocktails and comfort food inside a cozy, heated igloo. This unique experience is perfect for a memorable night out with friends or a romantic date.
6. Cozy Hot Chocolate Stops
Nothing warms you up on a chilly winter day like a delicious cup of hot chocolate. Make your way to Ghirardelli’s first-ever NYC store at the Empire State Building, where you can savor their decadent hot beverages made with rich, premium chocolate. Don't miss out on their limited-edition Peppermint Hot Cocoa, a perfect treat to elevate your winter experience!
For those who want to add a personal touch to their holiday gifts or souvenirs, Ghirardelli offers a unique opportunity to create custom chocolate gift bags. Whether you choose to fill your bag with classic milk chocolate squares, seasonal peppermint bark, or rich dark chocolates, these bags offer a sweet and thoughtful way to celebrate the season.
Festivals
7. Winter Jazzfest
Jazz aficionados won’t want to miss Winter Jazzfest, a celebration of the genre that features over 700 artists at various venues across the city. From classic jazz to contemporary fusion, the festival showcases a diverse array of talent. Secure your tickets in advance to enjoy an evening filled with soulful melodies and vibrant rhythms.
8. Winter Jam
Winter Jam is a delightful winter sports festival suitable for all ages, held on a mini snow mountain in the heart of Manhattan. Hosted by NYC Parks, the Olympic Regional Development Authority, I Love NY, and I Ski NY, this event invites visitors to enjoy a fun day filled with snow sports, including sledding, curling, ice bowling, and much more, all with their loved ones.
Pop-Ups
9. Immersive Holiday Art Installations
New York City hosts a variety of pop-up art installations during the winter season. Check out the ‘Lightscape’ exhibition at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, where light displays transform the gardens into a magical winter wonderland. Guests can enjoy seasonal treats and festive music as they explore this installation.
10. Holiday-themed Escape Rooms
Challenge yourself and test your problem-solving skills in an escape room. ‘Escape the Room NYC’ offers thrilling scenarios where you and your team work together to solve puzzles and escape before time runs out. Guests can pick from a variety of rooms and scenarios, such as The Submarine, The Home, and The Dig, and reserve private rooms to host unique holiday parties. This interactive experience is perfect for families, friends, and team-building adventures.
Theater and Entertainment
13. Broadway's Holiday Spectaculars
During the winter months, Broadway theaters light up with some of the most captivating performances of the year. Experience the magic of holiday-themed shows like "The Nutcracker" and "A Christmas Carol," or indulge in traditional favorites that bring warmth and joy to audiences of all ages. Make sure to book your tickets early, as these shows are in high demand.
14. Rockettes Radio City Christmas Spectacular
An iconic holiday tradition, the Rockettes Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a must-see event. Held at the historic Radio City Music Hall, this show features intricate choreography, festive costumes, and a playful take on classic Christmas stories. It's an evening full of joy and wonder that delights audiences every winter season.
To celebrate the launch of this classic holiday show, the Empire State Building hosted a lighting ceremony that featured the stars of the Christmas Spectacular, the Radio City Rockettes. The building lit up red and white with a Christmas tree in the mast to celebrate the show’s opening on Nov. 8.
15. The Met Cloisters Winter Concert Series
Located in Fort Tryon Park, The Met Cloisters offers a unique blend of medieval architecture and art collections. In the winter, the museum hosts a series of concerts that feature classical and holiday music performed by talented musicians. The surrounding snow-covered gardens enhance the magical atmosphere, which makes it a perfect cultural destination for locals and visitors alike.
Holiday Decor
16. Macy’s at Herald Square
This iconic department store is known for its holiday window displays that capture the magic and spirit of the season. These festive decorations continue within the store, which is filled with lights, garlands, and a giant Christmas tree that serves as the perfect backdrop for holiday shopping.
17. The Empire State Building Starbucks Reserve Winter Wonderland
On Nov. 4, the luxurious cocktail lounge in the Empire State Building Starbucks Reserve® will transform into a winter wonderland. Decked out in festive foliage and garlands, guests can celebrate the season at the most festive destination.
Guests who visit the Empire State Building Starbucks Reserve Winter Wonderland can try out the limited-edition Starbucks Reserve® Empire State Cocoa, which brings an alcoholic twist to the classic hot cocoa.
This is the perfect place for guests to take in the holiday cheer before or after their trip to the Empire State Building.
18. The Empire State Building
Adjacent to the Macy’s at Herald Square, the “World’s Most Famous Building” celebrates the festive season with over-the-top decorations throughout their iconic Observatory Experience. Guests can expect to see the Grand Staircase, 86th and 102nd Floor Observatories, and 5th Avenue lobby windows beautifully decorated with seasonal displays that offer a festive welcome to guests.
For this year’s decorations, ESB has partnered up with Ghirardelli to bring fun chocolate-themed holiday decor! Guests will get the chance to savor their NYC holiday adventure with Ghirardelli’s peppermint bark-themed photo corner on the 86th Floor Observatory
