Things to do

The List Of 22 Things To Do In New York City In January

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January is one of the finest months to be in New York City. The city is blanketed by snow and cheerful sparkling lights make it pretty. You can go ice skating, visit Broadway performances, and get acquainted with specific events like the Winter Jazzfest.

New York weather in January is a perfect moment to visit usual attractions, such as Central Park or the Statues of Liberty without hoards of tourists around.

Also, you get good discounts on hotels and shows. Here is a compiled list of great things to do in January in NYC for an unforgettable stay.

1. Watch New York Rangers Game At Madison Square Garden

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It is great fun watching the New York Rangers play ice hockey at Madison Square Garden on a typical January day. People are extremely excited, clapping and supporting their favorite team.

The game is filled with action on the ice and you get to enjoy fresh popcorn or hot dogs. The garden can be accessed with some ease and it has quite a number of historical backgrounds.

Try to be way before time so that you can get to your seat and feel the bibe when the game begins. Remember to purchase tickets from this website.

2. Attend An Opera Performance At The Metropolitan Opera

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The grand opera is here at the Met and in very good shape! Verdi fans are the most enthusiastic about the visible circus that prettifies Michael Mayer's new Aida. This remains possibly one of the most significant pieces in the entire operatic catalog; to witness Angel Blue in the lead role.

This sensational cast will remain on the stage until January 25th. The Met is probably one of the world's best-known opera houses and it can be found in the middle of Manhattan.

January has spectacular performances including La Boheme or Tosca. Also, the Met provides subtitles in various languages to ensure that everyone follows it.

3. Experience Dining in the Dark

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This is a relatively unique dining process, where you eat with your eyes closed. The concept revolves around the notion that when you cannot see with your eyes, you tend to be able to taste, feel, and smell all the better.

This only makes it even more delicious. Customers can try this experience at several food establishments in NYC such as Leuca in Williamsburg and The Wilson in NoMad.

The menu is random so you don't get to know what is being served to you until the end. There are also options for meat, seafood, or even a vegetable. The meal includes three dishes: entree, the main course, and the sweet course.

4. Be A Part of Real-Life Squid Game

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Are you interested in some thrilling things to do in January in New York? Try Squid Game: The Experience! This interactive event is held at Manhattan Mall where you can participate in games from the famous Netflix series.

Battle through five intense challenges inspired by the show. Visitors can challenge the scary Young-hee doll in Red Light Green Light, feel the vibe on the Glass Bridge, and have a thrilling battle in the Warships game.

You can also explore the Korean Night Market where delicious food and beverages are served. These fun things to do in New York City are entertaining, risk-free, and ideal for everyone. Book your tickets now.

5. Night Festive At NY Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Nights

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Christmas light displays and other delightful sounds are close to the end and what better way is there to embrace them than with Holiday Train Nights? Let the train conductors take you through the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre to the Holiday Train Show.

A world of colorful lighting advent hails the holidays under the glass of Haupt Conservatory. During your visit, you can listen and dance to holiday music performed by singers in our Locomotive Lounge to other popular festive holiday songs.

Sweet and savory nibbles, specialty spiked cider cocktails, and virgin drinks make the night sweet. One of the crazy things to do in NYC with kids.

6. Engage On A VR Journey Across Egypt At Horizon of Khufu

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A VR experience that transports you to ancient Egypt. You will also be able to watch a reenactment of the mummification process as well as visit the Great Pyramid of Giza and do so much more.

Using the headset, you get the opportunity to dive into its environment from all sides of the country. Every turn makes you wander around various districts of Egypt, and the overall experience seems more like playing one of the SIMS.

During the 45 minutes of the virtual tour, participants have their tour guides making the whole thing more exciting.

7. Take The Speakeasy Tour

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This entertaining tour allows you to get to know the hidden bars of the city in the same way as during the 1920s. It is an opportunity to go to off-the-beaten-path locations, difficult to find on your own and gain knowledge of the legacy of Prohibition.

You also get to taste craft cocktails and it is a well-thought-out way to go back in time while having delicious drinks. Unlike most bars, these tours are normally guided; you will be privileged with ample stories and no waiting in queues.

If you like history or if you are looking for something different in NYC things to do today, this tour is for you!

8. Participate In Three Kings Day Parade

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Wondering what to do in New York in January? Do not hesitate to watch the Three Kings Day Parade in East Harlem. The parade will be celebrated on January 6, 2025.

It runs from 11 am at 106th st and Park Avenue and ends at noon at 115th St. and the park avenue. The theme for this year is "The Arts Open Paths" commemorating Latinx, Caribbean, and Latin American art's ability to enrich people's lives.

The whole community seems to come out during this parade and for the love of music and Latin American traditions, this is the best time to engage with such. It is rather an entertaining occasion in New York in January that is appropriate for everyone.

9. See Diverse Performances At Park Avenue Armory

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One of the coolest New York in January things to do is to watch a show at the Park Avenue Armory. It's great for live performances, and there are all types of performers here.

For instance, in early January, one can dance to the electronic beats produced by Jamie xx from January 9th-12th. The Armory has a reputation for hosting unforgettable and thrilling events, so it's always good to go and expect the unexpected.

Besides, it is situated in a very nice old building and everything just feels extra magical. Regardless of whether one is inclined toward music, dance, and theatre arts, this venue is an indication of a place that you should frequent.

10. View The Winter Excitement Taking Place At Meatpacking District

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The Meatpacking District turns to a wintery Christmas spectacle with Lights on the Cobbles during the festive season. This event is held till January, 15.

It includes such decorations as a forest of glowing lights and big snowmen and dandelions as planters. You can go for a walk through the well-illuminated streets, take some beautiful pictures, and admire the mood of Christmas.

Plus, you can explore the Hedge and Hearth. It is an attraction at The Standard, High Line; a Winter Maze, with a play with lights and a boxwood path.

11. Slide On Ice Bumper Cars In Prospect Park

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Winter in New York is wonderful, especially if you can try skating on ice bumper cars in Park Prospect in January. This exciting activity kicks off on January 8th and will be available in LeFrak Center at Lakeside.

Ice bumper cars are like a huge round-up of bumper cars but on an icy field. It allows you to swoosh, twirl, and collide, and all of this in full fun. It is also an ideal occasion to have fun with family in NYC and get pleasure from the cold winter besides ice skating.

Moreover, it is most convenient to reach the place using the subway. Just remember not to wear high heels and stick to some of the guidelines.

12. Make A Wish At Star Light Star Bright Installation In Downtown NYC

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This art installation is located at 140 Broadway. It is a big star-shaped installation where an individual can write their wish on a plaque and hang it. There are beautiful chains and ribbons all over the star and it is lovely to look at.

The wish ribbons can be bought ready and hung at the nearby shops, or one can write wishes at such events. When people join the site and write their wishes the star becomes brighter and more alive.

It is especially useful to take a step outside, think about what the following year may bring, and walk around Lower Manhattan, which always looks incredibly jolly.

13. Avail Amazing Deals During The NYC Hotel Week 2025

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If planning a trip to New York City in some cold January you'd better be aware of NYC Hotel Week. Book a hotel from January 2 to February 9, and get a discount of up to 25%, during which you can choose one of the 130 best hotels in the city.

This is a great chance to learn more about NYC without having to spend money exploring the city. You get to stay in exquisite hotels like Hard Rock Hotel or LUMA Hotel Times Square.

Plus, get other benefits such as dining during New York City Restaurant Week and cheap tickets to Broadway shows.

14. Ice skate In Central Park

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When in New York City in January, of all the things to do there could hardly be anything more fun than ice-skating at the Central Park. The most favorite skating rink, by far is Wollman Rink which offers a handy New York City skyline backdrop.

It is open to the public from late October to mid-March to practice with friends or family during the day or at night. The rink has renting skates and lockers so all those people interested in joining can do so easily.

Noticeably, they sell hot beverages and foods to warm up after a session of skating. You can also watch people ice skating at the Conservatory Water especially if the ice is thick.

15. Comfort Your Soul With A Warm Bowl of Ramen

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This is a lovely dish to give us a warm feeling during the cold winter months. There are many delicious ramen spots all around the city. It seems that restaurants such as Tonchin, Ippudo NY, and Marufuku Ramen can cater to your desire.

They serve different flavors that will help comfort your soul. From Midtown to the East Village or Chelsea, there is a perfect ramen bar for everyone. So get your favorite bowl and allow the warmth to fill you up while you feast on the energy of the city.

It may not be the most adventurous concept but it fills one's NYC winter day rather nicely.

16. Visit The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) To Escape The Cold

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It is great to visit MoMA while freezing outside. This arena hosts some of the best artworks of the most renowned artists such as Picasso and Van Gogh.

There are paintings, sculptures even movies that you can watch. Interactive station programs and special events also make MoMA excellent for all ages of visitors.

Plus, it's always good to find a place for improvement and, most importantly, for inspiration. So, gather your cup of coffee and proceed to MoMA for a lovely art and aesthetic spree!

17. Explore NYC's Wintry Rooftop Bars

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The rooftop bars turn into stunning winter structures with heated seating areas, fireworks, and even igloo structures. At 230 Fifth Rooftop, you can dine over igloos that offer breathtaking views of the city.

The Haven Rooftop has a French section of food that comes in a glassed-in section and is hot for a date on a cold night. Similarly, the Magic Hour Rooftop Bar at Moxy Times Square boasts of an 'urban amusement park' theme and a great view of the Empire State Building.

If you are a couple looking for some intimate place for a date or a group of friends who want to have a nice night out, New York City winter rooftops are for you.

18. Take Your Kids To Disney On Ice Show: Frozen & Encanto Show

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This spectacular event takes Disney characters' legal experience of their stories by performing breathtaking figures skating on ice.

You will see Anna and Elsa from the Frozen show, save their kingdom from the eternal winter, and meet Mirabel and her family from the fantastic house of Encanto.

There is singing, dancing, and many heroic deeds that should fascinate your children. These shows in New York City are being conducted at Barclays Center Brooklyn from 16-19 and at UBS Arena, Belmont Park from 9-12 January.

19. Engage In One of The Largest Chinese New Year Parades

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January is the time when New York City begins preparation for the Lunar New Year which falls on January 29. Even though the major parade is held in February, celebrations begin with a firecracker ceremony and the Chinatown celebration in late January.

It is a good time to feel the energy of Asian neighborhoods and taste the authentic Asian food in NYC. Despite the primary carnival happening in February, the buildup begins in January which makes it a great time to visit Brooklyn and discover Chinatown and its roots.

20. Grab The NYC Restaurant Week Benefits

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This great event will take place on 21st January and ends on 9th February 2025. This is the time when you can have very many fine meals at discounts that you would never imagine.

More than 500 restaurants across the five boroughs have made available a range of fixed-price offerings starting from $30 for lunch and $45 or $60 for dinner. You can try all from Italian to Asian-Mexican intermixed dishes.

Furthermore, it is a good money-saving way to find a new favorite place. Pre-orders started on January 7 so do not miss out on this dining experience and book your table now.

21. Enjoy The Satin Dollz Show & Dinner

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This wonderful occasion means a mouthwatering meal served together with an enthusiastic dance show presented by skilled performers. The Satin Dollz perform vocal harmony in the same manner as the singers of the 1940s and 1950s and their dance moves light up the stage.

You can see them every Friday and Saturday at 7:00 pm at the USA Brooklyn Delicatessen located in Times Square. This is quite an appropriate way to have a fun night out for different age groups within the urban population.

So sit back, relax, and dig into that good old delicious meal because the night is going to be full of entertainment.

22. Go On Winter Jazzfest

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It is a week-long festival of Jazz music starting from 9th January up to 15th January. At this time you can watch over 100 performances of different groups from different countries in more than 10 theatres in the city.

Another exciting feature of the festival is Marathon nights in Manhattan and Brooklyn districts. Here you can visit several venues to listen to several performers and acts.

Overall, this is a good way to get warm in the cold winter while enjoying breathtaking music!