Things to do

10 Cheap And Fun Things To Do During NYC Winter

Stunning snow covered Central Park view (photo by @aarrronw)
Source : instagram

Winter in New York City is a truly enchanting experience. The streets are illuminated with sparkling lights, the parks are blanketed in snow, and endless possibilities exist for adventure and excitement. 

However, a trip to NYC during winter can be pretty pricey. But fret not; there are plenty of affordable activities to do that will allow you to enjoy the city without breaking the bank.

1. Go Ice Skating In Bryant Park

The Rink at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park (photo by Angelito Jusay Photography)
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Things to do in New York in the winter is to go ice skating in Bryant Park. This popular spot offers free rinks for skating.

The rink attracts many visitors during the winter season, from late October to March. It's an excellent opportunity to embrace the chilly weather and soak in the holiday ambiance.

When planning your ice skating adventure in Bryant Park, keep a few things in mind. Firstly, the rink can get quite crowded, so arriving early will ensure you have ample time to enjoy the experience.

Another advantage of skating in Bryant Park is the variety of food and drink vendors nearby. Before or after your skate, you can treat yourself to delicious snacks or warm beverages from these vendors.

2. Visit The Union Square Holiday Market

Visitors at the Union Square Holiday Market (photo by Ali Garber)
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Things to do in NYC during the winter include a still at the holiday markets. The Union Square Holiday Market in NYC is a beloved winter destination.

With over 150 vendors, the market showcases an impressive selection of handmade and one-of-a-kind gifts alongside delectable food and drinks.

From November to December, it offers a fantastic opportunity to discover delightful Christmas presents, charming stocking stuffers, and enchanting holiday decorations.

The market exudes a festive atmosphere within the picturesque Union Square Park in the heart of Manhattan. It operates from 11 am to 8 pm on weekdays.

During these hours, you can partake in a variety of delightful activities. Explore a plethora of unique gifts and souvenirs from diverse vendors, and savor the delicious offerings of food and drinks available.

Capture memorable moments with photos alongside the majestic Christmas tree, and immerse yourself in the festive ambiance, embracing the joyous holiday spirit.

3. Go Sledding Or Snowshoeing At Central Park

KIds and parents Snowshoeing at Central Park
Source : twitter

What to do in NYC in the winter? Why not go sledding and snowshoeing at Central Park?

The park boasts several hills perfect for sledding, including the Great Hill, Harlem Hill, and East Meadow Hill. For those interested in snowshoeing, Central Park also provides various trails that offer a delightful snowshoeing experience.

The Reservoir Running Track, North Woods Ramble, and Bridle Path are among these trails. If you plan on going sledding, make sure to bring your own sled. However, you can rent sleds at some of the park's playgrounds if you don't have one.

So, whether you're seeking the excitement of sledding down hills or the tranquility of snowshoeing along scenic trails, Central Park offers a delightful winter wonderland for everyone to enjoy in the heart of New York City.

4. Get A Cup Of Hot Chocolate And Donuts At Cha Cha Matcha

Delicious  Gluten-Free, Vegan Matcha Donuts
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Things to do in winter in NY are incomplete without tasting hot chocolate with churros.

Winter in NYC truly brings a touch of magic, and when the chill sets in, there's no better way to warm up than with a delightful cup of hot chocolate and some delicious donuts. 

Luckily, you'll find many excellent places to savor this delicious treat, but one standout is Cha Cha Matcha, a popular matcha cafe in Midtown Manhattan.

It is renowned for serving up mouthwatering churros that perfectly balance crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These delectable treats are elevated with a luscious matcha sauce.

Cha Cha Matcha provides a variety of toppings, such as whipped cream, marshmallows, and chocolate shavings, to make your hot chocolate even more indulgent.

So, when you find yourself in Midtown Manhattan for breakfast or any meal during the winter season, visit Cha Cha Matcha and treat yourself to a cup of their signature hot chocolate and some delectable donuts.

5. Attend A Winter Festival

Lantern Festival & Spiral of Light for the Winter Solstice near Brooklyn bridge(photo by Domino Park)
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From dazzling light displays and beautifully decorated Christmas trees to festive markets and ice skating rinks, these winter festivals offer something special for everyone. The city comes alive with joyous celebrations, creating a heartwarming atmosphere that captures the true spirit of the holidays.

One famous festival is the Bryant Park Winter Village. It's the perfect place for shopping, dining, and ice skating, open from late October to March. The village has over 150 vendors selling handmade and unique gifts and food, and drinks.

Check out the Brooklyn Winter Festival if you're looking for a family-friendly festival. Held in Brooklyn Bridge Park, it features live music, ice skating, and a variety of activities for kids. It's a great way to enjoy the winter weather in a fun and festive atmosphere.

6. Sightseeing In Horse-Drawn Carriage

Visitors enjoying NY's sightseeing through horse drawn carriage
Source : viator

One of the best things to do in NYC in the winter is to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park is a timeless and magical winter activity in NYC. 

There's a unique charm in witnessing the park adorned with a snowy blanket and the city skyline twinkling in the distance as you leisurely ride in the back of a horse-drawn carriage.

Although carriage rides are available year-round, they hold a special allure during winter when the season's beauty transforms the park.

These delightful rides typically last around 30 minutes, guiding you through Central Park's most iconic and picturesque spots, such as the Great Lawn, Bethesda Fountain, and the Reservoir.

Beyond being a fantastic way to explore the park, a horse-drawn carriage ride offers a relaxing and romantic experience. The horses are well-trained, and the drivers possess in-depth knowledge of the park, providing a delightful and informative journey.

So, you can sit back, relax, and revel in the enchanting surroundings during this captivating wintertime escapade in Central Park.

7. Beat The Cold With Delicious Italian Cuisine

Mouthwatering Italian pizzas at L'Antica Pizzeria (photo by @rossellapisano_)
Source : instagram

When winter chills settle in New York City, nothing quite beats the comfort of a hearty Italian meal to warm the soul. The city offers many delightful Italian restaurants, whether you're craving mouthwatering pasta, a delicious pizza, or a comforting risotto.

Located in Midtown, L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele stands out as a Michelin-starred pizzeria renowned for serving some of the best pizzas in the entire city. Their Margherita pizza is an absolute must-try, with the authentic flavors of Italy that will leave you longing for more.

No matter what your palate craves, rest assured that New York City has an Italian restaurant waiting to embrace you with warm, flavorful dishes on a cold winter day. So, bundle up, venture out, and treat yourself to a delightful taste of Italy amidst the wintry charms of the Big Apple.

8. Enjoy Famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Gorgeous sparkling Rockefeller Center Christmas tree
Source : people

Cheap things to do in NYC Christmas winter is to visit Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. It's a magical sight to behold.

During the holiday season in NYC, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is an iconic symbol. This 75-foot Norway spruce is decorated with over 50,000 lights and a Swarovski crystal star.

On the first Friday in December, the tree is lit and remains on display until New Year's Eve. It is a popular tourist destination, but there are often long lines to see it.

Once there, visitors can appreciate the tree up close or take a picture. Additionally, they can visit the Rockefeller Center rink and go ice skating. Embrace the joy of gliding on the ice, creating cherished memories in the heart of the city that never sleeps.

So, include this iconic attraction on your holiday itinerary in NYC and immerse yourself in the festive wonder of the season.

9. Take A Sunset Cruise

Stunning view of the Statue of Liberty at sunset (photo by @mingomatic)
Source : instagram

Romantic things to do in NYC winter is taking a cruise to watch the beautiful sunset. The city looks magical as the sun sets behind the skyscrapers.

Consider a sunset cruise if you want to experience New York City differently. As the sun sets, the city skyline transforms into a beautiful array of colors, and the views from the water are truly breathtaking.

Fortunately, many companies offer sunset cruises in NYC, so you can easily find one that suits your budget and interests. Some cruises provide dinner, while others only offer drinks and snacks.

No matter which type of cruise you choose, you are guaranteed to have a memorable experience. Witnessing the sunset over the city is a truly magical sight, and it is the perfect way to cap off a day in New York City.

10. Tour Governor’s Island Winter Village

Aerial view of Governors Island
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Visitors of all ages can enjoy the ice skating rink, vintage carousel, food vendors, and holiday-themed shops.

The ice skating rink is open from November to March and is a popular spot for those who want to embrace the winter weather and experience the magic of the holiday season.

If you're looking for a nostalgic experience, ride on the vintage carousel built in 1912. It's a popular attraction and a great way to enjoy the holidays.

For those who enjoy food, the Winter Village has a variety of food vendors that offer everything from hot chocolate and churros to burgers and fries. There are also holiday-themed shops where you can purchase souvenirs and gifts.