5 Fun Things to Do in New York on a Cold Day

The holidays are just around the corner, so it’s safe to say that the thermometer will not read much above freezing for the next few months. This is not the time to hibernate! Whether it’s embracing the chilly temps or finding ways to avoid them, NYC offers plenty of activities to do during winter. Here are five fun things to do in New York on a cold day.

Go Ice Skating

Ice skating is one of the best ways to experience New York City in all of its wintry glory. Grab your warmest mittens and hat and plan an outing at one of the city’s ice rinks. Skating at the Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center is a time-honored tradition if you don’t mind the crowds. Lace up for an afternoon a Wollman Rink in Central Park where you can enjoy the surrounding snow-covered landscape and skyscrapers. Coinciding with the popular Winter Village, the Ice Rink at Bryant Park is completely free.

Enjoy a Drink at 230 Fifth Rooftop Igloo Bar

230 Fifth Rooftop Bar makes the most of its outdoor space during cold weather by installing PVC igloos. These heated structures are transparent offering breathtaking views of the city. Make your visit extra cozy by ordering a festive treat from the hot drink menu. Highlights include Bailey’s Boozy Hot Chocolate, Irish Coffee, and Hot Fireball Cider.

See a Broadway Show

Seeing a Broadway play or musical is one of the most quintessential New York things you can do! Along with the most revered names of theater, favorite celebrities from film and television put their acting chops to the test on the big stage during the winter season. There are running favorites such as Wicked and The Book of Mormon alongside the hit sensations like Dear Evan Hansen, Hamilton, and Hadestown.

Spend An Afternoon At A Museum

Going to a museum is a great way to get out without having to endure the frigid temps. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, New York City has a museum for you. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Museum of Natural History are so big that it requires days to see all their treasures. But specialized cultural institutions such as the Neue Galerie and Tenement Museum can be enjoyed in a leisurely afternoon.

City Bakery’s Hot Chocolate Festival

We can’t think of a better way to warm up during winter than sipping a steaming cup of hot chocolate. City Bakery seems to agree. For the last 25 years, the Flatiron eatery has celebrated the delicious winter beverage by hosting the City Bakery Hot Chocolate Festival. Each day in February, the restaurant serves a different flavor. Unique offerings from over the years include peanut butter hot chocolate, salted caramel hot chocolate, s’more-y hot chocolate, chili pepper hot chocolate, and white chocolate waltz.

What other things do you like to do in New York on a cold day?

Also, overcoming the winter blues, and reasons to visit NYC in winter. Plus, a winter survival guide.

Posted on December 17, 2019