The winter season is possibly the best time to visit New York City. The city comes alive with Holiday lights, festive fairs, Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks, and various events in the period between December and February. Visitors should, however, be ready for low temperatures, full attractions as well as difficulty in securing reservations at restaurants.
The most popular holiday celebration that kicks off the season in November is Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with its balloons, marching bands, and theatrical performances. Holiday season tourists should make sure to get to their chosen observation spot early, as the parade attracts large crowds.
In December people usually flock to Rockefeller Center to see the famous Christmas tree adorned in thousands of twinkling lights. However, it is best to visit the tree late at night, around 11:30 p.m., to avoid crowds.
Ice skating is also a notable attraction of winter. Top spots include the Rockefeller Center, the Wollman Rink in Central Park, and Bryant Park Winter Village. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, Brookfield Place has an ice skating rink with waterfront views.
During winter, visitors can visit the special markets set up in various parts of the city such as Bryant Park, Union Square, Columbus Circle, and Grand Central Terminal. It will be possible to buy hand-made gifts, crafts, food, and Christmas decorations there.
Another notable event involves the Christmas Spectacular at the Radio City Music Hall and the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden where you can see small copies of the most famous constructions along with the toy trains going around.
The New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square is known worldwide, but a visit to this celebration won’t be easy. Visitors will have to stay on the street for several hours in the cold and have no access to toilets and not being able to go outside the the areas designated for viewing.
The New Year’s Eve harbor cruise is a great option for travelers who want to have some fun while being comfortable as they enjoy the skyline views, live music, and fireworks while sipping on champagne.
Another exciting event in winter is New York Restaurant Week, which falls in January and February when a selection of restaurants provide discounted prices for special menus. The relic of Lunar New Year is celebrated by parades, lion dances, and cultural performances throughout Chinatown and elsewhere in New York.
What to Wear in New York in winter
It is important to dress in layers during winter as it can be quite brutal in January. Thermal clothing, warm sweaters, an insulated down jacket, and waterproof boots will help you remain comfortable in the freezing weather.
Waterproof boots are especially important as there will often be slushy puddles on the streets due to melting snow. Don’t forget about gloves and scarves too if you plan on taking many walking tours, since there will be long hours spent outside during this time of the year.
Travelers visiting in December should contact popular restaurants, Broadway shows, rooftop bars, and special holiday experiences in several weeks or even months in advance. If it proves difficult to make dinner reservations, one may need to opt for lunch, eat at the bar, or try to get a reservation for an earlier dinner.
During the busy holiday season, subway travel is the most convenient option for getting around New York City. It saves tourists from traffic jams and makes it possible to get to the necessary sights quickly and in an inexpensive manner.
Walking tours are also a great option for getting to know the sights, neighborhoods, and history of the city as long as people dress appropriately.
There are a lot of lodging options available in New York City.
Midtown Manhattan is the place to be for tourists who want to be in close vicinity to major attractions such as Rockefeller Center, Times Square, and holiday exhibits on Fifth Avenue. Downtown Manhattan provides a more peaceful ambiance while Brooklyn promises remarkable sky views along with comparatively affordable hotel options.
By planning the trip appropriately by booking hotels in advance and dressing in appropriate winter clothing, one can truly enjoy the winter atmosphere in this wonderful city without being hampered by the winter cold or the holiday rush.
