is it good to visit new york in january

New York City in January

What are the advantages and disadvantages of going to new york in january.

You wish to discover New York in January , but aren’t sure what to expect? Well, in this post you'll find all the information you need about the weather, the activities available and all the great events that take place in New York during the first month of the year. And you'll see that travelling to New York in January even offers some advantages!

New York's weather in January

New York has a subtropical climate , with hot summers and cold winters . Over the course of the year, the temperature range can be as high as 65 degrees, as temperatures can fall below -20°C in the heart of winter and exceed 40°C in summer. In addition, the proximity of the ocean and the fact that large air masses collide, can lead to very significant climate changes from one day to the next.

January is the coldest month of the year . In general, the average temperature is less than 1°C and it is not uncommon for the thermometer to drop to -10 or -15°C. The wind from the ocean can make the feeling of cold even more intense, although there is hardly any wind in the heart of the city.

As for rainfalls, they are quite heavy with an average of ten days of rain during the month, which is the case all year round in New York anyway (it even rains more in New York during the summer than in winter). In January, it snows often and sometimes heavily. On average, more than 75 cm of snow falls in New York every year.

What to do in New York in January

You will need to be very well covered if you intend to visit New York in 5 days during the month of January. However, when it comes to sightseeing, you'll be able to see just as much of the city as you would during the more touristy seasons. In fact, winter is even the perfect time for indoor visits , of which there are certainly plenty in the Big Apple.

If you are wondering what to do in New York , you can of course visit all the major museums , for example:

• The Met (Metropolitan Museum of Art), the second most visited museum in the world,
• The MoMa , the world's most famous museum of contemporary art,
• The Guggenheim Museum , an art museum as magical on the outside as it is on the inside,
• The American Museum of Natural History , home to over 30 million specimens of natural species,
• Madame Tussauds , one of the world's largest wax museums – it is New York's equivalent of London’s Madame Tussauds, one of London’s most visited museums.
• The 9/11 Museum , built under the site of Ground Zero, honours the victims of the terrorist attacks.

Winter is also the perfect time to catch a Broadway musical . Performances of all the great classic and more recent musicals take place throughout January in New York. 

You will be able to see the following musicals:

• Moulin Rouge
• The Lion King
• Phantom of the Opera
• MJ – The Life Story of Michael Jackson
• And many other shows and musicals...

January is also a good time to go see an NBA game in New York . The regular season is in full swing and you can catch some very important games. The electrifying atmosphere of Madison Square Garden (the legendary home of the New York Knicks ) will warm you up even on the coldest winter days.

Finally, another popular indoor activity in New York is of course shopping . There is not really a sale period in New York during the month of January, except on January 1st, which marks the last day of the After Holiday Sales … But you can still find all the world's top brands on the streets of Manhattan, as well as great deals in the outlets .

Have you considered taking a tourist pass? 🎫

If you are planning to discover many of the city’s main sites during your stay in New York, I can recommend buying a New York City Pass . This tourist pass will give you various advantages throughout your stay, including access to 5 major tourist sites. And you will even be able to take your pick of activities (2 unchangeable activities + 3 selectable activities) 🙂

Good reasons to go to New York in Januaryy

As I just explained, most of the major attractions in New York are also available during the month of January. Now it's time to talk about those that are only available during the winter and in January, as well as about the advantages of travelling to New York in January .

Enjoy the Christmas atmosphere some more

Throughout the beginning of January, you will still be able to see New York's Christmas decorations and lights . You'll still have a few days to check out the incredible window displays at department stores like Macy's and Bloomingdale's, or the impressive facades of the houses in Dyker Heights .

In early January, you will also be able to see the world's most famous Christmas tree – and one of the largest – on the Rockefeller Center esplanade. It is even more beautiful from 5.30 pm onwards, when it lights up! 😊

In the same plaza, you will also find the iconic Rockefeller Center ice rink , which remains open throughout January and even beyond.

Prices are lower

Winter (outside of the Christmas holidays) is the time when you can travel to New York without paying too much. Don’t get me wrong – New York is an expensive city, and even in January, going to the city for a stay will cost you. But January is a ss very low tourist season, and this low traffic means that you can enjoy more attractive rates, especially for hotels and flights.

January is the month during which the average price of a hotel room is lowest in New York. To sleep in a double room in a 2-star hotel, you will have to pay around £82.50 on average, which is almost £41 less than for an equivalent room during the high season. This price difference can also be seen in the higher end of the market. If you're wondering where to sleep in New York City , click on the button below to see Booking.com's selection of accommodation!

The average airfare to New York remains relatively stable between September and June. This means that prices in January don’t change much compared to the rest of the year. However, you can still save an average of around £80 compared to flights in July or August.

And you can make even greater savings by booking your flight and hotel room early enough.

Taking all this into account, January is, along with February, the most affordable month for travel to New York.

Visits are more relaxed

Of course, tourist sites are less crowded during the low season, and you can discover them much more peacefully. You will lose much less time queuing at museums or major attractions, although I would still recommend booking a ticket online , if possible, because it will allow you to skip the queues.

This lower tourist traffic is especially true for historical sites and monuments, as well as for museums. The demand is still high as ever for sporting events, concerts and Broadway shows though!

Discover New York and Central Park under the snow

Discovering New York is incredible, but discovering New York in the snow is just magical. When the Big Apple puts on its white coat, the atmosphere changes completely and you can discover magnificent landscapes.

Of course, the place to be if you are in New York and it has snowed is Central Park . When the snow is more than 20 cm deep in Central Park (which is not uncommon during the winter in New York), you can almost feel like you are in a real winter sports resort.

Plus, while it will certainly be cold, blue skies will often be present as well. If the skies are clear, I really recommend that you go to at least one of the city's great observation platforms, to see New York decked out in white. You'll get the best view of Central Park from the Top of the Rock , but you'll also enjoy the views from the Empire State Building , the One World Observatory , The Edge and The Summit .

Another great way to see New York in the snow is to take the Roosevelt Island cable car . This cable car connects Manhattan to Roosevelt Island and you can hop on for a 3 minute ride to enjoy great aerial views.

Some major events are held in January

• Since 1992, the NYC Restaurant Week has been held twice a year: once in winter and once in summer. For four weeks (usually the last two weeks of January and the first two weeks of February), some of the city's most popular restaurants offer great prix fixe menus. Why not enjoy that? 😋
• The Winter Jazzfest also takes place in January. This jazz festival, known for its marathon two-night non-stop concerts, takes place in a dozen clubs in Lower Manhattan.
• New York City celebrates the Chinese New Year with great fanfare. It begins in late January – even for years during which the exact date of the Chinese New Year falls in early February, since the festivities last a fortnight. Parades, celebrations and fireworks are organised for the occasion, including the famous dragon parade that goes from Chinatown to Manhattan.
• The Winter Show is the country's most prestigious art and antiques fair. It takes place every year at the end of January at the Park Avenue Armory, where you can see objects from all eras, and up to 5,000 years ago.

And that’s it for this article! I hope I was able to give you some good ideas of what to do in the city in January 😉 Of course, the weather (and mostly the cold) may have made you rethink this trip. I hope it didn’t! New York is beautiful in any season, but there’s just something to it when all blanketed by snow…

If you want to enjoy the Christmas season in full during your trip, I can only recommend checking my article New York in December – you may learn of some activities that will particularly tempt you, with good reason! 

Latest articles

The statue of liberty, chapka insurance promotional code, where to sleep in new york city.

If you’re wondering what to do in New York in January, you’ve come to the right place! If you’re in New York in January, you can still take a skate on the ice rinks and head to the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. The most important events in January include the Chinese New Year in Chinatown , the Winter Jazz Fest and the NYC Winter Restaurant Week .

You may also like

• Things to do in New York City
• Winter in NYC
• Fun Things to do in New York City in the winter

Sports fans won’t be bored in New York in January either, with both NBA (basketball) and NHL (ice hockey) teams playing. As you can see, even if January in New York gets really cold, there is as always a lot to experience and do!

Highlights in January

NYC Broadway Week 2024 | The Complete Guide

For food lovers, there’s Restaurant Week and for theater lovers, there’s NYC Broadway Week! Regardless...

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in NYC – Complete Guide

Looking for the best events and things to do on Martin Luther King Jr. Day?...

The Winter Village at Bryant Park

Kicking off at the end of October, Bryant Park’s Winter Village opens the holiday market...

Table of Contents

My Favorite Things to Do in January in NYC

Even though the holiday season is over, NYC in January still provides plenty of activities and things to do in New York City. With that being said, there’s still plenty of things to do in February in New York! In this article, I provide you some of the best things you can do in January in NYC.

Winter Markets Are Still Open in January – Visit the Winter Market in Bryant Park

Starting in October (and running through March), it is time once again for the best winter market in New York City to open its doors. The Winter Village in Bryant Park is not only the largest winter market in the city but also by far the nicest on account of its adjacent ice rink and places to shop and eat. This along with its amazing location among all the skyscrapers makes for an amazing winter experience.

Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland (through January 7, 2024)

Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland is transforming The Rooftop at Pier 17 into a magical North Pole experience inspired by Disney’s The Santa Clause movie. Visitors can enjoy activities such as rooftop ice skating, exploring Santa’s sleigh, a mini slide, private cabin dinners, and indulging in seasonal treats and hot cocoa. There’s also a cozy Santa’s living room for memorable photos by the fireplace. It’s a unique holiday experience right in the heart of Manhattan with stunning city skyline views.

• Monday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Friday: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Visit the Luna Park Frost Fest until January 7, 2024

Dive into the enchanting holiday atmosphere spread throughout the park and embrace the winter wonderland at their inaugural Frost Fest! Prepare for the ultimate winter adventure at Luna Park, NYC’s renowned hub for fun, during their first-ever Frost Fest. Luna Park will transform into an exhilarating winter destination, featuring an ice skating rink, a selection of rides and attractions, festive lights and decorations, opportunities for photos with Santa, a holiday shopping experience, delectable seasonal food options to satisfy both locals and visitors and much more! Get your tickets here.

Brooklyn Winter Beer Wine and Spirits Fest (Jan 13, 2024)

Join the Brooklyn WINTER Fest, where you can immerse yourself in a cozy atmosphere, savor flavors from near and far, and enjoy the rich offerings of local breweries. Groove to live performances that add to the joy of your tasting experience and complement your libations with delectable bites available for purchase, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. 

The event takes place on January 13 at 33 35th St, Brooklyn, and is for ages 21+ with a valid ID. Don’t miss your ultimate all-access pass to a world of delightful brews, wines, and spirits – get your tickets now!

Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden (until January 15, 2024)

If you like to build railroad and train models, this show is for you. The Holiday Train show is definitely worth its money and will be held at the enchanting New York Botanical Garden. The exhibit will showcase 175 New York landmarks. All works of art are built on an 0,5 mile long track and the railways pass the skyscrapers of Midtown. We have already visited two special exhibitions in the NYBG and are always enjoyable. Therefore, we highly recommend this unique exhibition!

The Best Broadway Shows in January 2024 in New York

Wondering whether you should or should not see a Broadway show when visiting New York in January? YES, this should be on your bucket list! We know how hard it can be to decide which show you should visit!

To help you out, we’ve created an article with the absolute best Broadway shows in NYC in January !

NYC Broadway Week 2024 (from January 16 - February 4, 2024)

NYC Broadway Week is an exciting biannual event that offers theatergoers the opportunity to experience the magic of Broadway at discounted prices. During this special week, audiences can enjoy two-for-one tickets to some of the hottest shows on Broadway, making it the perfect time to catch a world-class performance in the heart of New York City.

The next NYC Broadway Week will take place in late summer, typically in September. Once the exact dates are published, we will be sure to let you know. Sometimes, Broadway Week takes place at the same time as Restaurant Week and is typically followed by Off-Broadway Week about one week later.

My tip: These are the Best Broadway Shows in NYC

Must-See Week in NYC (January 16 to February 4, 2024)

NYC Must-See Week is an annual event that showcases the best of New York City’s attractions, museums, and cultural institutions. During this week, visitors and locals alike can enjoy two-for-one admission to selected iconic landmarks and experiences across the city, offering a fantastic opportunity to explore and discover everything the Big Apple has to offer at a discounted rate.

NYC Winter Jazzfest (January 11 - 18, 2024)

What started as a one-day event in 2005 started to become popular in the Big Apple. Now, it evolved into a one-week festival. The Winter Jazz Fest is one of January’s prominent events, and those who are jazz fans will definitely be happy about this. Over 700 artists perform in different venues scattered across NYC. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in New York in January!

Visit the Pink Pier from January 11, 2024

Experience the world’s first all-pink pier at Watermark, Pier 15 NYC, from January 11th to March 31st, 2024. Choose your date and time and immerse yourself in a delightful pink wonderland. All ages are welcome. Keep in mind that outdoor tickets don’t include indoor seating, so dress warmly for the NYC winter.

Indulge in cocktails and dining within heated pink igloos or enjoy the outdoor Pink Pier experience. Whether it’s a romantic date night, a birthday celebration, or a get-together with friends and family, this pink pier offers a unique setting. Explore the Lover’s Throne, capture memories in a life-size Sweethearts box, and soak in skyline views across the East River. Don’t miss out on this limited-time, love-filled experience – secure your tickets today!

NBA Games in January 2024

Basketball fans, this month is for you. The NBA is in its fourth month. Check out either the New York Knicks or the Brooklyn Nets at either the Madison Square Garden or Barclays Center, respectively.

Dive into the world of Friends

If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the show Friends, and if you’re a fan like me, then this Friends experience is most likely for you. 

After a Friends pop-up store successfully ran in Soho in 2019 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the series, they decided to make it permanent. Now you can find “The FRIENDS™ Experience New York” in the Flatiron District.

On two floors you can take your picture in front of the famous Central Perk café or the orange couch, see many original props worth seeing and store to your heart’s content in the FRIENDS store. It’s a great place to bring your family, kids and/or friends!

Go Ice Skating in NYC

Ice Skating is definitely one of the things to do in New York in January. The Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center offers a memorable experience in a great setting in front of the city’s most famous Christmas tree. Expect to wait to get into the rink and is considered and one of the most popular to New Yorkers.

My tip:  The Best Ice Rinks in NYC

Sky Skate at The Edge (through January 14, 2024)

For those of you who have always wanted to reach for the sky, you can now skate above the clouds! From January 10 until mid-March, you can enjoy the view of the city while gliding across the synthetic ice on The Edge’s indoor Sky Deck. Tickets include Edge admission, your 30-minute skating experience, and free skate rental. Get your tickets to New York City’s tallest skating rink now!

• November 15 – 10AM to 8PM
• November 16 to November 22 – 2PM to 8PM
• November 23 to November 26 – 10AM to 9PM
• November 27 to December 14 – 2PM to 8PM
• December 15 to January 7 – 10AM to 9PM
• January 8 to January 14 – 3PM to 7PM

Visit the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Plaza (until January 13, 2024)

Didn’t get a chance to see the tree during the holidays? Well again, you’re in luck. Until January 13, the world-famous Christmas tree will stay standing in Rockefeller Plaza!

Dining in the Dark

Embark on a unique dining adventure with your loved ones at Dining in the Dark! When you dine blindfolded, your senses of taste and smell are heightened, making every bite an extraordinary experience. The secret 3-course menu, featuring appetizers, mains, and desserts, awaits your discovery on the evening of your visit.

This intimate setting breaks away from the ordinary, inviting you to reacquaint yourself with the flavors and textures of each dish. With options like the Red Menu (Meat), Blue Menu (Seafood), and Green Menu (Vegan), Dining in the Dark promises a thrilling journey of taste and sensory exploration. Secure your tickets now for an unparalleled encounter that will forever change the way you perceive dining!

• Wednesday, January 10, 2024
• Sunday, January 14, 2024
• Wednesday, January 24, 2024
• Sunday, February 11, 2024

NYC Winter Restaurant Week 2024 (starting January 16, 2024)

Attention food enthusiasts: NYC Restaurant Week will be back in the winter, meaning you can look forward to enjoying cheap meals all over the city. Thousands of travelers and locals look forward to this event every year because it’s a great opportunity to try new cuisines or simply enjoy top-notch meals at decent prices.

What is NYC Restaurant Week?

NYC Restaurant Week is a bi-annual event that takes place every summer and winter since 1982. Back then only a few restaurants participated in the promotion, whereas this year’s event counts almost 500 participating restaurants . Over time, the length of the promotion has been extended, so that now we can enjoy almost a full month of great, affordable food instead of just one week.

Visit the wintry Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the natural wonder of New York City and is especially popular during the cherry blossom season. Many people come to the botanic garden in Brooklyn just to see this natural spectacle. This place always has a special aura to it, as there is something wonderful blossoming here in any season. It’s located right inside Prospect Park in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

My tip: On winter weekdays (through February) you can pay what you wish for admission!

Hop on a cruise during the Winter Season in New York City

Exploring the city on a boat is an amazing experience. Even though it can become a little chilly we highly recommend taking the New York City Water Taxi or hop on a Circle Line or Classic Harbor Line Cruise. They all have an indoor seating space where you can protect yourself from the cold in case you need to.

My tip: these are the 12 best cruises that you should do right now !

Craft Brewery Tour in Brooklyn

An equally exceptional and wonderful activity for January is this guided tour of not one but three breweries in New York. New York is known for its many small breweries that exist in every borough – on this tour, you’ll start at Circa Brewing at 141 Lawrence St in Brooklyn. As you make your way through some of the city’s hottest neighborhoods, you’ll visit 3 world-class breweries. Led by your expert beer guide, you’ll gain VIP access and learn more about the unique brewing process while sampling their delicious craft beer.

Drinks are also accompanied by a complimentary beer snack as you indulge your taste buds on an unforgettable 3.5-hour beer tour.

Visit Governors Island

Though Governors Island is no longer a secret spot, it hasn’t lost its charm and remains one of our favorite places in New York. Throughout the summer, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Manhattan from the island, ride bicycles, and participate in a large variety of events hosted here.

Usually Governors Island closes at the end of October, from 2021 on you check it out even during winter and spring! A ferry ride to the island typically costs $4 but if you decide to come on a Saturday or Sunday before noon, it’ll be free!

Winter Shopping at Woodbury Common Outlet Center

Shopping addicts will have their money’s worth in January too. You can either stroll the city’s wintry streets or take a trip to the Woodbury Common Outlet Center. You will not only find many famous brands at lower prices, but also a large food hall with a wide selection of different sweet and savory dishes.

You can already save money on your way to the outlet, because the bus ride is included in some of the passes, for example the New York Pass.

Go to Eataly for delicious wine and food

In 2010, Eataly was opened in New York by master chef Mario Batali. The pizza is very reminiscent of pizza and the wine selection is huge. You will also find a large selection of excellent pasta, salads, and sandwiches. In terms of price, it has to be said in advance that a pizza starts at $15 and can cost $25. Nevertheless, this Italian food market is for me one of the most beautiful and best in the city!

Spend the day in one of the best museums of NYC

The wintry season is perfect for a museum visit to New York, and the Big Apple really doesn’t lack choices. After the theatrical release of “The Night of Museum” series, (The first movie took place in the New York Museum of Natural History) you really feel like going to the place of the event? In the footsteps of dinosaurs, aborigines and many other historical creatures, the Natural History Museum on Central Park West is always a good idea for a museum outing.

My tip: These are the 36 Best Museums in NYC

Have some fun with the Bumper Cars in Bryant Park!

Experience the thrill of Bumper Cars on Ice! The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park brings back the bumper cars, now better than ever! Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled ride on The Rink as you bump, slide, and spin your way into the new year. Suitable for guests aged 7 and up, these bumper cars can be reserved online or in person, subject to availability. It’s advisable to secure your ride in advance as they tend to fill up quickly.

Head to the north side of The Rink to find the entrance and make sure to review the instructions, rules, and waiver information before making your booking. Don’t miss out – reserve your bumper car ride online today!

Experience New York in January quite relaxed with a Dinner Cruise

I am quite a big fan of the boat tours with dinner in New York. It’s warm inside, jazzy music plays and there’s delicious food (and drinks). And during the whole cruise you see the wintry New York with its impressive skyline.

Here are our  recommendations for  dinner cruises , brunch cruises , lunch cruises and jazz cruises in NYC during wintertime.

Enjoy Winter Wonderland at Bronx Zoo

Do you want to experience the largest metropolitan zoo in the US? Then go check out the Bronx Zoo. It’s perfect for families, especially with kids. At the Bronx Zoo you can experience your wild side and explore a national treasure in the Bronx. The Bronx Zoo is know as one of the best in the country and offer many different species from all over the world. The Bronx Zoo is one of my absolute highlights in the area and something you shouldn’t miss.

Plunge Rooftop Bar & Lounge

One of the top addresses is the ultra-stylish Hotel Gansevoort in the Meatpacking District. And the highlight is the “Plunge Rooftop Bar & Lounge”, which is located on the roof of the hotel. Lots of glass, typical lounge look, relaxed music and lots of pretty people: the location is easily in New York’s top 3 when it comes to high celebrity density and designer photo shoots.

Visit one of the igloo bars in NYC

To me having a drink at one of the rooftop bars in NYC is high on my list of fun activities in NYC in the winter . It’s amazing how rooftop bars are still a great place to go even though it’s cold out. At 230 5th Ave, they have rooftop igloos where you can stay warm while enjoying the breathtaking city views.

Enjoy breath-taking views from one of the amazing observation decks

You know what’s really unique about New York? The view of the (most likely) snow-covered Central Park from one of the observation decks! With the Top of the Rock , The Edge Hudson Yards and the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt you have three to choose from!

And then there’s the One World Observatory and the Empire State Building which both offer an amazing view over the city.

My tip: if you are cold, you can go inside and enjoy the view from the inside. Because each of the observation decks (except for the Empire State Building) has additional floors with floor-to-ceiling windows.

If you want to visit several observations decks, attractions and tours in New York, check out the New York sightseeing passes. You can save up to 60% on the ticket price!

To find out which New York Pass is the best for you, check out my New York Pass Comparison .

See the New York Rangers in the Madison Square Garden

The atmosphere at a Rangers game is unparalleled and home games are played in the heart of Manhattan, at the most prestigious arena, Madison Square Garden. Ice hockey has some of the most loyal fans of all the sports categories, and you will notice that right away at a Rangers game. It’s intense and it’s a spectacle that is not to be missed!

Enjoy the view of the East River from the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is an official landmark of the city, which you should not miss even in winter. Make sure to walk across the impressive bridge and enjoy the unique view across the East River to Brooklyn in the clear winter air. And while you’re on the bridge, take a stroll to Brooklyn Bridge Park.

GET A WARMING COFFEE AND ENJOY THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS!

Due to the cold wind, it can get really icy on the Brooklyn Bridge in winter. The best time to try your luck on some warming sunshine is around noon on the bridge.

Take a Walk in the Wintry Central Park

Central Park should not be missing from any Things to Do in New York in January! The green lung of the city turns into a true winter wonderland during the cold season. It is therefore also a popular destination for New Yorkers. Stroll through the park under snow-covered trees and let yourself be enchanted by the play of lights on the frozen water surfaces in the evening.

Walking through Central Park in the cold is magical! If there’s snow, it’s even more amazing.

If you want to be more adventurous, start in Harlem and walk down Central Park towards Midtown. Too often we catch ourselves starting on Fifth Avenue at the Plaza Hotel in Central Park. There is so much more to explore than just that part of Central Park.

Did you know that activism plays an important role in Central Park or that there are 17 pine tree species in the city’s green lung? Have you ever asked yourself how the big rocks in the park were formed?

If you want to learn more about the variety of pine trees, the geology or the history of activism in Central Park, you can join a guided tour.

The Central Park Conservancy offers different walking tours throughout January.

Visit one of New York's Amazing Art Exhibitions at MoMa PS1

Check out the local art scene in the MoMa Ps1 art exhibit, featuring work from 47 local, contemporary artists. This exhibit explores art-making in New York history, the resilience of artists, and the feelings connected with art. You’ll see a huge emphasis on foreign-born artists, their work full of Egyptian, Iranian, Tunisian, Nigerian, Mexican, Argentinian, and Indian influences. There is also an abundance of Native American artists to enjoy.

My tip: Here you find the Best Art Exhibitions in New York City .

Until February 11: Astra Lumina in Queens

Discover an extraordinary connection between Earth and the stars at Astra Lumina, an enchanting event held in the mystical observatory grounds. At night, fallen stars release astral energy, turning the forest into a celestial pathway for humans to explore. As the night progresses, the stars regenerate, rising to reunite in the night sky, shining brighter than ever. 

Astra Lumina at Queens Botanical Garden is the 19th enchanting experience in the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series. Secure your tickets for “Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst The Stars” in New York!

AirOtic Soirée: A Circus-Style Cabaret Dinner Show (until March 30, 2024)

Attention cabaret fans: there’s a new show in the city! You can now see a group of highly talented acrobats in the heart of Manhattan. AirOtic Soirée combines modern burlesque and high-level cirque acrobatics with a menu created by Chef Saul who has already been featured on Good Morning America. After the show, you can enjoy a nice cocktail and meet the cast.

Every Friday and Saturday throughout January, February, and March you have the opportunity to experience this brand-new sensual show in Hell’s Kitchen.

Spend some time in Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown

Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan’s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.

Cheer on the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium

Compared the Jets, the NY Giants enjoy the more dominant fanbase in New York. If you ask us, it’s absolutely worth it to go watch a game of either team just to feel the incredible atmosphere and energy in the stadium. Here’s everything you need to know before heading to a Giants game, including schedule, best seats, and cheap tickets!

Celebrate Martin Luther King Day (January 15, 2024)

Martin Luther King Day is celebrated every third Monday in January. It is an official holiday in the U.S. in honor of civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who is one of the most important African-American people in the U.S..

High Line Winter Tour (free)

The High Line Park takes you along the old tracks of the elevated railway to the Meatpacking District. Thanks to the initiative “Friends of the High Line” the park exists at all, because originally the construction was supposed to be torn down. And the best thing? They offer free tours!

• When? Wednesdays at 10 am & Saturdays at 12 pm
• Where? At the Gansevoort Street entrance

Three Kings Day-Parade (January 6, 2024)*

The Three Kings Day Parade takes place in January in New York City as marchers disguise themselves as a king. The parade features real camels, many colorful dolls and music through Harlem. The parade is a great experience, especially for families with children.

Join Loreley Beer Garden's Snowy Winter Wonderland (from January 11, 2024)

Here the Rhine metropolis Cologne meets New York. The owner, Michael Momm, a real „Kölscher Jung“, opened this piece of Germany in the middle of New York in 2003. Here you will find a large selection of German beers (including Kölsch, of course) and good German wines at fair prices, as well as a delicious selection of German dishes.

Once the holidays are over, Loreley’s Heated Winter Wonderland undergoes a snowy transformation, embracing a cozy cabin ambiance adorned with elegant white florals, snowy garlands, warm winter lights, and faux white fur accents. The bar will still delight you with seasonal hot cocktails and daily happy hour specials, while their chefs craft a comforting winter menu featuring freshly made soups, warm lobster rolls, filet mignon, Jäger Schnitzel, and more to keep you warm and satisfied.

Holiday Tree at The Met (usually through early January)

New York City’s Met Museum also hosts a holiday celebration that’s complete with a breathtaking Christmas Tree display. You’ll find the Met Tree in the Medieval Sculpture Hall. This famed holiday tradition features a blue spruce tree that’s 20 feet tall and adorned with 59 angels, 19 cherubs, and 71 figures that depict an 18th Century Nativity scene reminiscent of Naples.

You can also enjoy a gorgeous Eastern European Silver Menorah, holiday shopping, other exhibits on display, and much more.

Lightscape: Brooklyn's Winter Spectacular at Brooklyn Botanic Garden (through January 1, 2024)

Brooklyn is home to many wonderful Christmas light displays, including the illuminated trail known as Lightscape, found at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This after-dark light spectacular features all-new works of art and many returning favorites. At this experience, visitors make their way through the winding trails of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s trails, which are all awash with artistic light designs. 

Along the journey, you’ll encounter color effects on BBG trees, water features, monumental lighted sculptures, and more. Lightscape sold out last year, so book your visit on their website early. 

No Pants Subway Ride

So usually sometime in January, some New Yorkers partake in what is known as the “No Pants Subway Ride.” Their main goal is to make people laugh. Keep your eyes open as you might come across this!

(not yet confirmed for 2024)

Get lost in illusions

This is one of the most fun museums in NYC for kids right now. It’s an interactive museum that will make you question your sense of reality with optical illusions. The museum guarantees a great time, lots of laughter, and the funniest photos. The exhibits will stimulate your cognitive abilities in a way that it will be hard for you to believe your eyes.

Marvel at NYC from above and take a helicopter ride

The Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour takes you on an aerial tour over Manhattan and its many attractions. You won’t forget the view of NYC from above or the feeling of flying high above the skyscrapers any time soon. Especially for those of you who like taking photos, this is a guaranteed way to secure some amazing shots of the NYC skyline.

Tip: These are the best helicopter rides in NYC .

Escape the cold and watch a movie

AMC theaters in New York City offer an exceptional cinematic experience in the heart of the Big Apple. With multiple locations across the city, AMC theaters boast state-of-the-art technology, comfortable seating, and a wide range of film options, from blockbusters to independent releases. Whether you’re catching the latest Hollywood hit or immersing yourself in a cinematic masterpiece, AMC theaters in NYC provide moviegoers with a top-notch setting to enjoy the magic of the silver screen.

Radio City Christmas Spectacular (until January 1, 2024)

Radio City Music Hall is a distinguished concert and event hall located on Sixth Avenue and can be recognized from a distance by its striking exterior lighting. Throughout the year, concerts and events take place here such as the popular Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. It is the most famous Christmas Show you can watch even in New York in January!

🥇 Look no further: That‘s the only New York Travel Guide you need (300+ pages and 700+ reviews on Amazon)

Check out our preview here .

These are the best Events in January in New York City

January is one of the coldest months in NYC, but although it’s not the main travel month for tourists, there are still some really great events in NYC in January:

Weather in January in NYC

Top tours in january in nyc, sports events in january in new york.

Things To Do

Winter in New York – Our Complete Guide 2024

Fun Things To Do in New York City In The Winter

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

January in New York City: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

It's a great time for foodies and bargain hunters who don't mind the cold

As the throngs of holiday revelers leave New York City after the New Year's Eve hoopla, savvy travelers can finally find a bargain on airfares and hotels , not to mention have an easier time getting dinner reservations and theater tickets . Foodie tourists can align their trips to the Big Apple with Winter Restaurant Week to get discounts on some of the city's trendiest eateries. January is also a great time to take advantage of the great post-holiday sales at New York City's many stores .

New York Weather in January

January is typically the coldest month of the year in New York City. The towering skyscrapers block any sliver of sun and create a wind tunnel that can make frigid temperatures feel even colder. On the streets, you'll get a taste of New Yorkers' true toughness—braving the cold in floor-length parkas, snow boots, and more—which is something only winter tourists get to see.

The average high for New York City in January is 39 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) and the average low is 27 degrees Fahrenheit (-3 degrees Celsius). It rains, on average, eight days of the month.

What to Pack

• Waterproof boots or galoshes are essential for keeping your feet warm and dry during this very cold time in New York City. Make sure they are waterproof, not merely water repellant, as you will probably be stepping in plenty of sidewalk puddles during your trip.
• Dress in layers. Stores, subways, and attractions will generally be warm, but it is nearly impossible to visit New York City without spending time outside, so you'll want to ensure you're prepared to walk around. Unless you hire a private driver, you'll be walking to the subway or standing on the corner hailing a cab, completely exposed to whatever unpleasant weather the city is experiencing.
• Be sure to pack a warm coat, hats, earmuffs, scarves, and gloves or mittens.

January Events in New York City

• Central Park Winter Jam : Winter Jam is a free winter sports festival for all ages that's held in Central Park at the end of the month. Snow is brought in from nearby Gore Mountain to create a winter wonderland. There will be live ice carving, an ice sculpture garden, ski lessons, a sledding hill, and more.
• New York City Restaurant Week : Dine at some of New York City's best restaurants for cheap during New York City Restaurant Week, held January 21 to February 9, 2020. It is recommended to make reservations before heading to the restaurants.

January Travel Tips

• The third weekend in January is a three-day weekend for many Americans, and that Monday is a federal holiday to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. This means that many businesses may be closed, but typically restaurants and other tourist attractions remain open.
• Daylight hours are fairly short during the winter with the sun typically rising just after 7 a.m. and setting as early as 4:45 p.m.

February in New York City: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

September in New York City: Weather, What to Pack, and What to Do

The Best Time to Visit New York City

July in New York City: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Weather in New York City: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperatures

Winter in Niagara Falls: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

January in the United States: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

January in New England: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

February in Prague: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

February in Amsterdam: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

April in New York: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

September in Los Angeles: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Weather in New York State: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

November in New England: Weather, What to Pack and What to See

Weather in Iceland: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

December in New York City: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Best things to do in New York City this January  

Dec 23, 2014 • 7 min read

January is the month when, without the distractions of the holidays, winter finally gets real. City dwellers stay in and recuperate from December’s excesses (or head to the gym; don’t try to drop in at a yoga studio this month!), so the events calendar is a little light. If a big snowstorm sweeps in – January is usually the month the first one hits – the city gets even quieter. Still, you’ll find plenty to do, from the ice-cold ocean to a hot Korean sauna.

New Year’s Day Polar Bear Swim

Get the blood flowing for 2015 with a bracing dip in the Atlantic, off the boardwalk at Coney Island. If you start to lose your nerve, just look around – thousands of other people will be there, plunging into the icy water at your side. Swim time is 1pm. Where : Coney Island boardwalk (1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn) More info : polarbearclub.org

Holidays, held over

A few holiday trimmings are still on view after Christmas. New York City Ballet ’s production of The Nutcracker runs through January 3, the Rockefeller Center tree is lit through January 7, and the big department stores on Fifth Ave leave their elaborate window displays in place through at least the first few days of the month. The longest-running option is the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show, through January 19. In the garden’s glass conservatory, large-scale model trains course through a landscape of miniature NYC landmarks built out of twigs, bark and other green stuff. Where : New York Botanical Garden (2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx) More info :  nybg.org

'Somebody Come and Play' Sesame Street exhibition

Check out this exhibit of 45 years of that essential NYC-based children’s program, Sesame Street , in the form of scripts, storyboards, models and of course plenty of clips from the show and behind the scenes. When : until Jan 31 Where : New York Library for the Performing Arts (40 Lincoln Plaza Center) More info : nypl.org

Prototype Festival

Opera is a lot more than divas in giant dresses. This nine-day festival focuses on the fringiest, most avant-garde edge of the art form, with world premieres of such works as Toxic Psalms , which blends a Slovenian women’s chorus with feminist commentary. Only in its third year, the festival is still under the radar – it’ll be you and some serious music geeks in some very cool downtown venues, plus the excellent St. Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn. When : Jan 8–17 Where : Various venues in Manhattan and Brooklyn More info : prototypefestival.org

Matisse vs Picasso

Two giants of modern art, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso, have had competing shows this fall, and both are ending soon. Until January 10, a personal and eclectic selection of Picasso’s work inspired by his last wife, Jacqueline Roque, is on view at Pace Gallery – for free. All month long at the Museum of Modern Art, you can see the paper cut-outs of Henri Matisse (Picasso’s contemporary and rival), also composed late in life. This has been a blockbuster, and is open only with timed tickets – reserve ahead. When : Picasso: until Jan 10; Matisse: until Feb 8 Where : Picasso: Pace Gallery (32 E 57 th St); Matisse: Museum of Modern Art (11 W 53 rd St) More info : thepacegallery.com , moma.org

No Pants Subway Ride

You’ve probably seen videos of Improv Everywhere’s stunts – hundreds of people freeze in the middle of Grand Central , or a team lays down a ' tourist lane ' for slow walkers. Here’s your chance to participate. The catch: you’ll have to take off your trousers. It’s for the annual restaging of one of the group’s classic gags, in which the subway is overtaken by riders who look normal in every way, except for an absence of pants. (No, this is not a nudist thing! You must wear underwear – the wackier, the better.) When : Jan 11 Where : all over the city More info : improveverywhere.com

Broadway Week

Twice a year (and for more than a week, but who’s arguing?), you can snap up two tickets to a Broadway play for the price of one. It’s a relative bargain, with the added benefit of being able to plan ahead (instead of waiting for deals at the TKTS booth). Not every show participates, but big hits such as Kinky Boots as well as dramas such as The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time are available. Tickets go on sale January 9 at 10:30am local time – have your travel schedule set and be ready to click 'buy'! (The other 'week' is in September.) When : Jan 20–Feb 5; tickets on sale Jan 9 Where : various Broadway theaters More info : nycgo.com

Brooklyn tribute to Dr Martin Luther King Jr

Now in its 29 th year, Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) hosts programming dedicated to the civil rights leader, whose birthday is observed as a national holiday. This year, charismatic professor and activist Dr Cornel West will give a keynote speech, followed by music from a local choir and a performance by the soul singer Sandra St Victor. When : Jan 19 Where : BAM (30 Lafayette Ave, between Ashland Pl and St Felix St, Fort Greene, Brooklyn) More info : bam.org

Snow in Central Park

If a winter storm hits while you’re in the city, don’t hide in your hotel – go straight outside! Snow transforms the streets into a muffled wonderland and thaws the hearts of even the frostiest New Yorkers. To see this in action, head to Central Park , where kids and adults alike may be making snow angels, building snowmen and sledding down Pilgrim Hill (near 72 nd Street on the east side). If there’s no snow forecast, plan on hitting the Winter Jam, one day late in the month when snowmaking machines cover the area around the bandshell with white stuff, for skiing, snowshoeing and more. When : Winter Jam: Jan 24 Where : Central Park More info : Winter Jam: nycgovparks.org

Though born in England, rock icon Billy Idol was formed by New York – he spent part of his childhood on Long Island, then returned as an adult, in 1981, to make a career in the punk scene. As part of his current tour (supporting a new album, as well as his autobiography, titled, you guessed it, Dancing with Myself ), he appears at the Beacon Theatre, an elegant ex-movie palace with seats for close to 3,000. When : Jan 28 Where : Beacon Theatre (2124 Broadway, at 74 th St) More info : beacontheatre.com

Ice skating

New York is having a renaissance in ice rinks. Two new venues in Brooklyn – Lakeside Center at Prospect Park and the renovated McCarren Rink, in Williamsburg – are great places to hit the ice with locals. In Manhattan, Bryant Park’s Winter Village, behind the main public library, has The Pond. And the classic spots – Wollman Rink in Central Park and the rink at Rockefeller Center – are still going strong. (Of these two, we recommend the larger Wollman Rink for skating; spectating is preferable at the tiny, pricey Rock Center rink.) When : until mid-Mar Where : Lakeside Center: 171 East Dr, Prospect Park, Brooklyn; McCarren Rink: 776 Lorimer St, Williamsburg, Brooklyn; Bryant Park: 42nd St & Sixth Ave; Wollman Rink: southeast corner of Central Park; The Rink at Rockefeller Center: Fifth Ave btwn 49th & 50th Sts More info : lakesidebrooklyn.com , nycgovparks.org , wintervillage.org , wollmanskatingrink.com , therinkatrockcenter.com

Woolworth Building tours

Bitter January might not be the best time to visit this lower Manhattan landmark, since part of the tour involves standing on the street in front, listening to your architect tour guide. But as of a month ago, this is the first time in this century that the 101-year-old tower has been open to tourists. Fortunately the tours go inside as well, giving you a little chance to defrost while you admire the ornate lobby. They don’t build ’em like this anymore. When : ongoing, every day but Mon Where : 233 Broadway More info : woolworthtours.com

Spa Castle Premier 57

Just opened in December, this new branch of a deluxe Korean spa brings all the perks of its original location (in the epically inconvenient neighborhood of College Point, Queens) to a handy spot in Midtown. It’s three floors of relaxation, with six types of saunas, heated Jacuzzis, skin-scrubbing spa treatments and even a food court. Check in for the day and get warmed up! When : ongoing Where : 115 E 57 th St More info : spacastleusa.com

Brooklyn Winter Flea

The tastemakers of the Brooklyn Flea move indoors for the season. Among the more than 100 vendors, you'll find antiques, records, vintage clothes, craft items and enticing food stalls stuffed with tasty treats. There’s a stroller and coat check, for easier browsing. Next door is partner operation Berg’n, a festive beer hall. When : weekends until Mar Where : Crown Heights, Brooklyn (1000 Dean St btwn Classon & Franklin Aves) More info :  brooklynflea.com

Explore related stories

Apr 23, 2024 • 6 min read

From Paris to Buenos Aires, you’ll want to settle in and raise a glass at these famous literary bars, notebook at the ready.

Apr 28, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 25, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 24, 2024 • 9 min read

Apr 30, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 29, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 29, 2024 • 5 min read

9 Great Things to Do in New York in January

While the holiday season might be in the past and winter is in full swing, there are still a lot of great things to do in New York in January.

Whether you want to enjoy the beauty of a New York winter, taste delicious food, or enjoy some great cultural activities, there’s no excuse to go into hibernation.

After searching through hundreds of events throughout the state, here are 7 of the best for those looking for something fun to do in January.

(Article updated December 13, 2023, for events in January 2024.)

First Day Hikes Throughout New York – January 1

Start your year off right with a First Day Hike.

These hikes are held at state parks throughout New York and are a great way to get outside with rangers and other like-minded individuals to start off the new year. The hikes offered range from one to five miles and are generally family-friendly events.

 Find out about all of them on the website for the New York State Park system .

Lights on the Lake in Syracuse – Through January 12

Not ready for the holiday season to be over? If so, you’re in luck as Lights on the Lake in Syracuse is open through January 12.

This fantastic drive-through Christmas light display features a two-mile-long display that features hundreds of fun and festive scenes along the shores of Onondaga Lake.

Find out more information and get tickets on the event’s website .

Winter JazzFest in New York City – January 10-18

New York City’s Winter JazzFest will be returning this January, and if you love jazz music, this is an event that you won’t want to miss.

With hundreds of different musicians, this festival will have way more music than you could possibly listen to in a week. However, you can certainly try to check out as many as you can amidst the event’s many great venues.

Find out more on the event’s website .

Long Lake Winter Carnival in Long Lake – January 13

Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, the town of Long Lake welcomes you for a full day of winter fun during its annual winter carnival.

The carnival features some of Long Lake’s most unique snowy activities including cardboard sled racing and frying pan tossing. This family-friendly event will also offer activities for the kids.

The carnival will conclude with a fireworks display at 6:00 pm.

For more information on this event, visit the carnival’s website .

NYC Broadway Week in New York City – January 16 – February 4

Taking place just twice a year, NYC Broadway Week is a chance for theater & musical lovers to experience some of the best shows on Broadway at a discounted rate.

During the event, you can purchase one ticket to any participating show and get one free. Tickets for NYC Broadway Week shows go on sale on January 9.

For up-to-date information on this event and for a list of participating Broadway shows, click here .

Ellicottville’s Winter Blues Weekend – January 18-20

Need to shake off the winter blues? Then a visit to Ellicottville’s Winter Blues Weekend is just the remedy! Local venues in the area will be hosting blues musicians & bands from all over the area at this free two-day event.

While you are in Ellicottville for the blues weekend, be sure to check out the town’s local shops and restaurants, like Ellicottville Brewing Company , as well.

For up-to-date information on this event, visit their website .

Salmon River Winter Festival in Pulaski – January 19-21

If you are looking for a full weekend of family winter fun, then make plans to attend this year’s Salmon River Winter Festival located in Pulaski in Oswego County.

Show off your snowman-building skills by entering their snowman contest and do a little taste testing at the chili and wing competitions. The festival also features snow sculptures and children’s activities.

For more information on this event, click here .

While in the area, don’t miss the short walk to Salmon River Falls .

Albany Chefs’ Food & Wine Festival in Albany – January 25-27

The Albany Chefs’ Food & Wine Festival is a three-day event showcasing local chefs and restaurants from around the region.

In addition to the Grand Gala Reception & 5-course Dinner held on Saturday, the festival will also feature cooking competitions, tastings, & an art auction.

For a full schedule of events and to purchase your tickets online, visit  the festival’s website .

Go Skiing Throughout New York

Did you know that there are nearly four dozen ski areas spread throughout New York State?

Other than in New York City and Long Island, there are ski areas in every region of the state, and January is a great time to head out and enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more fun activities at these resorts.

Find out more information about New York ski areas here .

Looking for more events in New York? Check out our picks for the best  things to do in New York in December and things to do in New York in February .

Do you have a favorite thing to do in New York in January that isn’t on this list? Let us know in the comments below.

More places worth exploring in New York

Taking a Lake George Boat Cruise on the Minne Ha Ha Paddlewheel Steamboat

Visiting the Fascinating Salt Museum in Syracuse’s Onondaga Lake Park

Yonkers Brewing Company: Delicious Beers Near New York City

Hiking the Fabulous Owen D. Young Nature Trail in Herkimer County

Jim Cheney is the creator of Uncovering New York. After spending 5.5 years exploring Pennsylvania, Jim discovered a love for New York and is excited to spend time exploring this great state and uncovering the best things to do here.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

What to Do in New York in January? 50 Unmissable Activities

New York in January holds a special place in my heart. The crisp air, the enchanting snowfall, and the city’s energy all create a unique atmosphere. Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor seeking authentic experiences, I’ve curated a list of 50 captivating activities to make your January in New York unforgettable. Let’s explore!

What to Do in New York in January?

1. ice skating at rockefeller center.

Begin your January adventure with a classic activity – ice skating beneath the glittering lights of the Rockefeller Center. Gliding across the ice, you’ll feel like you’re in a winter fairy tale.

2. Central Park Stroll :

Stroll through Central Park , transforming into a serene winter wonderland in January. The snow-covered pathways, frozen ponds, and peaceful atmosphere create a perfect escape from the bustling city.

3. Hot Chocolate Indulgence :

Warm up your chilly days with a cup of indulgent hot chocolate from the renowned City Bakery. Let the rich, velvety goodness melt away your winter blues.

4. Broadway Show:

When the temperatures drop, find warmth and entertainment indoors by catching a Broadway show. Whether it’s a dazzling musical or a thought-provoking play, you’ll be captivated by the world-class performances.

Exploring Cultural Delights

5. museum hopping :.

Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural richness by visiting iconic museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Explore centuries of art, history, and creativity under one roof.

6. Times Square Countdown Rewind :

Relive the electric energy of New Year’s Eve by taking a stroll through Times Square. The neon lights and bustling atmosphere are a testament to the city’s vibrant spirit.

7. Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade:

Embrace the multicultural essence of New York by joining the lively Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown. Marvel at the colorful floats, traditional performances, and vibrant celebrations.

8. Broadway Week :

Experience the magic of Broadway without breaking the bank during Broadway Week. Take advantage of 2-for-1 ticket deals and immerse yourself in live theater.

9. Jazz Night at the Village Vanguard :

Let the smooth sounds of jazz transport you to another world as you enjoy an evening at the iconic Village Vanguard. This intimate venue has been a haven for jazz enthusiasts for decades.

Epicurean Adventures

10. restaurant week :.

Treat your taste buds to a culinary journey during NYC Restaurant Week. Indulge in delectable cuisines from renowned restaurants at special prices, allowing you to savor gourmet meals without the hefty price tag. If you are looking for breakfast, then read this guide- Best Breakfasts in Queens New York.

11. Soup Dumplings in Flushing :

Venture to the vibrant neighborhood of Flushing in Queens for a culinary adventure. Delight in the delicate flavors of soup dumplings that warm you from the inside out.

12. Taste of Times Square :

Embark on a culinary expedition at the Taste of Times Square event. Sample diverse international dishes from local eateries, showcasing the city’s gastronomic diversity.

13. Brewery Tours :

Dive into the city’s craft beer scene by embarking on brewery tours. Discover unique brews and learn about the art of beer-making while warming up with the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts.

Outdoor Escapades

14. hudson river park winter walk:.

Embrace the crisp winter air while strolling along the Hudson River Park Winter Walk. Admire the stunning river views while bundled up in your coziest attire.

15. Snow Tubing at Aviator Sports :

For family-friendly fun, head to Aviator Sports for an exhilarating snow tubing experience. Race down the slopes, laughing all the way!

16. Winter Horseback Riding :

Embark on a picturesque horseback ride through snow-covered trails. The serene beauty of the landscape will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a winter postcard.

17. Helicopter Tour :

Elevate your January adventure by taking a thrilling helicopter tour over the city. Marvel at the panoramic views of the skyline, bridges, and landmarks.

Seasonal Celebrations

18. new year’s day parade:.

Kick off the year by attending the New Year’s Day Parade in Brooklyn. Join the jubilant crowd as colorful floats and lively performances fill the streets.

19. Three Kings Day Parade :

Immerse yourself in cultural festivities during the Three Kings Day Parade. Experience the joyous celebrations that pay homage to this revered holiday.

20. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Events :

Honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by participating in special events and discussions across the city. Engage in conversations that promote equality and social change.

Retail Therapy

21. winter sales :.

Embark on a shopping spree during the winter sales, where you’ll find irresistible deals at flagship stores and boutiques. Upgrade your winter wardrobe or snag items you’ve had your eye on.

22. Chelsea Market :

Wander through the enchanting Chelsea Market, a hub of culinary delights and unique artisanal shops. Discover a treasure trove of flavors and handcrafted goods.

23. Vintage Shopping :

Unearth hidden gems at vintage and thrift stores scattered throughout the city. Embrace sustainable shopping while adding one-of-a-kind pieces to your collection.

24. Bookstore Crawl :

For literary enthusiasts, a bookstore crawl is a delightful way to spend a winter day. Cozy up in independent bookstores, explore shelves of diverse genres, and get lost in the world of words.

Unique Experiences

25. escape room adventures :.

Engage your mind and unleash your inner detective by tackling challenging puzzles in escape rooms. Work together with friends to solve mysteries and beat the clock.

26. Underground Comedy Clubs :

Prepare for a night of laughter and entertainment at intimate underground comedy clubs. Discover emerging comedians and relish the joy of shared humor.

27. Trivia Nights :

Test your knowledge and have a blast at trivia nights held across the city’s lively venues. Engage in friendly competition while showcasing your expertise on a variety of topics.

28. DIY Art Classes :

Tap into your creativity by participating in DIY art classes. Learn new skills, from painting to pottery, and craft your unique masterpiece.

Sporting Fun

29. knicks or nets game :.

Immerse yourself in the excitement of an NBA game at the iconic Madison Square Garden or Barclays Center. Cheer for your favorite team alongside passionate fans.

30. Ice Hockey Match :

Experience the adrenaline rush of an ice hockey match as teams compete on the rink. The fast-paced action and competitive spirit make for an exhilarating evening.

31. New York Road Runners Midnight Run :

Kick-start your health goals by participating in the New York Road Runners Midnight Run on New Year’s Eve. Welcome the new year with a sense of accomplishment.

32. Indoor Climbing :

Challenge yourself physically and mentally with indoor climbing at the city’s climbing gyms. Scale new heights and conquer climbing routes of varying difficulties.

Music and Performances

33. lincoln center performances:.

Immerse yourself in classical music and opera by attending performances at Lincoln Center. Revel in timeless melodies and awe-inspiring orchestral arrangements.

34. Rockwood Music Hall :

Discover the next big musical sensation at the intimate Rockwood Music Hall. Get up close and personal with emerging artists as they showcase their talents.

35. Open Mic Nights :

Whether you’re a performer or a spectator, open mic nights offer a platform for creative expression. Enjoy a mix of music, poetry, and stand-up comedy in an intimate setting.

Breathtaking Views

36. top of the rock:.

Ascend to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck for a breathtaking panoramic city view. Marvel at the twinkling lights and iconic landmarks that stretch before you.

37. One World Observatory :

Elevate your perspective by visiting the One World Observatory, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Gaze out at the cityscape from the observation deck and reflect on the city’s resilience.

38. Brooklyn Bridge Walk :

Embark on a scenic walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.

Artistic Inspiration

39. street art tour :.

Delve into New York’s vibrant street art scene by joining a guided tour in neighborhoods like Bushwick. Admire the creativity and social commentary expressed through colorful murals.

40. Public Library Visits :

Escape the cold by spending cozy afternoons at the New York Public Library . Lose yourself in the world of literature while surrounded by the library’s grandeur.

41. Broadway Backstage Tour :

Gain a unique perspective of Broadway by going behind the scenes on a backstage tour. Discover the intricate workings of the theater world and the magic that brings productions to life.

Wellness and Relaxation

42. spa day :.

Treat yourself to a day of pampering and relaxation at one of the city’s luxurious spas. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments that leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

43. Yoga in Times Square :

Find inner peace amidst the bustling city by participating in the annual yoga event in Times Square. Experience the serene juxtaposition of tranquility and urban energy.

44. Relaxing at Russian & Turkish Baths :

Unwind in the therapeutic warmth of Russian and Turkish Baths. Let the steam, saunas, and traditional treatments melt away your stress and tension.

Hidden Gems

45. green-wood cemetery tour :.

Embark on a guided tour of Green-Wood Cemetery, a historic resting place with stunning architecture and panoramic city skyline views.

46. Elevated Acre Park :

Discover a hidden oasis at Elevated Acre Park, a rooftop green space offering breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River.

47. Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal :

Experience the acoustic marvel of the Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal. Engage in a whispered conversation with a friend across the expansive hall and witness the phenomenon.

Nightlife Extravaganza

48. rooftop bars :.

Elevate your evening by visiting one of NYC’s trendy rooftop bars. Savor cocktails and conversation while soaking in panoramic views of the city’s glittering skyline.

49. Nightclubs and Dance Floors :

Dance the night away at iconic nightclubs and dance venues. Let loose and groove to the beats of the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.

50. Late-Night Eats :

Satisfy your late-night cravings by indulging in delicious bites from 24-hour diners and eateries. Enjoy classic comfort food or try something new in the city that never sleeps. You might love this content- Best Restaurant in New York .

Is January a good time to visit New York?

Absolutely! January in New York offers a unique blend of winter activities, cultural celebrations, and indoor entertainment options. It’s an ideal time to experience the city’s charm without the crowds of peak tourist seasons.

What is the weather like in New York during January?

January in New York is characterized by cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Pack warmly with layered clothing, a sturdy winter coat, and comfortable footwear to navigate the snowy streets.

Are outdoor activities suitable for winter in New York?

Yes, many outdoor activities are still enjoyable during January. From ice skating and snow tubing to winter walks and horseback riding, many ways exist to embrace the season’s beauty. Just be sure to dress appropriately and bundle up for warmth.

January in New York offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that cater to every taste and preference. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, an adventurer, a food connoisseur, or a culture seeker, the city’s diverse offerings ensure an enriching and memorable visit.

Embrace the magic of winter, explore the cultural tapestry, indulge in epicurean delights, and embark on thrilling outdoor escapades to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Michael Sutton

13 best airports in new york: navigating your travel experience, what to do in new york with kids 31 interesting things to do, related articles.

How to Find a Roommate in New York City?

What To Do In Corning New York? 21 Unforgettable Things to Do

What is the best way to find a new job in New York City?

New York Subway Express vs Local: Navigating the Concrete Jungle

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Philadelphia
• Washington DC
• New Orleans
• Fort Lauderdale
• Smoky Mountains
• San Francisco
• Los Angeles
• California & Vegas
• Malaga - Costa del Sol

Email Address is invalid

Please enter your password

The email address or password provided is incorrect. Please try again or click 'Forgot Password' to reset your password.

Don't have an account?

• My Account My Itineraries Log Out
• Maps & Guides
• Sightseeing Pass App
• Travel Tips
• New York With Kids
• Cancellation Cover

Visiting New York in

What to expect, getting around.

• Things to do

New York City is a winter-wonderland in the season of January. Even though the weather is nearing the middle of winter, New York is still a bustling center of excitement and awe. Locals and tourists alike are breaking out their jackets to brave the cold in order to take in all that the Big Apple has to offer in January. NYC weather in January is some of the coldest the Big Apple experiences the entire year.

• Average Daytime Temperatures: 82F (27C)
• Average Overnight Temperatures: 65F (18C)
• Sunny or partly sunny days: 21
• Rainy days: 7-10, 3 with significant rainfall

What to wear

• Several pair of long pants and warm fleeces are a must during this season
• A solid winter jacket and a hat will help top everything off
• Warm boots are also a good idea for any rain or snow days

New York Prices in January

Because of the weather, New York sees a shortage of visitors in January. This means that flights will be cheaper with more available times. January is a unique time to visit NYC where the city isn't completely overrun by tourists.

Book your flights and accommodation in advance for best prices, midtown & times square are the most popular choices, but there are plenty of other options, especially in Brooklyn with convenient transport options to Manhattan attractions.

Planning your trip is a key to a balanced budget, use free online resources like our maps & guide or the itinerary tool, if you are going to visit some iconic attractions, get a sightseeing pass, it will easily save you 50% on regular admission prices – see more

New York is easy to navigate, but if you can't walk to your destination there are plenty of options

The quickest way to travel around, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from as low as $2.75 per ride, with stops usually every 8-10 blocks.

If the top taxi number is illuminated it's available, minimum metered fare is $2.50, which increases 50 cents every fifth of a mile or every minute.

Hop on, Hop off Buses

These buses connect major attractions all over the city and provide many photo opportunities, it's also a good way to catch a break or eat your sandwich while still sightseeing.

New York Travel Tips

• New York City Subway Map

New York Tourist Map

Things to do in January

Check out the following list of ideas for fun things to do in new york in january:, 1. new years eve party.

Takes place in Time Square. Every year, thousands upon thousands of visitors flock to Time Square and fill up the entire area to watch the ball drop as the New Year is counted in. This New Years Eve celebration is called New Year's Rockin' Eve and is one of the most anticipated events in NYC all year.

2. Ice skating

Another great event in January is the ice skating available throughout the city. Although there are many locations, the Rink at Rockefeller Center is the coolest location set amongst the famous Rockefeller Plaza. Some other ice skating locations include Wollman Rink and the Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers.

3. Festival and Shows

January is a month of many musical and cultural events throughout the city. The Jazz Festival starts on the 4th along with the Asian Festival. These are great opportunities for tourists to experience diverse aspects of the New York lifestyle. For those still in a holiday mood, the Holiday Train Show lasts from January 1st to the 21st. Wave Hill is a beautiful area of botanical gardens in the Bronx that offers free entrance days during the month of January.

4. Tourist Attraction

All of the major tourist attractions in New York City should still be visited in January. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island look amazing in the snow and will even be less crowded around this time of year. Chelsea Piers will have unique festivities such as ice-skating and other weather-related activities. Central Park is another must-see attraction when visiting NYC in January. The park is completely transformed during the winter months as leaves have fallen and snow is beginning to pile up. Central Park is truly a winter-wonderland during January. This offers tourists a great break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Central Park is another must-see attraction when visiting NYC in January. The park is completely transformed during the winter months as leaves have fallen and snow is beginning to pile up. Central Park is truly a winter-wonderland during January. This offers tourists a great break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Rainy Day Options in New York

Broadway shows.

Taking a Broadway show will chase away any rainy day blues during your visit to New York City. It might not be possible to get last minute tickets to every show, but you can find something a couple of hours before the show starts by visiting the box office of the theatre.

NYC Museums

Your weather app says it’s going to be raining the whole day? Head over to one of the best NYC Museums. Whether your interest is in art, science or city history, there’s something for everyone in just about every neighbourhood. Pick from MoMA, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Whitney Museum of American Art, Museum of the City of New YorkorEl Museo del Barrio.

PLANNING TO SEE SEVERAL ATTRACTIONS IN NEW YORK?

There are over 100 Attractions available for free to New York Sightseeing Pass holders - see our attractions list and check how much you could save on entry fees

Sign up to our travel tips and get free PDF resources

• Travelling tips and subscriber-only promo codes
• How to get a free postcard, souvenir & gift ideas
• eSim credit and luggage storage tips
• NYC Attraction Map

Please enter your first name

Please enter a valid email address

New York Monthly Travel Guides

New York Travel Articles

Central park - what to see, new york downtown attractions, a guide to nyc airports, a tourist guide for nyc locals, 1 day in brooklyn, easter in new york city, metrocard tips, rockefeller center guide, nyc travel seasons, new york subway tips, christmas in new york city, newsletter sign up.

Daily insiders Travel Tips for selected destinations

The Very Best Time to Visit New York (by a local!)

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

When’s the best time to visit New York? New York experiences all four seasons, and often temperature extremes — but I think the best time to visit New York is in the fall from September to November.

That said, that’s just one small part of the year — and it could be completely different for you. You might hate that time of year if you came for festivals, or outdoor dining, or the cheapest prices. (And if you have kids or work in education, you might not be able to come then at all.)

So I set out to create the best guide on the best time to travel to New York, completely with temperature, atmosphere, crowd level, and event information.

I lived in New York for several years until recently, and living there was one of the great joys of my adult life. I know the city extremely well, and this guide is full of tidbits that you only get after living awhile in New York.

Like just how hot the 96th St. 1-2-3 platform gets in August. Or just how bad the crowds are on Fifth Avenue in December.

Or the incredible feeling you get when taking part in an activity with a huge crowd of strangers, whether it’s a rare eclipse or a surprise Janet Jackson concert in your neighborhood.

In short — New York is a one-of-a-kind city, and you are going to have a wonderful time here, not matter what time of year you decide to go to New York. Let’s get to the guide!

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit New York

The best time to visit New York is during the fall months: late September, all of October, and early November. This is for three main reasons:

The weather is fantastic. Nice, warm and cool temperatures that are perfect for strolling around outdoors. Some days you need no jacket; some days just a light jacket is perfect. One big difference from spring is that it doesn’t rain as often during the fall.

Crowds have thinned out. New York’s busiest seasons are from June through August and Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Kids are back in school and many families are averse to traveling so early in the school year, and families comprise a decent percentage of New York tourists.

Prices have dropped. New York is always expensive, don’t get me wrong, but hotel prices are much lower in the fall lower than during the summer months and the peak season between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.

And a bonus reason: fall colors. That’s just a bonus, in my opinion! You see the best fall colors in New York from mid-October to early November, peaking in late October. Don’t miss the fall foliage in Central Park, Prospect Park, and Fort Tryon Park and the Cloisters.

I recommend visiting New York during the fall months , from late September through early November. May and June are nice, too.

In my opinion, the best month to visit New York is October , for beautiful weather and gorgeous fall colors.

There’s lots to do in New York year-round, but we love September for family trips because most kid-friendly Big Apple attractions are empty.

In the winter temperatures are frequently below freezing, especially in January , but usually hover between 28-45 F (-2-7 C).

Festivals occur year-round in New York but there are many great ones in the summer, especially June , as well as between Thanksgiving and New Years’.

New York Weather

New York gets every kind of weather you can imagine . It experiences all four seasons and the weather fluctuates throughout the year. 

In the winter you have plenty of subzero days and major snowstorms; the spring growsinto warmer and warmer temperatures, but with decent rain; summer is very hot with high humidity, and the fall is warm-to-cool with mostly clear skies.

There are pros and cons to each season in New York. Let’s break down each season one by one.

New York in Spring

Spring in New York is absolutely beautiful and a great time to visit . As long as you come during actual spring: early April through early June. March is still very much winter temperatures here.

Yes, New York has cherry blossoms, and they tend to bloom at the end of March or the beginning of April. They symbolize the beginning of warmer months ahead with their bright spring colors. Some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in New York are Central Park, Roosevelt Island, and the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, which has a cherry blossom festival in April.

One of my favorite things to do in New York in the spring is to wake up early and take a long, leisurely walk through Central Park, enjoying the fresh cool air and the dogs enjoying off-leash hours.

It can be a cheerful time to visit after a cold winter, but many days can be rainy. The temperature is comfortable for walking around and not too hot or too cold. It’s good to have a light jacket and umbrella with you.

Also, you have those exceptionally warm days that pop up every now and then, usually in mid-April. I live for the first hot day of the year in New York because everyone empties into the parks and enjoys the glorious sunshine!

If you have a genie and can predict the future, THAT is the best time to go to New York — the first hot day of the year. But if you’re feeling lucky, aim for the last week in April.

New York in Summer

Summer weather in New York is very hot and humid, which can be glorious, but also difficult to handle. Ah, New York in the summer is quite the contradiction.

On one hand, summer is when New York explodes into festivals and events, from Pride to the Mermaid Parade to the Jazz Lawn Party on Governor’s Island. There’s outdoor dining, rooftop parties, street festivals, and even time on the beach at Jacob Riis or the Rockaways.

On the other hand, summer can be miserable. The smell of garbage is particularly pungent in New York at this time of the year. Waiting for the subway can be on a platform 10+ degrees hotter than the temperature outside. And subway cars that have lost AC are their own brand of hell.

Honestly, I’m a big summer fan, but in New York I spend a lot of time visiting museums and doing indoor activities. I recommend doing the same, finding lots of places you can escape to if it gets too hot.

One of my favorite things to do in New York in the summer is to take the Staten Island Ferry. It’s the best free activity in New York City, and standing outdoors on the ferry will give you some lovely breezes.

New York in Fall

Fall is a spectacular time to visit New York. It’s the best of every world, as I mentioned above: comfortable temperatures for walking around and exploring; mostly clear skies and limited rain; colorful fall foliage; and smaller crowds and lower hotel prices than peak season.

One thing I’ve noticed in my years as a travel writer is that September and October are MAGICAL. This is when kids go back to school and parents don’t want to travel that early in a new school year — so places are marvelously empty of kids.

Every fashionista knows that fall is the best season of the year for fashion — and New York is one of the most interesting fashion cities on the planet. Whether you go to Bryant Park for the shows or stroll through the streets of SoHo, fall is THE time for exploring fashion in New York.

One of my favorite things to do in New York in the fall is to get out my camera and explore different neighborhoods and their local cuisines: Prospect Heights for Caribbean curries; Flushing for Hong Kong egg tarts; Arthur Avenue in the Bronx for Albanian burek.

(Pretty different than the Times-Square-Empire State Building-Brooklyn Bridge-High Line tourist attractions route, don’t you think?)

New York in Winter

When you live there, winter in New York sometimes feels eternally long and bleak, but there’s nothing like the city under a fresh snowfall.

New York gets several major snowstorms during the winter months, most of them between early January and late March. (Though it’s not unheard of to have a snowstorm in December or even as early as November.)

This is absolutely gorgeous — New York under a fresh snowfall is so lovely to photograph, especially Central Park and any neighborhood with brownstones. But that only lasts a few hours, and if the snow is deep, the city can grind to a halt.

Should you visit New York in the winter? I always say that you should only come here if you know what our winters are like. If you’re from Chicago or Minnesota, come on in! You know what you’re getting into. Good winter boots are BEYOND essential.

But if you’re from Florida or Texas, I strongly urge you to come at another time. On the NYC subreddits there are always posts by travelers from warm climates who don’t know how to deal with the cold and aren’t enjoying their trip. (If this is you, go to Uniqlo or H&M and buy a bunch of winter gear. It will make it easier.)

Winter is also the cheapest time of year to visit New York — specifically early January through late March.

One of my favorite things I’ve ever done in winter is the no-pants subway ride! This event in January is organized over social media. Groups of participants ride a set route of the NYC subway together in full winter gear except pants, ending up in Union Square. Somehow it always ends up being the coldest day of the year, but that adds to the fun.

High Season and Low Season in New York

Generally speaking, high season in New York is during the summer months, from June through August. This is when you have the biggest crowds and the highest prices. There is also a second high season in New York between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, when New York goes all out for Christmas and the holiday season.

Some peak days in New York, when accommodation is at its most expensive, are New Year’s Eve, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

There are also some paradoxes during high season. On Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day, the city empties out as New Yorkers head for the beach. This can be a very pleasant time in local neighborhoods that don’t get a lot of tourists.

Low season in New York is from January to March. During this time you have winter weather and lots of unpredictable snowstorms. If you’re used to cold winters, this can be a great time to visit, as you’ll be able to enjoy lower hotel rates, visit uncrowded museums, and get cheap Broadway tickets.

Best Month to Visit New York

What’s the best month to visit New York? Usually I say October, but that’s not the whole story.

It depends on who you are and what kind of trip you want to have.

I’ve broken down every month in New York into atmosphere, weather, and events.

New York in January

January is the coldest month in New York and other than New Year’s, it’s not a busy time to visit. After the holiday season, prices drop and it’s one of the cheapest times of the year.

The average temperature in New York in January can range from 27 to 39 Fahrenheit (-3 to 4 Celsius). You can also expect snow in January, and likely multiple major snowstorms, in between a variety of sleet, rain, and wintry precipitation.

Events in New York in January include the Three Kings Day Parade in East Harlem, the world-famous Westminster Kennel Dog Show , and Broadway Week , when Broadway shows have 2-for-1 tickets.

New York in February

February is a slow month in New York and one of the cheapest months out of the year. The cold, snowy weather of February keeps tourists away.

Average temperatures in New York in February range from 28 to 41 Fahrenheit (-2 to 5 Celsius) and you can expect a few major snowstorms, along with various other wintry weather.

Events in New York in February include the Lunar New Year Parade in the city’s numerous Chinatowns, the beginning of the multi-month Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Gardens, and NYC restaurant week , when restaurants offer low-priced specials.

New York in March

March is the last of the cold months in New York and much more winter than spring. It’s still a cheaper time of year with fewer tourists because it’s too cold for spending much of the time outdoors.

You can expect average temperatures in New York in March to be 36 to 50 Fahrenheit (2 to 10 Celsius). There is usually at least one snowstorm in March as well, sometimes more than one, and the weather still feels like winter through the end of the month.

Events in New York in March include the St. Patrick’s Day Parade along Fifth Avenue, the New York International Children’s Film Festival , and the Macy’s Flower Show in their flagship store on 34th Street.

New York in April

April is when New York starts to awake into spring, which makes it a lovely time to visit New York. In the early days of April, you can find cherry blossoms blooming and colorful flowers all around. Temperatures are moderate, though you may have a few cold and hot days mixed in.

Weather-wise, it can be a bit all over the place — some rainy days, some sun, some foggy mornings, a lot of cloudiness — but the weather is warming up and spring has sprung.

Average temperatures in New York in April range from 45 to 61 Fahrenheit (7 to 16 Celsius), though you’ll probably enjoy one or two super-warm days near the end of the month!

Events in New York in April include the New York Easter Parade along Fifth Avenue, Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden , and Earth Day , which brings in a variety of events.

New York in May

May is a great month to visit New York, especially if you like flowers. Spring is in full effect, the flowers are lovely and temperatures are comfortable for being outside. It’s just before summer begins and tourists make their way to the city, so May is the perfect time to beat the major crowds.

You can expect the average temperature in New York in May to be around 54 to 72 Fahrenheit (12 to 22 Celsius).

Events in New York in May include Bronx Week , celebrating everything about the northernmost borough; NYCX Design , showcasing interesting designs of all kinds, and the Ninth Ave International Food Festival in Hell’s Kitchen.

New York in June

June marks the start of summer in New York, and if you have your heart set on a New York summer trip, we recommend June over hotter, more humid July and August. Early June is much more spring-like and you’l experience more rain, but by late June, sizzling summer has set in.

You can expect temperatures in New York in June to be around 64 to 79 Fahrenheit (18 to 26 Celsius), and for it to be much warmer toward the end of the month than the beginning of the month.

Events in New York in June include NYC Pride , a full and boisterous celebration of all things queer; the costume-filled Coney Island Mermaid Parade , and the New York Jazz Age Lawn Party on Governors’ Island.

New York in July

July is the hottest month in New York, and there are plenty of tourists in the city at this time. You can expect humid, sticky weather that can get uncomfortable for spending much of your time outdoors.

The average temperature in New York in July ranges from 68 to 84 Fahrenheit (20 to 29 Celsius), and the humidity can make it feel even hotter.

Events in New York in July include the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island; Shakespeare in the Park , with performances in Central Park, and Harlem Week , a monthlong celebration of New York’s coolest neighborhood.

Read More: 100+ Best Things to Do in Harlem

New York in August

August in New York is another hot and humid summer month. It’s also a month when many New York’s escape the city, so it might have a less-crowded feel in less-touristy neighborhoods. Tourist crowds begin to slowly disperse by the end of the month.

The average temperature in New York in August can range from 68 to 82 Fahrenheit (20 to 28 Celsius).

Events in New York in August include the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival on Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows in Queens, the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival in the East Village and Harlem, and the US Open in Flushing Meadows, Queens.

New York in September

September in New York marks the start of fall and is one of the best months of the year to visit NYC. The air is a comfortable temperature, there are fewer tourists in the city, and the leaves start changing color. It’s a wonderful time of year and when New York is at its best.

Average temperatures in New York in September range from 61 to 75 Fahrenheit (16 to 24 Celsius). Early September is much more like summer than fall.

Events in New York in September include the Festival of San Gennaro , the patron saint of Naples, in Little Italy; the Armory Show , one of the world’s major contemporary art shows; and the fall edition of Broadway Week , when Broadway shows have 2-for-1 tickets.

New York in October

October is the best month to visit New York: full stop. It’s at the peak of fall, the leaves are all different colors, and everyone seems to be in a great mood. Prices and tourist levels begin to slowly drop and it’s the perfect weather for walking around outdoors.

You can expect average temperatures in New York in October to be around 50 to 64 Fahrenheit (10 to 18 Celsius).

Events in New York in October include the New Yorker Festival , where intellectual leaders come to give talks; New York Comic-Con , celebrating all things geeky; and of course Halloween, including the world-famous NYC Village Halloween Parade .

New York in November

November in New York is very much an in-between time of year. Fall is ending and winter is just beginning. You won’t really need to worry about snow at this point, unless there’s a rogue flurry, but it will start cooling down fast.

November can be a good time of year to visit New York because it’s not quite too cold to spend time outdoors. The Thanksgiving holiday, however, brings peak crowds and pricing.

You can expect the average temperatures in New York in November to range from 41 to 54 Fahrenheit (5 to 12 Celsius).

Events in New York in November include the New York City Marathon , which draws runners and spectators from around the world; the NYC Comedy Festival , which draws tons of big names; and of course the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade .

New York in December

December in New York is cold, but rarely very snowy. Some people think the best time to visit New York is during the Christmas season, so get ready for high prices and huge tourist crowds! If you enjoy the holidays, it can be a great time to visit New York, but it will be too cold to spend all of your time outdoors.

You can expect average temperatures in New York in December to be around 32 to 43 Fahrenheit (0 to 6 Celsius).

Events in New York in December include the Rockettes’ Radio City Christmas Spectacular ; the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting ; and New Year’s Eve in Times Square .

Best Festivals in New York

New York throws some great festivals, especially in the summer and during the holidays. People from all over visit New York just to experience some of the festivals that take place each year.

Honestly, there are so many different festivals that we couldn’t possibly include them all in this post. Instead, here’s an overview of the best and biggest events of the year:

NYC Pride : In June, millions of people take place in NYC Pride, a series of events celebrating the LGBTQ community, culminating in a parade through downtown Manhattan. Nobody does pride like New York City!

Halloween: The New York City Village Halloween Parade takes place on Halloween night, October 31st, each year in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Lower Manhattan. It’s a great opportunity to get creative and dress up in costumes and enjoy the parade and parties all around New York. 

Jazz Age Lawn Party : Located on Governors Island in June, this weekend-long event celebrates New York City’s prohibition era. It’s a fun opportunity to travel back in time, dress as someone from the 1920s, and enjoy an exciting and informative event related to American history. 

Coney Island Mermaid Parade : Held in June on Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York, the Mermaid Parade is the largest art parade in the United States. It’s an unforgettable event and a great place to let loose and discover your inner sea creature. 

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade : Occurring on the fourth Thursday in November, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the world’s largest parade and famous for its enormous balloons and performances on parade floats.

Christmas: New York gets into the holiday spirit from Thanksgiving to New Years’ Day. Around Thanksgiving, you can find Christmas markets, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, shows, lights, and displays throughout New York. (Pro tip: the best place to see Christmas decorations is Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. They go ALL OUT.) The events that take place make it an exciting time to visit.

Best Time to Visit New York with Kids

Is New York a good destination to visit with kids? Absolutely. New York is one of the safest big cities in the US and it’s unparalleled in terms of fun kid-friendly activities. If you take your kids here, they will remember it forever.

The great thing about New York is that it can be fun to visit any time of year! The best time to visit with kids is either in the spring or fall when the weather isn’t too hot or too cold and there are fewer tourists.

Here’s a New York family travel hack: if you homeschool or follow a non-traditional school schedule, September is when the rest of the world is back at school. Get ready to enjoy kid-friendly attractions without the crowds.

Cheapest Time to Visit New York

The cheapest time to visit New York is during the winter months: January, February, and March. Accommodation are at their lowest prices. Flights and trains tend to be cheap, too, outside of holiday weekends like Martin Luther King Day. And a lot of Broadway shows have cheap tickets available (nope, not Hamilton so much, but pretty much anything else).

However, keep in mind that New York is cheap for a reason: winters here are harsh. As I wrote in my What NOT to Do in New York post, if you’re from Minnesota, you know what you’re getting into. If you’re from Texas, you’re going to struggle.

Overall Best Time to Go to New York

Overall, I think October is the best month to visit New York — but if you have leeway, late September, all of October, and early November are the best time to go to New York. You will absolutely love the big city at this time of year.

Planning a trip to NYC? Let me help!

Solo Female Travel in New York: Is it Safe?

What NOT to Do in New York

The Best 124 Things to Do in Harlem

See all New York posts here .

Have you been to New York? What time of year do you think is best? Share away!

• Winter Travel

30 Fun Things to do in NYC in January 2023 (And 5 Things to Avoid!)

• Posted by by Elle-Rose
• Updated: March 26, 2023
• 12 minute read

If you’re looking for things to do in NYC in January, then stay tuned for plenty of ideas!

January isn’t ‘peak season’ in NYC, but there are still plenty of fun things to do in NYC in January.

January is one of the coldest months of the year in NYC, so finding a little guidance on things to do in NYC in January is a good idea!

In our list below of things to do in NYC in January, you’ll find lots of ideas.

Some ideas on our list of things to do in NYC in January will involve hiding from the cold weather, and others will involve embracing it! So make sure you have plenty of warm layers packed.

But first, is NYC worth visiting in January?

Absolutely! If anything, it’s a pretty great time to visit the city.

Hotel rates drop drastically after January 3rd, flights are cheaper, and attractions are much less crowded than December.

If you want to see NYC in the winter, but you’re on a budget – then visiting during January is a really great option.

Here are the best things to do in NYC in January…

Take a walk through central park (bonus points if it’s snowing).

Our first suggestion for things to do in NYC in January, is exploring Central Park.

Now, this is obviously outdoors, so you’ll want to wrap up! But actually, January is a pretty beautiful time to explore the city’s iconic park.

January is pretty quiet in NYC, so you’ll feel like you’ve got the whole place to yourself!

If you’re lucky enough to visit NYC in January whilst snow is forecast, then walking through Central Park feel seven more beautiful and special.

It’s absolutely one of the top things to do in NYC in January.

Enjoy some Korean BBQ

If there’s one type of restaurant that will warm you up in the heart of January, it’s Korean BBQ!

So you can see why we’ve included it on our list of the best things to do in NYC in January.

When you dine at a Korean BBQ place, you’ll have your own BBQ in the middle of your table (gas or fire, it depends on the restaurant). And you’ll cook your meat yourself at the table.

It’s great fun, and it’s one of the coziest ways to have dinner in the city! This is absolutely one of our top choices for things to do in NYC in January.

Read more about the best restaurants in Koreatown NYC, by clicking here!

Visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is next on our list of things to do in NYC in January. It’s one of the newest observation decks in the city and we know you’ll love it.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is mainly indoors (great for that frosty January weather) so you can enjoy the amazing views of the city, without enduring those minus temperatures.

Another thing we love about SUMMIT One Vanderbilt? It’s really unique! Their are different views and rooms to explore, and it’s completely different to other observation decks in the city.

It’s a fantastic choice for things to do in NYC in January! Click here to book your advance tickets!

Visit the Bryant Park Winter Village

Next on our list of things to do in NYC in January, it’s the Bryant Park Winter Village.

This is a festive Christmas market, located in Bryant Park (right in the heart of Midtown). And surprisingly (and lucky for us) it’s open until March!

So if you fancy doing a little bit of festive shopping, and just feeling the festive spirit for a little longer, then an evening wandering around this gorgeous market is perfect for things to do in NYC in January.

There’s food available, crafts, independent sellers, and much more.

Visit Aire Spa

Next on our list of things to do in NYC in January, it’s visiting the amazing Aire Spa.

Aire Spa is one of the most luxurious and iconic spas int he city – but it’s actually very reasonably priced for the incredible experience on offer.

You’ll be led down into their underground ancient baths, where the light comes from the flickering candles and glistening pools.

It’s truly magical, and one of the best ways to warm yourself up in the winter months. It’s a perfect pick for things to do in NYC in January.

Read more NYC recommendations: 32 fun things to do in Soho, NYC

Go to a cat cafe

If you’re after quirky things to do in NYC in January, then a cat cafe might be the answer!

Actually, we can’t think of anything more cozy and lovely, than snuggling up in a cat cafe, with a fluffy companion and a hot drink.

NYC has quite a few cat cafes, but we do recommend booking ahead if this is something you’re interested in. Because they’re very popular! Some of the best ones are:

• Koneko Cat Cafe
• Meow Parlour
• Brooklyn Cat Cafe

It’s such a lovely choice for things to do in NYC in January, you’ll love it.

Catch the last weeks of the city ice-rinks

If you’re a keen ice-skater, than you should probably add ice-skating to your list of things to do in NYC in January.

Many of the city’s festive ice-rinks remain open throughout the winter, and this includes January and even some of February.

So if you fancy taking a twirl around the ice, you’ll be in look! It’s a great option for things to do in NYC in January.

Enjoy some indoor rooftop cocktails

Next on our list of things to do in NYC in January, it’s rooftop cocktails!

But, saying this, we know that the open-air rooftop cocktail bars aren’t the best idea in the middle of NYC’s winter.

Instead, find yourself one of the city’s best indoor rooftop bars instead! That way, you can enjoy all the amazing views, whilst still being warm and cozy.

I love The Skylark in the winter. It’s a bar just down from Times Square, with incredible views over Midtown and The Empire State Building.

It’s also a fantastic place to spend the evening. The drinks are great, the music is brilliant and the vibe is perfect. This is definitely one of the top things to do in NYC in January!

Visit Macy’s

Next on our list of things to do in NYC in January, it’s visiting Macy’s .

If you want to indulge in a little bit of Christmas shopping, but you don’t fancy walking around in the cold or the snow – then Macy’s is the ideal solution.

Macy’s is a huge department store, and you’ll find everything (and almost every brand) under one roof here.

There are even cafes inside the department store, so you can break up the shopping trip with coffee and cake too!

It’s a perfect pick for things to do in NYC in January.

Go sledding in Central Park

Next on our list of things to do in NYC in January, it’s sledding in Central Park!

If you happen to be in the city when there’s fresh snow fall, sledding in Central Park has to be the most fun you can have!

You can usually buy cheap sleds from local bodegas or corner stores, and oh my gosh – you’ll have so much fun once you get out on the slopes in Central Park!

Hunt out the city’s best Hot Chocolate

Can you think of a better way to spend the day in January, than sampling all of the city’s best hot chocolates?

We know, how great would that be!

And luckily for you, NYC has so many amazing hot chocolate stores and cafes. We compiled a list of the best hot chocolates in NYC to try , so you can just work through our list!

Watch a Broadway Show

How could we write a list of things to do in NYC in January, without including Broadway.

Actually, Broadway is the BEST way to stay out of the cold in NYC.

There’s something kind of magical about watching a Broadway show whilst the snow falls outside. It’s next level comfort and coziness!

If you want help figuring out what Broadway show to watch, we’ve written a guide about that here!

Also, read more: Our guide to what to wear to a Broadway show in NYC

Visit the New York Public Library and see the famous Rose Main Reading Room

Can you get much cozier than riding from the weather in one of the world’s largest libraries? We don’t think so!

The New York Public Library is a must-see attraction in NYC, but it’s even more magical in the winter time.

When you visit, be sure to check out the famous Rose Main Reading Room too! Spend the day getting lost in a book, and enjoying the cozy and calming atmosphere.

It’s a gorgeous choice for things to do in NYC in January!

Attend a sports game

Next on our list of the best things to do in January in NYC, it’s heading to a sports game.

Whether you’re into basketball, ice-hockey or football – there’s bound to be a game on in January you can book tickets for.

Honestly, even if you’re not into sports, it’s a great choice for things to do in NYC in January because of the fun vibes and atmosphere too!

Go shopping in Soho

If you’re found yourself with some money left over from Christmas, then we recommend shopping in Soho as another great choice for things to do in NYC in January.

Soho is one of the best shopping neighborhood in NYC, you’ll find all your favorite retailers there, alongside some fun independent ones too.

Another reason to add shopping in Soho to your list of things to do in NYC in January… You can head into the many amazing cafes and restaurants between stores!

Enjoy a bottomless brunch

If you’re looking for something a little special and indulgent for your time in NYC, then our next suggestion for things to do in NYC in January is going to be great for you!

There are so many great bottomless brunches in NYC (click that link for our ultimate list), and it’s such a fun way to spend the day with friends!

Take a stadium tour

Next up on our list of things to do in NYC in January, it’s taking a stadium tour.

Now, in and around NYC there are a few different stadiums you can explore and tour.

Even if sports isn’t really your ‘thing’ taking tours of the stadium grounds can still be really interesting! It’s like getting to peak behind the scenes!

Take a food tour

Next up on our list of things to do in NYC in January, it’s taking a food tour!

A food tour is a fantastic way to explore the city, and doing a food tour in January is great, because there are less crowds and less queuing!

There are so many amazing food tours to enjoy in NYC… Here are some of our favorites:

• Chinatown and Little Italy food tour
• Specialized Little Italy food tour
• Hell’s Kitchen walking food tour
• Lower East Side food and culture tour
• Brooklyn 3 hour food tour
• Greenwich Village food tour

Visit the Museum of Ice-cream

Next up on our list of the best things to do in NYC in January, it’s visiting the Museum of Ice-Cream.

This is a great indoor attraction, that you can enjoy on those cold days in January that NYC is famous for!

The wonderful Museum of Ice-Cream is located in Soho, and it’s a really fun exploration of color and flavor, using interactive exhibitions.

It’s a lot of fun, and a great choice for things to do in NYC in January. Click here to book your tickets!

Attend a live taping of a TV show

Another great way to escape the cold weather in NYC in January, is to watch a taping of one of the many NYC TV studios.

Most live-tapings at studios are free (which is great!) and you’ll get a few hours of entertainment out of it.

Depending on which show you decide to watch the taping for, you may even get to see some of your favorite celebrities!

It’s a really fun choice for things to do in NYC in January, and it’s one of those things that is totally unique to New York City.

Learn how to cook

Another great choice for things to do in NYC in January, is learning to cook!

There are some amazing cooking classes in the city, and cooking up a storm is one of the best ways to hide away from the cold or the snow.

It’s a great way to meet people, have fun, and learn a new skill too!

If were going to choose a certain food-type to learn to cook in NYC, it would have to be pizza! A classic NYC icon!

The Winter JazzFest

Next on our list of things to do in NYC in January, it’s the Winter JazzFest .

This amazing city-wide music festival happens every January, and it’ll be running from January 12th – 18th.

If you love jazz music, and you want to immerse yourself into some new artists and styles, then you absolutely need to check it out.

It’s a unique choice for things to do in NYC in January, and definitely one for the music lovers.

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

Our next suggestion for things to do in NYC in January, it’s walking across the Brooklyn Bridge!

Now, this is something to save for one of the good weather days during your trip. We don’t recommend this walk if it’s blustery, windy, foggy or misty.

BUT, if you get a lovely clear day, with that crisp winter air and winter sunshine, there’s nothing nicer than walking across the Brooklyn Bridge!

It’s a great choice for things to do in NYC in January!

Read more about Brooklyn Bridge: Top 10 places for the best views of the Brooklyn Bridge

The New York Philharmonic

If Broadway isn’t really your ‘thing’ but you still want to enjoy a show whilst you’re in NYC, then you’re going to love our next suggestion for things to do in NYC in January.

The New York Philharmonic are amongst the best musicians in the world, and taking in their music and skill, is second to none.

They usually have a few different shows in January you can enjoy, but make sure you book your tickets in advance.

This is such a lovely choice for things to do in NYC in January.

Visit the Friends Experience

Our next suggestion for things to do in NYC in January, it’s visiting the Friends Experience.

Most people we know are fans of the TV show friends, and many people who love NYC, love the city because they grew up watching it on that very TV show!

The Friends experience in NYC is a behind-the-scenes look at props, costumes, sets, and so much more.

It’s a great experience for any Friends fan, and it feels so ‘full circle’ to visit it whilst in the city itself!

Eat some amazing food!

One of the best things to do in NYC in January, is just enjoy eating your way around the city.

January isn’t a busy month in NYC, so you’ll find it much easier to get reservations (even for the super popular restaurants).

We recommend planning ahead with the restaurants you want to visit, and using the time to visit all the fantastic restaurants that NYC is famous for!

You can use some of these blog posts for inspiration:

• Top 25 best restaurants in Midtown, NYC
• 12 Epic food challenges in NYC
• Where to find the best lobsters in NYC!
• What is the best bakery in NYC?
• 15 best Japanese restaurants in NYC
• 20 of the best cheap lunches in NYC
• 50 amazing places to grab breakfast in NYC
• Top 12 best places to eat in Little Italy, NYC

Explore Grand Central Terminal

As we’ve mentioned, NYC is much quieter in January, than other times of the year. So it’s a great time of year to explore more crowded areas of the city.

We love exploring Grand Central Terminal in January, because it’s much less chaotic in January than other times.

See if you can find all the secrets of Grand Central Terminal, like the whispering walls!

Read more: 10 great places to explore within walking distance of Grand Central Terminal

Watch some stand-up comedy

Next up on our list of the best things to do in NYC in January, it’s watching some stand-up comedy.

Stand-up comedy is a great entertainment option for Jnuary, because it gets you out of the cold, and it keeps you smiling and laughing too!

There are plenty of stand-up venues in NYC , so you shouldn’t struggle to find a good place to sit down and enjoy some laughs.

It’s a great choice for things to do in NYC in January.

Visit Katz Deli

Next on our list of things to do in NYC in January, it’s visiting Katz Deli . This place was made famous for featuring in ‘When Harry Met Sally’ and it’s one of the most beloved eateries in the city.

This is one of the best diners in New York City, and it’s a great place to check out when you’re in the city.

The food, the staff, the atmosphere, it’s all so much fun!

Another reason to visit Katz in January… Well, it’s less crowded and there’s less queuing! So you’ll get that pastrami sandwich even quicker!

Read more NYC food recommendations: Top 22 restaurants in Greenwich Village, NYC

Visit an outlet mall for the day

Next on our list of the best things to do in NYC in January, it’s visiting some of the nearby outlet malls.

The outlet malls aren’t in NYC itself, but they’re only a short drive away, and make a great day trip from the city.

Especially if you’re looking to grab a bargain after the holidays.

You can book a day trip out to the malls by clicking here.

AND FINALLY….

Things we would avoid in nyc in january….

OK, now you know all the best things to do in NYC in January, maybe it’s worth knowing what to avoid!

Below we’ve included a few things to do in NYC we would recommend for the height of winter!

Let’s get into it…

A boat tour (the windows steam up, and it’s too cold!)

I decided one January to take one of the Circle-line boat tours around Manhattan. It was super disappointing.

First of all, it’s so cold outside, that all the windows steamed up. We spent the entire boat tour having to demist the windows so we could see outside even a little bit.

Secondly, the water can free around Manhattan, which can limit the route your boat tour takes. This also happened when I took a boat tour in December, and it meant our tour was cut short.

Thirdly, it’s WAY to cold to enjoy the outdoor boat deck. Which is where all the best views are.

We really don’t recommend boat tours in January!

An open top bus tour (you’ll be freezing and won’t see very much)

Open top bus tours are great ways to see a city… But not in January.

It’s unlikely you’ll have the rooftop open, and even if they do, you won’t want to be sat up there for long in the freezing NY temperatures.

Sitting on the bottom deck is obviously an alternative, but your views will be really restricted. Overall, we wouldn’t recommend doing the bus tours in the winter.

Walking the Highline

There’s nothing wrong with the Highline in winter, but we find it a little bit ‘lacking’ if we’re being completely honest.

The magic of the Highline is seeing all the amazing greenery, amongst the city. But in the winter, the trees lose the leaves, and the park feels a bit more ‘concrete’ than ‘urband jungle’.

It can also get very blustery up there too in the peak of winter.

Cycling through Central Park

This is an iddilic activity in the spring, summer and autumn, but in the winter it’s a little dangerous!

If you don’t know the roads and pathways well in the park, then you might end up on a slippery route, or an icy track.

It’s just not worth it, so please explore by foot instead, with a good pair of walking boots!

If it’s snowing, avoid the observation decks

Observation decks are kind of pointless if it’s snowing.

Snowing really makes visibility poor in the city, and you’ll find that the observation decks don’t have much of a view if it’s currently snowing the city.

You’re best to wait for the snow to stop, and the clouds to clear (this is usually the next day!).

Read more about NYC: What is the best observation deck in NYC?

We hope this list of things to do in NYC in January has been helpful! And we hope our suggestion of what to avoid have been helpful too!

Elle-Rose is the owner and editor of The World and Then Some! She has been a professional travel writer for over 12 years, writing for many different publications, including this one. Elle-Rose is a city break expert, and she specializes in popular locations such as NYC, London, Las Vegas and Dubai, regularly visiting to stay on top of new attractions, restaurants and hotels. Elle-Rose is super active on TikTok (@theworldandthensome), and loves filming video content in the cities she visits - so go and say hello!

Post navigation

Top 25 Best Restaurants in Midtown, NYC - Something For Every Budget!

The Most Romantic Proposal Packages in Dubai

You might also like.

18 Bars Open on Thanksgiving in NYC – Perfect for Festive Drinks!

• September 12, 2022
• 7 minute read

• Christmas travel

The Best Christmas Tree Farms in New York! 14 Amazing Farms You’ll LOVE!

• August 23, 2021
• 8 minute read

• Itineraries
• new york city

2 Day Soho NYC Itinerary (With a Helpful Map!)

• February 26, 2024
• 5 minute read

• New York City Tourism
• New York City Hotels
• New York City Bed and Breakfast
• New York City Vacation Rentals
• Flights to New York City
• New York City Restaurants
• Things to Do in New York City
• New York City Travel Forum
• New York City Photos
• New York City Map
• All New York City Hotels
• New York City Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in New York City
• New York City
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Is January a good time to visit? - New York City Forum

• United States    
• New York (NY)    
• New York City    

Is January a good time to visit?

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• New York forums
• New York City forum

Depends on what you want to do. It can be very cold at times. Might limit how long you wish to spend outside. Plenty to do inside. People live here year round so its not like the city is suddenly empty in January but there will be fewer tourists than the Christmas season.

We've visited several times in January/February and had a wonderful time. The trick is to come fully prepared for very cold and maybe snowy weather. We love snow so that never stops us.

It's cheap for a reason, its winter which means some outdoor attractions have less appeal. Shorter amount of daylight and weather could be a concern also.

I agree that it depends on your interests. What do you have in mind in terms of an itinerary?

If you like indoor things like museums, theater, shopping, dining, it’s a great time with low hotel rates and no crowds.

January is a great time to visit if you don't mind the cold.

you can often get good prices on Broadway shows!

Many of the sites are not as crowded .

Hotel rates dip after the holiday/New Year high.

As long as you are wrapped up against the weather you will enjoy.

Its hit or miss, If there isnt a Blizzard, its not that bad. A blizzard might kill a day of your vacation

Where are you from? If you are used to cold (and sometimes windy, snowy, sleety) weather, sure, take advantage of the cheap rates. If you will find it unpleasant to be outside due to the cold, don't do it.

To put it another way: I live here, if I vacation in the winter, I go to a warm place. I save seeing cities where I'm outside touring, for a warmer season. Based on my antipathy to being outside in the cold, I would never want to be in Paris, or London in winter weather.

Ive Been in paris in January and actually it was great, There were few tourists, I got right up to Le Joconde , Nobody gets up close to Le Jaconde . Went right up to the Top of the Tour Effiel and went right into Versailles

You have far more tolerance for the cold, Howard, than I do. It's totally personal...what's good for you wouldn't make me happy.

• City pass 1:30 am
• Hotel in Greenwich Village 1:26 am
• Special celebration lunch restaurant recommendation 12:12 am
• Where to stay midtown manhattan 12:02 am
• Broadway shows 11:44 pm
• one day in NYC 10:19 pm
• Hotel recommendations 8:35 pm
• Hotel recommendations 8:06 pm
• Can I make this event in time?… 7:17 pm
• Car Service 6:11 pm
• Logistics Manhattan Cruise Terminal to Airport Marathon Day 5:11 pm
• Hard Rock Hotel 5:06 pm
• Recharge metrocard 5:05 pm
• Central Park Restrooms 4:39 pm
• Train from DC to NYC 4 replies
• Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2012 25 replies
• train from New York to Washington dc??? 22 replies
• Places to visit outside of NYC- (no more than 3 hrs. away) 12 replies
• transfer between LaGuardia and JFK 11 replies
• Unique Birthday Ideas 6 replies
• From Penn Station to JFK 7 replies
• does 'central Perk' exist?? 13 replies
• 2 bedroom suites 4 replies
• best location to stay 24 replies

New York City Hotels and Places to Stay

• How do I get from the airport (JFK, LGA, or EWR) to Manhattan?
• What To Do During Layovers?
• Hotels: Kitchenettes and kitchens in 100+ Manhattan Hotels
• Hotels: Two queen beds plus a kitchen/kitchenette
• Hotels: Guests under 21 years old (but at least 18)
• Hotels: Which ones charge an additional Resort or Facilities Fee
• Hotels: When is the best time to go for cheaper rates?
• How Do I Ride the Subway (UPDATED)?
• Tips, Hint and Suggestions for First Timers
• SCAMS to avoid in NYC
• What Will the Weather Be Like During My Trip?
• How Safe is New York?
• Where to Eat in NYC
• Where to eat in NYC - Part 2
• Celiac in the City? (gluten free)
• Is There Cheaper Lodging Outside Manhattan?
• Public restrooms/toilets. Where do you go when you GOTTA GO?
• Gay Pride Events - June 2023
• Thanksgiving 2021 in NYC: What to Do & Where to Eat
• Christmas in NYC - 2022
• Christmas Day 2021 in NYC: What to Do & Where to Eat
• What Should I Do on New Year's Eve?
• What is there to see and do near WTC/SOL/Brooklyn Bridge/SI ferry?
• What should I know about visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum?
• What Is There to See and Do in Brooklyn?
• How Do I Get to the Brooklyn Bridge?
• What Is There to See and Do in Queens?
• Exploring neighborhoods - where should I go and what should I see?
• Which is the best? ESB or TOTR or OWO?
• Which are the significant churches in Manhattan?
• Hidden Gems in the city - not so touristy
• How do I get from NYC to the Meadowlands and back?
• I'm Getting Married in NYC...what do I need to do?
• Should I Buy Knock-Off Purses?
• What to Do with Kids and How to Do It?
• What should we do at night -- especially with kids or under 21's?
• Places to eat (and drink) with a view
• Where is the Old FAQ?
• Trip Reports: Families with Young Kids - Add yours!
• Trip Reports: Groups of Friends - Add yours!
• Trip Reports: Families with Teenagers - Add yours!
• Trip Reports: Couples - Add yours!
• Trip Reports: Solo Travelers - Add yours!
• Trip Reports: Families of Adults - Add yours!
• Trip Reports - VERY short visits to the city.

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

What to Do in NYC in January

This post covers things to do in January in New York City in 2024. We include family-friendly, nighttime, and free activities.

As local NYC walking tour guides, we can assure you that January is a great month to visit the city.

Firstly, outside of the first week of the month, it's probably the cheapest time to visit all around, flights, hotels, and theaters.

Secondly, during January, museums and other indoor attractions operate as usual but with short lines and no crowds.

OK. It's cold outside, but who cares? There are enough indoor attractions to keep you busy for months in NYC.

We also considered the many tips from members of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group.

Interact with locals, like our tour guides, expats, regular visitors, as well as newbies (once you finish this post, of course).

Now, without further ado, on to the post.

• Nighttime Activities
• Free Things to Do
• Family-Friendly
• Tourist Concession Passes
• How's the Weather

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN JANUARY

This is our list of the ten best events and things to do in NYC in January. For even more suggestions, see our comprehensive guide to things to do in NYC . 

Several of the items below are already included for free with the purchase of a  tourist concession pass .

For tips on the most popular activities in NYC, check out the following posts:

• Walking Tours
• Boat Cruises
• Top NYC Attractions

Keep in mind that New Year's Day (January 1st) and Martin Luther King Jr. Day (the 3rd Monday in January) are public holidays so some activities may be affected that day.

1. Attend a Concert

There are so many amazing performers that come through New York City and its surrounding cities.

Whether you're a fan of hard rock, pop music, or even classic 80s tunes, there are plenty of great concerts in the NYC area this January.

Pop Concerts

• Billy Joel | January 11th
• Tool | January 12 & 13
• Aerosmith |  January 19
• Black Pumas | January 19
• Madonna | January 22nd, 23rd, 29th

Classical and Opera Concerts

• New York Philharmonic | various dates January 4th-26th
• New Jersey Symphony Orchestra | January 21st
• American Symphony Orchestra | January 25th
• New York Metropolitan Opera | January 6th, 11th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 27th

Music Festivals and Special Shows

• Freedom Now Suite | January 26th | NJ Performing Arts Center | Celebrating Mac Roach's Centennial

TIP: See the inner workings of Madison Square Garden on their All-Access Tour!

Check here for even  more concerts in the NYC area  this January

2. Watch a Sports Event

If temperatures become uncomfortably cold, head indoors and see some athletes sweat!

This month, you can see ice hockey inside an arena or a football game.

Though football stadiums are outdoors, the boisterous, electric atmosphere at a Giants or Jets game is worth braving the elements.

Sports events are also a great way to  spend an evening .

They are also a family-friendly activity .

Football   

Ice hockey  .

• Rangers  

Check here for even more sports events in January.

Note that sports events are also a great way to  spend an evening .

TIP:  Madison Square Garden offers  All-Access Tours  so you can see how this iconic arena has become a world landmark.  

3. Take a Walking Tours with Free Tours by Foot

January is a fine time to take a walking tour, believe it or not!

Weather can be surprisingly mild, and comfortable if dressed appropriately.

If you want to stay warm, we have several tours of Grand Central Terminal , an NYC gem that is both beautiful and warm!

We also offer food tours , bike tours, and occasional special theme tours like our ghost tours and holiday lights tours. 

Our guided walks are free to join and operate on a pay-what-you-like basis, which means you decide what a tour is worth or what you can afford (even free) when the tour is over.

We also have GPS-enabled audio tours  and self-guided tours of many neighborhoods that you will likely visit as a tourist in NYC. 

4. See a Broadway Show 

Winter (except around the holidays) is an off-peak time for shows and you may find that Broadway ticket prices are lower in the colder months.

Note that  Broadway Week runs from January 12th through February 8th.

You can often get two-for-the-price-of-one  tickets to many Broadway shows. 

And, in the video below, Katie, a tour guide with us, Free Tours by Foot, explains the various ways you can get cheaper Broadway tickets.

Here are a few of the best productions taking place this month:

• Book of Mormon
• Six the Musical
• Moulin Rouge the Musical
• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
• The Play That Goes Wrong

Click here for even more Broadway shows playing in January

You might also enjoy reading our post on the top 25 performances on Broadway.

TIP: There is a Disney on Broadway tour which includes behind-the-scenes access at a real Broadway theater. 

5. See a Stand-up Comedy Show

New York attracts some of the biggest names in comedy, and you'll find some of them performing in January.

Stand Up Comedy

• Jeff Lawrence/Janeane Garofalo | January 3rd, 6th, 10th, 13th, 17th, 20th, 24th, 27th
• Vir Das | January 19th
• Brad Upton | January 27th

Comedy Venues

• Broadway Comedy Club
• Eastville Comedy Club
• Comedy Cellar
• Amateur Night at the Apollo

For even more great stand-up performances, check this list of comedy shows in January in the New York City area.

6. Winter Jazzfest

This annual festival runs from January 11th through 18th, 2024. Over 100 bands will play at dozens of venues across the city.

Let these smoking hot jam sessions warm you up this winter!

You can buy tickets for individual shows, a day pass, or a two-day pass. See their  website  for the details.

If you aren't in town for the festival dates, you can see some fantastic jazz shows at famous venues like the Village Vanguard and Blue Note in Greenwich Village .

7. Look into a Tourist Concession Pass

A tourist concession pass affords you cheaper

entry into most of NYC’s most popular attractions.

While the passes themselves certainly aren’t free, if you plan your itineraries well, you will end up getting one or two attractions for free each day.

There are several different types of passes, so be sure to  read our comparison post  to learn about how you can save the most money on your trip.

8. Go Ice Skating

All the ice skating rinks in NYC are open in January, including the famed Rockefeller Center Rink and the Rink at Bank of America Winter Village. 

Ice skating is an ideal activity for the whole family and you can go skating at night for a magical experience.

A few ice rinks you can visit include:

• Wollman Rink
• Chelsea Pier Sky Rink
• South Street Seaport Rink
• The Rink at Rockefeller Center

To find out the many places you can go skating in the city, see our post on  where to go ice skating in NYC .

9. Visit the Bank of America Winter Village in Bryant Park

Winter Village at Bryant Park is one of the best holiday markets in NYC to shop for one-of-a-kind items including handmade winter clothing, sweaters, hats, mittens, scarves, decorative items, and more.

Although the Winter Village and shops will close around January 2nd, the ice skating rink, The Lodge Bar and Food Hall, and igloos will stay open until March 2024.

There will also be bumper cars on ice starting January 13th.

And, in the video below, tour guides Katie and Lori, from Free Tours by Foot , take you on a virtual tour of the Winter Village in Bryant Park.

It's located in Midtown Manhattan so why not also join one of our Midtown Manhattan Tours ? If you can't join us, try our  GPS-led audio tour. 

Check out our guide on  50+ Things to Do in Midtown Manhattan .

10. Eat a 5-star Meal for Less During Restaurant Week    

Enjoy a 5-star meal at a top New York restaurant and pay 1/4 of the regular cost! 

During Restaurant Week, more than 300 of New York City’s best restaurants offer a prix-fixe menu for a very low price, relative to their regular prices. 

The list of participating restaurants will be available in early January.

Pre-fix meal prices have run around $30, $45, or $60 in the past, and we anticipate the prices will be in this range, or perhaps a bit higher due to inflation. 

The 2024 dates have not been released yet, but we expect that it will run again from mid-January to mid-February.

For advice on how to get the restaurants you want, see our post on how to make the most of Restaurant Week.  

HONORABLE MENTION: After Christmas Sales at Woodbury Commons

Woodbury Commons is one of the premium outlet malls in New York state. It is only one hour north of New York City and worth the easy ride there.

Our post,  How to Get to Woodbury Commons , has everything you need to know to get there, including bus company recommendations as well as directions on how to go by train. 

Or, you could watch Katie tell you all about it in this video below.

This huge outlet mall has 220 stores including many upscale stores.

You can find post-holiday sales offering 25%-65% off everything from clothes, household goods, accessories, and much more.

There are also several other NYC outlets where you can save money this January.

HONORABLE MENTION: Take a Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour   

Hop-on-hop-off bus tours are a good way at any time of the year to see a lot of the city in a little bit of time.

In January, a bus tour has the additional enticing feature of keeping you warm on days that are especially cold.

Since they stop at the popular attraction locations, you can use the bus to move from destination to destination and it is a lot more interesting to look out a bus window than to stand in a crowded subway.

Our post on  Hop-On, Hop-Off NYC Bus Tours  can help you decide which is best for you. One of the tours is also included on the GoCity Pass .

This is one of the most festive days of the year for all New Yorkers, regardless of heritage. 

THINGS TO DO AT NIGHT IN JANUARY

Below are a few ideas for keeping yourself entertained at night. 

Also, be sure to check out all the sections of this post, as you'll find other great nighttime activities, like going ice skating, seeing a concert or Broadway show, or attending a sports event.

For more ideas, see our post on  New York City at Night  and our  New York Night Tours .

See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Lucky for those coming to New York City the first week of January, you get a chance to see the stunning and gigantic Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center. 

The tree typically remains illuminated from 5:30 a.m. to Midnight every day until mid-January.

See our full post on the  Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree for much more information.

While you are there, think about visiting the Top of the Rock where you get unparalleled views of New York City.

Read our post on how to get cheaper tickets for  Top of The Rock . Access can be found on the GoCity Pass as well.

See New York City Sparkle from Above

Head to one of the five observation decks in January.

You'll have an easier time getting tickets for your preferred time slot and won't fight the crowds to get to the windows.

And in this short video, Katie explains how to plan your visit to the Empire State Building.

• Empire State Building  | until 10 pm
• Top of the Rock  | until 11 pm
• One World Trade Center Observatory  | until 10pm through January 5th, until 9pm from January 6th
• Summit One Vanderbilt | until 11 pm
• Edge Observation Deck | until 10 pm

Not sure which to visit? See our list of the pros and cons of each of them . Some can be found on the GoCity pass .

Go to a Winter Antiques Show

In 2024 The Winter Show takes place from January 19th – 28th, with an opening night party on January 18th.

This is the most prestigious antique show in America.

It is held at the historic Park Avenue Armory and the show highlights an eclectic mix of works dating from ancient times to the present day.  

The Armory itself is a gorgeous location to showcase fine works of art. Going to the Winter Antiques Show is worth it just to see the building.

Click here for information on hours, directions to the Armory, and more. 

Take a Bus Night Tour

Seeing New York City at night can make for an entirely new way to see the city.

The New York skyline is breathtaking when illuminated after dark.

Night bus tours  are also a great way to see many different areas of the city in a short amount of time.  

Note that our  free self-guided  tours are viewable on your device, or our audio tours are equipped with GPS which is good for night or day.

FREE THINGS TO DO IN JANUARY

Here are just a few free things you can do in NYC in January.

We list some free activities in other sections of this post, such as taking a  pay-what-you-wish   Grand Central Terminal tour  or ice-skating at the Rink at Bank of America Winter Village.

Check our comprehensive post on  free things to do in NYC  for even more suggestions!

Hear Some Gospel Music! 

Since January is a non-tourist season you will have a much easier time getting into one of the top Gospel services in New York City.

On Sundays, the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem is one of the most popular services to attend to hear this inspirational music. It's free to attend!

Let Derrick, also a tour guide with us, give you tips to increase your chances that you can attend this service - and how long it could be.

Find out more about this church as well as others where you can hear Gospel music in New York, read our post,  Gospel Music in Harlem and the Rest of New York City . 

If you're interested in learning more about Harlem, we also have a walking tour of the neighborhood.

Take a Free Tour of Grand Central Terminal

On an especially cold day, kill two birds with one stone by visiting Grand Central Terminal. 

You'll be nice and warm while you take in the splendor of this historic train terminal, a true icon of New York City.

And below is a short highlight video narrated by Tour Guide Katie.

There are a number of  several free tours  you can take.

If you pop into the Terminal spontaneously, you can try our  audio tour , which can be used at any time!

Our guide to  Grand Central Terminal  is filled with helpful information, so be sure to take a look. 

Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration 

In 2024, this national holiday falls on January 15th. 

Some museums and venues that will likely have shows or exhibits dedicated to Dr. King are:

• Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture
• The Museum of the City of New York
• Brooklyn Academy of Music
• Apollo Theater  

Both the Apollo Theater and the Schomberg Center are located in Harlem, the perfect neighborhood to visit on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Take a look at our  A Harlem Visitors' Guide  for suggestions of things to do there.

Attend a Free TV Show Taping  

Totally free, totally fun! And totally easier to get a seat in January when the tourist season is over. 

This video covers what you need to know about getting free tickets to TV show tapings and live broadcasts of popular shows in NYC.

We include how to apply for tickets, what to expect on the day of the show, as well as information on TV studio tours.

Our post of  New York TV Show Tapings  explains how you can get free tickets to shows like The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Good Morning America, and many more.

THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN JANUARY

Below are just a few ideas for things to do with kids in January. 

Many of the activities in other sections of this post are kid-friendly, such as going to a sports event, ice skating, and taking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.

For more family-friendly activities, see our post on  things to do with kids in New York City .

We also have a  3-day itinerary for families  and our list of over  100 things to do in New York City  which includes dozens of kid-friendly activities. 

Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden

This fantastic annual show is running until January 15th, 2024. 

It's worth taking a bit a slightly longer subway train ride to the Bronx to see these G-scale mini-trains circle 150 of New York City's landmarks along a half-mile of track. 

Read more about the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show here.

You will also see the  Brooklyn Bridge ,  Statue of Liberty , and  Rockefeller Center  re-created with only natural materials like bark and leaves. 

For more information, click here . 

Annual Three Kings Day Parade

This free parade is now in its 47th year and is a fantastic event for kids.

It features children wearing crowns, music, dancing, puppets, sheep, and even real camels!  

This parade is organized by the  El Museo del Barrio to honor those who contributed significantly to the Latino community.

The parade usually runs from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. It starts at 106th St and Park Ave and ends at 115th St and Park Avenue in Harlem .

TIP: The El Museo del Barrio is one of many museums you can visit for free. See our post listing free museums in NYC .

Take a Disney on Broadway Tour

Fans of Disney musicals will definitely want to consider taking this unique tour of Broadway focused on their shows.

Not only does this outing include a behind-the-scenes look at a popular theater, but you'll also have the chance to try on actual props and costumes used in productions like The Lion King and Mary Poppins !

Even if you can't make it out to see one of these musicals, chances are that you and your entire family will enjoy this Disney on Broadway tour.

• $72/Adults, Students | $55/Children
• Includes admission to New Amsterdam Theatre.
• Includes the opportunity to try on actual costumes and props.
• Purchase tickets or learn more .

Visit an Attraction or Museum without the Crowds

Below are indoor, kid-friendly experiences that will keep your little ones warm and entertained. These attractions are quite fun for grown-ups too! 

Be sure to see our Museums and Attractions section in our post Things To Do with Kids in NYC .

• Madame Tussauds  
• Ripley's Believe It or Not  
• Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum
• New York Transit Museum
• Tenement Museum
• Museum of Broadway

National Geographic Ocean Odyssey

Stay warm while you take a deep dive into the ocean.

Using photo-real animation with giant projection screens and immersive sound, your simulated ocean voyage will feel real.

This is a great activity for families with children as there is a great deal of interactive technology including touch screens, holograms, and games involving ocean conservation/research. Get all the information  here . 

Find out about more family-friendly activities from our post on  things to do with kids in NYC .

RELATED POSTS:

• Things to Do All Year in NYC
• Where to Store Your Luggage
• Which New York Bus Tours Are Best?
• Broadway Week

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Best Time to Visit New York City - Full Month by Month Guide

New York is one of the world's most iconic cities – with its instantly recognizable views, world-famous museums and galleries, colorful neighborhoods, countless events, and the beautiful open spaces of Central Park. With so many sights and things to do, it is important to know the best time to visit NYC.

The best time to visit New York is from April to May or September to November. The weather is perfect for exploring Manhattan on foot or walking through Central Park, and there are plenty of events and festivals. It's also not as expensive as the peak summer months.

Whether you want to deep-dive into the city's impressive museums, hit the fabulous foodie scene, or immerse yourself in an unforgettable Broadway experience, keep on reading to find out more about what makes each season in New York so special and to help decide when to take your trip.

When should you go to New York City?

New York is a popular destination all year round, and you'll find plenty to enjoy whatever time of year you visit. The major attractions remain accessible, with dozens of festivals and other events, meaning that you can look out for new experiences even if you've visited the city before.

The seasonal weather changes and the busy peak season can make for a very different experience throughout the year. The city is cheaper and less crowded in January and February, and you can take advantage of 2-for-1 tickets to some attractions and shows, too. Many visitors prefer to wait for warmer spring days, though, when you can spend more time outside.

Fall is a popular time to visit as the weather stays relatively warm through October, and you can combine visits to city attractions with walks through Central Park in its stunning seasonal foliage.

From Thanksgiving to New Year, visitors flock to NYC's festive parades and events. The city is packed full of festive decorations, and you might also get lucky and catch Central Park in the snow for the ultimate in seasonal charm.

It's also a really popular destination during the summer vacation – this is more because it's a convenient time to travel than anything else – unless you want to see a specific seasonal event, then there's no particular reason to visit in the hot, humid NYC summer.

When to visit New York City - Summary

Best Time for Good Weather: Spring and fall see the best weather for exploring the city. Both seasons are mild, so it's no problem to spend time outdoors - although rain is possible throughout the year - and you can often enjoy bright spring blossoms or glorious fall colors under a beautiful blue sky. In contrast, the city can feel very hot in summer, amplified by the intense humidity New York is famous for. It often snows in NYC between December and February, and low temperatures mean you'll have to wrap up warm, so this won't be everyone's preferred time to visit.

Best Time for Saving Money: If you're willing to brave the wintery weather, you can save money on a January trip. Thanks to NYC Must-See Week and NYC Broadway Week, you can get 2-for-1 tickets to top attractions and shows. NYC Restaurant Week also takes place in January, so you can enjoy fixed-price menus at some of the city's top establishments. Hotels and flights are often at their cheapest in January, too. If the cold puts you off, Broadway Week returns for a second run in September!

Best Time for Restaurants: NYC Restaurant Week in January cuts the cost of touring some of the city's top establishments, so it's a great time to visit if you don't mind wrapping up warm. Later in the year, there's also the International Food Festival in May, which takes place on Ninth Street, the Big Apple BBQ Party at Madison Square Park in June, and a big Oktoberfest celebration. Don't worry if you can't make it to the city for any of the main foodie events - there's never really a bad time of year to indulge in New York's culinary scene, and any time between April and October, you can also head across to Brooklyn to visit Smorgasburg, the huge weekly open-air food market.

Best Time for Families and Kids: If you're on spring break in April, then NYC is a great destination, as the weather should be good enough to spend time outside. The spring flowers in Central Park will be blooming, so head there to run off some energy and check out Central Park Zoo. The holiday season in November and December can also be a fabulous time for families to visit. Book a trip to Santaland at Macy's, where you might be lucky enough to get a slot to meet Santa himself. As we've mentioned, summer gets extremely hot, so it's not the ideal time to bring young children to New York, but you can enjoy the 4th of July fireworks or fit in a day trip to the beach at Coney Island or Jersey Shore - perfect if you need a break from quieter indoor attractions.

Best Time for Concerts and Live Music: In early summer, you can enjoy a huge range of outdoor concerts, including a free series by the New York Philharmonic in June, plus Shakespeare in the Park. There's a varied program of events at Summer at Lincoln Center in July, plus Broadway in Bryant Park performances. Highlights at other times of year include military bands and other live events at the Intrepid Museum during May's Fleet Week, with the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival taking place in August.

Best time to Avoid Crowds: January and February are the quietest times to visit the city. If you'd prefer to get the best combination of weather and crowds, then early May or November might be better. They're still popular times to visit the city, but just outside the main visitor peaks.

Best time to visit New York City

One of the great things about New York is that you can shape your visit to suit you and your travel companions. Whether you're in the city to shop, sightsee, or check out some of the world's coolest bars, there's something for everyone in NYC.

Best time to visit New York City for shopping

NYC is legendary for its department stores and boutiques, so whenever you visit, you can shop until you drop. On certain days in August, Summer Streets sees closures on Park Avenue, making it easier to enjoy this shopping mecca on foot.

For a different experience, seasonal farmers markets spring up across the city in October, including New York Botanical Gardens (Wednesdays) and the organic rooftop farm at Brooklyn Grange (Sundays).

Shopping in New York's huge department stores can be a spectacular experience in the run-up to Christmas. Macy's Herald Square puts on an unforgettable display, including beautifully dressed windows and the lavish Santaland.

Wrap up your day with a trip to Bryant Park Winter Village, where you'll find more than 100 kiosks showcasing small makers and boutique brands, followed by a spin on the iconic ice rink in Bryant Park.

Roll forward a few weeks, and many of the major department stores have huge sales as they head into the new year. Led by the big stores, big sales usually run at other points in the year, aligning with major holidays, including Memorial Day weekend (late May), Independence Day (4th July), Labor Day (early September), and of course Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

Best time to visit New York City for museums

New York is home to some of the world's best museums, with extensive and varied collections that you can often explore on an informative guided tour if you want to learn a little more about what you're seeing.

The downside to this is that they can often be very crowded since New York residents, tourists, and school groups all visit in high numbers. With fewer people visiting the city in January and February, the museums are usually a little quieter, and they're a great way to escape the cold.

Several museums also participate in January's NYC Must See Week, including MoMA and the Solomon R Guggenheim Museum - check online for details of 2-for-1 tickets.

For another chance to visit for free, head to the Upper East Side Museums in June for the Museum Mile Festival. For one night only, Fifth Avenue museums, including the Met, the Jewish Museum, the Smithsonian Design Museum, and the Africa Center, open up for free.

It's only a short event, so you won't be able to see any of the museums in depth, but with live music and other entertainment in the surrounding streets, it's an interesting way to get a taste of some of the world's best museums.

Come September, when the summer vacation period ends, many museums, galleries, and theaters launch new exhibitions, events, and shows after Labor Day. If you want to be the first to see new displays or catch the informative events that often accompany the opening weeks of an exhibition, then this is a great time to schedule your trip.

Best time to visit New York City to explore its neighborhoods?

Manhattan is famous for its diverse neighborhoods, which include Midtown, the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Hell's Kitchen, Greenwich Village, the Meatpacking District, and Chelsea. Plus, there are some great places to explore in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.

NYC is a great place to explore on foot - you can really feel the differences between the neighborhoods this way - so we'd suggest visiting during spring and fall when the weather is best for spending time outdoors.

Throughout the year, events take place that let you experience a neighborhood at its best, and these are also great times to visit. In June, you can see the Coney Island Mermaid Parade - a really unique celebration - or catch the annual Pride March at the end of the month.

You'll also find a host of linked events taking place across Greenwich Village. Later in the summer, Harlem Week is a 10-day event in August that includes live music and varied events to celebrate the neighborhood's multicultural community.

Little Italy is a must-see in September, when San Gennaro Festival brings elaborate parades, live music, foodie celebrations and even a meatball eating contest.

Head back to Greenwich Village at Halloween for the biggest Halloween parade in the world. Come in costume, and you can join in – no registration is (currently) required.

Best time to visit New York City for events and festivals?

New York City is famous for its parades and multicultural events – with so many taking place throughout the year, you have a good chance of being able to see one during your trip.

The festival year kicks off in late January or February with Lunar New Year. Events take place across Chinatown and the spectacular parade runs between Mott Street and Manhattan Bridge.

You can also see colorful parades if you're visiting over St Patrick's Day in March or Easter, when a parade of beautiful bonnets heads along 5th Avenue towards Central Park.

The city's large Mexican population celebrates Cinco de Mayo in style in May. There are celebrations across the city, but one of the main events is the parade, which runs near the northern end of Central Park.

If you're in the city over the Memorial Day holiday at the end of the month, head to Flushing, Queens, for the largest Memorial Day celebrations.

Held in Brooklyn in September, there's a huge celebration of Caribbean culture to coincide with Labor Day, which includes the famous West Indian Day Parade. And, of course, to round up the year, you have the huge Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, which is always a major event in the city.

There are several arts festivals throughout the year for a culture fix during your trip. Some of the biggest are the Tribeca Film Festival in April, the Queens World Film Festival in June, and September's Brooklyn Book Festival.

Best time to visit New York City for sightseeing?

We've already mentioned the hot-and-cold New York climate, which can really impact your sightseeing experience. For most people, a trip to New York will be packed full of unforgettable experiences despite the season, so it's often a case of packing for the time of year.

Even so, you can enjoy some parts of the city more easily at certain times of the year. Central Park is stunning in the spring and fall, when you can enjoy long, relaxed walks, stop to watch a street performer in the sunshine, and enjoy iconic views of the city and its famous green space.

To appreciate the Manhattan skyline at its best, an evening boat trip is an amazing addition to a city break, but visit in late spring or early fall so that the temperatures stay pleasant even after sunset.

Worst time to visit New York City

As you've already discovered, July and August are hot, humid and crowded, plus you'll run the gauntlet of sudden summer rain storms.

Since it's such a popular destination for families during the school vacation, hotel rates, and flight prices are even higher than at other times of the year. You're likely to pay a premium if you opt to stay in one of the few hotels, especially if you are after one with a pool.

We'd recommend taking a trip at other times of the year if you have the option, but if you do find yourself heading to the Big Apple in the hot summer months, you'll still be able to enjoy all of the city's main attractions. Just make sure you add in extra stops to cool down and stay hydrated.

New York travel seasons

High Season for Tourists

Summer is peak season in New York, but although there are plenty of festivals and events to enjoy, it's not necessarily the best time to visit the city if you have other options.

The heat and humidity can get in the way of enjoying the city at its best; many of the attractions are very crowded, and hotel prices are at their highest.

Shoulder Seasons

Shoulder seasons are spring and fall, which, in our view, are the best seasons to visit NYC. Temperatures in April and May, and from September to November, are perfect for exploring the city. Plus, crowds are lower, and there are sometimes better prices on hotels.

Low season is January and February, mainly due to the colder weather and the fact that all the fabulous holiday displays have just closed down for another year.

It's the cheapest time to visit the city, and you'll still have a great time, but you'll be able to enjoy more of the city's outdoor attractions at other times of year.

Weather in New York City across the year

Average monthly temperature and rainfall for new york, new york city weather by month.

• New York City weather in January: January is the coldest month of the year, with temperatures dropping as low as 26 degrees Fahrenheit. There are an average of 4 snowy days throughout the month, with over 8 inches of snow expected. It's down to luck whether it's heavy enough to turn the city into an Insta-friendly winter wonderland. The average high temperature is a chilly 39 degrees Fahrenheit so pack accordingly.
• New York City weather in February: February sees the least rainfall, on average, but makes up for that by being the snowiest month in NYC. Heavy snowstorms are possible, and if you're not used to these conditions, it's important to check for local advisories. Even if it doesn't snow, February is cold, with average lows of 29 degrees. In fact, it's possible for temperatures to drop much lower throughout the winter – so check the forecast before you travel in case you need to pack extra layers for a super-cold snap.
• New York City weather in March: The temperature starts to rise in March, with average highs up to 52 degrees Fahrenheit and average lows now hovering just above freezing. There's still a small chance of snow, but you're much more likely to encounter rain. Between March and December, average rainfall sits consistently between 4.1 and 4.6 inches.
• New York City weather in April: Although there's still a very slim chance of snow if you catch a late cold spell, April is usually a much warmer month. The average high temperature is 64 degrees, but if you're lucky, it can peak at around 10 degrees higher still. The nights will still feel much cooler, so pack accordingly.
• New York City weather in May: May is usually one of the best times to visit NYC for the weather. The average temperature is a very pleasant 72 degrees, which you can often enjoy under a clear blue sky. It's still a little unpredictable – there are often cooler days and, as summer approaches, higher temperatures are possible too.
• New York City weather in June: By June, the NYC summer will be starting to take hold. The temperature sits around 80 degrees Fahrenheit but can feel much warmer when you factor in the warming effect of being in such a built-up environment. Thunderstorms are possible, but so are cooler periods when the temperature drops.

• New York City weather in July: July is hot and humid in NYC, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees. If a heatwave is going to hit, it's most likely to be in July, so be prepared for several days of non-stop sweltering weather. Across the month, there's an average total rainfall of 4.6 inches, but the daily rainfall is very small – it's the chance of a sudden and heavy thunderstorm, which increases the average!
• New York City weather in August: The average August temperature remains around 84 degrees, which can still feel very uncomfortable. Fortunately, the chances of a heatwave are lower in August compared to July. Night-time temperatures stay high, which can make it difficult to sleep if you're staying in accommodation without air conditioning.
• New York City weather in September: As fall approaches, temperatures decrease during September. The average daytime high is 76 degrees Fahrenheit, but this will be closer to 70 degrees by the end of the month, and summer thunderstorms evolve into a few days of persistent rain. Night time temperatures will be much more comfortable by the end of September.
• New York City weather in October: With an average daytime temperature of 64 degrees, October can be a very pleasant time to visit New York. The evenings are cooler, as you might expect, but rarely fall below 50 degrees. There's a much higher chance of rain getting in the way of your plans, and with the falling temperatures, rainy days will feel much cooler at this time of year.
• New York City weather in November: Daytime highs of 55 degrees Fahrenheit mean you can often enjoy time outdoors all through November. There's a very low chance of snow, although early wintery spells can make the temperatures drop much lower.
• New York City weather in December: The weather in December is variable so it's best to plan for some indoor activities during your stay. Some days will be bright and mild, with temperatures occasionally reaching well beyond the average high of 44 degrees. There's also a chance that you'll end up visiting during an early cold spell - temperatures can fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly later in the month, and there's the first significant chance of snow.

New York City events and things to do by month

January in new york city.

• Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden : This enchanting show features model trains navigating through a miniature landscape of over 175 New York landmarks, all made from natural materials like bark and leaves.
• Winter Jazzfest : A musical extravaganza that showcases a wide array of jazz talents, this festival spans multiple venues and features both established jazz icons and emerging artists.

February in New York City

• Broadway Week : Occurring twice a year, this event offers theater enthusiasts two-for-one ticket deals to some of the most famous Broadway shows, making high-quality theater more accessible.
• New York Fashion Week : Also happening biannually, this prestigious event in the fashion world brings together designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts to showcase the latest trends and collections.

March in New York City

• St Patrick's Day Parade : This vibrant parade celebrates Irish culture and heritage, featuring marching bands, dancers, and floats, and attracts millions of spectators each year.

April in New York City

• Tribeca Film Festival : Renowned for its diverse film programming, this festival celebrates independent filmmaking and features screenings, panel discussions, and artist talks.

May in New York City

• Ninth Avenue International Food Festival : A culinary delight, this festival offers a taste of international cuisines from local restaurants along Ninth Avenue, along with music and entertainment.
• Bronx Week : This week-long celebration highlights the culture, history, and community spirit of the Bronx, featuring concerts, parades, and various community events.

June in New York City

• Museum Mile Festival : This cultural festival offers free access to some of the world's most prestigious museums along Fifth Avenue for an evening of art, music, and entertainment.
• NYC Pride Month : A month-long celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, featuring parades, parties, and educational events, culminating in the famous Pride March.
• Queens World Film Festival : Celebrating independent filmmaking, this festival showcases a diverse range of films and filmmakers from around the globe.

July in New York City

• The Giglio Feast : A traditional Italian festival featuring religious processions, live music, and a variety of food, celebrated in honor of Saint Paulinus.
• Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks : One of the nation's largest Independence Day fireworks displays, set against the backdrop of the New York City skyline.
• US Open Tennis Championships : A major event in the tennis world, attracting top players from around the globe to compete in one of the sport's most prestigious tournaments.

August in New York City

• Harlem Week : A celebration of Harlem's rich culture and history, featuring music performances, art exhibitions, and educational events.
• Lincoln Center Summer Festival : An arts festival showcasing a variety of performances, including music, dance, and theater in the heart of New York City.

September in New York City

• Feast of San Gennaro : An 11-day street fair celebrating Italian-American culture, featuring religious processions, food vendors, and live music.
• New York Fashion Week : The second occurrence of this world-renowned fashion event, showcasing the latest collections from top designers.
• Brooklyn Americana Music Festival : A festival dedicated to Americana music, featuring local and national artists performing folk, country, blues, and roots music.
• Broadway Week : The second occurrence of this biannual event, offering two-for-one ticket deals for Broadway shows.

October in New York City

• New York Comic Con : A major pop culture convention that draws fans of comics, movies, and TV shows, featuring panels, exhibits, and celebrity appearances.

November in New York City

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting : A celebrated holiday tradition marking the start of the Christmas season with the lighting of a massive, beautifully decorated tree.
• Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade : An iconic holiday event featuring giant balloons, floats, marching bands, and performances, celebrated on Thanksgiving Day.
• New York Marathon : One of the world's largest marathons, this event takes runners through all five boroughs of New York City.

December in New York City

• New Year's Eve Ball Drop Times Square : An iconic global celebration, this event features the famous ball drop, live entertainment, and a massive crowd counting down to the New Year.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

• Top Things to do
• New York Tours
• Attractions
• Empire State Building
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
• Statue of Liberty
• One World Observatory
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Rockefeller Center
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• Guggenheim Museum
• Top of the Rock
• Intrepid Museum
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Bikes & Segway
• Religious Sites
• Observation Decks
• Travel Guide
• Things to do
• Festivals and Events

Your Comprehensive Travel Guide to Visiting New York in January

New York is, without a doubt, one of the most sought-after and popular tourist destinations in the world. It is home to some of the most famous and iconic attractions including the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park, to name a few. The bustling streets of New York overflow with diverse cultures, buzzing with yellow taxis and the rhythm of life. The city’s eclectic blend of art, cuisine, and opportunity makes it an unparalleled global destination. While New York is buzzing all year round, let’s see what it has in store for January.

Is January a Good Time to Visit New York?

The weather in New York can be freezing cold during January. It is also a low tourist season, which means lesser crowds, making January a great month to visit the city.

Why You Should Visit?

• New York experiences a low tourist season in January, which means there are lesser crowds at attractions.
• Snowfall during the month makes it a great time to enjoy activities like ice skating, ice sledding, and fun snowball fights.
• The city celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day on the third Monday of January by hosting marches, parades, and cultural activities to honor his legacy.

What to Look Out For?

• Snowfall is common during January. Keep a check on weather conditions and any cancellations that might happen.
• Temperatures can drop to -9°C at night making the weather extremely cold.
• Watch out for winter markets for shopping opportunities, food, and seasonal treats.

Overview of the Weather in New York in January

The weather in New York in January is extremely cold with high chances of snowfall, ranging from light dustings to significant snowstorms. The month is ideal for visiting museums, watching Broadway shows, and other similar indoor activities.

• Average temperature: High: -9 degrees C, Low degrees: -2 degrees C
• Average rainfall: 69mm
• Daily wind speed: 15.4 mph
• Temperature of sea: 5.1 degrees C
• Average daylight: 9.6 hours

More About the Weather in New York in January 

How cold is New York in January?

New York experiences extremely cold temperatures in January with snowfall, ranging from light dustings to significant snowstorms. Temperatures usually range from -2 to -9 degrees.

Can you swim at beaches in New York in January?

You cannot swim at the beaches in New York in January because the water temperature is freezing cold, reaching as low as 3 degrees.

Does it rain in New York in January?

Yes. The month of January usually experiences a decent amount of rainfall in the form of light showers, steady rain, or occasional snow and sleet. 

Is New York windy in January?

Yes. Being exposed to the Atlantic, the city is usually prone to strong winds in January.

Best Things to Do in New York in January

1. The Museum of Modern Art

City landmark | museum.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City is a world-renowned institution dedicated to modern and contemporary art. It houses an extensive collection of influential artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photography, film, and design objects. With masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol, MoMA offers visitors a profound and diverse artistic experience.

2. Rockefeller Center

City landmark | ice skating.

Rockefeller Center is an iconic complex in the heart of Manhattan, New York. Known for its Art Deco architecture, it features many skyscrapers, including 30 Rockefeller Plaza (30 Rock) and the GE Building. This famous center offers world class shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as the popular Top of the Rock Observation Deck, which provides stunning views of the city's skyline. During the winter season, visitors can go ice skating at the iconic Rockefeller Center Ice Rink.

3. Winter Village at Bryant Park

Sightseeing | holiday market.

Winter Village at Bryant Park is a lovely seasonal attraction in New York, which transforms into a magical wonderland during winter. The village features a beautifully decorated ice skating rink, cozy igloos for dining, and a European-inspired holiday market with over 100 vendors selling handmade winter clothing, sweaters, hats, mittens, scarves, decorative items and more.

4. Central Park

City landmark | park.

Central Park in New York becomes a scenic winter wonderland during the winter months. The landscape is covered with snow, creating a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. The frozen lakes and ponds offer ice skating, sledding, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities, while the walking paths provide a serene escape. The park's beauty and tranquility in winter make it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to embrace the seasonal charm. Visitors can visit the zoo, hike through the woodlands, or watch a show at the Swedish Cottage. 

5. Edge NYC

City landmark | observation deck.

Edge NYC is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, located at Hudson Yards in New York City. In the cold season, visitors can experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s skyline, including its winter beauty in the month of January. The 100th-floor observation deck offers enclosed and outdoor sections, allowing guests to enjoy the skyline while staying warm. Edge provides a unique sightseeing experience and unforgettable views.

6. Broadway

Broadway in New York is a hub for world-class theater and performances. The iconic theater district features a wide variety of shows, including classic and new productions. Visitors can escape the cold, winter chill and immerse themselves in fascinating and captivating stories, musicals, and plays performed by talented artists. From heartwarming holiday-themed shows to dramatic performances, Broadway offers a diverse lineup that caters to all tastes and provides a delightful and entertaining experience.

Top Experiences & Things to Do in New York in January

Events in new york in january.

Winter Jazzfest

Date: Jan - Feb

The Winter Jazzfest brings together top-notch artists from the music industry to put on spellbinding performances and entertain big crowds. You get to enjoy the talents of Alice Smith, Anna Webber, Ben Williams, Braxton Cook, and more, as they bring their soulful melodies and amazing music to the stage. This renowned music festival also includes a special show for kids and awesome marathon nights.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Celebrated on the third Monday of January, Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the legacy of the civil rights leader. The day is celebrated with various events and activities like parades, marches, volunteer opportunities, and several educational programs focused on promoting equality and social justice. Museums and cultural institutions also host special exhibitions and discussions to commemorate Dr. King's contributions to the advancement of civil rights and racial equality in the US.

Three Kings Day Parade

The Three Kings Day Parade in New York celebrates the Christian holiday also known as Epiphany. Held annually on 6 January, the parade features vibrant processions with participants dressed as the Three Wise Men from The Bible. Colorful floats, music, and dance performances fill the streets of East Harlem as the community comes together to commemorate the biblical journey of the Magi and the spirit of gift-giving.

Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

The Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show is a lovely seasonal attraction held at the New York Botanical Garden in early January. It features a magical display of model trains traveling through a miniature landscape of iconic New York landmarks, made entirely from natural materials. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of the trains as they weave through the enchanting and beautiful botanical setting, creating a delightful and vibrant experience.

NYC Winter Restaurant Week

When: Jan - Feb

The NYC Winter Restaurant Week is a highly anticipated and really popular culinary event that takes place in New York City twice a year. In this event, some of the finest restaurants in the city offer diners the opportunity to enjoy prix-fixe menus at a much discounted price. Participating restaurants showcase their specialties, allowing locals and visitors alike to feast on a diverse array of delectable dishes that are guaranteed to take you on a heavenly gastronomical journey.

Lunar New Year Parade and Festival

The Lunar New Year Parade and Festival is a vibrant celebration of the Chinese New Year and Asian culture. Held in Chinatown in Manhattan, the event features colorful floats, dragon and lion dances, martial arts performances, traditional music, and cultural displays. Enjoy a festive atmosphere, feast on delicious Asian cuisine, and take part in the joyous spirit of the Lunar New Year, marked by stunning visuals and lively activities.

Shopping in New York in January

Shopping in New York in January can be a fantastic and fulfilling experience, especially if you're looking to find great deals and discounts during the post-holiday sales. You can find bargains on a wide range of items, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and home goods. As the month progresses, stores start clearing out their winter merchandise to make room for the spring collections, making it an excellent time to find deals on winter apparel like coats, sweaters, boots, and accessories.

Keep an eye out for sample sales, where designers and brands offer discounted prices on their products. These sales are usually held at specific venues and offer the chance to find unique pieces at lower prices. Iconic department stores like Macy's, Bloomingdale's, and Saks Fifth Avenue often have special promotions and sales during this time. Consider visiting the Winter Village at Bryant Park for its famous holiday market offering artisanal products and handmade crafts.

Know Before You Visit New York in January

• Time zone: GMT-5
• Currency: United States Dollars (USD)
• Country code: +1-646
• Emergency numbers: 911

• New York is extremely cold in January, which is why you must carry warm clothes like heavy coats, sweaters, scarves, hats, and gloves.
• Wear thermal layers, socks, and comfortable shoes.
• Raincoats and waterproof boots are recommended since New York experiences rainfall during the month.

• Don’t forget to pack your phone charger and power adapters.
• Pack thermal layers, woolen socks, gloves, and heavy coats to protect yourself from the freezing cold temperatures.
• A few areas of New York can be dirty, which is why you should pack hand sanitizers as well.
• Carry your medicines and first-aid essentials, including band-aid.
• Pack a chapstick and lotion to prevent dry lips and hands.

Getting Around New York in January

By Subway: The subway system is the most efficient and cost-effective way to get around New York City. It runs 24/7 and connects all major attractions and neighborhoods.

By Taxi: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the city. They provide door-to-door transportation and offer a warm and convenient option during winter.

By Bus: The bus network covers areas not served by the subway. The buses are heated, making them a comfortable option in winter. You can also avail of the hop-on hop-off bus tours, which provide narrated tours of the city's attractions and offer the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

By Ferry: You can use the NYC Ferry service to travel between Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, while soaking in scenic views of the city's waterfront.

New York offers a variety of accommodation options that will suit any budget. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, there is something for everyone in the city.

• Budget Hotels: The Brooklyn Riviera Hostel, The Central Park North, Hotel Executive Suites, Shefah Hotel
• Mid-Range Hotels: The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel, The Andrew Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn Ridgefield Park, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott North Bergen
• Luxury Hotels: Hampton Inn Manhattan, DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South, Cambria Hotel New York, EVEN Hotel New York

New York has a diverse food scene with something to satisfy and please everyone’s tastes and preferences. It is home to many amazing restaurants serving dishes from across the globe.

• Le Bernardin: Renowned for its exquisite seafood dishes, Le Bernardin holds three Michelin stars and offers an elegant dining experience.
• Xi'an Famous Foods: Offering authentic and flavorful Chinese cuisine, Xi'an Famous Foods is a great choice for delicious and affordable hand-pulled noodles and dumplings.
• Dhamaka: Dhamaka is a modern Indian restaurant that showcases the diverse and bold flavors of Indian cuisine. It offers a contemporary dining experience with an array of creative and traditional dishes that reflect the country's culinary heritage.
• Peter Luger Steak House: A classic and iconic steakhouse in Brooklyn, Peter Luger has been serving mouthwatering steaks for over a century, making it a favorite among meat lovers.

Hacks & Tips to Visit New York in January

• New York is extremely cold in January so  dress warm with layers, including a heavy coat, gloves, scarf, and a hat to stay comfortable while exploring the city.
• Stay updated on the weather forecast before your trip and be prepared for possible snow or icy conditions.
• Plan indoor activities like museums, Broadway shows , or shopping centers to stay warm and entertained.
• Use public transportation, especially the subway and buses. They are the most efficient ways to get around the city.
• January is an off-season for tourism, which means that you may find more affordable hotel rates and better deals on attractions.
• Purchase tickets in advance to secure your spot.
• Stay flexible with your itinerary since the winter weather can be quite unpredictable due to the extreme cold.

Explore New York Through the Year

Frequently asked questions about visiting new york in january.

Yes. January is a good time to visit New York if you can bear the extreme cold. The month sees the lowest tourist crowds making attractions and hotels cheaper and easier to access.

Visit the holiday market at Winter Village in Bryant Park, go museum-hopping, or try ice skating at popular rinks. Watch Broadway shows and visit Central Park and the Edge NYC for breathtaking views of the city.

Yes. New York can be extremely cold in January with temperatures ranging between -2 and -9 degrees.

New York does not experience warm or hot weather in January. The weather is cold with snowfall with high chances of rain.

No. You cannot swim in New York in January because the water temperature is freezing cold.

There are low chances of a perfect sunny day. Usually, the month of January sees a mix of sunshine and clouds with slight rainfall.

New York experiences extreme cold in January, which is why you must wear warm clothes like heavy coats, sweaters, scarves, hats, and gloves.

Yes. New York experiences quite a bit of rainfall in the month of January.

New York is usually one of the most expensive cities to visit but January sees low tourist footfall as it is an off-season for tourism, which means accommodations and attractions are much cheaper to book.

New York is fairly safe. Avoid going to deserted areas alone at night and watch out for pickpockets in busy streets.

There are quite a few attractions you can visit in January like the Museum of Metropolitan Art, Guggenheim Museum, Central Park, The Edge NYC, and Times Square, to name a few. You can also catch a Broadway show.

Some of the major events in New York in January include the NYC Winter Restaurant Week, Lunar New Year Parade and Festival, Winter Jazzfest, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, to name a few.

The temperature in New York ranges from -2 to -9 degrees in January.

If you are visiting New York with kids, you can take them to the American Museum of Natural History, the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Governor’s Island, New York Aquarium, Children’s Museum of the Arts, and Lincoln Center. You can also take them ice skating or make them watch a puppet show or a Broadway show for kids.

New York in January – The definitive guide for you

Things to do in New York New York In January

Often referred to as the cultural, financial, and media capital of the world, New York is a fast paced metropolitan and visiting the city is an experience of a lifetime. Instead of slugging under the chilly January winds, New York celebrates the month with festivals, events, adrenaline pumping activities and much more. In addition to these, to further lure tourists and locals outside their cozy adobe, the city observes uncommon events like Restaurant Week, Hotel Week, Winter Jam and Winter Flea Markets. While New York is beautiful throughout the year, check out our exclusive guide on what makes New York special in January.

What makes New York in January special?

New York in January: Weather

January is the coldest month in New York and as the month progresses, the temperature descends further. The average maximum daytime temperature is around 3°C and the average nighttime temperature drops to -3°C. Daylight is observed for an average of 9.2 hours, out of which hardly 5 hours is bright sunshine. It is expected to rain for about two weeks, so make sure to pack a raincoat and an umbrella on your trip!

New York in January: Things to do

Central park.

Central Park adorns a winter wonderland avatar in January. Apart from being a vision in white, the snow clad park offers ample number of activities; from a simple self-guided stroll to guided tours, from ice skating rinks to skiing or sledding hills, from riding the carousel to building a snowman. Pick one or as many as you'd like!

January timings Open daily from 6 AM – 1 AM

New York, NY USA Getting There ›

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Built at the former location of the Twin Towers that were destroyed during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum commemorates the lives lost in the attacks and honors the rescuers. An interactive exhibition will take you through the day of 9/11, before and after the attacks.

January timings Memorial - Daily 8 AM to 8 PM Museum - Daily except Tuesdays - 9 AM to 7 PM

Z180 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10007 USA Getting There ›

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Cozy up with art that spans over 5,000 years, at one of the most famous museums in the world, The Metropolitan Museum of Art , New York City aka The Met. The largest art museum in the United States, The Met, displays over two million works of art. You can visit the display of the Leonard N. Stern Collection of Cycladic Art at The Met which brings 161 splendid Cycladic works of art acquired by the businessman and philanthropist Leonard Stern over some 40 years!

January timings The Met Fifth Avenue: Sunday-Tuesday and Thursday from 10 AM - 5 PM | Extended hours: Friday & Saturday from 10 AM - 9 PM The Met Cloisters: Thursday-Tuesday from 10 AM - 4:30 PM Closed on: Wednesday

1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA Getting There ›

The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is an iconic structure that graces the New York skyline. On a clear day, upto six states (New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Delaware) can be seen from its observatories. Even if it isn't a clear day, you get to a view a snow-clad Manhattan, which is a beautiful sight in itself. January timings Friday-Sunday, 11 to 11 PM and Monday-Thursday, 1 PM to 10 PM

20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001, USA Getting There ›

American Museum of Natural History

One good way of escaping the January winds is to enter the enclosed world of museums and galleries. A New York icon, the American Museum Of Natural History spans over 40 exhibition halls, exhibiting 32 million specimens and artifacts depicting the diversity of Earth's species, life in the ancient past, and the universe.

January timings Daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM

Central Park West & 79th St, New York, NY 10024, USA Getting There ›

The New York Pizza Walk

Nothing like piping hot, freshly-made pizzas on a dewy, cold day! Book our 3-hour walking tour through Little Italy and Greenwich Village, which will take you to some of the best pizzerias in town. Through this little tasting-adventure, you'll discover the history and connection of pizza with this thriving city!

53 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA Getting There ›

Statue of Liberty

No trip to New York is complete without visiting the Statue of Liberty . The megastructure was designated as a National Monument in 1924, and it steadily attracts tourists from all over the world. Separate tickets allow you to explore the Liberty Island or ascend the statue itself. In January, you may find it easier to make reservations for an all-inclusive tour.

January timings Daily from 8 AM to 3:30 PM

New York, NY 10004, USA Getting There ›

Visit the Museum of Modern Art

One of the largest and most influential museums in the world, the American Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) houses over 15,000 works of art, including those by the legendary artists - Picasso and Warhol. The museum has two branches (Midtown Manhattan and Queens) in the city, one hosting art pieces by modern artists and the other known for it's live exhibitions. There are plenty of upcoming events and exhibits in January, including film screenings, workshops, and gallery experiences.

January timings Sunday to Friday, 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM and till 7 PM on Saturdays

11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, USA Getting There ›

Take a day trip to Niagara Falls

The winter does not stop the great Niagara Falls from being its thunderous and wonderful self. In fact, the white foreground, the glistening icicles and the 'all is frozen' illusion, is an awe-inspiring vision. Hop on a bus and in 6 hours you'll be spending your day exploring a different landscape near the Niagara Falls.

January timings Guided Tours from NYC to Niagara Falls start at 4 AM and ends in 19 hours

New York, USA Getting There ›

Catch a Broadway Show

The city of New York has a number of defining features. Central Park is one, Broadway is another. If musicals are your thing, Broadway is your go-to place to catch some of the best musicals including The Lion King and Wicked. Make sure you catch a Broadway musical on your trip to New York.

January timings Timings vary depending on the show & ticket availability

Theater District New York, NY USA Getting There ›

New York in January: Events to look out for

Winter Jazzfest

January 10-18, 2024 A treat for all the music lovers, especially of Jazz, the Winter Jazzfest is celebrating 20 years and has over 600 artists performing at different venues, scattered across New York City. Check out the line-up on the official website . You can avail your tickets here .

New York City Restaurant Week

January 16 - February 4, 2024 Here’s your chance to sample NYC’s culinary scene at a bargain. Over 300 restaurants across the city participate in the New York Restaurant Week and offer a prix-fixe menu at a relatively low price. Menus and reservations will be avaialble here from January 9, 2024.

January 19, 2024 Rich Walters, best known by his stage names Slick Rick, MC Ricky D, and The Ruler is a rapper who's performing in Brooklyn Bowl on January 19, 2024 from 8:30 PM onwards. Get ready to celebrate this legend's 13th annual Birthday Bash with Tarrey Torae, DJ Kaos, Dudley Music & Kool DJ Red Alert.

Book your tickets here .

Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden

November 17, 2023 – January 15, 2024 The Holiday Train Shows, one of New York's beloved holiday traditions is BACK! Start your train journey on the lawn and then watch trains zip past nearly 200 iconic New York landmarks, under the warmth of the observatory. After dark, join in for NYBG GLOW and discover the beauty of landscape and historic buildings. The evenings are a curation of music, experiences, food, and so much more! Ticket details are available here .

New York in January: 5-day itinerary

5-7 days in new york itinerary.

9/11 Memorial & One World Observatory

Times Square

Art Museums

Top of the Rock | Empire State Building

Chelsea Market

Brooklyn walking tour.

Day Trip to Niagara / Washington DC

St. Patrick's Cathedral

New York Public Library

Greenwich Village

Sightseeing Cruise

Food Tour in NYC

Shopping on 5th Avenue

Battery Park

Lower East Side

New york in january: essentials.

Language English

Time zone GMT-4

Country Code 917 | 212 | 718

Socket Type A & B

Currency Dollar ($)

NYC Accommodation in January

Similar to the New York City Restaurant Week, January also observes NYC Hotel Week in January, with 24% off on select hotels . That said, it doesn't mean there are no other options! NYC offers some great options from luxury hotels to hostels that can fit everyone’s budget. Here are a few:

• Luxury Hotels - Ritz-Carlton New York , The Crosby Street Hotel , Mandarin Oriental , Library Hotel
• Mid-Range Hotels - Hilton Garden Inn Times Square Central , Hampton Inn Downtown-Financial District , La Quinta Inn & Suites
• Budget Hotels - The Local NYC , The New York Manhattan Hotel

What to pack for New York in January?

A trip to New York in January requires some smart packing skills. First and foremost pack clothes that you can layer up for indoor visits such as stores, restaurants, museums which will be warmer. (Layering gives you the freedom to take off layers if the space gets too warm). But for the outdoors, pack warm coats, waterproof footwear or galoshes to keep you feet warm, caps, earmuffs, scarves, and gloves or mittens.

Getting around New York in January

Mass transit is a convenient and inexpensive way to get around New York City. The five boroughs are well connected via various MTA transport means. Subways are the fastest way to travel within the city. It operates all day, every day. You can opt for public buses as well. This can offer you a scenic, albeit slower way to reach your destination. The Roosevelt Island Tram is another scenic way of getting around. The city also has a famously large fleet of yellow taxi cabs that you may opt for if you have a lot of baggage. Last but not the least, bikes are available for hire, if you want to be in charge of your own travel. Read more about public transportation in NYC and travel like a local.

New York in January: Seasonal delicacies

New York and doughnuts have been inseparable from the seventeenth century. Their very recent love child, a hybrid between croissant and doughnut, cronuts receives the same amount of love from their inception in 2014. A visit to New York without indulging into this sugary love affair is quite incomplete. Where to eat: Dominique Ansel Bakery

Sipping a well made hot chocolate before, during or after your day’s excursion in the chilly weather is a privilege everyone should take advantage of. Especially when you are in New York, the city offers a plethora of options for hot chocolate, ranging from a basic to a red velvet falavoured hot chocolate. Where to eat: Venchi

A good humble, crispy on top and creamy & gooey in the middle Macaroni and Cheese plate can warm your heart and satiate your stomach any time of the day. While quite a common recipe, restaurants in the big apple have mastered the art of making it to perfection. Where to eat: The Smith

The New York winter marks the unofficial beginning of ramen season for locals and tourists alike. The city offers an array of options, whether you are looking for a vegetarian or chicken or pork broth or milky, china-white tonkotsu bone broth or a top-notch tantan, everything is on the menu. Where to eat: Jin Ramen Upper West Side

New York in January: Visiting tips

• Take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour - You might enjoy long walks in winter, but snow might not be that friendly. In order to cover as much ground as possible while staying warm and to enjoy the scenic beauty of the city, take the hop-on-hop-off bus tour get down and up from wherever you like.
• No Pants subway Ride - While New Yorker’s take their subway rides seriously as they like to stick to their schedule, some have invented this annual Improv Everywhere event to gather up some laughs from their fellow passengers. The volunteers ride the subway all clad in their winter gear except their pants. It will be held on January 7, 2024.
• The Three Kings Day Parade - Another event that explores the fun side of the New Yorker’s is the Three Kings Day Parade which is held every year in January. The marchers disguise themselves as a king and the parade includes real camels, many colorful dolls and music through Harlem. It will held on January 5, 2024 at 11 AM - 2 PM.
• Days are smaller - A drawback of winters, daylight hours are fairly short. Make sure you plan your visits and make your reservations beforehand so that you get to see more of the sun.
• Shopping galore - New York goes all out to celebrate the starting month of the year. With events like restaurant week and hotel week, it offers huge discounts. Retail shops and malls also join in to accommodate the travelers and their shopping spree.

What are the top things to do in New York in January?

It’s best to stick to indoor attractions in New York during the freezing month of January. From the 9/11 memorial and museum to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and American Museum of Natural History , New York beyond Central Park is what you should look out for during January. Ice skating in New York is also a favourite among locals during winter.

What are the best day trips to take from New York  in January?

The best day trips from New York are to Philadelphia or the capital state of Washington D C. You can also take a day trip to the breathtakingly beautiful Niagara Falls .

Are any famous attractions closed in New York in January?

Except for January 1, all the attractions in New York are open throughout January.

What is an ideal itinerary for visiting New York in January?

Depending on the number of days you’d like to visit New York, check out our tailor made itineraries for visiting New York in January.

Is January a good time to visit New York?

Yes. New York in January is a magical winter wonderland! With less tourists, more bargains on accommodations and flights and a whole range of winter activities to experience, New York in January is a great idea.

Discover New York through the year

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

Be a smart traveler

The first to know about trending destinations, travel deals, tips and all things travel.

• Rest Of The World
• Attractions
• FDE Merchandise

Should You Visit New York In Winter?

New York, an iconic world city and a ‘must visit’ destination for any traveller. With its stunning skyline, Fifth Avenue shopping, the theatres of Broadway and Times Square, Central Park and of course, the fantastic array of food and drink. All the clichés are true, from the moment you get off the plane it’s like stepping onto a film set. You are greeted with the sights and sounds from the TV shows and films of your youth,  exciting, hectic but all strangely familiar. In the words of Judy Garland…

“I Love New York In June January, How About You?”

Most cities tend to suit a season, Miami and LA need the sun, others like London and New York seem more comfortable in the cooler seasons of autumn and spring. But what about winter, especially the cold post Christmas months of January and February?

We visited New York in January and yes, it was cold, very cold.  As low as  -11 °C, so make sure to pack your Gregory Porter hat! However, as you can see we also had brilliant blue skies and sun.

A beautiful but very cold morning in Central Park, New York

Let’s just get all the bad stuff out of the way first.

NYC In Winter – The Bad Stuff

As already mentioned it can get very cold, especially if the infamous ‘Arctic Blast’ hits the city. Combined with the wind rushing down the streets, the chill can make it feel like your ears are burning off. Hence the need for the Gregory Porter hat, alternatively get your best earmuffs out (if there such a thing as ‘ best earmuffs ‘)

Possible snow and travel disruptions. There’ s always the chance of flight delays and cancellations due to the weather but unlike the UK the whole city does not grind to a halt. We had a snow storm during our visit, all the shops and restaurants remained open, the main roads were cleared and unfortunately for the local kids, schools did not close.

Basically that’s the bad stuff which is easily outweighed by all the positives.

Blue skies gone, here comes another snow storm

NYC In Winter – The Good Stuff

There are less tourists (apart from us!), the queues are shorter and flight and hotels prices can be lower.

Flights are generally cheaper although don’t expect empty planes (airlines seem to have got passenger numbers down to a fine art, we rarely see many empty seats). We flew out with Virgin Atlantic on a Saturday afternoon and arrived at a fairly empty Newark Liberty Airport. Unfortunately the US border control appear to have only one member of staff willing to work Saturday evenings.

New York hotels are not cheap and have very high occupancy rates for most of the year however the ‘ off season ‘ is January and February. We stayed in The Pearl Hotel, a great little hotel and only a short walk from Times Square. At the time of writing, the current price per night is £200 more in December than the room price for January.

A snowy romantic evening in Times Square

Less tourists also means it’s easier to get tickets to many of the Broadway shows. If you want cheap same day tickets then the official TKTS discount booth in Times Square has shorter queues than usual. A good option if you can tolerate standing in the cold.

The view towards Central Park from the ‘Top of the Rock’- The Rockefeller Center

Finally one of the best reasons to visit New York in January is that it can be beautifully romantic especially if there’s a dusting of snow. Walking through Central Park on a sunny, crisp winters morning with the cinematic Manhattan skyline as a backdrop is a wonderful experience.

What Else To Do – Events In January & February

• Shopping on Fifth Ave ( This is sale time when shops clear their shelves, however it may not be as cheap as previous years due to the recent devaluation of the pound! )
• Ice Skating In Central Park
• NYC Restaurant Week
• NYC Jazz Festival
• Broadway Discount Week
• Museums and Galleries ( Much quieter than the rest of the year)

Pin For Later

Mr and Mrs W

Marcus and Mellissa, a married couple who love travel and adventure but now require a bit more luxury during their trips. Blogging and vlogging around the world, sharing hints, tips and stories. Enjoying the ride, having a laugh and even the odd argument.

You Might Also Like

The Ultimate Holiday Guide To Majorca

Atlantic City – Walking The Famous Boardwalk

Why Bucharest Should Be Your Next City Break

Lindsey Paris

I’ll be the dissenting opinion! 🙂 I lived up north in the tri-state area for 11 years, so I feel like I paid my winter dues and I won’t ever do it again! 🙂

11 years, OK we will let you off this one We are from South Wales and don’t really get very very cold winters, just grey and wet! (80 rain days in a row last winter) so the snow was a bit of a novelty for us.

Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle

NYC is most beautiful in the winter, in my opinion. I love to stroll through Central Park while the snow is falling. Gorgesou.

I was in New York for News Years Eve once, and it was actually surprisingly warm that day. If you are prepared for the cold, the city is just lovely that time of year.

I’ve never done NYC in winter so this is helpful. I think I’d consider it! It’s nice that it could be a little less busy.

So many parts of the city are so lovely in the winter and the holiday decorations make everything feel so festive!

I love visiting NYC. I went in the winter last year. It was cold but I had a great time.

I’ve done Chicago in winter and it was COLD! I am not sure I could do NY, but the lure of the cheaper tickets and hotel rooms just might lure me in some day!

Jocelyn Cañasa Brown

Absolutely. I would love to see the ball drop and the big Christmas tree lit up. It would be so magical.

Toni | BoulderLocavore.com

Sometimes visiting tourists spots during off season means a lot of advantages. This post makes me want to visit NYC during winter!

Melissa @ The Staten Island family

I’m a born and bred never left NYC girl-for the past 43 years- and I can attest to the fact that visiting NYC in winter is one of the most magical experiences you can have- so JUST DO IT!

Kita Bryant

I have a friend who lived in New York. She loved the winter because she lived in the mountains but it made work very difficult. It’s much better suited as a place you VISIT during the winter haha

Ann Bacciaglia

I love New York during all the seasons. Winter is nice because of less tourists for sure. I would love to move there someday.

Reesa Lewandowski

I visit NYC often in the winter. I will never forget back in my younger days coming out of a club in the wee hours of the morning and finding it snowing. It was silent out, which was so rare to hear in NYC!

I know what you mean, it had a completely different atmosphere in the snow, quieter and a bit surreal.

I love this post so much especially since I live in NYC. Every season of course has its moments, but it’s a pretty amazing place to visit no matter what time of year!

Yes, New York is one of the great world cities.

I’ve been to New York a few times but not in the winter months, it does look beautiful with the snow on the ground but I can imagine it’s super cold, we used to live in new jersey about 30 minutes from NYC. That’s good to know that the flights are cheaper. I enjoyed going to Planet Hollywood and walking around the city when I visited there.

Im originally from NY and I just came from NYC a few weeks ago because I actually try to avoid the cold! Its sooooo cold! But holidays in New York is beautiful Thanksgiving, Christmas and NYE is amazing!

Lisa Joy Thompson

I love New York City in the winter! There’s something about taking a carriage ride through central park with the snow falling that is just awesome!!!

That’s sound really romantic.

The Latest From Instagram

New York is great at the holidays. In the dead of winter, it’s even better.

The city is all decked out for christmas, but come january, food, lodging, and shows are an absolute bargain..

N EW YORK — I could no longer fight the rip current of the holiday market crowd. I was swimming against waves of shoppers in Bryant Park who were eagerly opening their wallets and snatching up holiday bric-a-brac, ornaments, food, clothes, and any seasonal trinket in sight.

I intended to take a quick peek at the Bryant Park Holiday Market. Instead, I was quickly dragged into the throng. I fought the tides of tourists, grumbling under my breath at the slow pace of the crowd until I spotted the perfect gift: a T-shirt with an illustration of kittens popping out of a prescription pill bottle .

“I call it cat-amine,” said the woman working the booth for a shop called Paste. I called it “Merry Christmas to me” and handed over my credit card. My mood was lifted (that cat-amine did the trick), and I remembered that New York at Christmas is pretty fantastic despite the tourists. Walking by the elaborately adorned exterior of Macy’s is enough to melt any Grinchly icicles clinging to the cockles of your heart.

But if you’re not a fan of crowds, the holidays, or the higher price tags accompanying the season, just wait a month. The city will be colder, but also less costly and less crowded. Either way, pre- or post-Christmas is an excellent time to visit, depending on your state of mind and the size of your pocketbook. Post-holidays, restaurant reservations are easier to come by. Hotel prices dip to reasonable levels, and Broadway shows are on sale. Let’s start with some holiday options before moving to the post-Christmas bargains.

With apologies to Rodgers and Hammerstein, “These are a few of my favorite things.”

Where to shop

FISHS EDDY Any store where you can find strippers on juice glasses, a tea towel with a squirrel saying “Don’t touch my nuts,” and classic discontinued plates and platters from the 1960s and 1970s is a win. Fishs Eddy in the Flatiron District is an eclectic classic. Currently, among the Star of David pasta and serving trays adorned with illustrations of the greats of country music, you can find artist Ben Lenovitz taking commissions for paintings of your beloved fur babies. His paintings start at $250, and he works from photos, not live sittings. Lenovitz is allergic to animals. 889 Broadway, 212-420-9020.

E.A.T. GIFTS I despise the phrase “last-minute gifts,” because one man’s last-minute gift grab is another’s early holiday shopping spree. But I would put E.A.T. in the category of a store for procrastinators, primarily because they have a bit of everything, and it’s the kind of place where you find things you didn’t know you needed (hello dog toy that looks like a beer can and reads “Barkweiser”). It’s a must-stop for cards, toys, ornaments, and candy. 1062 Madison Ave., 212-861-2544, www.eatgiftsnyc.com .

UNION SQUARE HOLIDAY MARKET You’ll find many of the same vendors here as the Bryant Park Holiday Market, but with a fraction of the crowds. An advantage to hitting the holiday markets is that you’ll discover small vendors and artists who you would otherwise miss walking around Hudson Yards or Fifth Avenue. I bought ornaments (so many ornaments), chocolate, and cozy socks. If your fingers are freezing from all of that al fresco retail, I highly recommend a waffle to warm up. While in the neighborhood, take a gander at the large-scale art installation Control No Control . Through Dec. 24. Union Square, 201 Park Ave. South, www.kewlstreet.com .

BONNIE SLOTNICK COOKBOOKS When you enter a store with roughly 5,000 cookbooks, you will inevitably find something for the gourmet on your holiday list. Also the antique book collector, the food snob, and yourself. (Natch!) Along with books that date back to the 1800s, you can find essential tchotchkes such as vintage cookie cutters and matchbooks from restaurants that no longer exist, or antique spoons. I recommend setting about an hour aside to browse. Make sure you eat before you go. 28 East Second St., 212-989-8962, www.bonnieslotnickcookbooks.com

Post-holiday bargains

I promised you after-Christmas deals, and I’m a man of my word. In January, New York goes into “Everything’s on sale!” mode. Let’s start with hotels. New York Hotel Week, which isn’t really a week, runs from Jan. 3 to Feb. 4., 2024. Here are a few examples of the bargains. If you were to book a room at the Sanctuary Hotel in December, you’d shell out appropriately $400 a night. Book during Hotel Week, and you can get a rate as low as $108 a night. Luxury lovers would pay $1,800 a night at the Langham New York in December. That same room is $530 a night during hotel week. Search and book hotels through the New York City Tourism and Convention website (www.nyctourism.com). If you’re looking for year-round deals, try booking through BJ’s Wholesale Club or the Hotel Tonight app.

Broadway shows go on sale from Jan. 16 to Feb. 4 with two-for-one tickets. Participating shows won’t be announced until Jan. 9. The list will be published on the NYC Tourism website . New York Restaurant Week also runs from Jan. 16 to Feb. 4. Hundreds of restaurants will offer prix fixe menus. But much like Broadway Week, restaurant week deals won’t be released until Jan. 16 on the NYC Tourism website .

Where to eat

Over the summer I spent an inordinate amount of time dining my way through New York City. I have one of those friends (we all have one), who goes out to eat so often that servers and bartenders know him by name. He was determined to show me where to get the best kabobs, crullers, French toast, duck, tacos, etc., throughout the city. He even produced a spreadsheet with 150 dining options. He will be crestfallen that all 150 won’t be listed here (sorry, Josh), but, here are a few that stood out.

BREADS BAKERY Have you ever consumed a carbohydrate that changed your life? I took a bite of the chocolate babka at Breads Bakery, and it felt like a tornado of deliciousness was tearing across my tongue. Breads Bakery makes its version with Nutella and dark chocolate. I couldn’t decide if I should have it for breakfast or dessert, so I came to the conclusion that it’s well suited for both. Multiple locations in New York, 212-633-2253. www.breadsbakery.com .

VIA CAROTA The West Village trattoria Via Carota was inspired by a 17th-century Italian villa, so I decided to order the hearty wild boar pappardelle, which sounded like a dish that would have been served at a 17th-century banquet. If you come with a group, fill up on small plates such as charred leeks, bruschetta, or spuntini. If you want a dish of your own, the grilled octopus should be at the top of your list. 51 Grove St., 212-255-1962, www.viacarota.com .

LASER WOLF The Middle Eastern cuisine at Laser Wolf is worth trying any time you’re in Brooklyn. But during the summer the restaurant, which sits atop the Hoxton hotel , opens up the windows, retracts the roof, and serves up some of the best views of Manhattan. When you’re here you’ll have the salatim, which is a catch-all term for spreads, dips, slaws, and salads that open the meal. It’s substantial. You may not have room for any of the kabobs on the menu after the salatim, but don’t let that stop you from trying them. 97 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn, 718-215-7150, www.laserwolfbrooklyn.com .

BUVETTE When ordering French toast, I prefer it come from the kitchen of a French restaurant. Who am I kidding, I love French toast from anywhere. But the French toast at chef Jody Williams’s Buvette Gastrothèque is quite special. Made with brioche, créme anglaise, and topped with berries, it’s the thickest, most flavorful French toast I consumed during my NYC eatathon. It was a perfect balance of not too eggy and not too treacly. While Buvette serves all day, brunch is the most relaxed time to linger here. 42 Grove St., 212-255-3590, ilovebuvette.com .

THE BAR ROOM AT THE MODERN Until this year, I had never cracked the code of where to have dinner before seeing a Broadway show, and then I stepped into the chic Bar Room at the Modern . It’s the less formal, less expensive little sister to the Michelin-starred Modern restaurant. It’s at 53rd St., so not terribly far from theaters, but just far enough from Times Square. I recommend the caviar hot dog (yes, it’s real, and it’s wonderful), or the pork belly. 9 West 53rd St., 212-333-1220, www.themodernnyc.com .

HONORABLE MENTIONS Because New York has unlimited restaurants and I have limited space, here are a few other notable places to try. Cathedralé for the French-Mediterranean cuisine, Shinji’s for the outrageously wonderful cocktails, Francie for the duck, Los Tacos No. 1 for the carne asada, and Jua for the most artistic Korean tasting menu in the city.

Where to stay

VIRGIN HOTEL It’s not often that I walk into a hotel room and think, “I’ve never seen a floor plan like this before.” Usually I’m thinking “I can’t believe I paid so much for this room.” But the recently opened Virgin Hotel in the NoMad neighborhood is smartly designed and has incredible views. I was on the 29th floor and could see the Empire State Building. With 40 stories, you’re bound to get a decent view. The headboard of my bed extended into a sofa. I liked how the room was split: the front is called “the dressing room” (that’s where the bathroom, shower, and closets are located). The bedroom portion of the room is called the lounge. A massive sliding door separates the two spaces. In January, room prices drop to under $200 a night, so you can draw your own conclusions. 1227 Broadway, 844-556-7597, virginhotels.com/nyc .

PARK LANE NEW YORK I stayed at the Park Lane in the dead of summer, when it felt as if I had the city to myself, and I could float into the whimsical lobby of the hotel and continue the fantasy that New York was a peaceful adult playground. It continued when I went up to my room and had a bird’s eye view of Central Park. Even if you don’t stay at the Park Lane (it’s a four-star luxury property), you need to head to the 47th floor and check out the rooftop bar, called Darling. It’s otherworldly. When you walk by the hotel on the street, stop and drink in the incredible 1968 post-modern facade of the building. It’s unlike anything else on Central Park. 36 Central Park South, 212-371-4000, www.parklanenewyork.com .

THE CLOUD ONE NEW YORK Compared with other NYC offerings, the Cloud One is a downright bargain (under $200 a night depending the season). The three-star property has views of the 9/11 Memorial and is within walking distance of the the Oculus. It may not be as posh as some of its counterparts, but it’s clean, has a friendly staff, and there’s a cocktail party for guests every evening at 6. Cheers to that. 33 Greenwich St., 646-434-4649, www.the-cloud-one.com .

What to see

TAYLOR SWIFT: Storyteller The Museum of Arts and Design pays tribute to Time Magazine’s Person of the Year with a collection of Taylorabilia such as the red wedding dress and bellhop uniform from “I Bet You Think About Me,” the sparkling couture from “Bejeweled,” plus essential props, jewelry, ephemera, and projections of music videos. Side note: It was the first time I’d seen a museum filled with teens who weren’t required to be there on a field trip. Through Feb. 24, 2 Columbus Circle, 212-299-7777, madmuseum.org .

SPIKE LEE: CREATIVE SOURCES The Brooklyn Museum’s Spike Lee retrospective is like taking a deep dive into the director’s mind. There are 450 (!) works from his personal collection, including everything from sports jerseys, a signed letter from Kamala Harris, and movie posters that influenced his work. It’s a whirlwind puzzle of Black pop culture that, when fully assembled gives a deep picture of what drives the director’s vision. Through Feb. 4, 200 Eastern Parkway, www.brooklynmuseum.org .

Christopher Muther can be reached at [email protected] . Follow him @Chris_Muther and Instagram @chris_muther.

• Travel recommendations
• The taste of travel
• Tips & tricks
• Travel experiences

When is the best time to visit New York?

New York does everything well. It even seems to have perfected its seasons. The city starts to stir in the spring, whilst the summer’s heat is nearly perfect until it gets quite hot (but who cares, as there’s a lot you can do indoors). Fal l then arrives in a blaze of hues. Even winter is great; who doesn’t like a snowstorm?

This begs the question: what’s really the best time to visit New York? The answer of course is any time is a good time to visit New York; each season has something for everyone. Here are some of the things that each season has to offer, to help you decide on the best time to go for you.

Is spring the best time to visit New York for you?

New York in the spring is absolutely beautiful. As the city stirs to life, there is a spring to everyone’s step in anticipation of warmer weather and things to come. The city is adorned in shoots and blossoms, and even the birds seem to get in on the act. This is the perfect time for sightseeing when the weather is pleasant and the city is still quiet.

During the warmer months, things begin to pick up, both in terms of visitors and weather. There are also lots of street parades and festivities, such as the St Patrick’s Day Parade, Harlem Cultural Festival, and the Brooklyn Folk Festival.

Sakura Matsuri Blossom Festival

As spring settles in, the cherry trees start to blossom. They’re in full season towards the end of March and beginning of April, so head to the Botanical Gardens for the Sakura Matsuri Blossom Festival. For a small fee and with canopies and carpets of pink petals, you’ll see performances from J-rock bands,

Taiko drummers, and samurai sword masters, as well as a mini flea market and a Japanese tearoom. Other great places to witness this spectacle of pink clouds are Central Park, The High Line, and Bryant Park.

New York in summer

The summer months in New York see the pulse pick up a beat, and the heat follows suit, with longer days of up to 11 hours. If you are a fan of music, this is the best time to visit New York because the whole city is bathed in festivals and concerts. Many of these are free yet feature incredible artists and bands.

August is the best time to head indoors to some of the city’s museums or head to one of the nearby beaches; yes, you heard that right.

Rockaway Beach

One of New York’s fun beaches, Rockaway Beach, is only about 45 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the city. Hop on the OvR Rockaway Beach Bus, which runs every weekend to one of the most laid-back and friendly beaches around. Entrance to the beach is free, where you will find some of the best tacos and lots of cool outdoor bars and vintage shops.

Governors Island

One of the coolest and most luxurious spas in NYC has opened its doors on Governors Island and is the place to head for a relaxing and rejuvenating time from the heat. The spa is open from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm Sunday to Thursday and 10:00 am to 11:00 pm Friday to Saturday. You pay a one-off fee that gives you access to all the facilities (but treatments cost extra); included is your round-trip ferry ticket – what’s not to like?

SummerStage

As the heat of the summer cranks up, so does the anticipation of one of the biggest New York summer events: SummerStage. This free festival is hosted in Central Park and amongst other parks across the city, with a big-name lineup of hip-hop artists, indie-rock bands, dance performers and even screen films. The festival usually runs from June through to October.

Central Park

Right in the middle of Manhattan is Central Park, a whole 843 acres of it. You could spend days here and still not exhaust everything. The key to exploring this historic landmark is using the right entrance, so you are not exhausted before you see anything of importance; head to the entrance at 72nd Street and Central Park West. T

he park has everything from an ice-skating rink to a swimming pool and hosts various events throughout the year, so it’s a perfect place to visit any time you are in New York – don’t miss out on the iconic Bethesda Fountain.

New York in the fall

It could easily be said that fall is the best time to visit New York. The weather is as pleasant as it is in the spring but without the rain. Head to Central Park, Prospect Park, or Fort Tryon Park to witness the most beautiful natural canvas of gold, yellow and brown shades you’ll see.

October is also one of the best times to beat the queues at New York’s city attractions, with fewer crowds. Get the New York Explorer Pass, which will give you entrance to most of them at a fraction of the cost.

New York in winter

Winter in New York starts off gently, and as seen in recent years, heads into proper snowstorms. But if you bundle up and expect traffic delays, you are in for a fabulous time. Most of the tourist attractions empty out as visitors head home, whilst the city becomes a gigantic snowball, complete with twinkling lights. This makes winter one of the best times to visit New York for a romantic break.

Winter skating

Nothing beats New York in winter with a mug of hot chocolate. The Rink at Rockefeller Center is a classic ice-skating experience, along with the famous Prometheus statue and Christmas tree. Others worth noting are LeFrak at the picturesque Prospect Park, which has both indoor and outdoor skating and other winter sports, and of course the Wollman Rink in Central Park.

The city that never sleeps knows how to put on a show, and where better than Broadway. Whilst you can get a ticket any time of the year, some of the most discounted tickets are during Broadway Week, in January, when you can get 2-for-1 tickets.

January, February and October are the best times to visit museums in New York because you can find reasonably priced tickets. There are also fewer visitors around. It’s a good time to head indoors to avoid the cold outside.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Fifth Avenue is home to The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the largest art museum in the Western Hemisphere, with a collection of over two million works. It’s open every day except Wednesdays from 10:00 am to 5:00pm and closes at 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Otherwise, take advantage of the LES Gallery Nights, which offers free self-guided tours of some of the coolest galleries on the Lower East Side. Check the website for current scheduling.

Of course, it makes sense to combine your holiday with a shopping spree. Most high-end boutiques in New York have sales twice a year, in November and December or April and May. You can also get discounted summer clothes in July.

Bagels at Russ & Daughters

And now for the quintessential NYC experience that you can partake in any time you are in New York: the New York bagel. Where better to have yours than at Russ & Daughters? Opened in 1914, this bakery on the Lower East Side, with a newly opened branch in Brooklyn, knows how to do their bagels. They offer classics from bagel and lox to a caviar cream-cheese bagel – doesn’t that sound good with some smoked salmon?

What to pack?

New York experiences the extremes of all seasons, so be savvy with your packing.

Spring in NY

Take a jumper and pack an umbrella for the spring. It’s bound to rain sometime, and the weather fluctuates from cold to warm.

Summer in New York

The summer calls for very light clothes, as it does get sweltering. Don’t forget your walking shoes, as this is the season you are likely to put in a lot of sightseeing.

What to pack: Fall

Fall is beautifully pleasant, but again you may require a light jacket for when the temperature dips.

New York: Winter

Because the winters get extremely cold, make sure to take a warm coat and some thermals.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out this list of things to do in NYC.

About the author

Explore more articles

California consumers have the right to opt out of the sale * of their personal information. For more information on how we securely process personal information, please see our Privacy Policy .

Do not sell my info ON

* The definition of "sale" under the California Consumer Privacy Act is applicable only to California consumers.

10 Things to Do in New York in January

Start the year in New York with a busy schedule of incredible plans to enjoy the city: gastronomy, shows, monuments and much more!

Carmen Navarro

New York under the snow | ©Todd Torabi

The beginning of the year is a good time to set goals. Like a blank notebook, we have the opportunity to fill the pages of our time with what makes us happy. And is there anything that makes you happier than traveling?

During the month of January in New York you can finish enjoying the holiday season, celebrate the Chinese New Year, take advantage of the best sales and much more . I leave you with a list of resolutions in the form of the best plans for you to enjoy the city to the fullest.

1. Enjoy the offers on Broadway Week shows

While December is the most expensive month to visit New York, January is a time when you can definitely save more money than any other time of the year. First, because it is no longer high season, and second, because it is a month full of offers! And one of the most important ones are those of Broadway shows thanks to BroadWay Week .

For a couple of weeks you can find promotions as sweet as paying half price 2x1 in the most famous musicals like Wicked, The Lion King, Aladdin and many more. What are you waiting for? Do not forget to check in advance the plays because I warn you that it is very possible that the tickets are sold out.

Book tickets to see a musical on Broadway

2. Enjoy a jazz concert at the Winter Jazzfest

As you can see, in January you can enjoy awesome deals, but that's not all you can enjoy! Winter Jazzfest takes place during this month. If you love jazz, this festival invites you to enjoy dozens of concerts in the Village and other corners of New York. The star of the Jazzfest are the Friday and Saturday night concert marathons .

You can find jazz concerts in addition to three jazz marathons at various venues around the city . Two of them are on consecutive days and are held in Manhattan. Also in Brooklyn a marathon is held a week later. There is also a special children's concert during the day.

Surely if you go through the Winter Jazzfest you will want to know more about this style of music; the right place to do it is Harlem and these are the best places to hear jazz in this neighborhood.

Book a jazz tour in Harlem

3. Don't miss the last days of the after Holidays Sales

New York never rests and proof of this are the sales that come after the big holiday of the year, Christmas . If you don't need an excuse to go window shopping in the Big Apple, imagine what it's like to go in the middle of the sales season.

Until January 2 you can take advantage of endless offers in New York, and in places where they already have regular sales such as Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, where there are discounts all year round on top brands, you can enjoy even more discounts ! Museums and tourist attractions are all well and good, but make no mistake: the outlets are a must-see when you go to New York. Leave some room in your suitcase because when your acquaintances find out that you'll be in New York during the sales season, they're going to be asking you to do more than one thing for them.

Book a shopping tour in New York

4. Walk through snow-covered Central Park

January is literally the coldest month of the year in New York. The freezing temperatures and the usual rainy days cause the water droplets to turn into snowflakes that will cover the city and with it Central Park .

The great park is transformed every season, but winter is undoubtedly the time when the makeover is most significant. The trees are dyed white, the paths are filled with snow and the result is an endearing postcard photograph. Remember to come prepared with waterproof and warm clothing!

Rent a bike in Central Park

5. Skate at New York's most scenic skating rink

As I mentioned in the previous activity, ice rinks are still located all over the city, and luckily they are not as crowded as during the Christmas season. During the month of January there are still many, such as Central Park, Rockefeller Center , but I want to recommend a very special one: the ice rink at the William Vale Rink Hotel . This ice rink is located on the 23rd floor of a skyscraper that will offer spectacular views where you can enjoy the skyline of the city.

And speaking of views ... if you are lucky enough that New York is snowed in the month of January (something very likely) you can not fail to enjoy the views that will offer viewpoints like the Top of the Rock in Rockefeller Center.

Buy tickets to climb to the Top of the Rock

6. Taste the best menus in New York at a bargain price during Restaurant Week

After having devoured the best offers of Broadway musicals, it's time to devour the delicious menus of New York at an outrageous price thanks to Restaurant Week. For a week (which in reality is always a little longer) you will have access to the best restaurants in New York at a reduced price.

It is true that New York is an expensive city, but on these dates you can eat at very good prices even in Michelin-starred restaurants. Some of them have fixed prices for lunch and dinner, so don't you think it's a good opportunity to take a bite of the Big Apple? Of course, don't forget to book , tables are flying!

7. Make the most of the last days of Christmas in New York!

Although December is the month to celebrate Christmas par excellence, January is not far behind in terms of activities typical of this time of the year. The cold abounds in the city and there are still some of the Christmas trees and more activities such as skating rinks or model trains, along with the most emblematic trees and Christmas markets where you can find very good prices due to the end of the holiday season. Take advantage!

Chinese New Year, a different kind of Christmas

And you may already know that, while in the West the end of the year is part of Christmas, in China they have a slightly different calendar. They celebrate the Chinese New Year and can you guess? Well yes, you are in luck because it is usually in January or February. Check the exact date before your trip and do not hesitate to visit Chinatown to live this unique experience.

8. Take the subway during the day of "No Pants Subway Ride"

The No Pants Subway Ride will leave you speechless... and pantless! One day a month every January, this curious event is celebrated in which the subway is filled with people without pants. The origin of this story is located in 2022 when seven people got on at different stations and rode the amount of seven stops without pants. Each year that number has grown to become a phenomenon.

To find out when it is celebrated and more information about this curious day you can visit the official website and if you do not want to get lost in the subway take a look at our New York Subway Guide . Of course, I am not responsible for the cold that you can incubate if you join this initiative that, in my point of view, would be more appropriate for a month of less cold.

9. Visit New York's top attractions at the best price during Must See Week

In every vacation destination there is a "Must See" list, a list of places you can't miss if you are going to visit that place. Well, New York was not going to be less and if you visit the Big Apple in January you are in luck because this month you can enjoy Must See Week, a week in which many of the attractions and many of the best museums in New York offer impressive discounts .

In total you have more than 70 unique experiences at bargain prices. One example is that you can purchase tickets to the Empire State Building , the One World Observatory , the Whtney Museum and many more with 2-for-1 ticket offers. These days you will mingle with New Yorkers as they are the first to take advantage of these discounts so buy your tickets in advance because these offers sell out very quickly!

10. Experience a city without so many people in Martin Luther King's Day

Martin Luther King is one of America's most iconic figures. He led a racial revolution that started the change that still endures today in terms of racial discrimination. The third Monday of January commemorates his figure and for New York is a holiday where businesses and schools close, although the main tourist attractions are still open .

It is a great day to see the city at leisure, without the hustle and bustle of people going to work and the stress that during the rest of the year is installed in the Big Apple. However, if you have the opportunity my recommendation is that you check the calendar to be part of some of the events that are organized around the figure of this American hero ; it can be a very authentic experience.

The weather in NYC in January

As I mentioned, January is the coldest month of the winter in New York . Temperatures hover between -5ºC and about 4ºC but in addition, New York's characteristic cold is very damp and the wind chill is even lower. In addition to wearing warm clothes, buy warm socks and T-shirts because you are going to be quite cold.

That is why you should make the most of all the hours of sunshine . This time of the year dawns around 7AM and the sun disappears on the horizon around 5PM, which leaves us a day of about 10 hours to enjoy the Big Apple to the fullest. Because although the city never sleeps... the sun does!

Prices in NYC in January

That the cold abounds at this time of year is an opportunity to travel to New York even for the coldest, and is that flights and hotels usually have more affordable prices for tourists to continue visiting the city. And if you add all the activities I've explained above... you have no excuse!

Although a trip to New York will never be cheap, if you plan it in advance and make coincide all the "special weeks" that take place in this month, of course the visit will be much more profitable.

The Best Travel Guide to New York

• New York Knicks Tickets
• Brooklyn Nets Tickets
• New York Yankees Tickets
• New York Mets Tickets
• NBA Basketball Games in New York: Tickets and Best Prices
• Top 10 NYC Broadway shows 2024
• New York Baseball Games: Tickets and Best Prices
• Climbing the Empire State Building
• Washington Day Trips from New York
• New York Airport Transfers
• Statue of Liberty Tickets: options, when to buy them, how to access...
• 76 Best Things To Do in NYC [updated 2024]

Things to do in other destinations

Select your language.

Argentina (USD)

Brasil (USD)

Canada (CAD)

Colombia (USD)

Denmark (DKK)

Deutschland (EUR)

España (EUR)

Finland (EUR)

France (EUR)

India (INR)

Italia (EUR)

Japan (JPY)

Malaysia (MYR)

México (USD)

Nederland (EUR)

Norway (NOK)

Portugal (EUR)

Sweden (SEK)

United Arab Emirates (AED)

United Kingdom (GBP)

United States (USD)

Recommended

Breaking news, missing emergency slide that fell off delta flight found — washed up in front of house of lawyer whose firm is suing boeing.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Follow on Twitter
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

The emergency slide that fell off a Delta flight departing from JFK Airport on Friday was found two days later — washed up in front of the beachside house of a lawyer whose firm happens to be suing Boeing over safety issues, The Post has learned.

Jake Bissell-Linsk — a New York attorney whose firm filed a lawsuit against Boeing following the Alaska Airlines door blowout in January — told The Post he got a surprise on Sunday around noon when he looked out the window of his oceanfront home in Belle Harbor, Queens.

There — trapped on the rocks within feet of his front yard in a freak coincidence — was the emergency slide that fell off the Boeing 767 jetliner , he told The Post.

“We are right on the beach and I saw it was sitting on the breakers,” Bissell-Linsk told The Post.

While officials had been searching for the missing slide in Jamaica Bay since Friday afternoon, it turns out the slide was more far-flung than they expected — as Bissell-Linsk’s home faces the Atlantic Ocean.

Belle Harbor is located six miles southeast of JFK International Airport.

The emergency slide was found right off Beach 129 th and Beach 130 th Streets on the south shore of the Rockaway Peninsula.

Bissell-Linsk said he went outside and got up close to snap pictures of the deflated, yellow slide, noting that it appeared to be intact despite being tangled in the rocks and floating in the surf.

“I didn’t want to touch it but I got close enough to get a close look at it,” Bissell-Linsk told The Post. “Our case is all about safety issues at Boeing, and this slide is literally right in front of my house.”

Several hours later, around 5 p.m., a crew of Delta workers arrived. They fished the chute out of the water and threw it into the back of a pickup truck, he said.

“My neighbor called the FAA hotline and they are closed on Sundays,” Bissell-Linsk said. “So he just called Delta.”

“I see this Delta truck pull up and watch them pull it out of the water,” Bissell-Linsk said. “It took them about 10 minutes.”

The freak accident on Friday set off an emergency alarm around 8:30 a.m. aboard Delta Flight 520, which had departed the Queens airport an hour earlier for Los Angeles.

“Delta Air Lines Flight 520 returned safely to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York around 8:35 a.m. local time on Friday, April 26, after the crew reported a vibration,” the Federal Aviation Administration told The Post on Monday.

Start your day with the latest business news right at your fingertips

Subscribe to our daily Business Report newsletter!

Thanks for signing up!

Please provide a valid email address.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .

Never miss a story.

“The FAA is investigating. Please contact the carrier for more information.”

“Delta confirms retrieval of the emergency exit slide. As indicated on Friday, we will fully cooperate with all relevant investigations,” a Delta spokesman told The Post Monday afternoon.

Bissell-Linsk is a partner at law firm Labaton Keller Sucharow, which sued Boeing on Jan. 30 in an Alexandria, Va. federal court alleging the company made false and misleading statements about safety following the Alaska Air door blowout.

The incident has shattered the reputation of the aerospace giant, whose CEO has since signaled he will exit later this year.

Labaton is representing those who purchased Boeing common stock between Oct. 23, 2019 when Boeing said it was laser-focused on safety and January 24, 2024, more than two weeks after Jan. 5, when a door flew off a Boeing 737 Max during the Alaska Air flight.

Bissell-Linsk said he hopes aviation authorities are investigating why the slide fell off the plane.

“I think the slide should be handed over to whoever is investigating the incident.”

Labaton’s case has now been consolidated with other similar suits, and Labaton, which is co-lead counsel in the consolidated suit, expects to file an amended complaint within two months.

“We haven’t decided if the slide is relevant to our case,” Bissell-Linsk said.

Share this article:

Advertisement

An official website of the United States government

Here's how you know

The .gov means it's official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

What the New Overtime Rule Means for Workers

One of the basic principles of the American workplace is that a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay. Simply put, every worker’s time has value. A cornerstone of that promise is the  Fair Labor Standards Act ’s (FLSA) requirement that when most workers work more than 40 hours in a week, they get paid more. The  Department of Labor ’s new overtime regulation is restoring and extending this promise for millions more lower-paid salaried workers in the U.S.

Overtime protections have been a critical part of the FLSA since 1938 and were established to protect workers from exploitation and to benefit workers, their families and our communities. Strong overtime protections help build America’s middle class and ensure that workers are not overworked and underpaid.

Some workers are specifically exempt from the FLSA’s minimum wage and overtime protections, including bona fide executive, administrative or professional employees. This exemption, typically referred to as the “EAP” exemption, applies when: 

1. An employee is paid a salary,  

2. The salary is not less than a minimum salary threshold amount, and 

3. The employee primarily performs executive, administrative or professional duties.

While the department increased the minimum salary required for the EAP exemption from overtime pay every 5 to 9 years between 1938 and 1975, long periods between increases to the salary requirement after 1975 have caused an erosion of the real value of the salary threshold, lessening its effectiveness in helping to identify exempt EAP employees.

The department’s new overtime rule was developed based on almost 30 listening sessions across the country and the final rule was issued after reviewing over 33,000 written comments. We heard from a wide variety of members of the public who shared valuable insights to help us develop this Administration’s overtime rule, including from workers who told us: “I would love the opportunity to...be compensated for time worked beyond 40 hours, or alternately be given a raise,” and “I make around $40,000 a year and most week[s] work well over 40 hours (likely in the 45-50 range). This rule change would benefit me greatly and ensure that my time is paid for!” and “Please, I would love to be paid for the extra hours I work!”

The department’s final rule, which will go into effect on July 1, 2024, will increase the standard salary level that helps define and delimit which salaried workers are entitled to overtime pay protections under the FLSA. 

Starting July 1, most salaried workers who earn less than $844 per week will become eligible for overtime pay under the final rule. And on Jan. 1, 2025, most salaried workers who make less than $1,128 per week will become eligible for overtime pay. As these changes occur, job duties will continue to determine overtime exemption status for most salaried employees.

The rule will also increase the total annual compensation requirement for highly compensated employees (who are not entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA if certain requirements are met) from $107,432 per year to $132,964 per year on July 1, 2024, and then set it equal to $151,164 per year on Jan. 1, 2025.

Starting July 1, 2027, these earnings thresholds will be updated every three years so they keep pace with changes in worker salaries, ensuring that employers can adapt more easily because they’ll know when salary updates will happen and how they’ll be calculated.

The final rule will restore and extend the right to overtime pay to many salaried workers, including workers who historically were entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA because of their lower pay or the type of work they performed. 

We urge workers and employers to visit  our website to learn more about the final rule.

Jessica Looman is the administrator for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division. Follow the Wage and Hour Division on Twitter at  @WHD_DOL  and  LinkedIn .  Editor's note: This blog was edited to correct a typo (changing "administrator" to "administrative.")

• Wage and Hour Division (WHD)
• Fair Labor Standards Act
• overtime rule

SHARE THIS:   

A New Pacific Arsenal to Counter China

With missiles, submarines and alliances, the Biden administration has built a presence in the region to rein in Beijing’s expansionist goals.

By John Ismay ,  Edward Wong and Pablo Robles April 26, 2024

U.S. officials have long seen their country as a Pacific power, with troops and arsenals at a handful of bases in the region since just after World War II.

U.S. military or partner bases

But the Biden administration says that is no longer good enough to foil what it sees as the greatest threat to the democratic island of Taiwan — a Chinese invasion that could succeed within days.

The United States is sending the most advanced Tomahawk cruise missiles to Japan and has established a new kind of Marine Corps regiment on Okinawa that is designed to fight from small islands and destroy ships at sea.

The Pentagon has gained access to multiple airfields and naval bases in the Philippines , lessening the need for aircraft carriers that could be targeted by China’s long-range missiles and submarines in a time of war.

The Australian government hosts U.S. Marines in the north of the country, and one of three sites in the east will soon be the new home for advanced American-made attack submarines. The United States also has a new security agreement with Papua New Guinea.

Potential submarine bases

Xi Jinping, China’s leader, and other officials in Beijing have watched the U.S. moves with alarm. They call it an encirclement of their nation and say the United States is trying to constrain its main economic and military rival.

Since the start of his administration, President Biden has undertaken a strategy to expand American military access to bases in allied nations across the Asia-Pacific region and to deploy a range of new weapons systems there. He has also said the U.S. military would defend Taiwan against a Chinese invasion.

On Wednesday, Mr. Biden signed a $95 billion supplemental military aid and spending bill that Congress had just passed and that includes $8.1 billion to counter China in the region. And Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken traveled to Shanghai and Beijing this week for meetings with Mr. Xi and other officials in which he raised China’s military activity in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, calling it “destabilizing.”

Mr. Xi told Mr. Blinken on Friday that the United States should not play a “zero-sum game” or “create small blocs.” He said that “while each side can have its friends and partners, it should not target, oppose or harm the other,” according to an official Chinese summary of the meeting.

Earlier in April, the leaders of the Philippines and Japan met with Mr. Biden at the White House for the first such summit among the three countries. They announced enhanced defense cooperation, including naval training and exercises, planned jointly and with other partners. Last year, the Biden administration forged a new three-way defense pact with Japan and South Korea.

President Biden held a trilateral meeting earlier this month with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines at the White House.

Yuri Gripas for The New York Times

“In 2023, we drove the most transformative year for U.S. force posture in the Indo-Pacific region in a generation,” Ely S. Ratner, the assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific security affairs, said in a statement following an interview.

The main change, he said, is having American forces distributed in smaller, more mobile units across a wide arc of the region rather than being concentrated at large bases in northeast Asia. That is largely intended to counter China’s efforts to build up forces that can target aircraft carriers or U.S. military outposts on Okinawa or Guam.

These land forces, including a retrained and refitted U.S. Marine littoral regiment in Okinawa, will now have the ability to attack warships at sea.

For the first time, Japan’s military will receive up to 400 of their own Tomahawk cruise missiles — the newest versions of which can attack ships at sea as well as targets on land from over 1,150 miles away.

The Pentagon has also gained access rights for its troops at four additional bases in the Philippines that could eventually host U.S. warplanes and advanced mobile missile launchers, if Washington and Manila agree that offensive weaponry can be placed there.

The United States has bilateral mutual defense agreements with several allied nations in the region so that an attack on the assets of one nation could trigger a response from the other. Bolstering the U.S. troop presence on the soil of allied countries strengthens that notion of mutual defense.

In addition, the United States continues to send weapons and Green Beret trainers to Taiwan, a de facto independent island and the biggest flashpoint between the United States and China. Mr. Xi has said his nation must eventually take control of Taiwan, by force if necessary.

“We’ve deepened our alliances and partnerships abroad in ways that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago,” Kurt Campbell, the new deputy secretary of state, told reporters last year, when he was the top Asia policy official in the White House.

What Deters China?

Taiwan’s foreign minister, Joseph Wu, said in an interview in Taipei that the strengthened alliances and evolving military force postures were critical to deterring China.

“We are very happy to see that many countries in this region are coming to the realization that they also have to be prepared for further expansions of the P.R.C.,” he said, referring to the People’s Republic of China.

To some Chinese military strategists, the U.S. efforts are aimed at keeping China’s naval forces behind the “first island chain” — islands close to mainland Asia that run from Okinawa in Japan to Taiwan to the Philippines.

U.S. military assets along these islands could prevent Chinese warships from getting into the open Pacific waters farther east if conflict were to break out.

Leaders in China’s People’s Liberation Army also talk of establishing military dominance of the “second island chain” — which is farther out in the Pacific and includes Guam, Palau and West Papua.

First Island Chain

Second Island Chain

philippines

But several conservative critics of the administration’s policies argue that the United States should be keeping major arms for its own use and that it is not producing new ships and weapons systems quickly enough to deter China, which is rapidly growing its military .

Some American commanders acknowledge the United States needs to speed up ship production but say the Pentagon’s warfighting abilities in the region still outmatch China’s — and can improve quickly with the right political and budget commitments in Washington.

“We have actually grown our combat capability here in the Pacific over the last years,” Adm. Samuel J. Paparo Jr., the incoming commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, said in an interview. “But our trajectory is still not a trajectory that matches our adversary. Our adversaries are building more capability and they’re building more warships — per year — than we are.”

Mr. Paparo said new American warships were still more capable than the ones China is building, and the U.S. military’s “total weight of fires” continued to outmatch that of the People’s Liberation Army, for now.

Warplanes on the flight deck of U.S.S. Carl Vinson, an aircraft carrier, during a joint U.S. and Japanese military exercise in the Philippine Sea in January.

Richard A. Brooks/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty , a Cold War-era arms control agreement between Washington and Moscow, prohibited land-based cruise or ballistic missiles with ranges between 311 miles and 3,420 miles. But after the Trump administration withdrew from the pact, the United States was able to develop and field a large number of small, mobile launchers for previously banned missiles around Asia.

Even with the deployment of new systems, the United States would still rely on its legacy assets in the region in the event of war: its bases in Guam, Japan and South Korea, and the troops and arms there.

All of the senior U.S. officials interviewed for this story say war with China is neither desirable nor inevitable — a view expressed publicly by Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III. But they also insist that a military buildup and bolstering alliances, along with diplomatic talks with China, are important elements of deterring potential future aggression by Beijing.

Wang Yi, China’s foreign minister, told Mr. Blinken on Friday in Beijing that “the negative factors in the relationship are still increasing and building, and the relationship is facing all kinds of disruptions.” He warned the United States “not to interfere in China’s internal affairs, not to hold China’s development back, and not to step on China’s red lines and on China’s sovereignty, security and development interests.”

U.S. military or

partner bases

The new deterrent effort is twofold for American forces: increasing patrolling activities at sea and the capabilities of its troop levels ashore.

To the former, the Pentagon has announced that U.S. Navy warships will participate in more drills with their Japanese counterparts in the western Ryukyu Islands near Taiwan and with Filipino ships in the South China Sea, where the Chinese coast guard has harassed ships and installations controlled by the Philippines .

A swarm of Chinese militia and Coast Guard vessels chased a Philippine Coast Guard ship in the South China Sea last year.

Jes Aznar for The New York Times

To the latter, Marine Corps and Army units already in the Pacific have recently fielded medium- and long-range missiles mated to small, mobile trucks that would have been prohibited under the former treaty.

These trucks can be quickly lifted by Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft or larger cargo planes to new locations, or they can simply drive away to evade a Chinese counterattack. A new flotilla of U.S. Army watercraft being sent to the region could also be used to reposition troops and launchers from island to island.

In an interview last year with The New York Times, Gen. David H. Berger, then the Marine Corps’ top general, said the service had begun analyzing strategic choke points between islands where Chinese forces were likely to transit throughout the Pacific. He said the service had identified sites where Marine assault forces like the new Okinawa-based littoral regiment could launch attacks on Beijing’s warships using these new weapons.

Philippines

Partner bases

The Pentagon announced in February last year a new military base-sharing agreement with Manila, giving U.S. forces access to four sites in the Philippines for use in humanitarian missions, adding to the five sites previously opened to the Pentagon in 2014. Most of them are air bases with runways long enough to host heavy cargo planes.

Plotting their locations on a map shows the sites’ strategic value should the United States be called upon to defend their oldest treaty ally in the region , if the Philippines eventually agrees to allow the U.S. military to put combat troops and mobile missile systems there.

One, on the northern tip of Luzon Island, would give missile-launching trucks the ability to attack Chinese ships across the strait separating Philippines from Taiwan, while another site about 700 miles to the southwest would allow the U.S. to strike bases that China has built in the Spratly Islands nearby.

In 2023, the United States committed $100 million for “infrastructure investments” at the nine bases, with more funds expected this year.

The Pentagon has forged closer military ties with Australia and Papua New Guinea , extending America’s bulwark against potential attempts by the Chinese military at establishing dominance along the “second island chain.”

The Obama administration moved a number of littoral combat ships to Singapore and deployed a rotating force of Marines to Darwin, on Australia’s north coast, giving the Pentagon more assets that could respond as needed in the region.

Last year, the Biden administration greatly elevated its commitment to Australia, which is one of America’s most important non-NATO allies.

The U.S.S. North Carolina, a Virginia-class submarine, docking in Perth, Australia last year.

Tony Mcdonough/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

A new multibillion dollar agreement called AUKUS — for Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States — will permanently transfer some of the U.S. Navy’s newest Virginia-class attack subs to Canberra . The location of the new bases for those subs has not been announced, but the first group of Australian sailors who will crew them graduated from nuclear power training in America in January.

These stealthy submarines, which can fire torpedoes and Tomahawk missiles, will potentially add to the number of threats Beijing faces in case of a regional war.

Just north of Australia, an agreement in August gave U.S. forces more access to Papua New Guinea for humanitarian missions and committed American tax dollars to update military facilities there.

To Admiral Paparo, this growing network of partnerships and security agreements across thousands of miles of the Pacific is a direct result of what he calls China’s “revanchist, revisionist and expansionist agenda” in the region that has directly threatened its neighbors.

“I do believe that the U.S. and our allies and partners are playing a stronger hand and that we would prevail in any fight that arose in the Western Pacific,” the admiral said.

“It’s a hand that I would not trade with our would-be adversaries, and yet we’re also never satisfied with the strength of that hand and always looking to improve it.”

• Share full article

Advertisement