Winter in New York City is one of the most wonderful times of the year. The whole city looks different with sparkling lights, seasonal decorations, festive markets, and outdoor activities that are legitimately worth the colder weather. Whether you like ice skating, shopping, sightseeing, or the whole holiday feel, there are so many places to visit. Below are some of the top things to do in NYC for the winter holidays.
Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park
You might’ve heard of Brooklyn Bridge Park before; did you know they hold an upcoming Ice Rink? Check out Roebling Rink in Brooklyn Bridge Park. It’s set right under the Brooklyn Bridge at Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, so you’re literally skating with the bridge overhead and the Manhattan skyline in the background. It’s most famous for its skyline of Manhattan, offering wonderful views of joy! This rink is open for the season from November 24 through February 1. Skate sessions run in two-hour windows, and you receive 60 minutes on the ice once you check in. The hours are student-friendly, too: Monday through Thursday, it’s open from 2 PM to 9 PM; on Fridays, it stays open until 10 PM; and on weekends, you can skate from 10 AM to 10 PM. For our beginner ice skaters or anyone looking to improve, they offer skating lessons.
Bryant Park Winter Village Holidays
One of the most excellent attractions in NYC to visit during the holidays is Bryant Park Winter Village. If you haven’t gone, think of a major holiday festival right in the middle of Manhattan. The entire park is filled with glass “shops” that look like tiny houses, and each one has something different to sell handmade jewelry, cute winter clothing, snacks, hot chocolate, gifts, and randoms you didn’t think you wanted. This is definitely an experience to get into the spirit of the holiday season; a classic kind of place where all you really need to do is go with friends after school or during break, and then wander about for an hour or two while you observe the rink in the middle of the park. Additionally, you can skate for free if you have your own skates. That’s a rarity in NYC! The outstanding part about Bryant Park is for the holidays everything is in one place: holiday shops, food stalls, an ice rink, and all the decorations.
Hudson Yards and the Vessel
If you enjoy modern architecture, urban atmospheres and lights, Hudson Yards is another great location to consider during the holiday season. Their holiday decorations in and around the entire area, during the holidays, put you in an immediate holiday mood and the entire site feels very lively. The shops are oversized, indoor, and warm, so you can easily spend hours walking around, checking out the stores and avoiding the cold. Hudson Yards has a real highlight in the middle section of the Vessel, a large honeycomb shaped structure you’ve probably seen in images. Hudson Yards is very unique, and you could hang out with friends here with a mix of indoor and outdoor areas that invite you as a place to gather. Walking around, grabbing some food, looking at the lights, checking out the shops, and visiting with friends could be enjoyed without coordination, and felt more delightful compared to more traditional holiday experiences.
Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Watermark NYC
If you’re searching for a festive and enjoyable riverside experience, Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Watermark NYC is a top holiday pick. Located at 78 South Street, Pier 15, the holiday venue is packed with twinkling lights, delightful Christmas trees, and countless picture opportunities all by the waterfront. Visitors can walk through holiday displays, meet Santa, roast s’mores by an outdoor fire while sipping hot chocolate or hot cider. The space has magnificent views of the river, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the skyline of the city. It feels like a winter village plopped right in the middle of New York City. There is so much to do in New York City during the winter season.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Ice Rink
No winter in New York City is complete without seeing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this historic location is well-known for its enormous tree, which is decorated with thousands of lights and is topped with a bright star. You can either skate at the Rockefeller ice rink right under the tree, or wander around enjoying the lights and decorations. There are always enthusiasts singing holiday music, street performers engaging the crowd, and endless opportunities for a memorable holiday photo. Whether skating, seeing the tree, or just soaking in the holiday vibe, visiting Rockefeller Center is a noteworthy destination that captures the season. With all of these amazing places to visit, you can make the most of your time off and fully enjoy the holiday spirit the city has to offer.