Winter in New York City is magical—twinkling lights, cozy cafés, festive markets, and iconic attractions transform the city into a seasonal wonderland. Whether you're visiting for the holidays, planning a romantic winter getaway, or looking for fun indoor activities to escape the cold, NYC offers endless things to see and do.
If you're searching for the best things to do in NYC this winter, this guide highlights the top must-visit experiences—starting with RiseNY, one of the city’s most immersive and unique indoor attractions.
❄️ 1. Experience RiseNY — A Must-Do NYC Winter Activity
When the temperatures drop, RiseNY becomes the perfect warm escape right in the heart of Times Square. This one-of-a-kind attraction blends museum-style galleries with an exhilarating flying theater ride that sweeps you high above the city skyline.
Why RiseNY Is Perfect for Winter in NYC:
- All indoors (a huge bonus when it’s freezing outside!)
- Seven immersive galleries exploring NYC’s history, pop culture, art, and entertainment
- Iconic artifacts from Broadway, music, TV, finance, film, and fashion
- The Soaring Ride — a 4D flying experience above the city
- Fun for families, couples, groups, and solo adventurers
- Just steps from Times Square, making it easy to pair with other winter activities
Whether you’re sheltering from the cold or looking for a unique NYC adventure, RiseNY is an unforgettable highlight of any winter itinerary.
🎄 2. Visit Rockefeller Center & the Famous Christmas Tree
A classic winter must-see, Rockefeller Center offers:
- The iconic Christmas Tree
- The Rink at Rockefeller Center
- Beautiful decorations and holiday photo ops
- Nearby Fifth Avenue window displays
Even after the holidays, the skating rink remains a beloved winter activity.
⛸️ 3. Go Ice Skating at Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park’s Winter Village is the ultimate cold-weather playground. Enjoy:
- Free-admission ice skating
- Dozens of holiday shops
- Cozy winter bars and heated seating
- Hot cocoa and seasonal snacks
It’s located just a short walk from Times Square and pairs perfectly with a visit to RiseNY.
🎭 4. See a Broadway Show This Winter
Broadway is buzzing all winter long. Whether you’re into classic musicals or buzzy new plays, a night at the theater is one of the warmest and most memorable winter activities in NYC.
Tip: Visit RiseNY’s Broadway gallery before your show for exclusive artifacts and behind-the-scenes insights into NYC’s iconic theater history.
🛍️ 5. Explore Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Displays & Shopping
Even after the holidays, Fifth Avenue remains magical. Visit:
- Saks Fifth Avenue’s window displays
- The sparkling lights around 50th Street
- World-class stores and designer boutiques
It’s the perfect blend of winter sightseeing and seasonal shopping.
🖼️ 6. Dive Into NYC’s World-Class Museums
New York's museums offer warm, inspiring escapes from the winter chill. Top picks include:
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
- The American Museum of Natural History
- The Whitney Museum of American Art
RiseNY offers a modern, interactive twist on the traditional museum experience—making it a great complement if you're exploring NYC’s cultural scene.
🍲 7. Warm Up at Cozy NYC Restaurants & Cafés
Winter is the ideal time to explore:
- Hot chocolate at Serendipity3
- Cozy brunch spots in the West Village
- Classic NYC pizza joints
- Food halls like Urbanspace and Turnstyle
Bonus: Times Square has tons of great spots to grab a bite before or after visiting RiseNY.
🎁 8. Wander Through NYC’s Holiday Markets (Through December)
If you’re visiting before the end of December, don’t miss:
- Union Square Holiday Market
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market
- Bryant Park Winter Village
These festive markets offer handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and the perfect winter atmosphere.
🌆 9. Admire NYC’s Winter Views from Above
Seeing NYC from the sky is an unforgettable winter experience. Consider:
- Top of the Rock
- Empire State Building
- SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
- The Edge at Hudson Yards
Pair it with RiseNY’s Soaring Ride, which gives you a thrilling bird’s-eye view of all these landmarks—even on cloudy or snowy days.
🎆 10. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Times Square
If you’re in NYC for the holidays, nothing compares to the energy of Times Square on New Year’s Eve. Before the festivities begin, enjoy RiseNY nearby for a fun, warm, and exciting escape.
🌟 Why RiseNY Belongs on Every NYC Winter Itinerary
Winter weather can be unpredictable—but RiseNY offers an immersive, indoor experience that guarantees fun no matter the temperature. With its blend of NYC history, culture, and cutting-edge technology, plus its easy Times Square location, it’s truly one of the best things to do in NYC this winter.
Whether you're escaping the cold, seeking a family-friendly activity, or building the perfect NYC holiday itinerary, RiseNY is a can't-miss attraction.
Bundle up, explore the city, and don’t forget to soar above it at RiseNY.
