It’s always a good time to visit New York. And the wintertime — despite its bracing, sub-zero temperatures — holds particular advantages.
The atmosphere is magical. The coats are fashionable. And the need to hide from the cold provides the perfect excuse to explore some indoor hangouts.
Whether you’re looking for free and cheap things to do in NYC, or just want some fun weekend suggestions, we’ve got the 13 hottest spots to hit up during winter in New York City.
All have been curated by the movers and shakers behind Cool Cousin — an up-and-coming app that connects travelers to like-minded locals for unique city guides and personalized advice.
Grab your gloves, your camera, and your MetroCard. It’s time to explore New York City in the winter:
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The best time to visit NYC in the winter
New York City is magic during the winter; the best part is that you don’t have to break the bank to experience it. The city is alive with cozy, festive energy and a mix of free and affordable things to do that capture the heart of the season.
You can lace up skates for free at the Bryant Park rink, wander through MoMA for free on Friday nights, or catch a world-class Juilliard performance for mere dollars.
Whether you are watching the holiday lights from the Brooklyn Museum’s free first Saturdays or staying warm with hot chocolate while taking in the holiday lights, NYC demonstrates that the best winter memories do not have to come with a big price tag.
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NYC Winter Activities
1. Iconic Winter Activities
- Get cultured at the Museum of Modern Art
“Of all the museums, MoMA is my absolute favorite.
I like to arrive early, before the crowds. I think art is best viewed in solitude, and the MoMA is a testament to this. Early in the morning, it is nice and quiet and the experience always revelatory… even after countless visits.”
This is a fantastic old-school donut shop located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. My pick for best donuts in New York, and more than likely the cheapest too. I recommend the maple donut.
Pro Tip: Skip the admission fee on Friday nights from 4-8pm.
MoMA, 11 West 53 Street, New York — (212) 708-9400
- Perfect your figure eights at The Standard Ice Rink
“If it’s a cold winter day — go ice skating. Granted, it’s not huge. But it’s also not overcrowded, and you can stop for hot chocolate at the Standard.
Awesome experience for kids, especially those who haven’t ice skated before 🙂 It’s also very easy to get or book a skating lesson.”
Pro tip: This isn’t the cheapest option for ice skating in NYC (that honor goes to Bryant Park, which offers free admission). But it does make for a cheap date when you pair it with a wintry walk down the nearby Highline.
The Ice Rink at The Standard, 848 Washington Street, New York — (212) 645-4646
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- Enjoy top-tier performances for cheap at the Juilliard School
“Often there are free or cheap concerts (of all genres) at Juilliard. The performers are typically Lincoln Center material — but because they’re students, you can have the experience for a portion of the price. Go to their website to see what’s playing.”
The Juilliard School, 60 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York — (212) 799-5000
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2. Outdoor Winter Fun
- Put your record on at Academy LPs
“Very nice spot to spend a few hours submerged into a bunch of good vinyls.
These guys have a pretty good collection of vinyls that goes from the early Velvet underground to some Somalian Orchestra. It’s also near Franklin Avenue, one of the most beautiful streets in the lovely [Brooklyn] neighborhood of Greenpoint.”
Academy LPs, 85 Oak Street, Brooklyn — (718) 218-8200
- Watch cocktails come to life at Death & Company
“One of the best places to get a drink in the city. This place makes you appreciate the art of bartending.”
Death & Company, 433 East 6th Street, New York — (212) 388-0882
3. Indoor Winter Experience
- Catch under-the-radar flicks at IFC Center
“One of my favorite winter traditions is going to this theater in March to watch all of the Oscar-nominated short films.
Throughout the rest of the year, the IFC Center curates a wonderful mix of old and new films from the most important filmmakers both in the U.S. and abroad. It’s a must-see for any film buff.”
IFC Center, 323 6th Avenue, New York — (212) 924-7771
- old school at The Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club
“I stopped by this location last year because I was early for an R&B Only party on Degraw St. That was one of the greatest decisions I ever made!
A large selection of giant- and regular-sized board games are available for free and you can sign up to play shuffleboard. There’s a cool story behind its opening, and the DJ pumps pretty decent tunes.
Really good for a planned party if you’re gonna start early in the evening (around 6 or 7 PM). You have to be there in person to reserve a shuffleboard court, and at that time you may wait for 20 minutes to an hour.”
The Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club, 514 Union Street, Brooklyn — (347) 223 – 4410
- Laugh yourself warm at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre
“I have been to a few ‘ASSSSCAT’ shows here, and every time was a winner. One group called ‘Grandma’s Ashes’ was fantastic. I legit was crying from laughing so hard. Incredibly talented and clever.
Super affordable (tickets run $5-12) and well worth it. A lot of shows are free and you just need to get there a bit early.”
UCB Theatre, 55 West 42nd Street, New York — (212) 366-9231
4. Unique Winter Events
- Discover live music and art at Brooklyn Museum: Target First Saturdays
“If you’re in town the first Saturday of the month, stop by for a free good time. All of Brooklyn comes out to enjoy some art, libations, and typically a good performance.”
Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn — (718) 638-5000
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- Dance yourself silly at The Bell House
“This massive venue has the best ’90s party once a month, as well as constant comedy shows. Tickets to shows are always cheap and usually sell out quickly, so check the calendar for the dates you’re visiting and pick something out in advance.”
The Bell House, 149 7th Street, Brooklyn — (718) 643-6510
5. Family-Friendly Winter Activities
- Put the “lit” in literature at Books Are Magic
“Magical bookstore opened up by local author Emma Straub after our beloved BookCourt closed down in Cobble Hill.
Swing by for a cozy author talk and don’t leave without some *magical* swag (and a photo at their new mural).”
Pro Tip: Bring a quarter so you can get a poem from their Poetry Gumball Machine!
Books Are Magic, 225 Smith Street, Brooklyn — (718) 246-2665
- Beat the cold with old-school donuts at Peter Pan
“This is a fantastic old-school donut shop located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. My pick for best donuts in New York, and more than likely the cheapest too. I recommend the maple donut.”
Peter Pan Donuts, 727 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn — (718) 389-3676
- Feast on açai bowls and Moroccan fare at Pause Cafe
Calling all health enthusiasts! This spot is a treasure trove of delicious and nutritious food options presented in the most captivating way.
Pause Cafe, 3 Clinton Street, New York — (212) 677-5415
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5 Tips for visiting NYC in Winter:
- Wear Layers- NYC is very cold during the winter, so layer up to keep yourself warm while walking around the city or commutes between indoor attractions.
- Ride Public Transit- The subway is the best way to get around town once winter traffic piles on.
- People-Watch at Crowded Spots- There are sure to be crowds at Bryant Park and MoMA; go really early in the day or on weekdays.
- Spend a Cozy Holiday Indoors- Take some of New York City’s cozy cafes, or take indoor time in museums or theaters to warm up against the cold.
- Go Holiday Shopping at Markets- While Union Square to Columbus Circle offers unique presents and seasonal food for less $.
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Conclusion
Winter in NYC is like a treasure trove of free and affordable experiences. Just as one can enjoy the free ice skating at Bryant Park, it’s possible to explore the evenings free at MoMA art museum. Visiting the cultural landmarks and taking a time out with a donut and warming up in Brooklyn actually shows that unforgettable winter adventures do not necessarily need to come with a hefty price tag.
FAQs for Free and Cheap Things To Do in NYC in Winter
Q: What are some unique winter activities to experience in NYC?
A: For a non-touristy winter experience in NYC, consider ice skating at smaller rinks like The Standard, exploring art at Brooklyn Museum’s Target First Saturdays, or enjoying a cozy book event at Books Are Magic in Brooklyn.
Q: Where can I catch the most stunning winter views of NYC?
A: Some of the best winter views in NYC include the snow-covered landscape of Central Park, the twinkling city skyline from the Top of the Rock, or the Brooklyn Bridge Park waterfront with a clear view of Manhattan.
Q: What essentials should I pack for a winter trip to NYC?
A: For a winter visit to NYC, pack a warm coat, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat. Layers are key to staying comfortable in both outdoor and indoor environments, as temperatures can vary.
Q: Are there any special dining deals during winter in NYC?
A: Yes, NYC’s Winter Restaurant Week offers amazing dining deals at top restaurants throughout the city. It’s a great way to experience fine dining at a fraction of the cost, typically available in January and February.
Q: Is Central Park worth visiting during the winter?
A: Absolutely! Central Park is a magical winter wonderland, especially after a snowfall. You can ice skate at Wollman Rink, take a winter walk through the scenic paths, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the park’s snow-covered landscape.
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