Winter in New York City doesn’t mean hiding under your blanket. It means warm cocktails, heated rooftops, cozy dinners and unforgettable experiences. If you’re looking for things to do in NYC this winter, we’ve got you covered with everything from immersive rides to covered rooftop cocktails. Grab your coat, your camera and let’s go!
RiseNY — Immersive NYC Exhibits & Storytelling Ride
Think you know New York City? RiseNY reintroduces you to the city through a sleek, immersive experience that’s part museum, part ride. The journey begins in a replica City Hall subway station and moves through seven interactive exhibits covering fashion, finance, music, Broadway, film, TV, radio, and the iconic NYC skyline. Along the way, you’ll strike a pose with the Fearless Girl, relive classic TV moments, and soak up plenty of photo-worthy scenes.
The grand finale is a 4D flight simulation that lets you soar over the city as it transforms beneath you, complete with wind, lights, and mist for a truly cinematic finish. It’s one of the top things to do in NYC this winter—entirely indoors, entertaining, and surprisingly educational.
- Address: 160 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
- Duration: ~60–90 minutes
- Ticket Cost: ~$42 for kids, $45 for adults
- What to Wear: Comfy shoes
- Pro Tip: Visit mid-week or during off-peak hours for lighter crowds and better photo ops.
- Tickets: Book online in advance to secure ideal time slots.
If you’re looking for a winter activity that captures the energy of New York without braving the cold, RiseNY delivers the full experience.
City Cruises — Winter Skyline Cruise
Winter magic hits differently when you’re floating past the skyline. City Cruises turns chilly afternoons into a shimmering experience with cozy décor, panoramic views, and sparkling city lights. Sip something warm, snap the Statue of Liberty glowing against the winter sky, and watch the Brooklyn Bridge glide by as the city sparkles around you.
Their sailings range from brunch cruises with pastry towers to dinner voyages with multi-course meals, plus specialty cruises featuring DJs, themed cocktails, and unbeatable skyline views. It’s one of the top things to do in NYC this winter—effortless, unforgettable, and perfect for a seasonal escape.
- Address: Departs from Pier 15 — 78 South Street, New York, NY 10038
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Ticket Cost: $85–$200 depending on cruise
- What to Wear: Chic layers that are cozy but camera-ready
- Pro Tip: Book early—winter cruises sell out fast.
- Tickets: City Cruises NYC
A little sparkle, a little skyline, and suddenly winter in New York feels brand new.
Magic Hour — Mountain Lodge
Magic Hour Mountain Lodge is your Aspen-inspired escape in the heart of Midtown. The iconic rooftop has transformed into a chic, western-inspired winter pop-up complete with cozy lodge vibes, a brand-new carousel, themed treats, dreamy cocktails, endless photo ops, and Empire State Building views you’ll never get over. One of the top things to do in NYC this winter, it delivers outdoor skyline magic without the deep freeze.
Come for brunch or elevate your night out—there’s always a reason to celebrate at Magic Hour. Don’t miss the Après Ski, their famous boozy hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows, or the Winter White Spritz made with white cranberry, prosecco, and rosemary. For something richer, the Sweet Treat cocktail is dessert in a glass and absolutely worth ordering.
- Address: 485 7th Ave, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10018
- Duration: 90 min
- Ticket Cost: Free entry — food & drinks priced à la carte
- What to Wear: Chic winter outfit with a warm coat for outdoor terraces
- Pro Tip: Visit during magic hour for sunset views, then stay for cozy cocktails under the skyline.
- Tickets: Reserve a table online for peak evening times.
If winter in NYC had a lodge, this would be it.
Ferox — Ninja & Trampoline Park
Ferox Ninja Park in Greenpoint is where you go when winter calls for movement, not another meal. This high-energy indoor playground lets you climb, bounce, swing, and zip your way through ninja-style obstacle courses that feel more adrenaline rush than workout. One of the top things to do in NYC this winter, it’s the perfect way to stay warm while channeling your inner ninja.
We went on superhero night, but Ferox regularly hosts themed sessions and Adult Night on Fridays at 8PM—no kids, just pure ninja action. Expect trampolines, monkey bars, ziplines, and seriously impressive moves from staff members who are actual Ninja Warriors. Watch them fly through the course, then test your own skills.
- Address: 72 Noble St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Ticket Cost: ~$30 per session
- What to Wear: Athletic clothes with grip socks
- Pro Tip: Go on adult night if you are not bringing kids
- Tickets: Use code TWINS15 for 15% off!
If winter has you craving something active, Ferox delivers the kind of fun that keeps you warm and coming back for more.
Industry Kitchen — Alpine Luxe
Industry Kitchen’s Alpine Luxe – The Ski Chalet Experience turns a dinner into an après-ski escape right on the waterfront. One of the top things to do in NYC this winter, this seasonal pop-up brings cozy chalet vibes, fireside lounges, private chalets and twinkling lights together with elevated dining and skyline views. Expect a three-course alpine-inspired meal, a ski-lift photo moment, indoor and outdoor spaces overlooking the water, and après-style cocktails flowing into the night — all wrapped in winter charm and photo ops galore.
- Address: 70 South St, New York, NY 10005
- Duration: ~90 minutes (chalet reservations)
- Ticket Cost: Starts around $40 for lunch or $50 for dinner per person for chalet dining with 3 courses (tax & gratuity additional) — general admission also available for indoor lounge access. Open through January 31st.
- What to Wear: Chic après ski layers + comfy boots for outdoor photo moments
- Pro Tip: Reserve your private chalet igloo for lunch, brunch, or dinner for the most immersive experience, and check their site for themed winter weeks and seating options.
- Tickets: Book chalet reservations or general tickets via Bucketlisters.
Fireside chalet vibes and waterfront views make Alpine Luxe a must-visit this season.
Mezze on the River — Moët on The Hudson
Moët on The Hudson at Mezze on the River turns winter dinner plans into a champagne-fueled event. This luxe, limited-time experience pairs Mediterranean-inspired dishes with flowing Moët & Chandon, all set against glowing Hudson River views. One of the top things to do in NYC this winter, it’s perfect when you want your night to feel elevated, festive, and a little extra. Think clinking champagne glasses, cozy waterfront vibes, beautifully plated courses, and skyline reflections dancing on the water. It’s social, celebratory, and effortlessly fun.
- Address: 375 S End Ave, New York, NY 10280
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Ticket Cost: Starting at $75 per person for Brunch & $100 per person for Dinner. Enjoy Off-Peak Pricing On weekdays.
- What to Wear: Chic winter layers with a touch of glam
- Pro Tip: Book an evening reservation and request a window seat for peak river-and-champagne moments.
- Tickets: Reserve in advance via Bucketlisters. Experience available through March 29th.
If your winter plans could use more bubbles, this is the move.
Watermark – Pink Pier
Watermark turns Pier 15 into a pink-themed winter waterfront playground filled with photo moments, heated glasshouses and skyline views that feel extra magical in the winter season. One of the top things to do in NYC this winter, it’s perfect for date night vibes, Sunday brunch photos or an after-work outing with friends while you sip pink cocktails and take in the riverfront scene.
Stroll through floral photo frames and themed installations, cozy up in a heated igloo with a curated menu and pink treats, or grab general admission for outdoor access with a glass of bubbly or mocktail in hand. Weekend brunch at Pink Pier runs Saturdays and Sundays with extra seasonal bites and bubbly options.
- Address: Pier 15 — 78 South St, New York, NY 10038
- Duration: 2 hours
- Ticket Cost: general admission starts at $15 with upgrades for glasshouse seating and prix-fixe dining.
- What to Wear: Warm coat + boots (it’s outdoors with heated options)
- Pro Tip: Weekday visits and weekend brunch are especially photogenic with fewer crowds and golden hour glow.
- Tickets: Get your tickets through Bucketlisters.
Pink Pier pairs seasonal flair with skyline views, making winter in NYC feel fun, festive, and totally Instagram-ready.
Tea Around Town — Cozy Winter Tea Stops
Looking for a winter activity that feels both cozy and elevated? Tea Around Town serves afternoon tea aboard a beautifully styled double-decker bus as it cruises past NYC’s most iconic sights. Think warm brews, seasonal pastries, plush seating, and skyline views wrapped in winter charm. One of the top things to do in NYC this winter, it’s perfect when you want to sightsee without braving the cold.
- Address: 888 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019 (departure location)
- Duration: ~90 minutes
- Ticket Cost: $59–$129
- What to Wear: Chic winter layers—coats, boots, and tea-time ready looks
- Pro Tip: Sit upstairs for the best city views and photo moments.
- Tickets: https://www.tearoundtown.com
Sip, sightsee, and stay warm—this rolling tea experience is winter in NYC done right.
Winter in NYC doesn’t have to mean hiding under blankets. These things to do in NYC this winter prove the city is magical, cozy and full of fun no matter the temperature. From heated rooftop cocktails and immersive storytelling rides to waterfront dining, Mediterranean bites, and Instagram-worthy brunches, there’s something for every vibe and every crew. Layer up, grab your friends or go solo for ultimate content opportunities and make every snowy, frosty, or chilly moment unforgettable. Winter is your excuse to experience NYC at its coziest, chicest, and most playful, so sip something warm, snap your best photos, and live your NYC winter like the main character you are. Check out the blog for more winter ideas.
Ooh, a winter skyline cruise sounds so amazing. That would make a great date night for me and the hubby.
Winter in NYC sounds magical, skating under lights, cosy Broadway nights, markets buzzing. I’d happily brave the cold for hot chocolate walks, window shopping, and that electric city energy vibe.
What a great list of winter activities. NYC really has such a special vibe in winter, and this makes planning a trip feel exciting and easy.
It’s great there are so many activity options. I love the sound of mezze on the river but then anything food related gets me excited lol. Afternoon tea of course is always another fabulous option that I would enjoy at any time of year.
WOW, sounds like you ladies had a great time, and I love the images. I would love to visit NYC in the winter I hear it is so beautiful and that there is so much to enjoy, my son and daughter in-law just got back and stated they had a ball. I would love to experience the 4D flight simulation…I bet that is fun!
When I thought I had a lot of things to do in NY, I read this and now the bucket list is even bigger! Haha! I’ll make many of these things for sure.
I loved how your guide captures the magic of New York in winter, from classic ice skating at Bryant Park and Central Park’s Wollman Rink to vibrant events like Winter Jazzfest and the Westminster Dog Show that give the season so much energy. Your tips make it easy to plan a mix of cozy indoor experiences and iconic outdoor fun, whether it’s exploring holiday markets, catching live music, or gliding under the skyline. Thanks for such a thoughtful roundup that makes winter in NYC feel both festive and full of adventure.
Boozy hot chocolate, you say? I haven’t heard of that before, but how perfect for this chilly weather!
Love how this highlights both classic and lesser-known things to do in NYC. There’s truly something for everyone here.
Our family is planning a trip here next month! I can’t wait to discover the recommendations you outlined!