The best of the season is still in full swing this month!
In January, New York City is the perfect place to be if you’re looking for some winter wonderland escapades. This bustling metropolis has plenty of fun-filled activities to keep you entertained throughout the month. From ice skating to rooftop lounges, the city is still buzzing with exciting winter activities and activations to experience.
Enjoying Winter in New York City
If you missed out on a holiday visit to the Big Apple, the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show is a must-see that can still be enjoyed for parts of January. This spectacular show features an intricate display of model trains that weave their way through the garden’s enchanting landscapes, including iconic New York landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty. The show runs through January 20, so you still have time to catch this breathtaking festive event.
Even if you’re a seasoned NYC visitor, January is a fantastic time to enjoy the city with so many discounted opportunities. New York Restaurant Week, Broadway Week, Must-See Week, and Winter Outing all begin on January 21 and run throughout the month until February 9, 2025. During these promotional periods, you can score amazing deals like two-for-one tickets to some of the best Broadway shows, discounted set menus at some of the hottest restaurants in the city, special pricing on tours and attractions, and more. New York Hotel Week begins on January 21 and runs through February 9, so you can score some excellent deals on hotel rooms all over the city.
Experience the vibrant sounds and soulful melodies of one of New York City’s most anticipated winter events. Winter Jazzfest brings together renowned jazz musicians worldwide for a series of captivating performances across various iconic venues in the city from January 8-14, 2025. Immerse yourself in the rich improvisations and infectious rhythms that define this celebrated genre as you navigate through the buzzing streets of New York. From intimate clubs to grand stages, Winter Jazzfest offers a diverse lineup of talented artists, showcasing the evolution and innovation of jazz. Join music enthusiasts and jazz aficionados for an unforgettable celebration of this timeless art form.
When it comes to winter activities, ice skating is a classic choice, especially in the Big Apple. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park offers the largest free skating rink in New York City. Though the holiday shops close shortly after the holiday season ends (January 5, 2025), the rink is slated to stay open for the season with a closing date of March 2, 2025. Bring your own skates or rent a pair when you get there! Guests can also rent skate aids and helmets, while bag and coat checks are available for those bringing personal items (bags are not allowed on the rink). Cozy igloos can be booked through the end of February.
Skating is also available at The Rink at Rockefeller Center, where guests can skate under one of the most famous buildings in the city—the rink typically stays open through early March. Tickets are available for a specified amount of time, and those looking to skate multiple days can purchase a season pass. You can also skate at Wollman Rink in Central Park, where the rink is surrounded by trees and the gorgeous city skyline. Wollman Rink closes for the season on March 15, 2025. Pricing is based on peak pricing and varies by day (children three and under skate for free).
Escape to the enchanting Winter Lodge at Loreley Beer Garden, where the spirit of the season comes alive in a cozy and festive atmosphere. The delightful winter pop-up experience offers a warm and inviting retreat for friends and family from January 9 to March 2, 2025. Immerse yourself in the magical ambiance as you sip on seasonal craft brews and warm winter cocktails, indulge in hearty comfort food, and gather around the crackling fire pits. Every day of the week, diners can enjoy a selection of daily specials, including happy hours Monday through Friday, rotating daily drink discounts, and weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. With its rustic charm and charming decor, the Winter Lodge at Loreley Beer Garden is the perfect destination to embrace the joys of winter.
Winter is the perfect time to try some of the best sweets in town, such as the city’s selection of delicious hot chocolate. Looking for something indulgently extravagant? Check out the viral Instagram hot chocolate from Glace New York on the Upper East Side with flavors like Classic S’Mores and White Chocolate Brûlée. The Chocolate Room and L.A. Burdick also offer delicious hot chocolate options—why limit yourself to just one? With so much to do in the chillier months, New York makes itself a destination to remember all year long!
