There are a bunch of things to do in New York in March. It’s the tail end of winter in the Big Apple but it can still be bitterly cold. Here are some of the best attractions and events. Check out all the things NYC has to offer!
Usually, spring officially begins on March 21, but NYC in March is still pretty cold. Even so, the city still provides plenty of activities. In this article, we provide you some of the best things you can do here in March.
My TOP 20 Things to Do in March in NYC
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01
The Famous Bryant Park Winter Village is only open in early March!
Christmas Market in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
Winter Village in Bryant Park is the biggest and most popular winter market in New York (not only for me!). You should definitely go here and if it snows again in March, the Winter Wonderland is perfect.
It is really nice in the evening, when you can even see the illuminated top of the Empire State Building!
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02
Affordable Art Fair (March 24 – 27, 2022)
Other Events in Chelsea
Spring isn’t just an excellent time to get outside and enjoy nature; it’s also a great time to do a bit of spring cleaning. After you finish, if your walls seem bare, head on over to the Affordable Art Fair and snag some high-quality art at low-end prices.
This annual event returns to NYC each year at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Chelsea, where you can view contemporary works that range in price from $100 up to $10,000.
My tip: Here you find the Best Art Exhibitions in New York City.
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03
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC (March 17, 2022)
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
New York City turns green on this day, because March 17 is the national holiday of the Irish, or the patronal feast of St. Patrick.
The famous St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which is one of the oldest, attracts around 1,000,000 people annually who want to be part of the spectacle. The parade takes place either directly on March 17th or – if it is a weekday – on the following weekend. Destination of the parade is the St. Patrick Cathedral. At 11 a.m. on the dot, the parade starts moving north at 44th Street/corner of 5th Avenue.
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04
The 21 Best Broadway Shows in March 2022 in New York
Broadway Show in Theatre District
The answer to whether you should or should not see a Broadway show when visiting New York in March is crystal clear: YES, it absolutely belongs on your bucket list! What is not always as clear, however, is which show to pick.
In order to help you out, we’ve created an overview of the absolute best Broadway shows in NYC in March!
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05
Visit The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden
Other Attraction in Bronx
The Brooklyn Botanical Garden supports over one million living plants in its extensive collection. It is truly a beautiful experience to explore the plant life in over 50 different gardens, giving you something to explore throughout each season. From exhibitions to the gift shop and hands-on experiences for kids this oasis of plants is a great day out for families!
In spring, the New York Botanical Garden presents the Orchid’s Show. In an impressive greenhouse you can admire the famous orchid show.
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06
Macy’s Flower Show (late March/early April 2022)
Other Events in Garment District
Florals are a natural part of spring but are groundbreaking when they’re presented by an iconic department store like Macy’s. Macy’s marquee stores in NYC present a two-week show that presents nearly one million trees, plants, and flowers to celebrate spring for both nature and fashion.
People from near and far flock to this exhibition each year, and it’s one of the best places to see awe-inspiring floral arrangements that are decorated according to a given theme. For example, the theme was outer space a few years ago, so arrangements had nods to stars, comets, planets, and more.
Picture: Courtesy of Macy’s
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07
Enjoy breath-taking views from one of the amazing observation decks
Building in Midtown Manhattan
You know what’s really unique about New York? The view of the (most likely) snow-covered Central Park from one of the observation decks! With the Top of the Rock, The Edge Hudson Yards and the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt you have three to choose from!
And then there’s the One World Observatory and the Empire State Building. You should go to the latter (even if it gets cold) late at night from Thursday to Saturday. Because then a saxophonist plays on the 86th floor!
My tip: if you are cold, you can go inside and enjoy the view from the inside. Because each of the observation decks (except for the Empire State Building) has additional floors with floor-to-ceiling windows.
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08
Go Ice Skating in NYC
Other Attraction in Midtown Manhattan
Ice skating is one of the things you can still do in New York in early March February! The rink at Bryant Park or the one at Rockefeller Center offer an unforgettable experience in a great setting. Expect a bit of a wait, as they are one of the most popular rinks in New York.
My tip: The Best Ice Rinks in NYC
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09
It’s National Meatball Day (March 9, 2022)
Other Events in Little Italy
Stroll through the touristy area of Little Italy and enjoy some of the best meatballs you can possibly find in the city (except at the Meatball Shop of course).
On March 9 we celebrate National Meatball Day. Check out the best restaurants in Little Italy NYC to have your best Meatball experience that day!
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10
Visits Governors Island (for the first time possible in March)
Other Attraction in Outside of New York City
Though Governors Island is no longer a secret spot, it hasn’t lost its charm and remains one of our favorite places in New York. Throughout the summer, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Manhattan from the island, ride bicycles, and participate in a large variety of events hosted here.
Usually Governors Island closes at the end of October, in 2022 you check it out even during March! A ferry ride to the island typically costs $3 but if you decide to come on a Saturday or Sunday before noon, it’ll be free!
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11
NBA Games in March 2022
Sports Tickets in Chelsea
Our Highlight
Basketball fans, this month is for you! Check out either the New York Knicks or the Brooklyn Nets at either the Madison Square Garden or Barclays Center, respectively.
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12
Spend the day in one of the best museums of NYC
Museum in Upper West Side
The wintry season is perfect for a museum visit to New York, and the Big Apple really doesn’t lack choices. After the theatrical release of “The Night of Museum” series, (The first movie took place in the New York Museum of Natural History) you really feel like going to the place of the event? In the footsteps of dinosaurs, aborigines and many other historical creatures, the Natural History Museum on Central Park West is always a good idea for a museum outing.
My tip: These are the 36 Best Museums in NYC
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13
On of my favorites things to do in March in NYC: The High Line Winter & Spring Tour (free)
Walking Tour in West Village
The High Line Park takes you along the old tracks of the elevated railway to the Meatpacking District. Thanks to the initiative “Friends of the High Line” the park exists at all, because originally the construction was supposed to be torn down. And the best thing? They offer free tours!
- When? Saturdays at 12pm
- Where? At the Gansevoort Street entrance
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14
Experience New York in March quite relaxed with a Dinner Cruises
Cruise in Chelsea
Our Highlight
I am quite a big fan of the boat tours with dinner in New York. It’s warm inside, jazzy music plays and there’s delicious food (and drinks). And during the whole cruise you see the wintry New York with its impressive skyline.
Here are our recommendations for dinner cruises, brunch cruises, lunch cruises and jazz cruises in NYC during wintertime. Need more inspiration? Check out this 👇👇
What is the Best Cruise in New York for you?
There are over 40 boat and sailing tours in New York and it’s not easy to choose the best one. That’s where our Cruise Finder comes in. It will help you find the best boat tour for you!
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15
Visit a Rooftop Bar in March (really!)
Rooftop Bar in Meatpacking District
No kidding, even in March you can visit some of the best rooftop bars in the city! With radiant heaters, free blankets and warm rooftop lounges you can make yourself comfortable there even in icy temperatures. The great view will warm your heart.
At 230 Fifth near the Flatiron building, you can even sit in a heated igloo while enjoying a breathtaking view of the skyline – how cool is that!
For more tips, check out our article on the best fall & winter rooftop bars in New York.
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16
See the New York Rangers in the Madison Square Garden
Sport Events in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
The atmosphere at a Rangers game is unparalleled and home games are played in the heart of Manhattan, at the most prestigious arena, Madison Square Garden. Ice hockey has some of the most loyal fans of all the sports categories, and you will notice that right away at a Rangers game. It’s intense and it’s a spectacle that is not to be missed!
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17
Doc Fortnight 2022 – MoMA’s Festival of International Nonfiction Film and Media (February 23 – March 10, 2022)
Museum in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
Already for the 21st time the film festival called Doc Fortnight is held by the famous Museum of Modern Art. It is a hybrid event where the films are shown in MoMA’s theaters and other parts are available on their streaming platform.
You can read more about it here.
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18
Enjoy the view of the East River from the Brooklyn Bridge
Building in Dumbo
Our Highlight
The Brooklyn Bridge is an official landmark of the city, which you should not miss even in winter. Make sure to walk across the impressive bridge and enjoy the unique view across the East River to Brooklyn in the clear winter air. And while you’re on the bridge, take a stroll to Brooklyn Bridge Park.
GET A WARMING COFFEE AND ENJOY THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS!
Due to the cold wind, it can get really icy on the Brooklyn Bridge in winter. The best time to try your luck on some warming sunshine is around noon on the bridge.
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19
Take a Walk in the Wintry Central Park
Park in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
Central Park should not be missing from any Things to Do in New York in March! The green lung of the city is a true winter wonderland during the cold season. It is therefore also a popular destination for New Yorkers. Stroll through the park under snow-covered trees and let yourself be enchanted by the play of lights on the frozen water surfaces in the evening.
Walking through Central Park in the cold is magical! If there’s snow, it’s even more amazing.
If you want to be more adventurous, start in Harlem and walk down Central Park towards Midtown. Too often we catch ourselves starting on Fifth Avenue at the Plaza Hotel in Central Park. There is so much more to explore than just that part of Central Park.
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20
Women’s History Month
Other Events in Harlem & Washington Heights
If spring puts you in a social mood, check out one of the many events in NYC related to Women’s History Month. This annual time is perfect for paying homage to one of many locally-owned businesses either owned by or catering to women.
You’ll find panels, parties, and movie screenings, among other events. There’s been Art + Feminism, Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon, A Day Without a Woman, and vast discounts at local businesses in years past.
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21
Spend some time in Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown
Walking Tour in Hudson Square
Our Highlight
Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan‘s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.
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22
Hop on a cruise during the Winter Season in New York City
Cruise in Chelsea
Our Highlight
Exploring the city on a boat is an amazing experience. Even though it can become a little chilly we highly recommend taking the New York City Water Taxi or hop on a Classic Harbor Line Cruise. They all have an indoor seating space where you can protect yourself from the cold in case you need to.
My tip: these are the 12 best cruises that you should do right now!
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23
Celebrate the National Oreo Day in the former cookie-factory Chelsea Market
Food Market in Meatpacking District
Our Highlight
Yes, you read that right. There’s an Oreo Day that celebrates the yummy cookie. There’s no better place to go in New York City than Chelsea Market the birthplace of the sweet sandwich cookie which is made up of two chocolate disks containing a sweet cream filling and is loved by millions.
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24
Run The NYC Marathon (March 20, 2022)
Sport Events in Upper West Side
And speaking of good spring weather, one of the best things to do in spring in NYC is run the NYC Marathon (ok, to be honest: to WATCH the NYC Marathon).
Depending on how good of shape you are in physically, there are full and half marathons from which to choose. Not only will participating in one help you stay healthier, but it’s also a great way to contribute to a charity since most marathons are held to collect money for a cause. So, get out there, get some fresh air, and rack up some dollars for a good reason.
The route of the NYC Marathon passes through all five boroughs of the city. The start is in Staten Island, the finish is Central Park in Manhattan. On the way to the finish, they run through Brooklyn (including Bay Ridge, Park Slope, Williamsburg), Queens and the Bronx.
Budget tip
If you want to visit several observations deck, attraction and tours in New York, check out the New York sightseeing passes. You can save up to 60% on the ticket price!
To find out which New York Pass is the best for you, check out my New York Pass Comparison.
🥇 Look no further: That‘s the only New York Travel Guide you need 2021/22 (300+ pages and 600+ reviews on Amazon)
This is our COMPLETE GUIDE that includes 25+ neighborhood guides for every part of the city with New York’s newest attractions like SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, Edge Hudson Yards & Little Island, our best-of lists, budget tips and the best things to do and see!
The weather in NYC in March
Wondering what the weather is like in New York in March?
Top Tours in March in New York
FAQ
These are the questions we are asked the most around:
Does it snow in New York in March?
Especially at the beginning of March, the chances are high that it will snow. From the middle of March, instead of snow, rain is more likely to fall because the temperatures are above zero.
Should I visit New York in March?
A visit to New York is worthwhile even in March! March is not yet a peak travel season, you will have the city more to yourself. Another advantage: the queues at the major New York attractions are shorter!
