It’s well into winter so that most likely means, a lot of snow and frigid temperatures. With that being said, there’s still plenty of things to do in February in New York. This guide will list our recommendations for February.
Even though it can be bitterly cold with a lot of snow, NYC in February still provides plenty of activities. In this article, we provide you some of the best things you can do here in February.
My Favorite Things to Do in February in NYC
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01
Winter Markets Are Still Open in February – Visit the Winter Market in Bryant Park
Christmas Market in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
Starting in October (and running through March), it is time once again for the best winter market in New York City to open its doors. The Winter Village in Bryant Park is not only the largest winter market in the city but also by far the nicest on account of its adjacent ice rink and places to shop and eat. This along with its amazing location among all the skyscrapers makes for an amazing winter experience.
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02
The 22 Best Broadway Shows in February 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 February 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 February!
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03
Experience The Super Bowl Hype (February 13, 2022)
Sport Events in Midtown Manhattan
The Super Bowl is usually held in February and NYC, just like the rest of America, goes crazy during the days leading up to it. In the US, this event is the sporting highlight of the year. The halftime show is of the very best and every year, big names like Bruno Mars or Beyonce perform during the halftime show. If you’re looking for a nice bar on this night check out Connolly’s Pub & Restaurant at Times Square and other sports bars in the area.
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04
New York Fashion Week (February 10-13, 2022)
Other Events in East Village
This is probably one of the most interesting Things to Do in February in New York. Whole streets are closed off and intersections become catwalks. It’s one of the biggest fashion events of the year. For a week, twice a year, influencers, celebrities, editors, photographers and fashionistas from all over the world will make their pilgrimage to New York City to see the new collections from their favorite designers and brands.
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05
Celebrate Black History Month 2022
Other Events in Harlem & Washington Heights
Don’t miss out on some of the best cultural events of the year during Black History Month in February in NYC. There are many ways to show your appreciation for African-American culture. Head Uptown and explore Harlem and its one of kind soul food restaurants. Harlem will be filled with music events, movie screenings, spoken word performances, and fun parties during Black History Month in New York City.
My tip: check out my complete guide to Black History Month in New York
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06
New York Restaurant Week (January 18 – February 17, 2022)
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
Attention food enthusiasts: NYC Restaurant Week will be back in the winter, meaning you can look forward to enjoying cheap meals all over the city. Thousands of travelers and locals look forward to this event every year because it’s a great opportunity to try new cuisines or simply enjoy top-notch meals at decent prices.
What is NYC Restaurant Week?
NYC Restaurant Week is a bi-annual event that takes place every summer and winter since 1982. Back then only a few restaurants participated in the promotion, whereas this year’s event counts over 380 participating restaurants. Over time, the length of the promotion has been extended, so that now we can enjoy almost a full month of great, affordable food instead of just one week.
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07
Go Ice Skating in NYC
Other Attraction in Midtown Manhattan
Ice Skating is definitely one of the things to do in New York in January. The Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center offers a memorable experience in a great setting in front of the city’s most famous Christmas tree. Expect to wait to get into the rink and is considered and one of the most popular to New Yorkers.
My tip: The Best Ice Rinks in NYC
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08
Visits Governors Island (for the first time possible in February)
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 winter and spring! 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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09
Visit one of New York’s Amazing Art Exhibitions at MoMa PS1
Museum in Long Island City
Check out the local art scene in the MoMa Ps1 art exhibit, featuring work from 47 local, contemporary artists. This exhibit explores art-making in New York history, the resilience of artists, and the feelings connected with art. You’ll see a huge emphasis on foreign-born artists, their work full of Egyptian, Iranian, Tunisian, Nigerian, Mexican, Argentinian, and Indian influences. There is also an abundance of Native American artists to enjoy.
My tip: Here you find the Best Art Exhibitions in New York City.
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10
NYC Broadway Week (January 18 – February 13, 2022)
Other Events in Theatre District
Our Highlight
Broadway Week is a bi-annual theater celebration offering discounted Broadway tickets since 2011. For every ticket you purchase, you get another one for FREE! Even though it is called Broadway Week, it actually lasts much longer than 7 days.
Broadway Week is celebrated in New York twice a year: every winter and every summer. The next NYC Broadway Week will take place in the summer, typically in September. Once the exact dates are published, we will be sure to let you know. Sometimes, Broadway Week takes place at the same time as Restaurant Week and is typically followed by Off-Broadway Week about one week later.
My tip: These are the Best Broadway Shows in NYC
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11
Visit The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden (from February 26, 2022)
Other Events in Bronx
The New York Botanical Garden show is constantly changing exhibitions and displaying different plants. In the spring, the New York Botanical Garden presents the Orchid’s Show. In an impressive greenhouse, botanical garden visitors can admire the Orchid’s Show from the end of February all the way through April.
Last year’s exhibit was all true to the motto “Singapore”. This year, the inspiration comes from Singapore. We recommend you to marvel at this blooming during the time they are open.
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12
Off-Broadway Week
Other Events in Greenwich Village
Off-Broadway Week is a bi-annual event that offers you 2-for-1 tickets. Besides Broadway Week or Restaurant Week, it is one of the most longed for events in New York. Even though it is called Off-Broadway Week, it is never just one week but spans over almost two weeks.
Off-Broadway theaters are located all over the city, so be sure to double-check the theater location before you go!
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13
Valentine’s Day (February 14, 2022)
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
Valentine’s Day is one of the most celebrated days in New York in Winter (more precisely on February 14th). Our list below includes romantic events, restaurants, photo spots, and fun activities for couples. So, what are the best things to in February in New York during Valentine’s Day? The Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise in New York City is a great idea and a perfect surprise for your loved one. Each couple receives a rose as a welcome gift before the yacht leaves for New York Harbor.
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14
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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15
Be part of the Chinese New Year Parade (February 1, 2022)
Other Events in Chinatown
Usually, locals and tourists alike will (obviously) flock to New York City’s Chinatown to celebrate the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade & Festival 2022. A huge Chinese New Year Parade takes place there every year (February 22, 2022). The official name of the event is called the Lunar New Year and Festival.
The parade will down Mott and Canal Street. It will then make its way down East Broadway and head towards Manhattan Bridge, and it will ultimately end at Sara D. Roosevelt Park. During the parade, there will also be smaller activities going on in Chinatown NYC. It will have all sorts of street vendors and festivities.
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16
Experience New York in February 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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17
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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18
Celebrate Presidents’ Day (February 21st, 2022)
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
Though officially called Washington’s Birthday, Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday intended to honor all of those who have served in the office as president of the United States.
Originally held on February 22nd every year to honor the first president of the United States, George Washington, it is now held on the third Monday of February each year, where the date ranges from February 15th to February 21st. Though the official name of the holiday varies from state to state, it is largely intended to celebrate two of the most important presidents in American history – George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
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19
Doc Fortnight 2022 – MoMA’s Festival of International Nonfiction Film and Media (until 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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20
Winter Jam in Central Park (February 5, 2022)
Other Events in Upper East Side
On February 5, 2022, there will be a day in Central Park at the Rumsey Playfield along 72nd Street where snowboarding will be free of charge. Included is a cute winter market with hot drinks and delicious food. This annual event is suitable for all ages and a great experience. The fact that you can snowboard in the middle of New York City is amazing!
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21
Visit a Rooftop Bar in February (really!)
Rooftop Bar in Midtown Manhattan
As you probably already know, one of the best things in New York in February are the rooftop bars! Even in winter the season is not over yet, because 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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22
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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23
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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24
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 February! 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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25
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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26
Cheer on the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium
Sports Tickets in Outside of New York City
Compared the Jets, the NY Giants enjoy the more dominant fanbase in New York. If you ask us, it’s absolutely worth it to go watch a game of either team just to feel the incredible atmosphere and energy in the stadium. Here’s everything you need to know before heading to a Giants game, including schedule, best seats, and cheap tickets!
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On of my favorites things to do in February in NYC: The High Line Winter 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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28
NBA Games in February 2022
Sports Tickets in Chelsea
Our Highlight
Basketball fans, this month is for you. The NBA is in its fifth month. 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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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!
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.
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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!
Weather in February in New York
How cold is New York City in February? Let’s be honest: it is reeeeeally cold!
Best Tours in February in New York
FAQ
These are the questions we are asked the most around the travel month of February:
Does it snow in New York in February?
There is a very high chance that it will snow in New York in February. A lot of snow falls regularly, not least because blizzards are not uncommon at this time. You can expect up to 15 inches or more of snow.
Should I visit New York in February?
A visit to New York is worthwhile even in February! Experiencing New York in the snow is just great. Since February 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!
