If you’re wondering what to do in New York in January, you’ve come to the right place! If you’re in New York in January, you can still take a skate on the ice rinks and head to the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. The most important events in January include the Chinese New Year in Chinatown, the Winter Jazz Fest and the NYC Winter Restaurant Week.
Sports fans won’t be bored in New York in January either, with both NBA (basketball) and NHL (ice hockey) teams playing. As you can see, even if January in New York gets really cold, there is as always a lot to experience and do!
My Favorite Things to Do in January in NYC
Even though the holiday season is over, NYC in January still provides plenty of activities and things to do in New York City.With that being said, there’s still plenty of things to do in February in New York! In this article, I provide you some of the best things you can do in January in NYC.
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01
Winter Markets Are Still Open in January – 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
Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden (until January 16, 2023)
Other Events in Bronx
If you like to build railroad and train models, this show is for you. The Holiday Train show is definitely worth its money and will be held at the enchanting New York Botanical Garden. The exhibit will showcase 175 New York landmarks. All works of art are built on an 0,5 mile long track and the railways pass the skyscrapers of Midtown. We have already visited two special exhibitions in the NYBG and are always enjoyable. Therefore, we highly recommend this unique exhibition!
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03
The Best Broadway Shows in January 2023 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 January 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 January!
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04
NYC Broadway Week 2023 (probably starting from January 17 – February 12, 2023)
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 winter, typically in January/February. 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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05
NYC Winter Jazzfest (January 12 – 18, 2023)
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
What started as a one-day event in 2005 started to become popular in the Big Apple. Now, it evolved into a one-week festival. The Winter Jazz Fest is one of January’s prominent events, and those who are jazz fans will definitely be happy about this. Over 700 artists perform in different venues scattered across NYC. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in New York in January!
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06
NBA Games in January 2023
Sports Tickets in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
Basketball fans, this month is for you. The NBA is in its fourth 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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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
Sky Skate at The Edge
Activities in Hudson Yards
For those of you who have always wanted to reach for the sky, you can now skate above the clouds! From January 10 until mid-March, you can enjoy the view of the city while gliding across the synthetic ice on The Edge’s indoor Sky Deck. The ice rink is open daily from 10am-8pm. On Thursdays & Fridays, a live DJ will provide background music from 5-8pm. Tickets include Edge admission, your 30-minute skating experience, and free skate rental.
Get your tickets to New York City’s tallest skating rink now!
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09
Visit the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Plaza
Christmas Tree in Midtown Manhattan
Didn’t get a chance to see the tree during the holidays? Well again, you’re in luck. Until January 14, the world-famous Christmas tree will stay standing in Rockefeller Plaza!
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10
Titanic. The Exhibition
Other Art & Culture in Greenwich Village
There is a very special exhibition for all fans of the movie Titanic in New York: Titanic – The Exhibition offers not only replicas of the ship’s interior, but it also takes you back in time with the help of original belongings of the passengers.
You have the opportunity to go on a journey through time in the beautiful Greenwich Village. Titanic – The Exhibition is a very special experience for anyone interested in the history of the ocean liner. With photos and personal items, you’ll be taken back to 1912, when the Titanic set sail on its first and last ocean voyage. While an audio guide provides you with reports from survivors, you can take a closer look at the recreated interiors and let the differences between a luxurious first-class suite and a simple third-class cabin sink in.
This exhibit is on in New York City through the end of February and is a must-see for all fans of the ship once considered unsinkable.
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11
NYC Winter Restaurant Week 2023 (starting January 17, 2023)
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
NYC Restaurant Week
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 almost 500 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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12
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 Circle Line or 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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13
AirOtic Soirée: Enjoy a circus cabaret show
Other Art & Culture in Hell’s Kitchen
Attention cabaret fans: there’s a new show in the city! You can now see a group of highly talented acrobats in the heart of Manhattan. AirOtic Soirée combines modern burlesque and high-level cirque acrobatics with a menu created by Chef Saul who has already been featured on Good Morning America. After the show you can enjoy a nice cocktail and meet the cast.
Every Friday and Saturday throughout January and February you have the opportunity to experience this brand new sensual show in Hell’s Kitchen.
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14
Be part of the Chinese New Year Celebration (January 22, 2023)
Other Events in Chinatown
Celebrate the beginning of the new year one more time at the Chinese New Year Firecracker Ceremony & Cultural Festival. The Lunar New Year starts on January 22 and the festival takes place in Sara D. Roosevelt Park at Grand Street.
You should also mark the 12th of February in your calendar, because there will be a big parade.
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15
Craft Brewery Tour in Brooklyn
Walking Tour in Downtown Brooklyn
An equally exceptional and wonderful activity for January is this guided tour of not one but three breweries in New York. New York is known for its many small breweries that exist in every borough – on this tour, you’ll start at Circa Brewing at 141 Lawrence St in Brooklyn. As you make your way through some of the city’s hottest neighborhoods, you’ll visit 3 world-class breweries. Led by your expert beer guide, you’ll gain VIP access and learn more about the unique brewing process while sampling their delicious craft beer.
Drinks are also accompanied by a complimentary beer snack as you indulge your taste buds on an unforgettable 3.5-hour beer tour.
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16
Enjoy a drink among ice sculptures at Polar Lounge
Rooftop Bar in Brooklyn Heights
You always wanted to enjoy the view of the Manhattan skyline with a first class cocktail while surrounded by extravagant ice sculptures? Then I have great news for you now!
On January 12, the Polar Lounge will open on the rooftop bar of 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. The lounge at Harriet’s Rooftop offers you an impressive landscape of exclusive seating and numerous sculptures made of ice. But don’t worry: you don’t have to freeze! The Polar Lounge offers its guests sustainably sourced parkas by Moose Knuckles.
Regular admission includes access to the rooftop terrace with a breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline and a free drink. VIP table reservations for up to six guests are also available.
If you do get cold after your drink, you can warm up in Harriet’s Lodge between flickering candles and cozy blankets with small bites.
You have the opportunity to marvel at this frosty installation until February 26.
Goosebumps guaranteed!
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17
Visit Governors Island
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, from 2021 on you check it out even during winter and spring! A ferry ride to the island typically costs $4 but if you decide to come on a Saturday or Sunday before noon, it’ll be free!
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Winter Shopping at Woodbury Common Outlet Center
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
Shopping addicts will have their money’s worth in January too. You can either stroll the city’s wintry streets or take a trip to the Woodbury Common Outlet Center. You will not only find many famous brands at lower prices, but also a large food hall with a wide selection of different sweet and savory dishes.
You can already save money on your way to the outlet, because the bus ride is included in some of the passes, for example the New York Pass.
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19
Eataly Wine and Food Festa (January 20, 2023)
Other Restaurants in Financial District
Our Highlight
In 2010, Eataly was opened in New York by master chef Mario Batali. The pizza is very remeniscent of pizza and the wine selection is huge. You will also find a large selection of ecellent pasta, salads, and sandwiches. In terms of price, it has to be said in advance that a pizza starts at $15 and can cost $25. Nevertheless, this Italian food market is for me one of the most beautiful and best in the city!
In January they host the Alpine Winter Wine and Food Festa.
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20
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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21
Experience New York in January quite relaxed with a Dinner Cruise
Cruise in Chelsea
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.
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22
Enjoy Winter Wonderland at Bronx Zoo
Other Attraction in Bronx
Do you want to experience the largest metropolitan zoo in the US? Then go check out the Bronx Zoo. It’s perfect for families especially kids. At the Bronx Zoo you can experience your wild side and explore a national treasure in the Bronx. The Bronx Zoo is know as one of the best in the country and offer many different species from all over the world. The Bronx Zoo is one of my absolute highlights in the area and something you shouldn’t miss.
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23
Plunge Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Rooftop Bar in Meatpacking District
One of the top addresses is the ultra-stylish Hotel Gansevoort in the Meatpacking District. And the highlight is the “Plunge Rooftop Bar & Lounge”, which is located on the roof of the hotel. Lots of glass, typical lounge look, relaxed music and lots of pretty people: the location is easily in New York’s top 3 when it comes to high celebrity density and designer photo shoots.
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24
Visit one of the igloo bars in NYC
Rooftop Bar in Midtown Manhattan
To me having a drink at one of the rooftop bars in NYC is high on my list of fun activities in NYC in the winter. It’s amazing how rooftop bars are still a great place to go even though it’s cold out. At 230 5th Ave, they have rooftop igloos where you can stay warm while enjoying the breathtaking city views.
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Enjoy breath-taking views from one of the amazing observation decks
Building in Midtown Manhattan
Our Highlight
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 which both offer an amazing view over the city.
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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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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27
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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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 January! The green lung of the city turns into 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.
Did you know that activism plays an important role in Central Park or that there are 17 pine tree species in the city’s green lung? Have you ever asked yourself how the big rocks in the park were formed?
If you want to learn more about the variety of pine trees, the geology or the history of activism in Central Park, you can join a guided tour.
The Central Park Conservancy offers different walking tours throughout January.
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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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30
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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31
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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32
Celebrate Martin Luther King Day (January 16, 2023)
Other Events in Harlem & Washington Heights
Martin Luther King Day is celebrated every third Monday in January. It is an official holiday in the U.S. in honor of civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who is one of the most important African-American people in the U.S..
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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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ARTECHOUSE
Other Art & Culture in Chelsea
Spectacular Factory at ARTECHOUSE Photo Courtesy of ARTECHOUSE
Some people consider the Spectacular Factory at ARTECHOUSE a holiday event on steroids. This show is an imaginative multiverse of Christmas cheer set up inside of a 100-year-old Chelsea boiler room.
In this display of holiday villages, guests of all backgrounds and ages can enjoy a ride on the candy cane carousel, ride a train through holiday wreaths, get close to one thousand nutcrackers, and float among giant jingle bells.
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35
Three Kings Day-Parade (January 6, 2023)*
Other Events in Harlem & Washington Heights
The Three Kings Day Parade takes place in January in New York City as marchers disguise themselves as a king. The parade features real camels, many colorful dolls and music through Harlem. The parade is a great experience, especially for families with children.
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Origami Holiday Tree at The Met (through January 8, 2023)
Museum in Upper East Side
Our Highlight
New York City’s Met Museum also hosts a holiday celebration that’s complete with a breathtaking Christmas Tree display. You’ll find the Met Tree in the Medieval Sculpture Hall. This famed holiday tradition features a blue spruce tree that’s 20 feet tall and adorned with 59 angels, 19 cherubs, and 71 figures that depict an 18th Century Nativity scene reminiscent of Naples.
You can also enjoy a gorgeous Eastern European Silver Menorah, holiday shopping, other exhibits on display, and much more.
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37
Radio City Christmas Spectacular (until January 2, 2023)
Broadway Show in Midtown Manhattan
Radio City Music Hall is a distinguished concert and event hall located on Sixth Avenue and can be recognized from a distance by its striking exterior lighting. Throughout the year, concerts and events take place here such as the popular Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. It is the most famous Christmas Show you can watch even in New York in January!
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Lightscape: Brooklyn’s Winter Spectacular at Brooklyn Botanic Garden (through January 8, 2023)
Other Events in Park Slope
Brooklyn is home to many wonderful Christmas light displays, including the illuminated trail known as Lightscape, found at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This after-dark light spectacular features all-new works of art and many returning favorites. At this experience, visitors make their way through the winding trails of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s trails, which are all awash with artistic light designs.
Along the journey, you’ll encounter color effects on BBG trees, water features, monumental lighted sculptures, and more. Lightscape sold out last year, so book your visit on their website early.
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No Pants Subway Ride
Other Events in Greenwich Village
So usually sometime in January, some New Yorkers partake in what is known as the “No Pants Subway Ride.” Their main goal is to make people laugh. Keep your eyes open as you might come across this!
(cancelled for 2023)
Budget tip
If you want to visit several observations decks, attractions 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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