Cold Weather Activities in NYC

A rainy (or snowy) day in New York can be a real blessing. It's a great excuse to hunker down and get stuck into the city's world-class museums, food, and merriment.

Last updated: July 9, 2026
Brooklyn in the snow

New York enveloped by snow is a wondrous sight; just like a snow globe scene brought to life. However, as beautiful as the city is on a cold winter day, it's not always pleasant to walk around for hours outside. Luckily, there are dozens of fun, indoor things to do in the city while staying warm and dry. So when there are blustery winds blowing and icy sidewalks underfoot, you'll still have a fabulous time in the city that never sleeps.

Visit New York Hall of Science

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You can't beat a museum day - and there are so many outstanding ones in New York. Inquisitive minds love visiting the New York Hall of Science. NYSCI gives us the opportunity to get up close and personal with the elements of the world around us. Many of the exhibits at the Hall of Science are interactive and are lots of fun for the whole family. 

Take a tour of Radio City Music Hall

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Since 1932, Radio City Music Hall has been at the center of the entertainment world hosting events for some of the biggest stars. As the official home of the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, winter is the best time to visit.  Visitors can get an exclusive stage door tour of the Music Hall and even meet a Rockette.

If you prefer sports over showtunes, check out the All Access Tour of Madison Square Garden.

Shopping at Century 21 Department Store

No matter the weather, you can always find a way to fit in some shopping. The shopping options in New York City are limitless but our favorite way to spend our hard-earned dollars is at the Century 21 Department Store, a 4-story beast full of discounted designer goods, clothes, shoes, and much more.

Spend an afternoon bowling

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Bowling is the ultimate rainy day pastime - it's one of those tried-and-true winter activities everyone will enjoy. If you're up for an afternoon (or night) of fun, try Bowlmor Lanes in Times Square, a huge bowling alley in the middle of the New York City buzz. This spot is perfect for beginners and pros alike, with great cocktails and tasty fare.

Grab a beer at Bronx Brewery

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Nothing warms the heart more than spending quality time with friends over a delicious beverage and a hearty meal. Feast on mouth-watering smash burgers while sipping on a pint of golden suds at one of Bronx Brewery's locations. Their taproom is centered around inclusivity and beer's power to build community.

Indulge at the Chocolate Room

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This heavenly place has two locations in Brooklyn and offers a variety of hot chocolate and coffee beverages made from ethically sourced Belgian chocolate and Valrhona cocoa, alongside decadent chocolate deserts. If you're 21 and above and feeling it, you can get your cup of chocolatey goodness with a shot of booze.

Get lost in creativity at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Much to nobody's surprise, one of the world's largest museums boasts an impressive collection of art. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is so big that you could easily spend hours here without seeing 10% of the space. It's been said that if you look at every piece of art at the Met for a minute, it would take you 3 years to see the whole museum.

A wintery day in New York can be a gift

A rainy day can give you the perfect opportunity to see some indoor attractions you might have missed on previous New York trips; because you were busy walking along the Brooklyn Bridge or sailing out to the Statue of Liberty. Make the most of your trip; with so much to see in the city, you don't want the cold weather slowing you down!

With colder weather comes fewer crowds for sightseeing, too. For those of you looking forward to sunnier weather, winter ends on March 20th, and hopefully Spring will bring weather more favorable for outdoor activites. To prepare, check out Top Things to do in NYC this Spring.

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Love Is in the Air: Romantic Things to Do in NYC

So you’re planning a trip to New York with your favorite person and want to make it one for the storybooks. You’re in luck: this city practically invented date night. Rooftop sunsets, museums for two, leafy strolls, wildly different food adventures—there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate being together. Whether you’re seeking something classic, quirky, or just plain unforgettable, New York’s got your next romantic memory covered. Let’s wander through some of our most-loved couple experiences throughout the city.  Our favorite things for couples to do in NYC include:  Empire State Building  Central Park  The Edge  Statue of Liberty  Greenwich Village Walking Tour  ARTECHOUSE New York  The High Line  Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour  Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)  Luna Park at Coney Island  Central Park: Stroll, Picnic, and Row Your Way to Romance  If movies have taught us anything, it’s that Central Park is made for falling a little more in love. Start with a meandering walk among English elms or get active with a bike rental. Explore hidden bridges and tranquil garden corners that feel miles away from Midtown, or visit Bow Bridge—NYC’s unofficial photo spot for couples.  When you’re ready for a little adventure, rent a rowboat from the Loeb Boathouse. It’s surprisingly peaceful out on the lake, especially for quietly sunny afternoons with the skyline behind you. Round off your idyllic escape with a picnic on Sheep Meadow or a visit to the Shakespeare Garden. For artsy duos, take an architectural tour or, if you’re visiting in winter, swirl across Wollman Rink—the city’s most charming ice-skating spot.  Edge: Next-Level Date Night  NYC date night goes literal with Edge, the city’s highest sky deck. We love this spot for its ‘wow, are we really standing out here?’ factor. The triangular outdoor platform juts out from Hudson Yards, with glass floors beneath your feet and jaw-dropping views all around. Hold hands if you dare—the gentle sway is perfect for snuggling a little closer.  Glass walls mean you’ll snap stunning selfies with NYC’s entire West Side as your backdrop. Sunset is particularly dreamy, when buildings glow as far as the eye can see. Raise a toast at the sky-high champagne bar and watch the city shift from sunset to twinkling night. Edge turns every date into an adventure.  Greenwich Village Walking Tour: Quirky, Cozy, and Creative  Greenwich Village brims with old-world charm and is perfect for couples who love getting off the beaten path. Join a relaxed walking tour and discover jazz clubs, tree-lined squares, speakeasies, and tales of famous writers and artists—all within a few blocks.  The guides aren’t just knowledgeable, they’re genuinely entertaining, layering quirky stories, hidden gems, and foodie tips you won’t find elsewhere. Wander hand-in-hand past fairy-lit comedy cellars, sip espresso at jazz-era cafés, and hear about that time Bob Dylan played his first note at a little bar around the corner. By the time you’ve explored, you’ll have ‘your’ secret date spot for future trips.  ARTECHOUSE New York: Where Art and Technology Collide  For a date that’s as modern as it is memorable, ARTECHOUSE near Chelsea Market is a must. This immersive art space uses cutting-edge digital technology—animated projections, motion sensors, interactive installations—to turn entire rooms into shifting art landscapes. It’s part gallery, part playground, and always wildly photogenic.  Each exhibition is different, from glowing spirals inspired by space travel to swirling floral universes you practically step inside. The space invites connection: compare notes, pose for creative photos, or simply soak in the colors and sounds together. There’s even a specialty cocktail bar serving drinks themed to the current exhibit—perfect for a post-show toast.  The High Line: Elevated Strolls and Garden Views  Turn a walk into an experience on the High Line, a leafy park built atop elevated train tracks. This 1.5-mile path floats above the city’s West Side, lined with wildflowers, designer benches, and public art that changes with the seasons. Expect free performances in summer and cozy nooks for people-watching all year round.  Take in the cityscape as you stroll shoulder-to-shoulder, spot hidden courtyards and secret sculptures, then descend for a bite at Chelsea Market (perfect for foodie couples—try the spicy ramen or handmade doughnuts). The High Line blends greenery, views, and vibrant city energy, making it an easy favorite for romance and adventure.  Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: See the City, Share the Laughs  Sometimes the best memories come from discovering the city’s greatest hits—together, at your own pace. Jump aboard a classic double-decker bus for a hop-on hop-off adventure. Cozy up on the top deck as guides share stories about everything from Central Park’s movie scenes to secret borough trivia.  Plot your perfect day: stop for lunch in Little Italy, swing up to Museum Mile, or race each other into Soho’s coolest shops. The fun is in the freedom—choose when to wander, when to ride, and always have a comfy place to rest your feet (and gaze out together at the urban wonderland).  Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Creative Inspiration for Two  Love art, design, or just a good conversation? MoMA never disappoints. See Van Gogh’s starry skies, Warhol’s famous pop art, and ever-quirkier modern installations side by side. The airy galleries invite you to move at your own pace, comparing favorites and sketching out your dream apartment full of mid-century pieces.  MoMA’s sculpture garden offers a leafy retreat with striking installations—perfect for a coffee break or a quick selfie. The on-site café serves fantastic pastries, and the museum shop tempts with design-inspired souvenirs to remind you of your creative NYC day.  Luna Park at Coney Island: Joyrides, Boardwalk, and Cotton Candy  For couples craving nostalgia, Luna Park on Coney Island serves up classic fun with a Brooklyn twist. Cue the carnival excitement: old-fashioned roller coasters, glow-in-the-dark games, and the scent of funnel cake in the air. The Wonder Wheel offers playful views of the beach and city skyline, while the Cyclone delivers thrills for the brave.  Sand between your toes, boardwalk breezes, and neon-lit rides set the scene for the ultimate seaside date. Stick around for beach sunsets, share a bucket of hot Nathan’s fries, and feel like kids again—in the best possible way.    With dreamy views, cozy escapes, creative fun, and just the right mix of energy and intimacy, New York City is ready to be your ultimate couple’s playground. Happy adventuring!    Enjoyed this? Check out our comprehensive guide to your Empire State building visit, and how about our guide to your Big Bus adventure?    Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started!    
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Unforgettable Family Days Out in New York City

Planning a family trip to New York City? You’re in for something special. The Big Apple delivers family fun in every flavor—wild rides, hands-on museums, sky-high views, animal encounters, and even room to stretch out on the grass. Whether you’ve got energetic toddlers, hard-to-impress teens, or a mixed crew, New York has magical city moments for every age. Get ready for a trip that’s part amusement park, part living museum, and 100% unforgettable. Here’s how to make those family memories count.  Our favorite things to do as a family in NYC include:  American Museum of Natural History  Statue of Liberty  The Beast Speedboat Ride  Edge  Luna Park  Madame Tussauds  Central Park Bike Rental by Unlimited Biking  SEA LIFE Aquarium New Jersey  Broadway and Times Square Tour by Experience First  American Museum of Natural History: Dinosaur-Spotting and Space Travel  Did someone say dinosaurs? The American Museum of Natural History is simply a must for family adventures in NYC. Kids go wild for the towering T-Rex and woolly mammoth skeletons, while the life-size blue whale in the Milstein Hall makes jaws drop—yes, even for grownups. The Hayden Planetarium offers cosmic journeys that leave everyone starry-eyed, and the butterfly conservatory (seasonal) brings magic to life with fluttering wings.  There’s room to let off steam, plenty of snack stops, and, unlike some hush-hush museums, this place invites curiosity and questions. Interactive exhibits keep little hands busy, while older kids can puzzle over fascinating gems, meteorites, and dioramas packed with action. If you’re hoping for a fun, flexible atmosphere that turns learning into a game, you’ll find it here. Don’t forget to leave time for the dino gift shop, packed with souvenirs sure to make the trip last a little longer.  The Beast Speedboat Ride: New York’s Fastest Family Thrill  Kids asking for something wild? The Beast answers with style. This 70-foot monster speedboat zips down the Hudson at, well, beastly speeds—complete with roaring music, spray, and non-stop city views. Young adventurers love this turbocharged ride; parents adore the fresh perspective on the skyline.  The crew loves to play along, so expect jokes, epic tunes, and a festival feeling as you rocket to the Statue of Liberty and back. It’s part sightseeing, part amusement park, and packed with just the right amount of clean, splashy fun. For a real “wow, we did that!” moment, The Beast delivers—you’ll be swapping stories about your wild ride all vacation long.  Edge: Get Above NYC On The Sky Deck  Turn family bragging rights up to eleven with a visit to Edge. Suspended 100 floors above Hudson Yards, this outdoor sky deck (with glass floors!) gives families a thrilling taste of city life from the clouds. The elevator up is an experience itself, and the views—wow—stretch from Lady Liberty to Central Park.  What’s special about Edge is its outdoor observation platform, where you can peer straight down on the city through transparent panels. Got small kids or acrophobes? The safety rails and plenty of seating keep things comfortable, and the staff love helping families get that perfect photo. On windy days, hold onto your hats! There’s plenty to learn about Manhattan’s neighborhoods at the interactive exhibits indoors, so you get a side of education with your adrenaline.  Madame Tussauds: Superstar Selfies in Times Square  Got a pop culture fan in your pack? Madame Tussauds brings movie stars, superheroes, athletes, and even royalty under one roof… in wax, of course! The museum mixes playful interactivity with dazzling backdrops perfect for silly selfies. Want to high-five the Hulk or pose on a Broadway stage? That’s all part of the experience.  You’ll find themed zones for every age—from Marvel superheroes for the little ones to musicians and athletes for the teens. The space is stroller-friendly, and the friendly staff is happy to snap your group photo with Spiderman or Taylor Swift. For families ready to lean into NYC’s star-power energy, Tussauds never disappoints.  Central Park Bike Rental by Unlimited Biking: Wheels for the Whole Crew  Zooming through Central Park on two wheels is a rite of passage for city families. Unlimited Biking caters to every age and ability, offering comfy cruisers, kids’ bikes, trailers, and even tandem options. The team here knows the best selfie stops and will map out a loop tailored to your group’s energy and interests.  Pedal past Shakespeare Garden, glide through lush meadows, and ring your bell through quaint bridges. Cycling is a great way to cover more ground, stay cool in summer, and spot hidden gems (hello, Belvedere Castle). Picnic stops encouraged—and yes, there’s basket space for snacks from nearby delis.  SEA LIFE Aquarium New Jersey: Underwater Adventure Just Across the River  If your crew is fanatical about fish or wants a splashy break from city buzz, SEA LIFE Aquarium in New Jersey is just a quick hop away. Here, dramatic walk-through tunnels bring you face-to-face with sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish—no snorkel required. Interactive touch pools are perfect for curious little hands.  This aquarium prides itself on engaging, vivid displays, clever facts, and hands-on conservation education that makes a difference. Grownups appreciate the spotless space and manageable size—kids can explore without getting overwhelmed. Plus, the location in American Dream mall offers up plenty of dining and shopping options for a full afternoon adventure.  Broadway and Times Square Tour by Experience First: Lights, Legends, and Learning  End your family adventure with a dose of razzle-dazzle. Explore the bright lights and big dreams of Times Square on a fun, fact-packed Broadway walking tour. Guides sprinkle in legends of past and present, giving you backstage tales, musical memories, and fun facts that bring this legendary theater district to life.  Kids love the street performers and costumed characters sprinkled along the way, while parents learn surprising tidbits about iconic theaters and game-changing stars. If you’re planning to see a Broadway show, this tour is the perfect warmup: your guide will unlock secret histories, point out hidden design details, and even offer insider tips for scoring the best seats or theater snacks. What stands out is the infectious energy—Times Square thrums with excitement, and seeing your kids’ faces light up alongside the neon glow is pure New York magic. Whether your crew dreams of the stage or just loves a good behind-the-scenes story, this tour makes the city’s most famous crossroads even more special.  Ready to Make the Most of Your Family Trip?  New York City was made for memory-making, and every neighborhood has a story (or a playground, museum, or must-try pizzeria) waiting for your family. Whether you’re seeking full-throttle thrills, peaceful park days, or new ways to see the city, these picks prove you don’t have to be a local to experience NYC like one.  So, next time you’re planning that ultimate family escape to the Big Apple, keep these adventures in your back pocket. There’s a reason families return to New York over and over: every visit brings a little more wonder, a lot more photos, and enough stories to last until your next trip.  Happy exploring!    Enjoyed this? Check out travel tips from real New Yorkers, and try a tour of the city from a different angle.     Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started!    

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