Winter in New York City
If you're visiting New York City in winter, you're in for a treat! The holidays in NYC begin in late November and continue through December into the first week of January. From mid-January through March, after the holiday season, things slow down, the crowds are smaller, and it can be a great time to explore the city.
For the winter months, visitors should expect chilly weather, with average temperatures in the 30s and 40s in December, the 20s and 30s in January, and the 20s to low 40s in February.
Winter in NYC: 7 Great Ways to Experience the Season
After November, the holidays are in full swing, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city and cooler temperatures. There are so many things to do in New York City in the winter, from seeing the city all lit up to going window shopping on Fifth Avenue. Let's look at some ways to enjoy winter near Circle Line's Pier 83.
1. Get Perfect Views of NYC and Winter Photo Ops
There are plenty of reasons to take a sightseeing cruise in the winter. With the cooler temperatures, you can enjoy the views from the deck without having to worry about the heat, and the boats are temperature-controlled, so you can enjoy views of the outdoors without getting too cold. The air is clear, the holiday lights are on display, and you might even see the skyline covered in snow.
One great cruise to take in winter is the Best of NYC, which goes all the way around Manhattan. This tour, which includes a tour guide, goes under 20 bridges and past 130 landmarks, all in the space of two and a half hours. There are plenty of opportunities for winter photo ops. If you're looking for something shorter, the Liberty Midtown Cruise takes you to the Statue of Liberty in under an hour—and you’ll see many Manhattan landmarks along the way.
2. Walk in a Winter Wonderland
If you’re just getting off a cruise at Pier 83, that’s a great opportunity to walk down the Hudson River Greenway. Running parallel to the Hudson River on the West Side, the Greenway is a great place to walk or bike to some sights you saw along your cruise. You can explore Little Island or walk on the High Line. Get an up-close view of Hudson Yards, which includes The Shed, a cultural center, and Edge, the highest observation deck in the Western Hemisphere.
3. See the City All Lit Up
New York City is known for its holiday lights. The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center is the most famous, and just a short walk from Pier 83. Nearby, Saks Fifth Avenue has some of the most iconic holiday window displays.
If you're looking to venture away from Manhattan, the Grand Army Plaza menorah near Brooklyn’s Prospect Park is the world's largest menorah. It's lit every year on the first night of Hanukkah. The Dyker Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn is also known for its over-the-top holiday decorations.
Winter is the perfect time to take a Harbor Lights tour at sunset. In addition to experiencing the city lit up at night, you can see the holiday lights twinkling on the horizon.
4. Get Indoors and Visit a Museum
Cold weather means it's a great time to get indoors and visit some of NYC’s many world-renowned museums. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Guggenheim are all must-sees. Docked at Pier 86, the Intrepid Museum features original artifacts, historic video footage, and interactive exhibits
5. Celebrate the Holidays
New York City is full of holiday cheer from late November through Early January. There are plenty of holiday markets, ice skating rinks, and festive events to keep you busy.
The Bryant Park Holiday Market, complete with its own skating rink, is one of the most popular markets in the city. It's located in Midtown Manhattan and a short walk from Pier 83—or a great stop to take after seeing the tree at Rockefeller Center.
If you're looking for a way to ring in the new year, the New Year's Eve ball drop in Times Square is one of the most iconic New York City events.
If you want to stay indoors and still experience amazing views of the city, you can start the new year off with hors d'oeuvres, an open bar, and a champagne toast at midnight. Circle Line’s New Year's Eve Cruise lets you party into the New Year while cruising around NYC.
6. Go Shopping
Pier 83 is in Midtown—just a short walk from iconic holiday shopping. After a Circle Line cruise, it's an easy walk to Fifth Avenue to shop for holiday gifts. Take a break from the cold and browse one of the many department stores in the area, such as Macy's, Saks, or Bergdorf goodman. These stores also feature some of the most elaborate holiday window displays.
7. Visit Great Restaurants
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, New York City has something for everyone. Pier 83 is right by Hell's Kitchen, home to many great restaurants at different price points. Check out W42ST for additional recommendations.