14 Exciting Activities To Experience In Nyc This January

New York City in January may be chilly, but that doesn't stop the city that never sleeps from offering a plethora of exciting activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there are countless ways to experience the Big Apple in all its winter glory. From ice skating in Central Park to exploring art exhibitions and dining at winter pop-ups, we've compiled a list of 14 exciting activities that will keep you busy and entertained all month long. So bundle up and get ready to explore the magic of NYC this January!

Ice skating at Rockefeller Center

January in New York City can be a chilly time, but it's still a great time to visit Rockefeller Center. One of the highlights of this iconic destination is the ice-skating rink that's set up every winter. Here's everything you need to know to enjoy ice skating at Rockefeller Center in January.

Firstly, you should know that this attraction can get quite busy, especially during the winter holidays. To avoid the crowds, you might want to consider visiting during the week, and preferably outside of peak hours. If you do visit during peak times, expect to wait in line for the rink. However, seeing the stunning Christmas decorations around the rink might be worth the wait.

Before you hit the ice, you'll need to purchase entry tickets. These can be bought online or in person at the rink-side booth. Note that ticket prices can vary depending on the time you visit. Some options might include a flat fee for a specified time slot, while others might be for a specific amount of time. It's worth considering the best option based on your budget and how long you plan to skate.

Once you have your tickets, you'll be given a pair of ice skates to use, which are included in the price of the ticket. However, if you have your own, feel free to bring them along. You'll be given time to lace up, and once you're ready, a friendly attendant will help you onto the ice.

It's worth noting that the ice-skating rink itself is relatively small, and the experience can be quite different from skating in a larger arena. The rink is visible from all angles, making it easy to snap some Instagram-worthy photos to commemorate your visit. Note that during January, the surrounding buildings can be a little icy, so watch out for slippery areas.

When you're finished with your skate, you can return your ice skates to the booth and warm up with a hot chocolate or a coffee from one of the nearby stalls, or head to one of the restaurants for a more substantial meal. It's worth visiting nearby attractions, such as the stunning Christmas tree or the iconic statue of Atlas.

In summary, ice skating at Rockefeller Center is a must-do attraction in New York City during January. Allow for some waiting time, bring comfortable and warm clothes, and be prepared for a magical winter wonderland experience. Whether you're with friends, family or a significant other, ice skating at Rockefeller Center is an unforgettable experience.

Visit the American Museum of Natural History

Characteristic	Description
Name	American Museum of Natural History
Type	Natural history museum in New York City, New York
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 17,108
Address	200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024
Phone	(212) 769-5100
Hours	Monday(Memorial Day) - 10 AM–5:30 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Friday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5:30 PM
Profiles

When it comes to visiting New York City in January, there are countless options for entertainment and learning. One of the best places to visit and explore is the American Museum of Natural History, located on Manhattan's Upper West Side.

Founded in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest and most influential museums in the world. It houses thousands of exhibits spanning multiple floors and galleries, including a planetarium and a butterfly conservatory.

If you're visiting the museum in January, you'll be able to catch some special exhibits and events. For example, the Butterfly Conservatory is open until May and gives visitors the experience of walking through a living butterfly habitat. January is also a great time to take advantage of special events like lectures, tours, and workshops. The museum even hosts a "Night at the Museum" sleepover for families, where you can spend a night exploring and sleeping among the exhibits.

One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the Hall of Biodiversity. Here, visitors can learn about the diversity of life on Earth and how humans are affecting the planet's ecosystems. Another must-see exhibit is the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs, featuring an enormous Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton and fossils of other prehistoric creatures.

The Rose Center for Earth and Space is home to the Hayden Planetarium, which offers daily shows exploring the mysteries of the universe. If you have kids with you, be sure to visit the Discovery Room, where they can explore hands-on exhibits and play with scientific equipment.

Overall, the American Museum of Natural History is a perfect destination for a January visit to New York City. With so much to see and do, you can easily spend an entire day exploring the exhibits and learning something new. Don't miss this iconic museum during your trip to NYC.

Attend a Broadway show

If you're wondering what to do in New York City in January, attending a Broadway show is a must. Since the winter season is a quieter time for tourism in the city, it's the perfect opportunity to snag some discounted Broadway tickets and experience a world-class performance.

Broadway is home to some of the world's most renowned actors, writers, and directors, and January offers a chance to catch some of the latest productions. Most of the shows on Broadway are held indoors, which means you don't have to worry about the chilly winter weather.

One of the most popular shows on Broadway during January is Hamilton, the Tony Award-winning hip-hop musical about one of America's founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton. The show is a cultural phenomenon that has taken the world by storm since its debut in 2015. The show presents an engaging, unique story that merges contemporary music and traditional theatre, resulting in something truly unforgettable.

Another great show for January is Wicked, a prequel to The Wizard of Oz. The enchanting production stars extraordinary lead performers like Jessica Vosk as Elphaba, the green-skinned witch you probably didn't know you wanted to be. Other productions like Dear Evan Hansen, The Lion King, and Aladdin are also must-see Broadway shows in January.

The best part about attending Broadway shows in January is the off-season promotions that offer great discounts, which means you can experience world-class theatre without breaking the bank. You can find discounted Broadway tickets at TKTS booths in the city, or you can also check out websites like Today Tix and Broadway Box for great bargains.

In conclusion, attending a Broadway show in New York City in January is an excellent way to experience excellent theatre while taking advantage of deals and discounts. A visit to Broadway is more than just a theatrical performance; it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will surely treasure, so why not make it a part of your New York City itinerary this coming January?

Take a food tour in Chinatown

NYC in January is a great time to explore the city's rich food culture. One of the best places to start is in Chinatown, a vibrant neighborhood that's been an integral part of New York's culinary scene for over a century. Here are some tips on how to take a food tour of Chinatown in January.

Chinatown is home to hundreds of restaurants and food shops, so it can be hard to know where to start. That's why it's a good idea to join a food tour, where a guide will lead you through the neighborhood, pointing out the best places to sample Chinese cuisine. Two popular food tours in Chinatown are the Chinatown Food Tour by Ahoy New York and the Original Chinatown Food Tour by Foods of New York Tours.

Both tours offer a mix of savory and sweet dishes, so you'll get a chance to sample a wide variety of flavors. Depending on the tour you choose, you might be able to try juicy dumplings, crispy scallion pancakes, roasted duck, and steaming bowls of noodle soup. Don't forget to save room for dessert - both tours include a stop at a bakery where you can pick up sweet treats like pineapple buns and egg tarts.

One of the best things about taking a food tour in January is that the crowds are smaller than during peak tourist season. You'll have more room to move around and less time spent waiting in lines at popular restaurants. Plus, many restaurants offer seasonal specials during the winter months, so you might discover new dishes that aren't available the rest of the year.

When planning your Chinatown food tour, be sure to dress warmly - January temperatures in NYC can be chilly. Also, keep in mind that many restaurants in Chinatown only accept cash, so bring plenty of bills and coins with you.

Overall, taking a food tour in Chinatown is an excellent way to experience the neighborhood's vibrant food scene and try some delicious dishes. So bundle up and get ready to eat your way through one of NYC's most iconic neighborhoods!

Participate in the Winter Jazzfest

As the holidays wind down and the thrill of Christmas fades away, New York City enters a new season of fun and entertainment. January is a great time to revel in some of the city's finest cultural events and traditions, with one in particular standing out: the Winter Jazzfest.

Held annually since 2005, the Winter Jazzfest is a multi-day music festival that takes place across various venues in Manhattan. Its primary goal is to showcase today's most exciting jazz music, with an emphasis on new and emerging artists.

The event first gained widespread popularity in 2011, thanks in part to the inclusion of renowned jazz musicians such as bassist Esperanza Spalding and trumpeter Roy Hargrove. Since then, Winter Jazzfest has grown in both size and scope, with hundreds of acts performing at over a dozen venues.

This year's festival takes place from January 7th to January 18th and offers a range of events and activities during that time. Attendees can take in three to four different shows each night, ranging from intimate sets in cozy clubs to sprawling performances in large theaters.

The festival also has several free events, including panels, workshops, and films, making it a great opportunity for music lovers on a budget. And for those wanting a bit of exclusivity, a premium badge offers priority admission to some of the bigger shows, access to artist meet-and-greets, and special promotions at local restaurants.

With such a diverse lineup of performances, there's no shortage of options for this year's Winter Jazzfest. Be sure not to miss out on this unique celebration of jazz music in one of the greatest cities in the world.

Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	9/11 Memorial & Museum
Type	Museum in New York City, New York
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 62,236
Address	180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007
Phone	(212) 312-8800
Hours	Monday(Memorial Day) - 8 AM–8 PM Tuesday - 8 AM–8 PM Wednesday - 8 AM–8 PM Thursday - 8 AM–8 PM Friday - 8 AM–8 PM Saturday - 8 AM–8 PM Sunday - 8 AM–8 PM
Profiles

New York City is always bustling with tourists from all over the world, no matter the time of year. Yet January, with cold and crisp air, offers the perfect time to explore the city and soak in its rich history. One place that everyone should visit, regardless of the season, is the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum, located in downtown Manhattan, honors and remembers the nearly 3,000 victims of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001. The museum also pays tribute to the six individuals killed in the World Trade Center bombing in 1993.

One of the most powerful aspects of the museum is the way it tells the story of that tragic day. From the personal stories of victims and first responders to the harrowing images of the attacks, the museum provides an immersive experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for our national resilience.

The main exhibit within the museum is divided into three parts: the events of 9/11, the aftermath, and the rebuilding of the World Trade Center complex. The exhibit also includes artifacts from the site, such as fragments of the Twin Towers and personal belongings of victims and first responders.

At the heart of the museum lies the reflecting pools, which sit in the footprints of the North and South Towers. The pools are surrounded by bronze panels inscribed with the names of every individual who lost their life in the attacks.

Visitors can also participate in guided tours, led by a member of the museum staff. Tours are designed to enhance the museum experience and provide a deeper understanding of the events and their impact.

While the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is an emotional experience, it is an essential one. The tribute to the victims and heroes of 9/11 is a reminder of our nation's resiliency and that we must never forget the lives lost on that fateful day.

Check out the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

If you're looking for something fun and festive to do in New York City this January, look no further than the New York Botanical Garden's Holiday Train Show.

This beloved holiday tradition features model trains whizzing past miniature landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Brooklyn Bridge, all made entirely out of natural materials like bark, leaves, and twigs. It's a stunning display of artistry and engineering, perfect for kids and adults alike.

But that's not all the New York Botanical Garden has to offer this winter. In addition to the Train Show, the Garden is also hosting a Winter Harmonies concert series, featuring live music and dance performances in their cozy and intimate Conservatory. And every weekend, families can gather around a warm fire pit for storytelling, cocoa, and marshmallow roasting.

Of course, no trip to the New York Botanical Garden would be complete without a stroll through their breathtaking gardens and collections. Even in the heart of winter, there's still plenty to see and admire, from the winter-blooming orchids to the 50-foot-tall Victoria amazonica waterlilies in the Haupt Conservatory.

So if you're looking for a fun and festive way to beat the January blues, head to the New York Botanical Garden and see for yourself why it's one of the city's most beloved attractions.

Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Type	$$$
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 74,332
Address	1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Phone	(212) 535-7710
Hours	Monday(Memorial Day) - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - Closed Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–9 PM Saturday - 10 AM–9 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

New York City in January can be a cold, gray place, but luckily there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, one of which is exploring the amazing Metropolitan Museum of Art. Here are some tips for navigating this massive museum during the winter months.

First of all, wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. The museum is so large that you'll be doing a lot of walking, and the temperature can vary from room to room. Also, be sure to check out the museum's current exhibitions before you go – there's always something new and exciting to see.

Once inside, take advantage of the museum's map to plan your route and make sure you don't miss any of your favorite galleries. If you're short on time, focus on a few key areas – the Egyptian Wing, the American Wing, and the European Paintings galleries are all must-sees.

If you're traveling with kids, be sure to stop by the museum's Family Room, where there are plenty of hands-on activities to keep little ones entertained. And don't forget to grab a bite to eat at one of the museum's cafes or restaurants – the views from the rooftop garden are especially stunning.

One of the best things about visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the winter is that it's a great way to escape the cold and spend a day surrounded by beauty and culture. So why not bundle up, head to the Upper East Side, and explore one of the world's greatest museums? You won't regret it.

Attend the Light Cycles exhibit at Bronx’s Wave Hill

Characteristic	Description
Name	Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center
Type	Garden in the Bronx, New York
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 1,649
Address	4900 Independence Ave, Bronx, NY 10471
Phone	(718) 549-3200
Hours	Monday(Memorial Day) - Closed Tuesday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Friday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5:30 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5:30 PM
Profiles

If you happen to be in New York City in January and are looking for an exciting event to attend, then the "Light Cycles" exhibit at Bronx's Wave Hill is definitely worth checking out. This unique exhibit celebrates the changing seasons and the natural beauty of the Hudson River Valley.

Located in the city's Bronx borough, Wave Hill is a stunning 28-acre public garden and cultural center that offers brilliant views of the Hudson River and the Palisades. From January 9 to April 11, 2021, visitors can enjoy "Light Cycles," a special exhibit that features an illuminating installation in the garden. The installation includes several glowing sculptures made from repurposed bicycle parts, alongside projections featuring landscapes of Hudson River Valley.

The exhibit showcases how the natural world changes throughout the year. Specifically, it celebrates how light influences the environment in and around the garden, and how that changes across the seasons. By exploring the interplay between nature, light, and landscapes in this way, "Light Cycles" highlights the ongoing vitality of the Hudson River Valley and its landscape.

The artists behind the "Light Cycles" exhibit are Lina Alfonso and Sandy Gellis. They designed the sculptures with intention, with grids of recycled tubes and wire being woven with LED lights. The projection features landscape stylings from local painter and illustrator, Becca Barnet teaming up with motion designer Alan Goolman.

Overall, the "Light Cycles" exhibit at Bronx's Wave Hill offers an exploratory and mesmerizing spectacle that's perfect for anyone seeking a unique and beautiful experience in New York City. If you're looking for a chance to revel in the beauty of the Hudson River Valley, be sure to make a trip to Wave Hill this January or anytime before April 11, 2021, for this immersive exhibit.

See the Ballet Hispánico at the Joyce Theatre

If you're planning a trip to New York City in the month of January, you won't be disappointed. There's always something happening in the Big Apple during this time of year, and one event you won't want to miss is seeing the Ballet Hispánico at the Joyce Theatre.

The Ballet Hispánico is a renowned dance company that celebrates and explores Latin American culture through movement. This year, they'll be performing at the Joyce Theatre from January 8th to January 19th, so be sure to mark your calendars.

One of the things that makes the Ballet Hispánico so special is their ability to blend traditional Latin American dance styles with contemporary movements. Their performances are breathtaking and often tell stories that are deeply rooted in Latin American culture.

The Joyce Theatre is the perfect venue for the Ballet Hispánico's performances. It's an intimate space that allows you to get up close and personal with the dancers. This means that you'll be able to see every move and feel like you're a part of the performance.

If you're not familiar with Latin American dance styles, you're in for a treat. The Ballet Hispánico incorporates many different styles, including salsa, mambo, tango, and flamenco. These dances are full of energy and passion, and you won't be able to resist tapping your feet along with the music.

In addition to their evening performances, the Ballet Hispánico also hosts matinees that are perfect for families. These performances are designed to introduce children to Latin American dance and culture in a fun and interactive way.

Overall, seeing the Ballet Hispánico at the Joyce Theatre is a must-do activity for anyone visiting New York City in January. With their stunning choreography and infectious energy, you'll be transported to Latin America without ever leaving the theatre. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience one of the world's foremost dance companies.

Visit the Empire State Building

Characteristic	Description
Name	Empire State Building
Type	Skyscraper in New York City, New York
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 92,226
Address	20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001
Phone	(212) 736-3100
Hours	Monday(Memorial Day) - 9 AM–12 AM Tuesday - 9 AM–12 AM Wednesday - 9 AM–12 AM Thursday - 9 AM–12 AM Friday - 9 AM–12 AM Saturday - 9 AM–12 AM Sunday - 9 AM–12 AM
Profiles

When visiting New York City in January, one must-visit attraction is the iconic Empire State Building. Standing at 1,454 feet tall, this world-famous skyscraper offers an unparalleled view of the city that never sleeps.

There are several things to keep in mind when planning your visit to the Empire State Building in January. First and foremost, be sure to dress appropriately. January in New York City can be quite cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing and the occasional snowstorm. Dress in warm layers, wear comfortable shoes, and don't forget a hat and gloves.

Once you arrive at the Empire State Building, you'll first need to purchase a ticket. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or on-site at the ticket office. There are several different ticket options available, including a standard ticket that allows you to access the observation deck on the 86th floor, a VIP express pass, and a combination ticket that includes access to both the 86th and 102nd floors.

Once you've purchased your ticket, head to the elevator and prepare for an exhilarating ride to the top. The ride to the observation deck takes just 60 seconds, and the elevator features a fun, immersive experience that gives visitors a taste of the building's history.

Once you reach the observation deck, you'll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views in all of New York City. You'll be able to see bustling Times Square, the sparkling lights of the Hudson River, and the iconic skyscrapers that dot the skyline. If you're lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty in the distance.

Visiting the Empire State Building in January also has the added benefit of smaller crowds. While the attraction is still popular year-round, January tends to be a slower month for tourism, which means fewer people and shorter lines than you'll find in the peak summer months.

In conclusion, a visit to the Empire State Building is a must-do activity when visiting New York City in January. With stunning views, a rich history, and smaller crowds, it's the perfect way to experience one of the world's most iconic landmarks. Just be sure to dress warmly and prepare for an unforgettable experience.

Take a winter hike in Central Park

January in New York City can be frigid and snow-covered, but that doesn't mean you have to stay indoors. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of winter in the city is to take a winter hike through Central Park.

The park offers miles of winding trails and picturesque landscapes that are perfect for a snowy adventure. And while you might have to bundle up for the cold, the payoff is well worth it.

To start your winter hike, head to the Central Park Conservancy Visitor Center, where you can pick up a map of the park's trails and get advice on the best routes to take. From there, you can head out and explore some of the park's most iconic sights, like the Bethesda Fountain and the Bow Bridge.

As you hike, keep an eye out for some of the park's winter inhabitants, like the red-tailed hawk and the snowy owl. You might also spot some furry friends, like squirrels and rabbits, darting through the snow.

One of the best parts of winter hiking is the peaceful silence that descends on the park. With fewer crowds and the soft crunch of snow underfoot, you'll feel like you have the whole park to yourself.

Just remember to dress warmly for the weather, and wear appropriate winter gear like waterproof boots and gloves. And if you need a break from the cold, there are plenty of warming stations throughout the park where you can take a break and warm up by a fire.

Overall, a winter hike through Central Park is a great way to experience the beauty of New York City's winter landscape. So grab some friends, bundle up, and hit the trails for a truly unforgettable adventure.

Catch the Winter Antiques Show at the Park Avenue Armory

Winter in New York City can be a magical time, especially when it comes to arts and culture. One event that should be on the radar for any lover of antiques is the Winter Antiques Show at the Park Avenue Armory. The show runs from January 24th through February 2nd, and it is one of the most prestigious events of its kind in the world.

What can you expect from the Winter Antiques Show? First and foremost, you will encounter a vast array of items, from rare books and antique furniture to fine art and even jewelry. The exhibitors come from all over the world, and the pieces on display are some of the most sought-after and valuable items in the collecting world.

One of the highlights of the show is its historical context. This show dates back to 1954 and has a long legacy of showcasing some of the finest items from cultures around the world. Exhibits range from the ancient to the modern, so no matter what type of antiques you are interested in, you are sure to find something that resonates with you.

Visitors to the Park Avenue Armory will be amazed by the sheer size of the venue, which has more than enough space to accommodate the many exhibits on display. The Armory is also conveniently located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, so it’s easily accessible by public transportation.

Beyond the impressive art and antiques on display, the Winter Antiques Show also has a social element to it. Attendees can enjoy a host of events, from lectures and panel discussions to cocktail parties and after-hours receptions. These events provide a great opportunity to network with collectors, dealers, and museum curators.

If you’re looking for something special to do during your trip to New York City in January, it’s hard to think of a better option than the Winter Antiques Show. From world-class exhibits to exciting social events, there is something for everyone at this extraordinary event. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique cultural event in the heart of the city.

Attend the Winter Show at the Park Avenue Armory

Once the holiday season is over and the cold weather settles in, it can be challenging to find fun and exciting activities to do in New York City. However, if you're looking for an enjoyable, indoor event to attend, the Winter Show at the Park Avenue Armory is a great option!

The Winter Show is an annual event that takes place at the Park Avenue Armory in January. It showcases fine art, antiques, and decorative works from around the world, spanning from ancient times to contemporary times. The event has a long and rich history, with its origins dating back to 1954. It brings together exhibitors, collectors, curators, and enthusiasts from all over the world for a week-long display of breathtaking art and antiques.

One of the unique features of the Winter Show is the different exhibits that are showcased each year. Every year, the event's committee chooses a different theme for the show, so visitors can expect to see a wide range of antiques and art that reflect this theme. In past years, the exhibit has focused on antique silver, old master paintings, and contemporary art, to name a few.

Not only is the Winter Show an exciting event for art and antique lovers, but it's also a great opportunity to learn more about the pieces that are featured. The fair's exhibitors include some of the world's leading experts in art and antiques, who are happy to share their knowledge with visitors. You can learn about the history behind each piece, the techniques used to create it, and even gain insight into the valuation of each item.

The Park Avenue Armory, where the event takes place, is also a spectacular location. The Armory is a historic building with over 50,000 square feet of space, allowing for ample room for all the exhibits and visitors. The building's architecture is impressive and adds to the overall charm of the Winter Show. It's one of the most iconic buildings in the city and has been used for numerous events and celebrations throughout the years.

If you plan on attending the Winter Show, it’s important to note that there are different admission options available. Admission is timed and tickets are required for entry. There is also an opening night preview, which is a highly-anticipated event that often sells out quickly. The preview night is a chance to get a sneak peek at all the exhibits and to mingle with the actors and actresses who attend.

In conclusion, the Winter Show at the Park Avenue Armory is an excellent way to spend a weekend in January. It offers visitors a chance to see some of the most significant art and antiques from around the world, learn more about them, and soak up the unique atmosphere and style of the Park Avenue Armory. It's an event that has something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned collector or simply someone who appreciates beauty and history. So, consider attending the Winter Show this January and add a touch of sophistication and elegance to your winter activities in NYC.

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