It’s finally November which means the weather is cooling down and people are getting ready for the holidays. Although now that it’s officially fall, we’re looking to stay indoors more and more, 2018 has been pretty whacky in terms of weather. So, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of things to do this month including both indoor and outdoor activities- for when the 60 degree days have you itching to get out and the freezing days have you cuddling up inside. Check out our recommendations below!
1. Head to the ballet
What says Christmas in New York City better than the Nutcracker ballet? Production companies all across the city are putting on their own renditions of the show so you don’t have to break the bank to score tickets to the one at Lincoln Square (although we do recommend going at least once, it’s an experience). These three options are worth experiencing this year as well.
2. Let out your inner Bansky
If you’ve ever been interested in street art, this is your chance to learn about the techniques, theories and history of the practice. At this hour long class, take the can to the wall and make your very own mark on NYC.
3. Spend an evening with Martin Scorsese
Are you a cinema fan? Then this event on November 14 could be of serious interest to you. Famed director, Martin Scorsese will be sitting down with audience members at Old St. Patrick’s Basilica for an intimate chat about his life and work. Tickets are on sale now.
4. Bike through Central Park
What better way to get to know Central Park, and get a little exercise while you’re at it, than by bike? Central Park boasts over 47 miles of paths over 843 acres of land and on days when the weather permits, taking a bike around the area is a perfect way to take in the fall foliage and disconnect a bit.
5. Head to a holiday market
One of the best things about the holiday season in the city is the festive holiday markets. With the first already open, it’s officially time to get excited for the season! Since we’re now less than eight weeks away from Christmas, it’s time to commence some holiday shopping so check out this comprehensive list of the winter markets across NYC and when they’ll be opening to start checking friends and family off of your “to buy for” list.
6. Taste craft whiskeys at this festival
Looking for a date idea or a weekend plan with friends? Warm up with a nice glass of craft whisky this coming Saturday 10, at the New York City Whisky Fest. Taste an outstanding selection of whiskeys ranging from the all American Kentucky bourbons to the wonders of exotic Japanese whiskeys.
7. Discover the secrets of the Brooklyn Bridge
A little history tour never does you wrong. At this two hour guided tour, you’ll learn about all the secrets of the bridge from the abandoned hidden park, a bomb shelter, and a statue of the engineer who built the bridge. If you aren’t looking to take a tour though, there’s no excuse not to take a walk across and take in all the beautiful views. It’s worth it even if it’s snowing!
8. Take a tour of the Museum of Natural History
When the weather is unbearable and you need to be indoors, head to the Museum of Natural History. Take a guided tour or head there on your own, that giant T-Rex is a NYC must see.
9. Check out the new Nutella Cafe
Say whaaaat? Who doesn’t love Nutella and who doesn’t love it in a shop? The flagship NYC store is opening on November 14 near Union Square. Get ready for all that hazelnut.
10. Take a trip back to your childhood at the new FAO Schwarz location
On November 16, FAO’s new space will be occupying 20,000-square-feet at the Tishman Speyer-owned Art Deco property between West 49th and West 50th Streets. The shop will be located at Rockefeller Center, in the space that NBC Experience Store currently occupies. Get ready for some oversized holiday shopping!
11. Pack on the pre-holiday pounds at one of NYC’s best bakeries
Pumpkin pie fans as well as connoisseurs of a good ol’ rainbow cookie, fall is your season. New York City is known as the home to some of the best Italian style bakeries and well, home to the best of just about every style of bakery. Check out this list of our top 10 and indulge in a few bites.
12. Get ready for Christmas at Macy’s Santaland
Santaland is opening on November 23. Bring the kids and head over to the Macy’s flagship in Herald Square to take in the extravagant show of all things Christmas.
13. Head to the movies at NYC’s newest luxury movie theater
A new luxury theater is now open in the Upper West Side and what better way to spend a cool autumn night than at the movies? CMX CinéBistro is a five-story luxury theater offering in-seat service. The new 45,500 square-foot space features six theaters each with about 46 to 64 reclining seats, two full bars, and a full upscale menu. Check out more information and movie times.
14. Indulge in Pumpkin Spice everything
Fall and pumpkin are basically synonyms, right? New York City has so many cute coffee shops, cafes and bakeries that serve up pumpkin-y goodness that you shouldn’t have to always choose Starbucks for that pumpkin spice craving. We recommend these 5 places.
15. And of course, make sure you watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade
What is November without Thanksgiving? And what is Thanksgiving without the parade? Nothing! If you’re in the city and are looking to watch the show live, head down to the street or up to this viewing promenade to take in the floats, the magic and the ambiance from above.
Featured image: pinterst.com