Looking for the best things to do in NYC this weekend? Here are our top plans we know you’ll enjoy this weekend:
1. Celebrate Hanukkah in NYC with menorah lightings and themed-bars
Hanukkah runs from December 7 – 15th this year, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate in NYC. From giant menorah lightings to popping by this Hanukkah-themed bar. Find even more things to do this weekend and throughout next week here.
2. Grab a danish from Schrafft’s and window shop like Holly Golightly
Schrafft’s will return to NYC for a limited-time during the holidays. You might recognize the famous eatery’s name from its cameo in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. New Yorkers will be able to order signature pastries and beverages all in the same packaging Hepburn was photographed holding. Learn more and where to find the Schrafft’s pop-up here.
3. Sing-a-long to your favorite Mariah Carey holiday tunes at this festive show
Hear Mariah Carey’s holiday hits from Broadway singers alongside a 14-piece orchestra to get you in the spirit of the season. The performance is all part of a unique musical concert series known as Broadway Sings. Grab your tickets here.
4. Enjoy a car-free Fifth Avenue this Sunday
The Gift of Fifth will shut down Fifth Avenue to all car traffic on select Sundays in December from 12-6pm, this weekend included. Take advantage of more pedestrian space and explore the beautiful holiday displays all across the Avenue, from Saks to Rockefeller Center. Learn more here.
5. Grab a drink at Sopranos star Michael Imperioli’s new cocktail lounge
Actor Michael Imperioli just opened up Scarlet, a new cocktail lounge on the Upper West Side. With his grandfather as a bootlegger during the prohibition, the business of serving up liquor and a good time practically runs in the family! And yes, there’s even a drink called The White Lotus. Learn more about Scarlet here.
6. Take in panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge with Santa’s Winter Wonderland’s return
At Santa’s Winter Wonderland, guests will be privy to waterfront views, seasonal drinks, holiday decorations, light bites, a glimpse of Santa Claus himself! The whimsical winter celebration is selling fast so be sure to secure your spot now!
7. Join our exclusive Secret Club to enjoy brilliant benefits across NYC
Secret Club NYC is gearing up to provide our Facebook followers with some exclusive ways to experience the city that never sleeps. This must-try subscription service provides unbeatable deals and discounts, giveaways, as well as a community-driven space for spreading that New York City love, guaranteed to make you feel like a true NYC VIP. Join Secret Club NYC today!
8. Grab your crew and sing your heart out at Baby Grand
It’s time to warm up the pipes with a good ol’ night of karaoke at one of NYC’s most beloved karaoke bars, Baby Grand! Located at 29 W 17th St, you can choose to live out your pop star fantasy on the main stage or book a private room with friends. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable night.
9. Embrace the colder season ahead at the magical Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park has returned for its 22nd season. Get ready to shop loads of fantastical products from more than 100 vendors, taste delicious bites at The Lodge, and brush up on your ice skating skills at New York City’s only free admission ice skating rink. Find out even more here.
10. Grab a ticket to this dazzling Winter Lantern Festival
After 3 successful years, this captivating Lantern Festival has officially returned to Queens County Farm Museum. The enchanting experience is full of Chinese lanterns made by artisans with decades of experience, and they are sure to amaze visitors of all ages!
11. Get your shopping on at the Union Square Holiday Market
Union Square Holiday Market, one of the most beloved seasonal markets in NYC, has opened for the season. Visitors will be able to feast on delicious food from a wide variety of vendors and shop from over 150 local sellers! Find out all the details of this season’s market here.
12. Enjoy a secret 12-piece “omakase” menu while blindfolded
Embark on a sensorial journey with a unique 12-course sushi tasting experience with a surprise menu. What makes this really so special? You’ll be dining entirely blindfolded! Dining in the Dark will heighten your senses of taste and smell for a culinary tasting you’ll never forget. Reserve your spot now.
13. Check out some of the best concerts coming to NYC
This November, NYC will host a plethora of talented artists on stages across the five boroughs. From Candlelight Concerts to Doja Cat, see the entire roundup of concerts coming to the city here.
14. Explore the catacombs of Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral by candlelight
Travel beneath the depths of Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City’s only catholic catacombs by candlelight. The unique tour gives you insight on the rich history and spirituality hidden with a church that’s hundreds of years old. Grab your tickets now.
15. Cozy up with some hot chocolate at Bryant Park’s recently opened igloos
Bryant Park’s Curling Café and heated bubble igloo tents are officially open for the season! Boasting amazing views of the Winter Village in all its holiday glory, visitors can cozy up with a warm drink and bite to eat or try their hand at the beloved winter-friendly activity–curling. Learn more here.
16. Take your holiday pics with the 2023 Rockefeller Center Christmas tree
This year’s Norway Spruce, selected from Vestal, New York, has officially made its way to the plaza. It tops out at 80-feet tall and was generously donated from by McGinley family. Visitors can now stop by to see it all dolled up in over 50,000 lights! Learn more about the 2023 Rockefeller Center Christmas tree here.
17. Get tickets for the celestial night walk ‘Astra Lumina’
Set off across mysterious grounds to discover a celestial pathway of lustrous light, cosmic visions, and astral song at Astra Lumina. Taking over the Queens Botanical Garden this November, you’ll be fully immersed in the magic of projections, lighting, music, and the astral energy. Get your tickets now!
18. Embark on this enchanting holiday walk-thru less than an hour from Manhattan
Share the joy of the festive season at Holiday Lane at American Christmas in Mount Vernon, New York. This immersive indoor walkthrough experience with over 100,000 lights, 100 animatronics, nine uniquely themed areas, and so much more, is perfect for families and friends of all ages! Get your tickets here.
19. Enjoy a stunning concert bathed in candlelight
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like you’ve never seen before all across NYC! Here are some of our favorites:
20. Skate underneath the Brooklyn Bridge at this brand new ice rink
The first ice skating rink at Brooklyn Bridge park has just opened! Known as Glide, the rink has taken over Emily Warren Roebling Plaza. Skaters can reserve 50 minute skate sessions at various time slots through March 1st. Find out everything you need to know about Glide rink here.
21. Be part of a sitcom at The FRIENDS™ Experience
Relive your favorite sitcom and hop into the world of FRIENDS™ like you never have before! Lounge out on the iconic orange couch, sit at Monica & Rachel’s kitchen table, kick back and relax in Joey and Chandler’s comfy chairs, and take photos with an iconic cup of coffee from Central Perk. If you’re a fan of this show, it’s an absolute must-do this weekend! Buy your tickets here!
22. Get competitive at NYC’s first and only live game show experience
Game of 1000 Boxes is a never-before-seen social gaming experience that will test your social strategy, reaction time, useless knowledge, puzzle-solving skills, and, ultimately, your pure cosmic luck! Guided by a live host, teams of 4 compete in a series of high-energy party games in an adrenaline-infused experience that measures your collective wits and button-finger agility! Grab your tickets to this must-do activity here.
23. Check all these must-do activities off your NYC bucket list
New York City is a one of a kind place, and whether you’re a newbie or have been living here for years, there’s a few things that you have to do at least once! From visiting NYC’s most iconic landmarks to eating the best food out there, we’ve got a mix of “touristy” and “local” recommendations that we think everyone should follow, and you can find them all here.
24. Get cozy inside Somewhere Nowhere’s winter igloos
Somewhere Nowhere’s Teardrop Igloos Experience is a one-of-a-kind winter wonderland, perfect for the colder season! Treat yourself and your loved ones to an evening taking in the stunning NYC skyline with a glass of champagne in hand… all in your very own heated igloo. Buy your tickets now!
25. Head to Greenpoint to grab a drink at the second location of Ray’s
NYC’s watering hole Ray’s, known for its pool tables, disco ball, and overall dive bar vibes, has opened the doors of its second location in Greenpoint, and they’re bringing New Yorkers all the same home-away-from-home vibes “Raygulars” have come to know and love at the LES space. Read all about the new location here.
26. Make your reservations at these festive holiday pop-up bars
Each year various bars and restaurants go all out in holiday spirit decorations, transforming into magical winter wonderlands for a few months. And from rooftops transformed into alpine lodges and igloos to spaces focusing more on kitschy and colorful decor, they’re all must-visits. Find our list of our favorite ones here.
27. Save your money with these 75 free activities to do in NYC right now
We understand it’s easy to step outside your door intending to spend no money, and somehow be out $70 by the end of the day in NYC. That’s why we created an incredible guide of fabulous things to do in the city that costs absolutely nothing. View it here and your wallet can thank us later!
28. Embark on an epic astrological cocktail experience
For astrology lovers, you can awaken and learn about your inner moon goddess at MoonRise: A Nouveau Circus Immersive Performance! This immersive theatrical experience with circus-based acts and themed cocktails is equally an interactive multi-sensory experience and an exciting wonder as professional aerialists perform right above you! Grab your tickets here.
29. Explore all of NYC’s best food trucks
New York City is no stranger to awesome street food, and you can find virtually any type of cuisine you could imagine being cooked up right on the streets! And during the crazy holiday season when you’re constantly on the go, it’s easy to stop by one to give it a try! Find some of our favorite food trucks here.
30. Step into a world of miniatures at Small is Beautiful before it closes at the end of the month
Explore more than 130 miniature works of art from 30+ artists at the now open Small is Beautiful exhibition in NYC. The miniature world previously toured cities like Paris and London, collecting rave reviews along the way. You won’t want to miss it during its time in New York so grab your tickets here.
31. Indulge in maximalist whimsy & ‘Chocolate Mousse From The 80s’ at this new modern American restaurant
A new modern American restaurant recently opened its doors in NYC, and it’s bringing a mixture of maximalist whimsy and cozy, intimate vibes to NYC’s Flatiron District. Dubbed Little Maven, guests can indulge in “an inviting neighborhood menu” while cozying up in the dimly lit space. Read more about Little Maven here.
32. Book your next European vacation
In the midst of the holiday season with travel on the mind, it’s about time to start booking your trips! And thanks to budget airlines, you won’t have to break the bank to have the vacation of your dreams. Whether it’s Paris, London or Rome, choose from a variety of low-cost flight prices you can’t pass up! See more escapes here.
33. Attend Luna Park’s first-ever winter season with Frost Fest
Coney Island’s Luna Park is extending its activities into the winter season for the first-ever Frost Fest. Experience everything from the Rudolph Rink to Santa’s Wonderland Experience. Learn more about Frost Fest here.
34. Sip on beanless coffee, being brewed exclusively at this NYC coffeeshop
Whether you drink it warm or iced, a cup of joe is vital to a New Yorker’s morning routine, and this Midtown coffeeshop is serving up a cup of coffee sans the coffee beans! The beanless coffee came about to “tackle supply chain and sustainability issues plaguing the coffee industry,” and can be enjoyed however you usually take your coffee. Learn more about it here.
35. Dig into BEC pierogis at Veselka’s third location in Grand Central Terminal
Veselka’s new Grand Central location is officially open for business, serving up all its delicious classics–from pierogis and borscht to cabbage rolls–along with breakfast items and coffee! Learn more here.
36. Get creative with watercolor, clay, & collaging at Happy Medium
Happy Medium is a quaint space where, ranging from $15-24, customers can pick from a variety of mediums, including charcoal, pastel, clay, watercolor, and even collage-making! The experiences are self-guided, so it is entirely up to you what your finished piece looks like, but if you’re feeling lost there are fresh flowers, art books, and objects strategically placed around to help you find inspiration. Learn more about this fun space here.
37. Escape on your Euro vacation without catching a flight
With a ginormous city such as New York, it’s incredible how each neighborhood or even corner can feel like you’re in an entirely different place in the world. So if you’re itching for your European vacation to come a little sooner, we recommend checking out these 11 spots in and around NYC that could be Europe at a first glance.
38. Gift someone NYC’s favorite cookies with Levain’s limited-edition holiday cookie tin
Unsure what to get someone this holiday season? Explore Levain’s wide holiday offerings from adorable custom-made felt ornaments to their limited-edition holiday cookie tin. And don’t forget to indulge in their Dark Chocolate Peppermint cookie back by popular demand! See more gift options from one of NYC’s favorite bakeries here.
39. Go ice skating on the iconic Rockefeller Center ice rink
One of the most famous ice rinks in the world is now open to skaters! So lace up your skates and be one of the first to hit the ice this season at the Rockefeller Center ice rink. Find more details here.
40. Experience this noir-inspired adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth before it closes for good
Sleep No More, the Off-Broadway production that takes guests on a thrilling theatrical experience based on Shakespeare’s Macbeth tragedy, is sadly coming to an end in January–so you’ll definitely want to check it out while you still can! The award-winning theatrical experience tells Shakespeare’s Scottish tragedy through a darkly cinematic, film noir lens, and it gives off just the right kind of creepy vibes. Read all about it here.
41. Dance the night away at NYC’s hottest clubs
Break a sweat and cool off with delicious cocktails at one of NYC’s hottest clubs this weekend. Whether you’re looking for a wild night at House of Yes or DJ sets at Wiggle Room, you’re sure to have a good night. Find some of our favorites NYC clubs here.
42. Grab a drink at these winter rooftops
Just because it’s getting colder outside doesn’t mean that rooftop season has to end! Tons of NYC rooftops transform their spaces to adapt to the upcoming season with cozy chalets, twinkling fairy lights and beyond. Find some of our favorite winter rooftops here.
43. Travel back in time to the Chinese Diaspora at Long Island City’s newest hidden cocktail bar
Recently opened 929 is celebrating mixing in all of its forms–from playful cocktails that showcase familiar Chinese flavors to meticulously curated playlists and live DJs that highlight retro Asian pop music. The discreet cocktail bar pays homage to the music scene of Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, with cocktails named after classic hits from the golden age of Cantopop and Mandopop and inspired by flavors that invoke memories of the Chinese diaspora. Learn more about 929 here.
44. Grab a slice at the country’s best pizzeria, located in NYC
Us New Yorkers sure do have a sense of humor, but one thing we don’t take lightly is our pizza, and NYC’s Una Pizza Napoletana has officially been dubbed the Best Pizzeria in the United States for the second time. Una Pizza Napoletana is the sixth iteration of owner Anthony Mangieri’s pizzeria that focuses on naturally-leavened, wood-fired pizzas. Learn more here.
45. Get down(ward dog) with adorable puppies at this dog-friendly yoga studio
Improve your mood with yoga, puppies and bubbly at Puppysphere’s newest studio in SoHo. To clarify, you’ll be doing 45-minutes of Flow Yoga before 30 minutes of pure puppy cuddles and unlimited mimosas. All of the puppies come from reputable breeders and rescues, and if you’re looking for a new family member you can even adopt one yourself. Find out all about Puppysphere here.
46. Feel the love at this boutique Brooklyn bookstore that solely sells romance novels
Get your summer reading done at The Ripped Bodice, a bookstore entirely devoted to romance novels. This independent, queer and women-owned bookstore originally started in Los Angeles in 2016 and is now in Brooklyn! They sell an extensive selection of romantic fiction that is sure to have your heart swelling. Read more about it here.
47. Feel like you’re in a fairytale at these spots around New York
New York City has a beauty of its own with its greenery-filled parks, beautiful streets, and stunning architecture–but beyond the city we call home is an even bigger world of stunning places to explore, some of which don’t even feel real. And, as always, we’re sharing them all with you! 10 places around New York that look like they’re straight out of a fairytale can be found here.
48. See a movie for a discounted price at any NYC Regal Cinemas
You can now grab discounted tickets to any Regal Cinemas location so you no longer have to worry about breaking the bank next time you go to catch a movie! The discounted movie tickets are valid at any Regal Cinemas location in the United States and have no expiration date. Premier tickets are valid for any 2D movie, on any day, at any time, at participating Regal Cinemas! Learn more here.
49. See the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular
Get ready to see legs flying in the air as the Rockettes’ 2023-24 Christmas Spectacular has kicked off for the season. See 14 brand new Rockettes joining the show this season for an unforgettable performance that you’ll remember for a lifetime. Click here for everything you need to know about this year’s Christmas Spectacular.
50. Grab a drink at this new LES cocktail bar from the former R&D captain of Double Chicken Please
Ray Zhou, former R&D Captain at the number one bar in North America for 2023, has opened a brand new cocktail bar that pays homage to his childhood in Dalian in Northeastern China to now living in New York City (“China-to…”). Some of the cocktails on the menu can take up to 10 hours of preparation, and some are inspired by famous tracks like “Tequila!” by Champs, and “Gin & Juice” by Snoop Dogg. Read all about this new spot here.
51. Embark on a thrilling winter getaway
As the temperatures drop and flurries begin to fall over the city, New Yorkers hide from the cold in their five-story walk-ups or brave the frigid temperatures in their trusty black puffer coats, but why not combat those winter blues by escaping the city on a winter adventure?! Find some our favorite winter escapes from NYC here.
52. Get in the holiday spirit with this year’s festive Dyker Heights Christmas lights
Dyker Heights’ impressive holiday light display has been a tradition for more than 30 years and spans three avenues and several streets. Over 100,000 visitors make their way to the neighborhood each year to catch a glimpse of some of the most over-the-top holiday homes—and that number keeps growing! Read all about where you can find them here.
53. Get a head start on holiday shopping at these NYC markets
Some of NYC’s iconic, annual holiday markets have already opened for the season! That means that you can get a head start on all your holiday shopping so you don’t frantically search for the perfect gifts at the last second. Find the details on all of NYC’s holiday markets here.
54. Spend your Saturday exploring the best of the West Village
With the weather forecasted in the 60s this weekend, make the most of the sunshine with a stroll through the West Village. From delicious restaurants and bars to charming boutique shops, explore our West Village favorites here.
55. Chow down at this Korean pizzeria in the East Village
Appas Pizza is a new Korean pizza parlor serving mouthwatering pies topped with ingredients like bulgogi, kimchi bacon, and sausage and shrimp. As of now, the spot is still operating in soft opening mode, with around 20-30% of their menu available. However, their menu will expand in the future! Read more about Appas Pizza here.
56. Score tickets to your favorite TV show tapings in NYC
Always wanted to be an audience member in your favorite late night talk show? We’re here to let you know that dream can become a reality! Find out how to score tickets to your favorite shows filmed in NYC here.
57. Celebrate the holiday season at this stunning Asian Lantern Exhibition
Dazzling holiday lights are popping up everwhere. One particularly stunning experience that you won’t want to miss is the Asian Lantern Festival Exhibition at American Dream. Be enchanted by beautiful lanterns made by artisans with decades of experience, enjoy dino rides and make your own paper lanterns at the craft table. Grab your tickets to this magnificent indoor experience now.
58. Check these magical happenings off your holiday bucket list
During this time of year the city shines particularly bright with lights illuminating every corner you turn, and it’s officially time to take part in all the holiday mania! From Hanukkah-themed bars to dreamy light displays, our favorite things to do for the holidays in NYC can be found here.
59. Cozy up at 230 Fifth’s magical rooftop Igloo Bar
230 Fifth, one of NYC’s most iconic rooftop igloo bars, is now officially bringing on the holiday cheer, and reservations are available! 230 Fifth’s Rooftop Igloo Bar is wildly popular in NYC each year as the weather cools…they’re fully heated and offer incredible panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline! Read all about it here.
60. Grab your tickets to this magical candy cottage in Rockefeller Center
An immersive wonderland of theatrical confectionery awaits this holiday season at The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic in New York. Take part in an adventurous scavenger hunt across Rockefeller Center to discover ingredients for your own Christmas magic. It will definitely cure your sweet tooth. Buy your tickets now!
61. Make your way through a winter wonderland and into Santa’s secret speakeasy
Enjoy Christmas-themed cocktails, a live band, and an eye-popping variety show of unique acts, all with a holiday twist at Santa’s Secret Immersive Holiday Experience. Follow the winding path through 8 enchanting holiday installations before entering Santa’s Speakeasy and Showroom with 2 bars. Expect alluring performances ranging from drag and ballet to burlesque. Get your tickets here.
62. Get into the holiday spirit at Governors Island’s festive Winter Village
Governors Island’s festive Winter Village is officially open for the season as of Friday, December 1st! Visitors of every age can partake in nearly every festive activity imaginable. The Village features crackling fire pits, seasonal food and drinks, holiday lights, bike and sled rentals, and more! Read all about the festive fun here.
63. Cross these happenings off your NYC December bucket list
There’s simply no better place than NYC to get in the spirit of the season and as 2023 comes to a close, New York City is bustling with activities. From bar transformations, dazzling light displays, and all the icy fun and shopping in between, 30+ magically festive things to do in NYC this month can be found here.
64. Experience a festive holiday concert at an exceptional Sofitel Hotel in New York
Sofitel, the leading French luxury hotel brand, opens its doors to offer New Yorkers and visitors an extraordinary musical experience that resonates with its famous Candle Ritual. On December 21st, a few lucky attendees will be treated to the exceptional Sofitel x Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring “The Nutcracker” and more, and you won’t want to miss out on the change to reserve your experience!
65. Receive complimentary gifts, enjoy refreshments, & more at Charlotte Tilbury’s Consumer Pop-Up event
From Saturday, December 9th – Sunday, December 10th at the Chelsea Triangle in the Meatpacking District, a Charlotte Tilbury Consumer Pop-Up event will take over. The pop-up will offer consumers the chance to interact with the brand’s custom-built holiday airstream for photo opps, receive complimentary gifts, play “Spin the Wheel” game for free prizes (ranging from branded merchandise to full-size products), enjoy complimentary refreshments, and more.
66. Sip on a Vegemite Martini at this funky Bushwick watering hole
Ra-Ra Rhino is Bushwick’s newest enigmatic cocktail bar and it’s delivering all the Tiki-influenced vibes we could ever hope and dream for. The cocktails are as unusual as ever in the best way possible, the food offerings are innovative and imaginative, and it’s all complete with a giant smoke-blowing rhino head. Read all about Ra-Ra Rhino here.