We’re looking forward to starting 2025 off on a high note, but figuring out what’s open on New Year’s Day in NYC always presents a few challenges.
Our normal plans are often thwarted when we realize normal schedules are not in effect. Before venturing out, here’s what you need to know.
Here’s what’s open on New Year’s Day in NYC — and what’s not
NYC subways, LIRR, & Metro-North
Subways, buses, and LIRR trains will operate on Sunday schedule on Wednesday, January 1st.
On New Year’s Day, Metro-North will operate hourly service, with extra trains on the New Haven Line, and regular weekend service on the Wassaic, Danbury and Waterbury branches. The West of Hudson Lines will operate on a regular weekday schedule, with extra service in the late evening and after midnight on New Year’s Eve, and a weekend schedule on New Year’s Day.
Sanitation pick-up
Garbage, recycling, and compost pick-up will not run on the holiday. If you are expecting a garbage collection on Wednesday, it will be moved to Thursday, January 2nd.
Alternate side parking
Alternate side parking rules are suspended on the first of January, but they will resume on January 2nd, 2025.
Movie theaters
Theater chains like AMC and Regal will be open on January 1st, but call ahead if you’re planning on snagging tickets to one of NYC’s independent movie theaters.
NYC restaurants and grocery stores
While NYC restaurants and grocery stores are mostly open, they might be operating under holiday hours, so do call ahead before stopping by.
Stores
Retail stores are mostly open, but operating under a revised schedule for the holiday. If there’s a small business in NYC you want to visit on the 1st, it’s best to check online or call ahead, as they might be closed for the holiday.
NYC schools
After NYC schools closed the entire week of Christmas (all thanks to a 7th grader), class will start up again on January 2nd.
Banks
Banks will be closed on the holiday, but ATMs are likely accessible to cardholders.