The 43 Best Things To Do in New York in November 2024
What to do in New York in November? We've got you covered!
The Christmas season is approaching and in November it can also be crisp and cold – even snow is not uncommon. But November is still a beautiful month to travel and visit New York City. The metropolis offers great events and exciting sights.
Highlights in November
43 Amazing Things to Do in November in New York
One additional tip: November attracts millions of visitors every year (and for good reason!). To save on waiting time, take a look at NYC’s attraction passes – they’re a quick, easy way to save big bucks. This month you can get up to 40% off with my code LNYOffer 🔥.
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01
New York Marathon (November 5, 2023)
Sport Events in Staten Island
The world’s most famous and biggest marathon happens in New York in November and attracts thousands of runners and visitors every year. The TCS NYC Marathon is organized by the New York Road Runners and is considered a goal of every runner (next to the Boston Marathon).
The course is no walk in the park either and can be very demanding of the athletes. It starts in Staten Island, then runs through Brooklyn to Manhattan. So if you’re in New York during the Marathon, make sure to check it out and show the runners support! The crowd makes a huge difference and motivates the athletes. In 2022, it will be the 51st anniversary of the NYC Marathon.
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02
New York Comedy Festival (November 3 - 12, 2023)
Other Events in Theatre District
Do you want to experience good laughs? Well, then you’re in luck. From November 3rd to the 12th, 2023, The New York Comedy Festival will take place. Popular comedians such as Conan O’Brien, Tracy Morgan, Trevor Noah, and Stephen Colbert have either performed in the past or will partake in the upcoming festival.
My tip: these are all fall festivals in NYC this year.
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03
Take a fall foliage cruise along Hudson River
Cruise in ChelseaOur Highlight
What could be more beautiful than marveling at the colorful autumn leaves on board a historic ship? That’s exactly what you can do on these fall foliage tours, which are among the most popular boat tours in autumn. This year there are several different tours to choose from. What they all have in common is the destination: the Hudson Valley. The Hudson Valley is located north of Manhattan, and on the way there on the Hudson River, you’ll pass through the famous George Washington Bridge and be able to enjoy the view of the impressive rock formations called Palisades.
Here you can find the 7 Best Fall Foliage Cruises in New York.
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04
Radio City Christmas Spectacular returns (from November 17, 2023)
Broadway Show in Midtown Manhattan
The famous holiday show premieres again in NYC in November. Over 140 sensational dancers perform in the popular Christmas Spectacular. Sparkling costumes, unique set designs and a lot of Christmas songs thrill the audience every year.
We love this show!
The stars of the show are the female dance group “The Rockettes” and perform next to Santa Claus and his elves. From November to early January, you can watch the dance performance and Christmas show at Radio City Music Hall. There are up to three performances per day, so there should be a time slot for you! For more information, please take a look here.
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05
Thanksgiving and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (November 23, 2023)
Parade in Upper West Side
Thanksgiving is an American holiday and people travel all over the country to be with their family on this day. There is usually a big turkey on the dinner table and everyone enjoys the get-together. Thanksgiving is the only day in New York City where museums, shops and even some restaurants that do not offer a special Thanksgiving dinner are closed. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the highlight in the city. Also, don’t miss the popular inflation the day before. It’s a great opportunity to check out the balloons before they are getting to shine during the Thanksgiving Parade the day after. The route begins west of Central Park at 77th Street and passes Columbus Circle, where you have a great view of the parade. If the parade turns onto 6th Avenue, the best view is from 59th to 38th Street.
Those who can not or do not want to be there (the crowd is huge) can follow the parade on the TV channel, NBC. Check out the articles below to learn more about this American Holiday.
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06
All of November: Ice Skating in New York
Christmas Market in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
All ice skating rinks are open in November preparing you for a smooth transition into the winter. Ice skating is fun regardless of the season, so we’d recommend taking advantage of it! Ice skating in New York is always one of the most fun things to do. It’s a great activity, especially if you are traveling with children.
Besides ice skating rinks, some Christmas markets will also be open starting early November. The Bank of America’s Winter Village at Bryant Park (behind the Public Library), the famed Rink at Rockefeller Center and the Wollman Rink in Central Park are just three of New York City’s finest ice rinks.
My tip: These are our favorite Ice Skating Rinks in NYC.
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07
Black Friday (November 24, 2023)
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
For all your shopping fanatics that are in NYC in November, Black Friday is the day for you. There are huge discounts and bargains everywhere. Because Black Friday is a very popular shopping day, you’ll most likely encounter long lines in front of the bigger named stores. Prices can go down significantly, as much as 80%. It makes sense to go to a mall or outlet on this day – it will be really cheap. Let’s not forget you’re in the greatest city in the world, which means you’ll have a lot of choices where you can shop from.
This is our Guide to Shopping in New York with our favorite spots!
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08
Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (November 29, 2023)
Christmas Tree in Midtown Manhattan
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the largest Christmas trees in NYC, placed annually in Rockefeller Center Plaza. In New York, the Tree Lighting Ceremony right after Thanksgiving is the official start of the Holiday season.
Over the past years, we weren’t super lucky with the weather but the Tree Lighting Ceremony attracts tons of people every year. Of course, the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center is the highlight of visitors coming to New York from all over the world during Christmas time. Most visitors only know the tree from movies or pictures, so it’s very impressive looking at it in person.
This year, the lighting of the tree ceremony at Rockefeller Center will take place on November 29, 2023!
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09
Wall Street Christmas Tree: 100th Annual Tree Lighting (November 29, 2023)
Christmas Tree in Financial District
The Christmas tree on Wall Street looks back on a long tradition: this year it can be seen for the 99th time. Not only is the tree itself festively decorated – the building of the New York Stock Exchange also looks beautiful, as it is illuminated from the outside in Christmas colors.
The 100th Annual Tree Lighting will take place November 29, 2023.
Photo: AGENZIA SINTESI / Alamy Stock Foto
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10
The Best Broadway Shows in November 2023 in New York
Broadway Show in Theatre District
The answer to whether you should or should not see a Broadway show when visiting New York in November is crystal clear: YES, it absolutely belongs on your bucket list! What is not always as clear, however, is which show to pick.
In order to help you out, we’ve created an overview of the absolute best Broadway shows in NYC in November!
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11
Christmas Lights Tour of New York City (starting December 1, 2023)
Bus Tour in Dyker HeightsOur Highlight
With the holiday season unofficially underway, this tour is for you. Explore NYC and check out the amazing decorations and Christmas lights on your very own private tour. It also comes with a free Christmas drink as well!
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12
Visit one of the observation decks
Building in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
The New York City skyline is one of the most famous and recognizable skylines in the world. It’s a city filled with skyscrapers and tall buildings. In most recent years, it has been expanding which made way for new observation decks. The newest observation deck is located at the top of the One Vanderbilt Building and is called The Summit. This deck is the second-highest outdoor deck in NYC which follows the Edge and has been open since October 2021.
No matter which observation deck you want to visit: they all have something special! I personally love The Summit and The Edge but you will also love the view from Top of the Rock, the One World Observatory and the Empire State Building. My tip: if you want to visit several observation decks, you can save a lot of money if you use one of the sightseeing passes the city has to offer. To find the perfect attraction pass for you check out my article about which New York Sightseeing pass is best for you.
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13
Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden (starting mid/late November 2023)
Other Events in Bronx
If you like to build railroad and train models, this show is for you. The Holiday Train show is definitely worth its money and will be held at the enchanting New York Botanical Garden. The exhibit will showcase 175 New York landmarks. All works of art are built on an 0,5 mile long track and the railways pass the skyscrapers of Midtown. We have already visited two special exhibitions in the NYBG and are always enjoyable. Therefore, we highly recommend this unique exhibition!
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14
Lightscape: Brooklyn's Winter Spectacular at Brooklyn Botanic Garden (November 2023 - January 2024)
Other Events in Park Slope
Brooklyn is home to many wonderful Christmas light displays, including the illuminated trail known as Lightscape, found at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This after-dark light spectacular features all-new works of art and many returning favorites. At this experience, visitors make their way through the winding trails of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s trails, which are all awash with artistic light designs.
Along the journey, you’ll encounter color effects on BBG trees, water features, monumental lighted sculptures, and more. Lightscape sold out last year, so book your visit on their website early.
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15
Walk the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Other Events in Outside of New York City
This is a view of the The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, N.Y. on October 8, 2016. (Photo by Tom Nycz)Taking a stroll through the NYC boroughs to see the carved pumpkins is a tradition. But if you want to see something truly impressive, it’s worth making the short trip out to either Long Island or Hudson Valley for the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze.
Featuring thousands of hand-carved pumpkins alongside impressive displays, the Blaze is a great all-ages event. Though some elements can be considered spooky, families can rest assured that there aren’t any shocking or scary elements.
For more information on the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze and to reserve your tickets, check out the Pumpkin Blaze website.
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16
Visit the FRIENDS Experience
Other Attraction in Flatiron District
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the show Friends, and if you’re a fan like me, then this Friends experience is most likely for you.
After a Friends pop-up store successfully ran in Soho in 2019 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the series, they decided to make it permanent. Now you can find “The FRIENDS™ Experience New York” in the Flatiron District.
On two floors you can take your picture in front of the famous Central Perk café or the orange couch, see many original props worth seeing and store to your heart’s content in the FRIENDS store. It’s a great place to bring your family, kids and/or friends!
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17
Visit the Museum of Broadway
Museum in The Battery
The Museum of Broadway in New York City will be the first and only museum that is fully dedicated to the importance and history of Broadway. Here you will learn everything about the beginnings of Broadway and the Theatre District and their development to the present day, including information about the most famous musicals.
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18
Origami Holiday Tree at The Met (from mid/late November 2023)
Museum in Upper East SideOur Highlight
New York City’s Met Museum also hosts a holiday celebration that’s complete with a breathtaking Christmas Tree display. You’ll find the Met Tree in the Medieval Sculpture Hall. This famed holiday tradition features a blue spruce tree that’s 20 feet tall and adorned with 59 angels, 19 cherubs, and 71 figures that depict an 18th Century Nativity scene reminiscent of Naples.
You can also enjoy a gorgeous Eastern European Silver Menorah, holiday shopping, other exhibits on display, and much more. You could catch this holiday display from November 2023, until January 2024, at the Met Museum in NYC. The exact dates for 2023 will be announced soon!
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19
Experience Central Park in the Fall
Park in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
One of the most beautiful retreats in Manhattan is Central Park. If you’re in New York in November, make sure to check it out as there is always something going on at every corner. The trees are now in a deep red-orange autumnal color which gives the park a beautiful aesthetic. You can just stroll around Central Park, ride your bike, or take a guided tour.
Here you find everything you need to know about Central Park Fall Foliage.
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20
Have a good time at The Nutcracker (from November 24, 2023)
Other Events in Upper East Side
Indiana Woodward and Company in George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. Photo credit: Erin BaianoThe Nutcracker is one of the world’s most famous ballets and enjoys great popularity among visitors and locals. A true holiday tradition!
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21
Santa's Secret Immersive Holiday Experience
Other Events in Hudson YardsOur Highlight
At Santa’s Secret Immersive Holiday Experience, you’ll 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!
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22
Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland (From November 22, 2023)
Other Events in Financial District
Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland is transforming The Rooftop at Pier 17 into a magical North Pole experience inspired by Disney’s The Santa Clause movie. Visitors can enjoy activities such as rooftop ice skating, exploring Santa’s sleigh, a mini slide, private cabin dinners, and indulging in seasonal treats and hot cocoa. There’s also a cozy Santa’s living room for memorable photos by the fireplace. It’s a unique holiday experience right in the heart of Manhattan with stunning city skyline views.
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
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23
Annual Holiday Lighting in Central Park
Park in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
For the 27th year, the Annual Holiday Lighting in Central Park will be held this year at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center on the Harlem Meer. Carols will be sung on the plaza, Santa Claus will be there, and the highlight will be the lighting of a flotilla of Christmas trees on the Harlem Meer. You’re guaranteed to be among New Yorkers at this Christmas event, which makes it extra special!
When?
- November 30, 2023
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24
Visit Governors Island
Other Attraction in Outside of New York City
Though Governors Island is no longer a secret spot, it hasn’t lost its charm and remains one of our favorite places in New York. Throughout October, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Manhattan from the island, ride bicycles, and participate in a large variety of events hosted here.
Usually Governors Island closes at the end of October, from 2021 on you check it out even during fall, winter and spring! A ferry ride to the island typically costs $4 but if you decide to come on a Saturday or Sunday before noon, it’ll be free!
My tip: check out the amazing spa at Governors Island!
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25
Plan a Fall Weekend Getaway from NYC
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
Looking for the best fall day trips from NYC? We got you covered! New York State has many wonderful places to enjoy the colorful autumn. With Massachusetts, New England and Washington, D.C., there are several destinations that are only a day trip away from New York City and that have a lot of history, culture and nature to offer. I myself have been to the Green Mountains and White Mountains as well as Niagara Falls several times for a weekend in the fall – you’re guaranteed to get goosebumps here, it’s that impressive!
My tip: These are the 15 best fall day trips from NYC.
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26
Veterans Day Parade (November 11, 2023)
Parade in Midtown Manhattan
The Veterans Day Parade is traditionally held on November 11th. The day commemorates the fallen soldiers in the wars and is an official holiday in the USA. The parade starts at Madison Square Park/5th Avenue and the finish line is 59th Street at Central Park.
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27
Christmas Markets are opening
Christmas Market in Gramercy
Is there a better way to get into the holiday spirit than grabbing a hot cup of cocoa and strolling through some of the best Christmas markets in New York? Booths with local crafts, savory treats, and hot specialty drinks are the most authentic environment to have a merry time and wrap up your gift shopping. Whether outdoor or indoor, New York is home to four major holiday markets and a good number of smaller winter bazaars.
Here’s where to find the best Christmas markets in NYC.
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28
Take photos of the famous Pumpkins Arch at Pier 17 (usually through early to mid-November)
Other Attraction in Financial District
One of the most famous and beautiful photo motifs in autumn in New York is the Pumpkins Arch at Pier 17. From here you can look wonderfully at the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River and take really beautiful photos.
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29
Holiday Lane at Macy’s opens for the Holiday Season (end of November 2023)
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
There’s nothing you can’t do in New York City. During the holidays, you should set up a date with Santa Claus at Macy’s and share your wish list. Santaland at Macy’s is a whole experience with a meet & greet with Santa in the end. Both kids and adults come to Santaland to talk to the big guy. It’s a special thing to do in New York on Christmas Eve.
Every year, Macy’s Santaland is the main highlight of Macy’s Christmas celebrations. The history of Santaland goes back to 1861 when the store advertised that Santa Claus would come to stock their counters with the finest and most special Christmas gifts. Fast forward to today, close to 200,000 Santa fans are visiting Santaland at Macy’s every season.
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30
Watch the Bryant Park Christmas Tree Lightning on November 28
Christmas Tree in Midtown Manhattan
The Bryant Park Christmas tree is part of the larger Winter Village, which is filled with tiny, charming shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to artisanal foods. Skaters twirl on the ice rink below, making the atmosphere joyfully festive. The park is centrally located and easy to reach, making it a must-see destination.
- The Christmas Tree Lightning Show will start at 6:00 p.m.
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31
Frost Fest at Luna Park
Other Attraction in Coney Island & Brighton Beach
Dive into the enchanting holiday atmosphere spread throughout the park and embrace the winter wonderland at their inaugural Frost Fest! Prepare for the ultimate winter adventure at Luna Park, NYC’s renowned hub for fun, during their first-ever Frost Fest.
Luna Park will transform into an exhilarating winter destination, featuring an ice skating rink, a selection of rides and attractions, festive lights and decorations, opportunities for photos with Santa, a holiday shopping experience, delectable seasonal food options to satisfy both locals and visitors, and much more! Get your tickets here.
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32
Broadway Under the Stars
Broadway Show in Hell's Kitchen
This holiday season, Broadway and the Shops at Columbus Circle are gifting us with another round of Broadway Under The Stars. For you, that means free Broadway performances in one of the most magical settings. Broadway Under The Stars is a five-week series of FREE indoor Broadway performances and will take place on the second floor of the Time Warner Center.
So why is it called Broadway Under The Stars? “Under the stars” refers to the 12 massive stars hanging from the 100-foot ceiling at Time Warner Center. They are the largest specialty crafted display of illuminated color in the world. The 14-foot stars are one of the most beautiful Christmas lights in NYC and draw thousands of visitors to their spectacular light show.Broadway Under The Stars typically takes on Mondays, starting early November and ending in early December. The exact dates for Broadway Under The Stars have not been announced yet. The performances start at 5 pm sharp and include interviews with the Broadway stars. They will perform 2-3 songs per show, depending on how many shows are featured that day.
When?
- November 13, 2023: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
- November 20, 2023: Miss Saigon
- November 27, 2023: Wicked
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33
Cheer on your favorite team at a football game
Sport Events in Outside of New York City
Arguably the most popular sport in the US is football. If the New York Giants or the New York Jets make it to the playoffs, then you’ll be able to catch them in action as long as they have home-field advantage. Which team will you root for?
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... or watch an NBA game ...
Sports Tickets in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
The NBA season is on and we’re always looking forward to watching one of the many NBA games in New York. Whether it’s the Brooklyn Nets or the New York Knicks, both teams like try their best to show-out in front of the home-town crowd.
Get Brooklyn Nets tickets here and New York Knicks tickets here.
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35
... visit Rangerstown: Ice Hockey in New York!
Sport Events in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
October is always a very special month for sports enthusiasts like us, because in addition to the NBA, the NHL season also starts with many exciting matches. We ourselves have already been to several games of the New York Rangers in Madison Square Garden and can only recommend a visit. The atmosphere is terrific!
Here you can get tickets for the New York Rangers and everything about the sporting events in our article about sports events in New York.
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36
Enjoy a beautiful sunrise at Reverse Manhattanhenge (November 29, 2023)
Other Events in Midtown Manhattan
I’m sure you’ve heard of Manhattanhenge. This is when the sun sets over the Hudson River in such a way that it perfectly illuminates the streets between the houses in Manhattan. In November, the reverse Manhattanhenge takes place, with the sun rising over the East River.
When?
- November 29, 2023 – 6:59 am
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37
Have a good time on a Dinner Cruise
Cruise in Chelsea
We have already tested many dinner cruises in New York for you. One that we have liked the best of all so far is the Bateaux Dinner Cruise. With a glass roof, the ship heads towards the Brooklyn Bridge. Especially when the weather is nice, the wine or prosecco tastes especially good on the outdoor area of the boat.
You can find more unique dinner cruises in NYC. fantastic brunch cruises, lunch cruises and jazz cruises in this overview.
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38
Fotografiska NYC: Visit one of the best art exhibitions in town
Museum in Gramercy
Fotografiska New York is a wonderful museum in NYC for all art and especially photo art enthusiasts. Originally founded in Stockholm in 2010, the museum also exists in Tallinn (Estonia) and since 2019 in New York. It is located in a beautiful building from 1892 and extends over 6 floors. In addition to changing exhibitions, there is a restaurant and cocktail bar to round out your visit.
My tip: These are the best art exhibitions in NYC. and here you find my complete (!) guide to Contemporary Art in New York.
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39
Spend your evening at one of the rooftops of New York
Rooftop Bar in Flatiron District
If you think the rooftop bar season is over in the fall, then think again! Not in New York! There are many rooftop bars in NYC that offer fresh air even in the cold season. For me, the cloudM Rooftop Bar is one of the most beautiful rooftop bars not only in the Lower East Side, but in all of New York. It is located on the roof of the citizenM New York Bowery Hotel and offers everything that makes a good rooftop bar: a great view, beautiful design and relaxed atmosphere.
My tip: these are the best rooftop bars in NYC.
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40
Brooklyn Bridge in Winter
Building in DumboOur Highlight
The Brooklyn Bridge is an official landmark of the city, which you should not miss even in winter. Make sure to walk across the impressive bridge and enjoy the unique view across the East River to Brooklyn in the clear winter air. And while you’re on the bridge, take a stroll to Brooklyn Bridge Park.
GET A WARMING COFFEE AND ENJOY THE SPECTACULAR VIEWS!
Due to the cold wind, it can get really icy on the Brooklyn Bridge in winter. The best time to try your luck on some warming sunshine is around noon on the bridge.
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41
Walk the High Line
Park in Meatpacking DistrictOur Highlight
There are few parks as unique as the High Line. The elevated freight rail line was repurposed as a public green space that opened in 2009 and now offers amazing views of the city, as well as a place to relax and unwind. Its plant life is based directly off what was growing there while it was abandoned, giving this park a unique and interesting atmosphere! The High Line stretches from The Meatpacking District all the way to Hudson Yards-34th Street.
My tip: these are the best spots along the High Line for me.
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42
Spend the day in one of the best museums of NYC
Museum in Upper West Side
The season is perfect for a museum visit to New York, and the Big Apple really doesn’t lack choices. After the theatrical release of “The Night of Museum” series, (The first movie took place in the New York Museum of Natural History) you really feel like going to the place of the event? In the footsteps of dinosaurs, aborigines and many other historical creatures, the Natural History Museum on Central Park West is always a good idea for a museum outing.
My tip: These are the 36 Best Museums in NYC
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43
Marvel at the incredible Ginger Bread Lane from November 24, 2023
Other Attraction in Lower East Side
Imagine the aroma and whimsical fun of walking through the world’s largest gingerbread village. What if we told you that one actually exists in New York City? If you’re planning on spending Christmas in NYC, then be sure to head over to Manhattan’s Chelsea Market and check out the amazing and delicious creation brought to you by “The Gingerbread Man” Jon Lovitch.
You don’t want to stand in the crowds for hours waiting in the cold for the lighting ceremony? Book a ticket for a VIP party! There will be food & drinks and you will have a great view of the famous Christmas tree from above!
The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)
We’ve chosen the 50 best spots, events and activities to showcase the full diversity of New York City. Even after more than 20 visits, the city never gets boring for us. And with our recommendations, you’ll have a really good time in New York, too, and you’ll have plenty left for your next visit. If you’re not planning a trip yet, you’re sure to get wanderlust after perusing this list!
Check out the best Events in November in New York City
If you’d like to go to a concert or see an exciting show in New York City in November, check out my event calendar:
The Weather in New York City in November
Monthly Avg DAY | Monthly Avg NIGHT | Rainfall days | Sun |
|---|---|---|---|
50°F / 10°C | 37°F / 3°C | 8 days | 6 hours daily |
The most popular tours in November
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Enjoy the most beautiful fall foliage in New York by taking a scenic cruise! | The best observation deck in NYC! | Explore New York's highest observation deck, regardless of the weather! | Spend a great evening onboard our favorite dinner cruise in New York! | Seeing a Broadway show is always a good idea, especially if you have a discount code for your tickets! |
$110 | $42 | $38 | $90 | from $30 |
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