The Best Things to Do in Manhattan When It’s Cold Outside
New York is a walking town, with tons of history and beautiful outdoor spaces. But once the temps dip, these options become a little bit less attractive. Most of our team is raising their family here. We are often left scrambling for activities during the winter. If you’re looking for more to do besides the typical ice skating at Rockefeller Center, we’ve got you covered. The Top Hat Home Services crew shares unique winter activities to get you out of the house and into the warm heart of the best city in the world.
Music to our Ears
Photo courtesy of Carnegie Hall
Keep your comfy clothes on and get over to Carnegie Hall for one of their “Well-Being Concerts.” This ahhh-mazing combo of world-class performances with self-care and mindfulness transports listeners to a peaceful place. The goal is to share how sound, silence and music can nourish the soul. Concerts run through April. The audience reclines on floor mats and cushions. Each experience includes breathing exercises and chances to share personal thoughts and reflections.
It’s in the Bag
Photo courtesy of Anthony Luciano
Grab a group of friends and sign up for Master Leather Craftsman Anthony Luciano’s Sip & Stitch workshops. They’ll provide all of the tools you need to create a custom handbag (or man purse). You’ll walk away with a bag that is one of a kind. You pick the leather color and texture. Then this handbag artisan walks you through every step of the process. Workshops are held in his spectacular Garment District studio, which is worth seeing on its own. The 3-hour workshop includes one drink but feel free to BYOB. Oh, and there’s no sewing required. All you need is the desire to learn a new skill and add a unique piece to your accessory collection.
A Passion for Fashion
Photo courtesy of The Met
The Met’s “Women Dressing Women” exhibit celebrates innovate womenswear designers who create clothing for women of all shapes and sizes. The exhibit was curated by The Costume Institute and is on view at the museum through March 3. It features rare pieces from the Met’s permanent collection, many of which are on view for the first time. The exhibit focuses on the period between the early 1900s and today.
Not Just for the Birds
Photo credit: Don Riepe / American Littoral Society
If you really need to get out of the house and want a tranquil trip close to home, go to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. Winter offers a unique opportunity for birdwatching or other outdoor activities. They’ve got over 9,000 acres of natural beauty. It’s one of the best places in the city to observe migrating species with 332 bird species (nearly half the species in the Northeast). In the winter, expect to see wintering waterfowl, Cooper’s Hawks, Peregrine Falcon, and Snow Goose. Keep the kids happy with sledding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
We’ll Drink to That
Delve into New York City's rich history of prohibition-era speakeasies with an underground tour led by local experts. Explore hidden passages, secret tunnels, and clandestine bars that once served as illicit watering holes during the roaring twenties. From hidden entrances disguised as phone booths to password-protected cocktail lounges, these tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's storied past. There are many different tours to choose from. Some focus specifically on neighborhoods, including the East Village and Midtown Manhattan, if you want to keep the walking to a minimum.
Tunnel to Nowhere
While we’re on the topic of New York’s underground, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the opportunity to explore abandoned subway stations. Join one of the many guided tours or venture out on your own to discover hidden gems beneath the streets of New York City, where forgotten platforms and eerie tunnels offer a glimpse into the city's forgotten past.
The city that never sleeps is just as action-packed in the winter. New York City is full of surprises year-round for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Whether you're looking for adventure, family fun, relaxation, or a new perspective on the city you call home, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore. Enjoy!
Gary Mindlin is co-founder and owner of Top Hat Home Services, a full-service property care and management company. Top Hat services homes in Manhattan and are known as experts in every aspect of building management, maintenance and repair, as well as renovation and construction supervision.