The New York Journal · Things to Do
Indoor Things to Do in NYC When It Rains
A wet day does not have to spoil a New York trip. The museums, theaters and concert halls worth planning around.
By Luxury Travel NYC Editorial··4 min read
In brief
- The great museums are best on a rainy day; pick two or three galleries rather than the whole building.
- Check closing days; many museums close one weekday.
- Evening performances at Broadway and Lincoln Center are unaffected by the weather.
New York is built for rainy days: world-class museums, theaters and concert halls, most of them a short ride apart. Here is how we would spend one.
Museums
The Metropolitan Museum of Art — Fifth Avenue & 82nd Street
One of the great museums of the world, spanning ancient Egypt to contemporary design. The Temple of Dendur and the European paintings are perennial highlights.
Good to know: It is too large for one visit — pick two or three galleries before you arrive, and check current opening days and hours.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) — West 53rd Street
Home to Van Gogh’s The Starry Night and a deep collection of modern and contemporary work. The sculpture garden is a welcome pause in the middle of Midtown.
Good to know: Arrive at opening or in the late afternoon to avoid the busiest periods. It pairs well with Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center.
The Frick Collection — East 70th Street
An intimate collection of Old Master paintings in a Gilded Age mansion on the Upper East Side. A calm contrast to the larger museums.
Good to know: Timed tickets are recommended. Easy to combine with the Met or a Central Park walk.
In the evening
Broadway — Theater District
Dozens of productions run each week, from long-running musicals to new plays. Evening curtains are generally at 7 or 8 p.m., with matinees on selected days.
Good to know: Buy tickets only from the venue or an authorized seller. Theater District traffic is heavy before curtain, so plan drop-off a few blocks away if needed.
Lincoln Center — Upper West Side
Home to the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet and the New York Philharmonic. The plaza and fountain are worth seeing in the evening even without a ticket.
Good to know: Check the performance calendar and dress expectations before you go.
FAQ
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