The New York Journal · Things to Do
Things to Do in New York in November and December
Shorter days, festive streets and some of the year’s busiest crowds. How to plan a November or December visit.
By Luxury Travel NYC Editorial··5 min read
In brief
- Plan outdoor time before late afternoon; daylight is short in winter.
- Autumn color in Central Park is especially good in November.
- December is festive but busy and expensive; book hotels and tickets early.
November and December are among the most atmospheric times to visit New York, and among the busiest. The trick is to put outdoor plans early in the day and cultural ones in the evening.
Outdoors, before the light goes
Central Park — Midtown to Harlem
The city’s great green space, best explored on foot between Bethesda Terrace, the Mall and the Conservatory Garden. Autumn color and early-morning walks are especially good.
Good to know: Allow at least two hours for a proper walk. Daylight is short in winter, so plan outdoor time before late afternoon. See our full Central Park guide.
Top of the Rock — Rockefeller Center
Open-air decks with a view of Central Park and the Empire State Building. Many visitors consider it the best skyline view in the city precisely because it includes the Empire State Building.
Good to know: Book a timed ticket in advance; sunset slots sell out first. In December, pair it with the Rockefeller Center tree.
Indoors and in the evening
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.
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.
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.
Planning tips
- Book early. Thanksgiving through New Year’s pushes hotel rates up and availability down.
- Time the Rockefeller Center tree and windows for early in the day, when crowds are lighter.
- Allow extra time for any trip through Midtown in December.
- Planning New Year’s Eve? See where to watch the ball drop.
- See the Christmas lights by car: our NYC Christmas lights tour guide covers Dyker Heights, the Rockefeller tree and sample routes.
FAQ
Questions, Answered
Is November a good time to visit New York?
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