Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City in November
Top Things to Do in New York City in November
1. Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Giant character balloons, floats, marching bands, and Broadway-style performances glide from the Upper West Side to Herald Square. Bundle up, claim a curb spot, and watch a uniquely New York tradition usher in the holiday season.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a once-a-year spectacle and a quintessential November NYC memory for families and first-timers alike.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Thanksgiving morning; arrive by 6:00–7:00 am for front-row views along Central Park West or stake out a later spot in Midtown.
✓ Insider Tip:
See the balloon inflation the afternoon before near the American Museum of Natural History, then head to bed early for the parade.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it bucket-list worthy and surprisingly moving—worth the early wake-up and chilly temps.
2. The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Lace up for an iconic spin beneath the flags and Prometheus statue at Midtown’s most famous seasonal rink. Early November sessions feel festive without peak crowds.
✓ Why Go:
Skating here is a hallmark NYC experience and a photogenic way to kick off the holidays.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings or late evenings in November for shorter lines and smoother ice.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve a timed session online and arrive 20–30 minutes early; warm up afterward with coffee on Rockefeller Plaza.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Charmed by the intimate rink and city lights—pricy but magical and worth it once.
3. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
An open-air holiday market and free-admission ice rink pop up beside the New York Public Library. Sip hot chocolate, browse artisan stalls, and soak in the cozy city vibe.
✓ Why Go:
It combines shopping, skating, and snacks in one central, festive setting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings from mid-November to avoid evening and weekend crushes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring your own skates to access the rink without rental fees, and loop the park to find less-crowded food kiosks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Loved for its European-market feel and variety; can be crowded but atmosphere wins.
4. Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Rockettes deliver high-kick precision, live musicians, and dazzling stagecraft inside an Art Deco landmark. A swift, family-friendly show that screams New York in November.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a century-old tradition that launches the city’s holiday season in style.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday matinees typically offer better availability and lighter crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive early to admire the grand lobby and catch the pre-show organ performance.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Audiences rave about the choreography, costumes, and nostalgia—an annual favorite.
5. TCS New York City Marathon
The city turns into one giant block party as runners traverse all five boroughs, finishing in Central Park to roaring crowds and November foliage.
✓ Why Go:
Even as a spectator, the energy is contagious and uniquely New York.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning to early afternoon near the Central Park finish for dramatic, emotional moments.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the subway to hop between neighborhoods; bring layers, a sign, and snacks while you cheer.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Uplifting and communal—many call it their favorite fall Sunday in NYC.
6. Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows
Animated displays and a synchronized light show transform Fifth Avenue into a winter wonderland. The facade spectacle pairs perfectly with nearby Rockefeller Center.
✓ Why Go:
It’s free, festive, and an only-in-NYC holiday photo op.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After dusk on weekdays in late November for lights without weekend gridlock.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stand across the street near 50th–51st Streets to take in the full facade, then stroll Fifth Avenue to see other storied windows.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Consistently described as dazzling and meticulously crafted—must-see decor.
7. Grand Central Holiday Fair
Vanderbilt Hall hosts a curated indoor market of artisan gifts and gourmet treats—ideal when temps dip and you want holiday cheer without the chill.
✓ Why Go:
Quality vendors in a landmark building make shopping feel special, not rushed.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday on weekdays; avoid peak commuter hours for easier browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check out the celestial ceiling in the Main Concourse and the Whispering Gallery by the Oyster Bar before or after shopping.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for craftsmanship and convenience; a calm contrast to outdoor markets.
8. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Warm galleries and world-class collections—from ancient Egypt to Impressionism—make for a perfect brisk-day itinerary. Rotating fall exhibitions add fresh reasons to visit.
✓ Why Go:
It’s one of the world’s great museums and an ideal indoor refuge in November.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoons or weekday evenings on extended-hours days to dodge midday crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Prioritize a few wings rather than trying to see it all; start at the Egyptian Temple of Dendur early for quieter photos.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Overwhelming—in the best way. Travelers leave awed and inspired.
9. Staten Island Ferry
A free round-trip cruise past the Statue of Liberty with sweeping skyline views. Crisp November air and earlier sunsets make the scenery pop.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the best-value sightseeing in town and runs 24/7.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset for golden-hour photos outbound and twinkling city lights on the return.
✓ Insider Tip:
On the way to Staten Island sit starboard for the best Statue views; switch sides for the return.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Frequently called the top free attraction—easy, scenic, and unforgettable.
10. New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
Model trains weave past miniature NYC landmarks crafted from bark and leaves inside the conservatory—pure seasonal magic in the Bronx.
✓ Why Go:
A beloved tradition that delights kids and adults while keeping you warm indoors.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning weekday time slots in mid-to-late November for the most relaxed experience.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book timed-entry tickets ahead and leave time to explore the Thain Forest’s late-fall colors nearby.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Described as enchanting and meticulously detailed—many make it an annual outing.
