New York City in the Winter: Some Tips and All the Perks.

Don’t be afraid to visit New York City in the winter.

In fact, I recommend it!  If you follow me on social media, you know that I just got back from spending five days in the city. And honestly, it was one of my best trips. Since it’s the low season for tourism you can more easily get into your favorite restaurants, snag same-day Broadway show tickets (for $40!), walk the art-filled Highline without bumping into anyone and experience more of the city than you might otherwise. Less crowds make a big difference!

Another incentive for visiting in the winter is the deals. We scored two-for-one airline tickets which made each round-trip, direct flight from our West Coast departure city under $200! We were also able to find a gorgeous apartment for less than $100 per night. For contrast, similar accommodations would be three to four times that in any other season.

If you are going to New York City in the winter, just be sure to pack for the cooler temperatures and you’ll be able to take in as much of the city (if not more!) as any other season. While daytime temperatures can be below freezing, here are some strategies for staying warm.

• Dress in layers: Starting with thermals as a base layer add warm pants, a sweater, good socks and warm, waterproof footwear. A full-length coat is best, topped with scarf, hat and gloves that can all be removed once indoors.
• Take the subway: Ducking into the subway and waiting for a train can shorten your walk to where you’re going and offer a nice respite from the cold above ground temperatures.
• Schedule indoor activities: Winter days are perfect for taking a class, watching a show or going to a museum. How about a macaron making class inside a cozy French bakery? Or a walk through New York’s immigration history at the Tenement Museum?
• Walk: New Yorkers walk briskly and there are always lots of people out on the streets during the day. Keeping up with them will get you to your location quickly and keep your body temperature up. I’ve always found that exposed skin like my ears and nose get the coldest. So, cover up!
• Explore indoor marketplaces: I’m super excited about the number of indoor marketplaces that are springing up in various neighborhoods across New York City. They are filled with dining options, specialty shops, bars, coffee and treats all under one roof. Some of my favorites are Chelsea Market, Canal Street Market,  Essex Market (pictured below) and the Time Out Market just over the bridge in Brooklyn.