New York City, the most populated city in the United States, features a plethora of activities. However, during the cold winter months, the sharp winds and snowstorms shut down many outdoor activities. There are seasonal ice rinks and holiday entertainment activities, including spectacular performances on Broadway. Shopping is always in season, whether you stick to the trendy stores in Manhattan or search for vintage finds in the public markets.
New York City is the hub of musical entertainment with world-famous venues including Radio City Music Hall and the New York City Ballet. During the winter season expect large crowds at the Broadway performances, a wonderful way to stay warm while watching spectacular acting. Radio City Music Hall is renowned for its Christmastime production, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which features the Rockettes dance troop. The show, which was first performed in 1933, lasts for 90 minutes and runs from Nov. 5 to Dec. 30. In 2010, it includes an indoor snow fall and fireworks. The New York City Ballet brings warmth to the winter months with performances of George Balanchine’s theatrical rendition of the Nutcracker, a traditional Christmas story. Catch this performance for the 2010 season from Nov. 26 to Jan. 2.
Enjoy shopping for rare finds or specialty foods as you experience the culture of the city. The New Amsterdam Market is home to more than 50 vendors, including orchards, creameries, chocolateers, organic farms and butchers. Buy homemade pickles, wines produced from local grapes, artisan breads and all-natural handmade pastas at the market that is open through Dec. 19 as of 2010.
The Brooklyn Flea is open throughout the winter with vendors selling their wares in the tallest building in Brooklyn, One Hanson. Open on every Sunday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., this market includes antiques, vintage clothing, music records and jewelry, as well as new clothing and accessories. More than 30 companies sell handmade food products that include granola, cupcakes, tacos, frozen fruit, desserts, jerky and pretzels.
New York City provides several resources for winter sports activities. One of the city's most popular winter traditions is to take a spin on the ice at the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink. Open throughout the winter months, experience the holiday lights and majestic sculptures of the Rockefeller Center while skating on the ice. The rink is open seven days a week, from 8:30 to midnight Friday and Saturday, Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. The rink is most popular during November and December, and expect to spend at least one hour waiting to get on the ice. Ice skating lessons are available for beginners, and packages are available for birthday events, parties and wedding engagements for a fee.
If you wish to stay indoors, visit Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment center. Go bowling at 300 New York, or play simulated golf indoors at the Golf Club. The Field House has an indoor climbing wall, gymnastics center and two indoor soccer fields. Activities are located between piers 59 and 62 on the Hudson River. Hours of operation vary depending on the individual venue.
