New York in the winter is magical – the Rockefeller centre all lit up, ice skating in Central Park… And you can eat hot roasted chestnuts from street vendors.
If you’re looking for something unique to do in New York this winter, LOCALIKE (a new personalised travel itinerary service) have you covered. Their local team knows all the cool hidden gems in the city.
LOCALIKE has curated their top recommendations for experiencing a unique side to New York this winter…
1. Catacombs by Candlelight Tour
The underground vaults beneath the 200-year-old Basilica in Nolita are only accessible through this exclusive candlelight tour.
Follow in the footsteps of New York’s leading Catholic figures from throughout history as you explore one of the most significant collections of tombs in the country.
2. Holiday Train Show®
Every year, the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx displays 150 model landmarks of New York City as part of the Holiday Train Show.
The Enid A. Haupt Conservatory is home to the half-mile track showcasing New York’s iconic landmarks. Check out the Brooklyn Bridge and One World Trade Center, each re-created with natural materials.
An enchanting way to spend a dreary afternoon in the city.
3. Winter Garden Wonderland
The Alpine Yurts in the Winter Garden of the restaurant Narcissa provides an elaborate festive feast. Indulge in fondue and spiced drinks that will keep you cosy.
The private yurts are richly decorated with furs and warm rustic furnishings. What better way to spend a chilly winter’s evening in NYC?
4. Un-Highlights Tour of the Met Museum
The Un-Highlights Tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art takes the opposite approach to any other tour. It shows guests a side of the Met they’ve never seen before.
The high-energy and non-traditional tour can be booked privately. It teaches true stories behind the artworks, which span over 5,000 years of world culture.
5. Dessert Tasting Menus
Dessert lovers rejoice – the dream of skipping the starter & main dish to get to the best part of the meal has now become a reality.
LOCALIKE has noticed dessert taking the center stage. There’s new tasting menus at restaurants, bakeries, and dessert counters. Check out the offerings at Patisserie Tomoko & Jungsik.
6. New York running tours
“The best part of the NYC Marathon is taking in all the breathtaking views of the city while your bodily aches and pains dissipate into thin air”, said no one – ever.
Perhaps a 5k running tour will do the trick? Jog as you take in the sights and sounds of New York City.
City Running Tours offers both personalised and group tours in almost all five boroughs for runners of all abilities.
7. Mozzarella Making
Murray’s Cheese, LOCALIKE’s favorite cheese-monger, offers unique workshops. Why not master the creation of soft and milky mozzarella cheese? The hands-on crash course will teach theory and practice on how to make mozzarella cheese balls.
You can taste as you go, and the cheese comes with pairings of complimentary house red and sparkling wines.
LOCALIKE’s local experts will create a personalised itinerary from one to 10 days, full of insider tips and places that you won’t find in guidebooks.
Want to see more things to do in New York? Read our guide to Brooklyn here.