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New York in February at a glance: Must-see attractions, activities, and events

February in New York City is a mix of romance and winter charm. From Lunar New Year celebrations to the excitement of Fashion Week and Valentine’s Day specials, February balances cultural festivities and witnesses moderate crowds compared to January. Whether on a romantic walk across snowy Central Park or enjoying the city's world-class art scene, February in NYC has a little something for everyone.

Your guide to New York in February

NYC in February at a glance

Why You Should Visit New York in January
  • Weather: Average temperatures range from -2°C (28°F) to 6°C (43°F). It’s quite cold with strong winds. You can also expect around 5 days of snow and 7 to 8 days of rain during the month.
  • Daylight: Approximately 9.5 hours of daylight, with sunset around 5:15pm.
  • Key events: New York Fashion Week, Lunar New Year celebrations, Valentine’s Day events, Black History Month, The Orchid Show at NY Botanical Garden.
  • Packing essentials: A winter coat, thick pants, waterproof snow boots, thermal wear, insulated gloves, a hat, a scarf, and an umbrella. 

NYC in winter: How February compares 

February is filled with events and celebrations in New York City, and the chilly winters only add to the city’s charm. From seasonal exhibits and attractions to romantic getaways, your trip to NYC in February is sure to be an eventful one.

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CategoryJanuaryFebruaryMarch

Weather

0.5°C (33°F) to 4°C (40°F)

-2°C (28°F) to 6°C (43°F)

2.7°C (37°F) to 10.5°C (51°F)

Crowds

Low

Moderate

Low

Key events

Broadway Week, Restaurant Week, Winter Jazzfest, MLK Jr. Day events, NY Jewish Film Festival

Broadway Week, New York Fashion Week, Lunar New Year celebrations, Valentine’s Day events, Black History Month, The Orchid Show at NY Botanical Garden

Broadway shows, Cherry blossoms, reopening of Brooklyn Paramount, The New Colossus Festival, Macy’s Flower Show, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, NYS Ice Wine & Culinary Festival, Flamenco Festival

Best for

Foodies, theater lovers, visits to popular attractions without crowds

Arts and culture, romantic trips, family outings, traveling without crowds

Spring festivities, group travel, arts and culture

Ticketed attractions

Broadway Week tickets, Statue of Liberty tours, museum passes

Broadway Week tickets, Fashion Week tickets, tickets for sightseeing top attractions and museums

Broadway tickets, festival tickets, tickets to top attractions and tours

Outdoor activities

Walks in Central Park, ice skating at major rinks

Lunar New Year parades, Black History Month events, NY Botanical Garden events

Blooming of cherry blossoms, flower show, St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Transportation tips

Subways are less crowded; carry layers to stay warm between destinations

Expect delays during snowstorms; and be prepared for sudden rainfall

Use efficient public transport; the subway and buses

Shopping and sales

Post-holiday sales at major outlet stores and designer boutiques

Valentine’s Day promotions, end-of-season clearance sales

Not many sales, but launch of new collections and spring markets

Budget considerations

Good deals on flights and accommodation, and budget-friendly dining during Restaurant Week.

Affordable, but prices can increase due to Valentine’s Day, check for offers and discounts on special experiences

Budget-friendly travel and accommodation

NYC in February: Popular things to do

New York in February

Broadway

Broadway Week ends on February 9, with 2-for-1 prices on select shows so you can catch your favorite performances at a discounted rate.

Special events: Broadway Week has 2-for-1 tickets for shows, giving you the opportunity to watch your favorite musicals at a lower cost.

Recommended experiences: The Lion King, Aladdin, The Great Gatsby, Wicked, Chicago.

Insider tip: Book tickets in advance for popular shows for Broadway Week as they sell out fast.

Catch your favorite Broadway musical here
New York in February

Empire State Building

Visit one of the most iconic attractions in New York and avoid the crowds that come during peak seasons. Check the Art Deco-styled restored lobby, the exhibits within the building, and of course, the view of the city’s skyline.

Recommended experiences:

  • Empire State Building: General admission tickets
  • Empire State Building: Skip-the-line tickets

Insider tip: The top of the Empire State Building is one of the most romantic spots in the city, so keep it in your itinerary if you’re visiting on Valentine’s Day!

More about Statue of Liberty cruises
New York in February

Statue of Liberty cruises

Take a tour of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island for a quiet and culturally rich experience this winter. Learn about the city’s history, visit the exhibits, and take the cruise in the crisp New York air.

Special events: Visit the immersive exhibits and listen to the audio tours to learn more about NYC’s history.

Recommended experiences:

  • Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tickets with Ferry Transfers
  • Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry Transfers

Insider tip: Dress warmly because the ferry ride will get quite cold.

More Statue of Liberty Cruises
New York in February

Edge Observation Deck

Make your way to Edge at Hudson Yards, and watch the sunset from the 100th floor of this outdoor deck with the Manhattan skyline as your backdrop, along with an immersive multimedia experience to complete your tour.

Special events: Multimedia exhibits about the history of Hudson Yards.

Recommended experiences:

  • Edge Observation Deck Tickets: Timed Entry
  • Edge Flex Pass: Flexible Entry Tickets
  • Edge Express Pass: Skip-the-Line & Flexible Entry

Insider tip: Dress warmly because the ferry ride will get quite cold.

Get your NYC Edge tickets
New York in February

American Museum of Natural History

Take a trip through time on your visit to the American Museum of Natural History. The museum is filled with exhibits of cultural, historical, and scientific importance from the world.

Special events: Ticketed seasonal exhibits.

Recommended experiences:

  • American Museum of Natural History Tickets
  • American Museum of Natural History Tickets + 1 Ticketed Exhibition

Insider tip: Wear comfortable footwear so that you can explore the museum with ease.

All AMNH tickets and tours
New York in February

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum to pay your respects and learn more about one of the most significant days in recent history. Take a look at the exhibitions, and artifacts, and listen to the narrations to gain more insights into what took place during the event and the impact it had on the people.

Recommended experiences:

  • 9/11 Memorial & Museum Tickets

Insider tip: Visit the One World Observatory deck, located within the World Trade Center itself, to make the most of your trip.

More 9/11 Memorial & Museum tours and tickets

February highlights: Must-do experiences for families, couples, and more

New York in February highlights

Families with kids

Must-experience:

  • American Museum of Natural History: The museum’s exhibits and installations are perfect for children with inquisitive minds and a need to know more.

Better in February:

  • Ice skating: Soak up the last of the winters with the quieter atmosphere, an ideal spot for families.
  • Lunar New Year Parade: Celebrations filled with music and lively festivities, perfect for kids and families to enjoy
New York in February highlights

Couples

Must-experience:

  • Skyline views at NYC’s observation decks: Sunset views of the city’s skyline are one of the most iconic photo-ops in New York, and the winter crowds make it an even more intimate environment.
  • Intimate dinners: Valentine’s Day dinners for couples to enjoy at the city’s top restaurants.

Better in February:

  • Top of Empire State Building: Pop culture references and countless proposals have established this to be one of the most romantic spots in the city, making it a must-visit with your partner, especially if it’s around Valentine’s Day.
New York in February highlights

Art and culture lovers

Must-experience:

  • Visit to MoMA and the Met: Seasonal exhibits, contemporary artists, and art legends, that you can explore at your own pace with fewer crowds.
  • Events and exhibits for Black History Month: Lectures, shows, concerts, and exhibitions around African American history and culture across the city you can visit throughout the month.
  • Lunar New Year Parade: New Year celebrations in Chinatown with traditional food, music, and festivities in mid-February.

Better in February:

  • Visits to indoor attractions like the museum keep you warm and cozy and protect you against unpredictable weather.
New York in February highlights

Travelers or friend groups

Must-experience:

  • Lunar New Year Parade: Witness Chinatown come to life with colors, music, and smells, and experience the New Year parade with this annual celebration.
  • Street art and pop-ups: Travel through the streets of the city and soak in the street art, installations, and rotating pop-ups and flea markets that the city has to offer.

Better in February:

  • Less crowds make the trip to the city more budget-friendly with travel and accommodation becoming a lot more affordable. 
New York in February highlights

Nature lovers

Must-experience:

  • Central Park: Stroll through the park and see sights like Bethesda Terrace, while you relax and unwind away from the noise of the city.
  • The Orchid Show at New York Botanical Garden: A display with thousands of orchids from Mexico City, giving you more insight into the ecosystem of Mexico in a beautiful way.

Better in February:

  • You can explore seasonal exhibits like the Orchid Show without much crowd and witness the winter wonderland in spots like Central Park before the onset of spring.

Festivals and events in NYC this February

Event/FestivalDescriptionDatesBest For

Broadway Week

2-for-1 tickets to select Broadway shows, affordable access to timeless musicals and plays

21 Jan 2025 to 9 Feb 2025

Theater lovers, couples, families

New York Fashion Week

Designers from across the globe showcase the collection for upcoming seasons to the press, public, buyers

6 Feb 2025 to 9 Feb 2025

Fashion enthusiasts, art and culture enthusiasts

Valentine’s Day

Romantic celebration of love with candlelight dinners, sightseeing, and visits to iconic landmarks

14 Feb 2025

Couples

Lunar New Year Parade

Floats, performances, and celebrations across Chinatown in NYC honoring the Chinese New Year

16 Feb 2025

Families, solo travelers, friend groups

Black History Month

Exhibits, lectures, concerts, and other cultural events across the city celebrating African American culture and history

1 Feb 2025 to 1 March 2025

Families, travelers, art and culture enthusiasts

Orchid Show at NY Botanical Garden

Thousands of orchids on display from Mexico City, taking visitors through the country’s ecosystems

15 Feb 2025 to 27 April 2025

Nature enthusiasts, families with kids, couples

NYC in February: Your 3-day itinerary

3-day itinerary for New York in February

Day 1: Sightseeing iconic landmarks

Breakfast:

  • Bubby’s Tribeca – Get your fill with a classic American breakfast with fluffy pancakes and waffles made using fresh, farm-to-table ingredients.

Morning:

  • Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Book your tickets in advance, aim for an early start to avoid crowds, and take the ferry to visit the Statue of Liberty.
  • Walk through the Financial District: Check out the Charging Bull and Fearless Girl statues.

Lunch:

  • Eataly Downtown: Visit the Italian food hall for pasta and fresh salads. It’s close to the Oculus and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

Afternoon:

  • 9/11 Memorial & Museum: Reflect at the memorial pools and explore the exhibits inside the museum.
  • Brooklyn Bridge Walk: Cross the iconic bridge into DUMBO for stunning Manhattan skyline views.

Dinner:

  • Juliana’s Pizza (DUMBO): Known for its renowned coal-fired pizza with cozy indoor seating, the perfect way to end the day on a warm note.

Evening:

  • Stroll along Brooklyn Bridge Park, and soak in the winter views.
3-day itinerary for New York in February

Day 2: Immerse in art and culture

Breakfast:

  • Bluestone Lane at Bryant Park: Start your day with a healthy breakfast bowl and a freshly brewed cup of coffee at this Australian-style café.

Morning:

  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Spend the morning exploring one of the world’s most famous museums. Don't miss the Egyptian Temple of Dendur and Impressionist galleries.

Lunch:

  • The Eatery at the Met: Stop by for a quick bite and grab a sandwich, burger, or something casual before you continue your exploration.

Afternoon:

  • Walk across Central Park: Visit Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, and the Imagine Mosaic. You might just catch some snow!
  • The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Visit another renowned museum for contemporary art, and make sure you check out iconic works by Van Gogh and Andy Warhol.

Dinner:

  • Katsuhama: A short walk from MoMA, this cozy spot specializes in Japanese tonkatsu.

Evening:

  • Catch a Broadway show. Book tickets in advance, especially if you’re visiting during Broadway Week.
3-day itinerary for New York in February

Day 3: Local favorites and hidden gems

Breakfast:

  • Russ & Daughters Café (Lower East Side): Visit the favorite spot for classic NY-style bagels with lox, bialy, and smoked fish.

Morning:

  • Tenement Museum: Explore immigrant stories and NYC’s historic Lower East Side.
  • Street art tour in Bushwick (Brooklyn): Take a guided walk or DIY tour of vibrant murals in this artsy neighborhood.

Lunch:

  • Roberta’s Pizza (Bushwick): Famous for its unique toppings and creative wood-fired pizzas.

Afternoon:

  • Green-Wood Cemetery: A peaceful, offbeat destination, a must-visit if you love Gothic architecture and want great skyline views with it.
  • The Morgan Library & Museum: Visit the library and museum, which started as a private collection over 100 years ago, and get a chance to look at rare manuscripts, prints, and more.

Dinner:

  • Wildair (Lower East Side): A fun place to unwind with inventive small plates and natural wines.

Evening:

  • Please Don’t Tell (PDT): End your trip with a visit to this hidden speakeasy inside Crif Dogs in East Village, accessed through a phone booth.

Pro tips for exploring NYC in February

  • Travel: Use the subway for quick and easy access between neighborhoods. You can get a 7-day unlimited MetroCard to make it more convenient. Keep taxi or rideshare apps handy in case of late-night travel.
  • Weather: Keep backup plans involving indoor activities like visits to museums and dining at cozy restaurants handy, in case of sudden downpours or snowfall. It also makes a trip to NYC during February a lot more comfortable.
  • Packing: Hats, gloves, and waterproof boots are a must. Also, keep an umbrella handy because it does rain in February.
  • Start your day early: Since February has fewer daylight hours, starting your day early will help you make the most of your trip. 
  • Reserve spots in advance: It can get crowded, especially if you’re planning to visit during Valentine’s Day or Fashion Week, so book your tickets and restaurant reservations in advance.

Frequently asked questions about visiting NYC in February

What makes February special for visiting New York City?

February is a great month for experiencing NYC’s charm without the crowds and witnessing seasonal events like the Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden.

Are there any romantic spots for Valentine’s Day in NYC?

Sunset views at the Edge Observation Deck, a visit to the top of the Empire State Building, horse-drawn carriage rides in Central Park, and candlelight dinners at top restaurants around the city are just some options to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Are attractions open as usual in February?

Most attractions, like museums, observation decks, and theaters, operate as usual. Some outdoor activities are dependent on the weather, so they can close in case of unfavorable conditions.

How can I stay warm while exploring NYC in February?

Dressing in layers, wearing insulated footwear, and taking breaks at indoor attractions like museums or cafes will help you stay comfortable. Heated observation decks, like One World Observatory, are a great choice too.

Can I find discounts on Broadway shows in February?

Check for discounted tickets you can get as a 2-for-1 deal during Broadway Week on select performances till 9 February.

How much daylight can I expect in February?

The sun sets at around 5:15pm in February, giving you approximately 9 to 9.5 hrs of daylight in a day. Make the most of your visit by starting your day early!

Are there family-friendly activities during February?

The American Museum of Natural History, ice skating rinks, and the Lunar New Year Parade are great for families and children.

Is February a budget-friendly time to visit NYC?

Yes. Flights and accommodations are more affordable in February compared to peak holiday seasons. However, prices may increase around Valentine’s Day.

What’s the best way to get around NYC in February?

The subway is the most efficient and cost-effective way to travel. Taxis or rideshare apps are great for shorter trips, especially during cold weather.

What cultural activities should I prioritize in February?

Lunar New Year celebrations in Chinatown, exhibits at The Met, and performances and events for Black History Month are excellent options for cultural exploration.