12 Best Things To Do In NYC Today: November 2020

Things may be different this year, but the city of New York continues to boast its enviable range of historic staples and hidden gems. From the age-stained Statue of Liberty to teeming Christmas bazaars, there’s a myriad of things to do in NYC today! Its famously delectable food fare ensures one also always eats really well here.

With so much offer, we scour the Big Apple for iconic landmarks, COVID-free attractions, mouth-watering dining options, and all other things to do in New York.

Make sure to double-check COVID precautions, protocols and operating hours before you visit any of these sites.

Fun Things To Do In NYC Today

1. Head to Winter Village in Bryant Park

Winter Village at Bryant Park is a hot favorite for every New Yorker looking for colorful Christmas markets. It houses a gigantic ice skating rink that’s free of cost if you carry your own pair of skates. It also features an arsenal of pop-up shops and holiday bakeries. But what the Winter Village is most famous for, is its vibrant dining and drinking scenes along with its festive menu that will spoil you for choice!

COVID safety measures:

• The Winter Village features fewer shops and restaurants with a restricted number of skaters on the ice rink.
• Skaters are recommended to bring their own skates.
• Visitors are required to book time slots in advance.

2. Check out the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center

The Rockefeller Center is widely popular for its breathtaking scenery from Top of the Rock. But one of the most fun things to do in NYC today — and this time of the year — is witnessing its larger-than-life Christmas tree! You can also venture to the Plaza, practice skating on the rink and guzzle up some foamy eggnog.

3. Spend the day in Coney Island

Coney Island is New York City’s go-to hangout spot for a lazy afternoon by the beach. You’ll find tourists cozily soaking in the sun and sipping on cheeky Pina Coladas, as children keep themselves busy building sandcastles. In winters, however — particularly this year — things are different. The island gets isolated and rather quiet, although making it a great option to wander off to from the city’s heaving crowds!

No matter what time of the year, you can bank on the island to keep you entertained with its endless list of things to do in NYC this weekend.

We also recommend grabbing some beers at Coney Island Brewing Company, taking a stroll across the Atlantic Ocean Boardwalk and experiencing the Christmas Nights of Lights 2020.

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Free Things To Do In NYC Today

4. Take a walk along the Brooklyn Bridge

With the bustling Brooklyn Bridge quieter than usual, now is a good time to take a gentle stroll here and soak in the city’s picturesque skyline. Grab a cup of coffee and head to this iconic landmark that connects Manhattan with Brooklyn. You’ll find bicyclists enjoying a ride as other patrons capture stellar views from the bridge for their Instagram feed.

5. Hang out at Central Park

One of the best things to do in NYC to escape its crowded sidewalks is taking a quiet walk through the grassy lawns of Central Park. Arguably one of the most peaceful and picturesque haunts in the city, Central Park is known for its sprawling playgrounds and hypnotic fountains! Along the way, you’ll also spot intricately designed statues, sculptures — and during the holiday season — a postcard-perfect ice skating rink!

6. Revisit the Statue Of Liberty

Located in the Lower Eastern region of New York City, the Statue of Liberty continues to be one of the most sought-after things to do in NYC today. Steeped way back in American history, it stands tall at 305 feet and is usually brimming with eager tourists!

If you are looking for free things to do in NYC, hop on the Staten Island Ferry, from where you will be able to admire the statue free of cost.

While you are in the area, also visit Red Hook in Brooklyn, and take the IKEA water taxi at Pier 11, which runs between Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Things To Do In NYC Today: Dining & Drinking

7. Spend the weekend at The Greens, Pier 17

The Greens at Pier 17 hosts one of the most vibrant drinking and dining events in NYC. This year, however, it is offering a new experience with a socially-distanced restaurant and manicured lawns turned into tiny cosy cabins. It also includes a heated floor plan, a virtual fireplace and tantalising views of the East River Waterfront.

Although, one of the best things to do in New York on weekends is sampling festive food and Christmas cocktails at The Greens.

8. Grab a drink at a Christmas pop-up bar

Besides its local street fare, New York City also offers a range of widely popular festive pop-up bars every Christmas season. With their glittering decor, themed cocktails and enthusiastic bartenders, you can count on them for some Christmas cheer and fun things to do in NYC in November 2020.

With many entrants into the fray, our all-time favorites remain Miracle on 35 West 8th St in Manhattan, Rofl in 281 Third Avenue and Sippin’ Santa’s in 13 First Avenue.

9. Enjoy the privacy of a heated igloo

Want to maintain social distance? Take refuge inside a heated igloo!

The 230 Fifth Rooftop has acquired an inevitable reputation of the best igloo bar in New York City, hosting a rooftop area with panoramic views of the skyline, in addition to an exclusive heated igloo.

While on particularly colder nights, the hot chocolate or mulled wine are staples here, we recommend you also gorge on their weekend brunch that offers an exquisite spread of vegan and gluten-free options.

Things To Do In NYC Today: Hidden Gems

10. Catch the Say Their Names Installations

The Public Theatre Facade in East Village is hosting visually-striking installations, dedicated to victims of police brutality and white supremacy such as George Floyd. The installation, which is free of cost, features works of 10 artists and is also streamed live for online audiences.

11. Witness Trump’s Wall Of Lies

If you are an art enthusiast who’s still in election mode, one of the best things to do in NYC this weekend is heading to witness the city’s enthralling artworks across the streets of Soho! You will witness gigantic murals that illustrate various aspects of American politics and real-world issues such as the Coronavirus.

The creators of the wall art are also hosting a fundraiser with the aim to curate more murals, and make this among major NYC events today.

12. Take a free self-guided tour at Industrial City

Mulling over what to do in NYC today? You might want to check out Industrial City that is hosting a free walking tour, featuring 14 captivating murals by local artists. The art pieces intricately depict all major events that have taken place in 2020, including the Coronavirus, self-isolation and racial disparity.

With so many events in NYC today — even amidst the pandemic — be sure to never be disappointed by the city. And while keeping up with the times we should continue rediscovering our backyards, we also recommend you to keep an eye out for exciting travel deals in 2021!

Originally published at https://www.cuddlynest.com on November 24, 2020.