20 FUN Things to Do in New York City in February (2024 Guide)

This article on the best things to do in New York City in February was written by Alejandro B., an Upper West Side local for the past 6 years.

Mention to any local that you’re visiting New York City in February and you’ll get a few funny looks. They’ll tell you the weather is miserable and the bare trees make the city look dull. That’s true enough, but there’s actually a lot of perks to visiting NYC in February, too.

Tourist seasons is over, lines are non-existent and elusive restaurant reservations are easier to score. You won’t have to fight for your life in a sea of people just to see iconic sites. Plus, hotels run great deals and flights are a bit cheaper during the winter months.

After braving six winters in NYC, I wanted to roundup some unique February experiences worth leaving the house for, let’s dive right in!

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.

Tips for Visiting NYC in February

Be sure to read: What to Pack for New York in Winter (+Outfit Ideas) for helpful suggestions.
Bring winter shoes: It’s no secret that January in New York City is cold, pack accordingly! I recommend insulated/waterproof boots (here’s the pair I live in). Check out: The Best Shoes for Walking Around New York City (By Season).
Portable charger: Cold weather depletes batteries (both cellphones and camera) quicker than you’d expect, so when heading out for the day make sure you’re at full charge and pick up one of these bad boys.

Things to Do in New York City in February

Table of Contents

February in New York City (Article Summary)

Talea Beer Company flight, Brooklyn New York

Indulge at the Indoor Beer Garden at Brookfield Place

2024 Dates: February 15, 22, 29

It’s easy to walk into Brookfield Place and forget you’re in the city at all (those palm trees!). Even if you don’t plan on shopping, swing by to participate in one of the best free events in New York City in February, Brews at Brookfield Place.

The mall’s palm court transforms into a winter biergarten, where local breweries take over the menu with craft beers that span the gamut (breweries change weekly). The event is free to attend (no tickets required), beer and food available for purchase.

The best part? All beer sales benefit the GO Project, a non-profit organization that serves academically-struggling (and under-resourced) elementary and middle public school students from Brooklyn, Chinatown and the Lower East Side.

Address: 230 Vesey St, New York, NY 10281

Enjoy the Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown

Date: February 10, 2024 (11:00am – 3:30pm) & February 25th
Good to Know: 2024 is the Year of the Dragon
Check out the official website here

Celebrating Chinese New Years in Chinatown is a unique opportunity because Manhattan is home to the largest Chinatown in the United States. Home to more than 150,000 Chinese-speaking residents, the area covers 50 blocks! This lively neighborhood is a joy to explore every season of the year, but there’s something special about the winter season when the Lunar New Year takes place.

Dragon dancing, colorful outfits, martial art performers and impressive dancers take to the street for live music and firecrackers. Featuring stunning visuals and delicious treats, there’s two important dates to know: The big parade takes place on February 25, 2024, but the Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival take place February 10th at Sara D. Roosevelt Park at Grand Street.

This is easily one of the best NYC events in February, if you’ve never participated in the festivities I couldn’t encourage you more. The parade provides the perfect opportunity to appreciate a new culture and celebrate the city’s diversity.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in NYC

Date: February 14, 2024

Some may say Paris is the most romantic city in the world and while that may be true, NYC is no stranger to a little romance. Home to world-renowned restaurants, charming jazz clubs and breathtaking observations decks, celebrating Valentines Day in NYC is a treat.

That’s why one of the best things to do in New York City in February is to treat your special someone to a night on the town. Need some guidance? Read 20+ (Non-Cheesy) Romantic Things to Do in New York City.

Or Name a Roach After Your Ex at the Bronx Zoo

Date: February 14, 2024

Okay, so if you’re not feeling the love, here’s Plan B. The Name a Roach program at the Bronx Zoo is a great way to get even with an ex on Valentine’s Day. For only $15 you can name a Madagascar hissing cockroach after your ex (or valentine) and get an official certificate from the zoo.

The event is one of the most unique things to do in New York City in February — some locals consider this a tradition. The fun doesn’t stop there, the zoo also offers a Roach Romance package. Offering an unusual after-hours experience where you can learn about the role insects play in the chocolate making process. The experience ends with samples of sustainably-made chocolates and wine.

Address: 2300 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY 10460

Ride Bumper Cars on Ice (at Bryant Park)

Dates: January 12 – March 2, 2024
Cost: $20 for 10 minutes
For more information, check out the official website

When was the last time you found yourself in a bumper car? If it’s been too long, head to Bryant Park to bump, slide and spin on the ice (ages 7+). After the holiday season ends, Bryant Park dusts off the beloved bumper cars and opens up the 17,000-square-foot ice rink exclusively for this fun winter activity in NYC.

Local’s Advice: I strongly recommend booking in advance, since this is one of the most popular things to do in NYC in February.

Attend The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden

Dates: February 17–April 21, 2024 | Tickets can be purchased online

Celebrated for the breathtaking display of thousands of colorful orchids, the Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden is one of the most popular things to see in NYC in February. Running for more than 20 years, the garden teams up with local designers every year to showcase unique exhibitions and rare orchids from around the world.

These artists transform the conservatory into an orchid paradise centered around a theme (the 2024 theme is fashion). Guests can enjoy the exhibit and attend workshops and lectures to learn more about orchid care and conservation. This is one of the best NYC February activities for anyone with a green-thumb.

Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458

Best things to do in New York City in February
Winter Jam NYC

Get Active at Winter Jam (in Central Park)

Note: 2024 dates haven’t been announced yet

The lovely folks at the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation host an annual event called Winter Jam. By spraying a mini mountain of snow in the Rumsey Playfield (near the Bandshell), folks are able to enjoy a winter wonderland in the heart of Manhattan.

Complete with a snowfield for snowshoeing and sledding, this event is one of the best free things to do in New York City in February. Live music, food vendors, and various winter-themed entertainment, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors while visiting NYC in winter!

Local’s Tip: Anybody visiting New York City in February with kids shouldn’t miss this event. Just be sure to show up early, events are hosted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Celebrate National Pizza Day With a Proper Slice

Date: February 9, 2024

Is there a place more fitting to celebrate National Pizza Day than New York City? Whether you go with a dollar slice or a gourmet pie, this is the perfect excuse to indulge when visiting New York City in February. There’s too many great places to list, so you may want to read: 15 EPIC Pizza Joints in New York City You Can’t Afford to Miss.

Watch the Super Bowl at a Sports Bar

Date: February 11, 2024

Watching the Super Bowl at a local bar is a cool NYC February experience you won’t want to miss. Rowdy crowds, cold pints and greasy bar food, it doesn’t get better than this. Need suggestions? My favorite sports bar is Standings in the East Village, named best sports bar on the East Coast.

Attend a New York Rangers Game

If you’re visiting New York City in February you should make an effort to attend a New York Rangers game. One of the original six teams in the National Hockey League, the Rangers have a loyal and passionate fan-base. Hell, sometimes the fans are more entertaining than the games.

Celebrate President’s Day

Date: February 19, 2024

President’s Day was originally a holiday to commemorate our first president, George Washington. Taking it a step further, NYC was the nation’s first capital, so there’s a ton of historic places to explore, like Federal Hall (where Washington was sworn in as our first president) or Trinity Church (where Alexander Hamilton is buried).

Afterwards, swing by Fraunces Tavern for a beer, where George Washington bid an emotional farewell to his officers. If you’re looking for the best museum to visit in New York City in February I suggest the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Check out the epic painting of Washington Crossing the Delaware.

Experience New York Fashion Week

Dates: February 9th to February 14th, 2024

Fashion icons and celebrities from all across the world congregate in the Big Apple to showcase upcoming trends for the year. Tickets to the runway shows aren’t available to the general public, but you can still catch glimpses of models and celebrities making their way to shows. Read more here.

Apollo Theater Christmas Show New York City — Image Courtesy Apollo Theater

Cheer (or Boo) at Amateur Night at the Apollo Season Opener

Date: February 21, 2024

Amateur Night at the Apollo can be summed up as a glorious talent show where musicians, comedians and dancers attempt to earn the applause of the notoriously tough crowd (booing is par for the course). You could witness the budding career of a talented artist, or you can just join the crowd in booing. Tickets are required and available via Ticketmaster.

Address: 253 W 125th St, New York, NY 10027

Check Out the Winter Dog Days at Governors Island

Dates: Every Saturday and Sunday in February

All 172 glorious acres of Governors Island are open to dogs (and people) every Saturday and Sunday in February. To get the the island, you’ll need to take a public ferry. During weekends in February, dogs will be allowed to ride the ferry to Governors Island (using the outdoor areas) until 3pm. After 3pm, dogs won’t be allowed to board the inbound ferry to Governors Island.

However, if you find yourself on the island past 3pm, fret not. Dogs are allowed on the outbound ferry until the last ferry leaves the island. You and your pup are welcome to enjoy Governors Island until it closes at 6PM.

Local’s Tip: the panoramic views of New York City from the island are some of the best in the Big Apple!

February Events & Festivals in New York City

Restaurant Week

Dates: January 17 – February 12, 2023

Every 6 months I prepare my stomach for a stuffing that makes Thanksgiving look like child’s play. I’m talking about Restaurant Week, one of the best reasons to visit New York City in February.

Restaurants all across the city offer two and three course meals at a discounted rate giving folks the opportunity to try a little bit of everything. From India to Italy, and Mexico to Morocco the dining options are truly endless.

For a full list of participating restaurants click here.

Broadway Week

Dates: January 17 – February 12, 2023

During Broadway Week folks are able to purchase 2-for-1 tickets, effectively doubling the bang for your buck. If you’re a Broadway geek (like me) this makes visiting New York City in February twice as fun! Tickets go live January 10th and sell like hot-cakes so act fast.

Hotel Week

Dates: January 3 – February 12, 2023

Hotel Week provides one of the best reasons for visiting New York City in February. To celebrate 2023, guests will get 23% off discounts at some of New York City’s best hotels. This is also a great opportunity for locals looking to book a “staycation” and splurge a little bit.

Click here for a full list of participating hotels.

Must-See Week (New York City’s Top Attractions)

Dates: January 17 – February 12, 2023

One of the best things to do in February in New York City is to take advantage of Must See Week. Starting January 10th you can book tickets to some of NYC’s biggest attractions at a 2 for 1 discount.

Tours, museums and performing arts will all be up for grabs, but tickets go on sale on January 10th and they will go fast.

Off-Broadway Week

Dates: February 15th to March 5th, 2023

A Broadway theater is described as a professional theater that has 500 seats or more, and Off-Broadway means the theater holds less than 500.

The smaller theaters offer a great value on live entertainment, and even more so during Off-Broadway week. One of the best things to do in February in New York City is to take advantage of the 2-for-1 deal on Off-Broadway tickets!

Kids Week at the Intrepid Museum

Dates: February 18th to February 25th, 2023

Kids Week at the Intrepid Museum is one of the best things to do in New York City in February with kids! Set aboard the USS Intrepid (a decommissioned WWII aircraft carrier) kiddos get to learn about STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & math) with special guests like NASA scientists and Broadway performers.

February Weather in New York City

February averages: high 43° | low 29° | rains on average 7 days of the month.

If you’re visiting New York City in February you should be prepared for cold (and sometimes snowy) weather. Insulated and wind-proof clothing are non-negotiable if you want to enjoy yourself without freezing.

Keep in mind the sun sets early in New York City in February so get your outdoor activities done during the day. If it snows during your visit you’ll want to get an early start on the day. This way you can enjoy a pristine, freshly powdered New York City before pedestrians and cars turn the snow to slush.