Visiting the Big Apple is a dream for many. It’s the city that never sleeps, and provides you a magical experience to cherish for life. New York is bustling with tourists all year long, but if you’re planning to visit this mega city, you should definitely see the wonders of New York in November. It’s the perfect month. The weather is chilly, the streets aren’t too packed, and it’s the right time before the holiday season, so you have the opportunity to do some Christmas shopping!
Let’s explore some of the most adventurous things to do in nyc in November.
28 Must Things To Do In NYC in November
1. Black Friday Sales
In the US, Black Friday has become a huge event. This shopping extravaganza starts on Thanksgiving Day. If you happen to be in New York, you can get multitude of discounts on various items. You can plan your trip to New York to get the essence of Black Friday, and experience some of the best shopping deals firsthand. Even if you decide not to buy anything, exploring the busy stores is definitely one of the best things to do in New York for first-timers.
2. Long Island Fall Restaurant Week
Long Island Restaurant Week promises eight days of tantalizing offers from Garden City to Montauk. Over 130 restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk will present fixed-price menus at $24, $29, $39, and $46. This provides you a perfect opportunity to indulge in a wide range of culinary delights.
3. The Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a cherished annual event. It is set to commence on November 23rd, 2024. You will witness a spectacular display of giant balloons, intricate floats, marching bands, and performance groups, with the arrival of Santa Claus being the highlight of the event.
4. The Rockettes Show
The holiday season in New York kicks off with the Rockettes Radio City Christmas Spectacular starting in early November. This mesmerizing North Pole-themed musical features over 130 performers and 1,300 costumes. Watching the Rockettes live is an iconic New York experience. It’s recommended for anyone looking for memorable things to do in New York at night because that’s when the city comes alive.
5. Adirondack Stampede Rodeo
Experience the thrill of the Wild West at New York State’s Adirondack Stampede Rodeo. This is a tradition that spans over three decades. Put on your cowboy boots and hat, and watch the participants engage in events like steer wrestling, barrel racing, and bull riding. After the Rodeo, the celebration continues at the Round-Up Party in Heritage Hall. This is definitely one of the more unique things to do in NYC that offers a taste of Rodeo culture with a breathtaking performance from top-tier competitors.
6. Santa’s Secret Immersive Holiday Experience
Secure your spot at the season’s most intriguing event. It features eight enchanting holiday installations, festive cocktails, live music, and more. This event promises to be the most thrilling adventure north of the equator. You can walk through the captivating rooms until you uncover the heart of Santa’s mystery, which is a quaint, vintage speakeasy.
7. Stroll Through Central Park
A must-see for any visitor, Central Park shines the brightest in autumn. Take a tour and meander through the park, adorned with a vibrant carpet of fall foliage in shades of orange, brown, and yellow. This setting, especially enchanting in the rain, offers you an opportunity to click a snap or two in a cinematic ambiance. For couples, it’s one of the most magical and romantic things to do in NYC.
8. Beacon Bonfire Music and Arts Festival
Explore Beacon, the coolest small town in the United States. Enjoy this dynamic two-day festival to your heart’s content. Over 300 artists, including aerialists and comedians, entertain across more than 20 venues. Unwind by the continuous bonfires along Main Street, and take advantage of discounts on food, drinks, and shopping. It’s definitely one of the most fun activities in NYC for couples.
9. Santa’s Winter Wonderland
Experience the charm of the holiday season by visiting the Santa’s Winter Wonderland at the Watermark Bar. It’s located at the tip of Pier 15. This outdoor winter fest offers stunning waterfront views, seasonal refreshments, holiday decor, and light snacks. It’s a great place to gather with loved ones and even meet Santa Claus himself.
10. Enjoy an NBA game
Watching an NBA game in the basketball court is more than just basketball. It’s a full-on spectacle complemented with dance, music, and entertainment. Learn how to get tickets to see the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden by checking out a detailed post on NBA tickets in New York. To get the maximum enjoyment, you should arrive early to soak in the full experience. Add this to your list of fun things to do in NYC on weekend.
11. Go on a Stunning Fall Hike
Experience the beauty of fall in the NYC, a perfect outdoor activity before the winter sets in. These trails are conveniently accessible by public transportation. You can take a taxi ride to reach the trailheads. Starting your hike early allows for a full day of exploration.
Here are some of the best locations:
- Franny Reese State Park: Located in Ulster County, this park features over 2.5 miles of hiking trail with historic ruins and scenic views of the Poughkeepsie Bridge. Source: Scenic Hudson website.
- Arden Point and Glenclyffe: This trail in Garrison, New York, is part of the Hudson Highlands State Park and are known for historical landmarks of the Revolutionary War and stunning Hudson River views. Source: New York State Parks website.
- Anthony’s Nose Hike: This popular trail offers a challenging climb and rewards hikers with one of the best views of the Hudson River and Bear Mountain Bridge. Source: New York-New Jersey Trail Conference website.
- Camp Smith Trail: Starting near the Bear Mountain Bridge, this trail provides dramatic views of the Hudson River and is recognized for its rugged terrain. Source: New York State Parks website.
- Wanaque Ridge Trail: This trail in Passaic County, New Jersey, offers a quiet, natural setting with breathtaking views of Wanaque Reservoir. Source: New Jersey Trails Association website.
12. New York City Marathon
Experience the excitement of Marathon Day, a prominent free event in New York City. The 26.2-mile course passes through all five boroughs. Join the celebration in Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Academy of Music, or catch the action in Manhattan, close to tantalizing eateries like Dinosaur Bar-B-Que and famous attractions like the Museum of Modern Art. This is one of the best free things to do in NYC in November.
13. Fall Foliage In NYC
As November ushers in peak fall foliage, locals have shared their favorite spots to enjoy the season’s vibrant colors.
Here are some top locations in NYC to see the autumn leaves:
- Clove Lakes Park, Staten Island
- Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn
- Central Park, Manhattan
14. Christmas-Ready Storefronts
It’s November and with Christmas just around the corner, NYC’s storefronts come alive with dazzling lights and elaborate decorations. To fully immerse yourself in this festive spectacle, book a guided tour of New York’s Christmas windows. As dusk sets, the city lights up, making even a simple walk through commercial districts a tempting shopping spree. For those looking for bargains, visiting New York’s top outlets can be one of the craziest things to do in New York as you hunt for lucrative deals.
15. LuminoCity Festival
Step into a world of fantasy at the LuminoCity Festival at Eisenhower Park. This stunning festival features artistic installations of light and color that transform the space into a magical landscape. Some of the highlights include the Mystical Jellyfish Forest and a Wonderland Tea Party that leads to the enchanting Cheshire’s Glow. This festival is a perfect example of blending art with a festive spirit.
16. Candy Cottage
This holiday season, Rockefeller Center debuts the Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic. It’s a new attraction that promises to dazzle visitors. If you plan to visit New York in November, do check out the Christmas tree trunk adorned with candy-themed decorations and join in an exciting scavenger hunt. You should add this unique attraction to the list of fun things to do in New York for birthdays.
17. Herkimer County Arts & Crafts Fair
Explore the 45th Herkimer County Arts & Crafts Fair at Herkimer College Campus. With over 100 stalls selling everything from handmade pottery to gourmet treats and unique statement jewelry, this fair is ideal for those looking for presents for someone special. Proceeds from the event help fund the college’s scholarship programs. Well, they support the local community while you shop. A noble cause!
18. Candlelight Concert
Experience the mesmerizing Candlelight Concerts in NYC’s most stunning venues. This season’s lineup includes tributes to Joe Hisaishi, Adele, ABBA, and Taylor Swift, under the influence of soft yet mesemerizing candlelight. These concerts offer a unique cultural experience, and make your evening memorable.
19. Winter Village Christmas Market
November in New York means the arrival of the Winter Village at Bryant Park. This is an essential visit during the holiday season. The village has over a thousand stalls offering crafts, food, and even an ice skating rink. Enjoying a cup of hot cider here is a beloved tradition. As the chilling winter sets in, spending an afternoon at this festive market is one of the best hidden things to do in New York, as it offers a blend of comfort, fun, and excitement.
20. National Toy Hall of Fame Celebration Weekend
Join the festivities at The Strong Museum in Rochester for the National Toy Hall of Fame Celebration Weekend. Marking its 25th anniversary, the event will induct three new toys from a pool of 12 finalists, including baseball cards and Barbie’s partner, Ken. An additional toy will be inducted based on public votes. Celebrate these iconic toys with magic shows and playtime in the Timeless Classics Play Zones. This event is a must if you’re looking for bucket list things to do in New York.
21. Botanical Gardens
The Astra Lumina event is part of a series created by Moment Factory, which is a Montreal-based multimedia studio known for its expertise in creating immersive environments that blend light, sound, and digital artistry. According to Moment Factory’s official website, they have been involved in similar projects worldwide and aim to transform both natural landscapes and urban spaces into magical experiences. They outline their approach and previous projects that enhance traditional botanical garden visits into captivating night-time journeys.
22. Luna Park
For the first time, Coney Island’s Luna Park will remain open throughout the winter. This year, it will feature winter wonders like an ice skating rink and a holiday market. This transformation makes it one of the most exciting things to do in NYC with kids. It offers a unique experience, offering fun rides and other attractions for an exciting and immersive experience.
23. Schenectady Holiday Parade
The Schenectady Holiday Parade was first organized in 1968. Since then, it has become the largest nighttime holiday parade in the Northeast region. It attracts large crowds, with recent estimates suggesting that over 20,000 spectators gather each year to watch the festive displays. This event features local school bands and elaborately decorated fire trucks. According to the official Schenectady city website, this year’s theme, “New York State of Mind,” highlights the rich cultural and historical significance of the area.
24. The North Pole At Macy’s Santa land
The day after the Thanksgiving Parade, Macy’s Santaland opens its doors for a quintessential Christmas experience. Dive into a North Pole setting that features elves, trains, and Santa ready to listen to your holiday wishes. This magical visit is free, and it’s a perfect addition to your list of things to do in NYC with teens. Find this enchanting setup on the 8th floor at Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W 34th Street.
25. Craft Beer Festival
Kick off your November in New York at the NYC Craft Beer Festival that runs through the first two days. Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the exclusive, small-batch brews available, featuring unique ingredients like thyme and other herbs.
26. Jingle Falls USA
Jingle Falls USA began in 2017 as part of efforts by the Niagara Falls community to boost winter tourism and offer visitors a unique holiday experience. According to Niagara Falls USA’s official tourism site, the event features various holiday-themed activities, including a meet-and-greet with Santa and his reindeer, hosted at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute. This is by far one of the best things to do near Niagara Falls, New York.
27. Peace, Love, and Lights
The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is a historic site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival. It hosts the “Peace, Love, and Lights” event. According to the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts website, this drive-thru holiday light show spans a 1.7-mile route featuring thematic displays such as Snowflake Alley and Candy Cane Lane. It celebrates the spirit of the season with an iconic music festival. You can enhance your experience by purchasing a box of freshly baked goodies.
Conclusion
So, plan your next visit to New York in the chilling and dazzling month of November! Experience some of the events and adventures from this list of adventurous things to do in New York, and have an unforgettable trip!
Frequently Asked Question’s
Which is the best place to visit in New York in November?
November is a great time to visit Central Park. You can witness the spectacular fall foliage at its best. The park’s iconic bridges, pathways, and the zoo offer a picturesque autumn experience.
Is New York worth visiting in November?
Absolutely! November is the perfect month to visit New York. The city begins its transformation into a winter wonderland, with holiday lights and decorations starting to appear. It’s also less crowded as compared to December, and allows for a more relaxed exploration of attractions. Plus, cultural events like the New York Comedy Festival and various Broadway shows are in full swing.
Is New York Christmassy in November?
Yes, by late November, New York starts to embrace the Christmas spirit. Many holiday markets open, like the Winter Village at Bryant Park, and iconic locations like Rockefeller Center begin their festive decorations, which include the setup of the famous Christmas Tree. Storefronts along Fifth Avenue also start displaying their holiday-themed windows, which adds to the festive atmosphere.
Is NYC rainy in November?
November can be quite variable in terms of weather. It’s typically one of the drier months of fall, but it’s advisable to be prepared for occasional rain. The average precipitation is about 3.5 inches, so we recommend you to carry an umbrella during your visit.
