New York & Boston in Winter: Cold, Crisp & Completely Worth It

Have you ever considered visiting The Big Apple in winter?

Yes, it's cold.

Sometimes \1 cold.

But there's something rather special about New York at this time of year — crisp blue skies, fewer layers of summer crowds and that unmistakable energy the city seems to have regardless of the temperature.

We recently spent a week exploring New York City and Boston, and while jackets, scarves, gloves and beanies became part of the daily uniform, the cold certainly didn't stop us from getting out and experiencing both cities.

One of the things we love about New York is that it's a city best explored rather than simply observed.

Even in winter.

We rugged up and headed into Central Park for a bike ride — perhaps not the first activity that springs to mind when you think of a New York winter, but such a fabulous way to experience this iconic part of the city.

And when the sun comes out against those beautiful blue winter skies, find yourself a sunny spot and you'll be surprised how quickly you warm up.

We also took to the water for a sunset cruise on the Hudson River.

Watching the New York skyline transform as daylight faded was magical. With views towards the Statue of Liberty, Staten Island and the Brooklyn Bridge before the city lights began to sparkle, it was certainly worth braving the chill.

Brrrrr? Absolutely.

Worth it? Definitely.

Then there was Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center.

The views across Manhattan are spectacular at any time of year, but there is something about that clear winter air and the city stretching out below that makes you forget, at least temporarily, just how cold your fingers are.

Winter days are naturally a little shorter, but in New York that simply means the evening starts earlier. And that's hardly a problem.

The city really comes alive after dark, with an almost endless choice of restaurants, cocktail bars, rooftop venues, theatre and entertainment.

A Broadway show is always a wonderful addition to a New York stay. Whether you prefer a big musical, theatre or comedy, there is always something happening.

Our advice?

Don't retreat to your hotel simply because it's cold outside. Embrace winter as the locals do, add another layer and head back out.

Boston in Winter

Our journey also took us to Boston, a city that offers a very different experience from New York but is equally rewarding to explore. We wrapped up and walked the historic Freedom Trail, discovering some of the places and stories that played such an important role in America's history. Boston is a wonderful walking city, even in winter, and when you need to warm up there always seems to be an inviting bar or restaurant nearby.

We also visited the JFK Presidential Library and Museum, which was fascinating, before making our way to Harvard. Walking through the grounds of one of the world's most famous universities is definitely worth adding to a Boston itinerary.

Not every winter day is going to deliver blue skies.

Fortunately, New York and Boston are two cities where bad weather doesn't mean losing a day of sightseeing.

Both are filled with museums, galleries, shops, restaurants and indoor attractions, so it's easy to have a Plan B when the weather turns. In fact, a snowy day can sometimes add to the experience.

There's something quite magical about stepping back outside and seeing a familiar city transformed by a dusting of snow.

Would we travel to New York in Winter again?

Without hesitation.

Winter gives New York a completely different personality.

Yes, you'll need to pack properly. And yes, there will be moments when the word “Brrrrr” escapes your lips.

But that's part of the experience.

Bundle up, explore Central Park, see Manhattan from the water, take in those incredible skyline views, spend an evening on Broadway and find a cosy bar when you need to warm up. And if you're combining New York with Boston, allow yourself plenty of time.

We had a week.

We could quite easily have stayed for another.

So much to do, so little time...