Ultimate January NYC to-do list

2020 is almost here! I'm completely ready for a new decade. Are you starting your year off right with a trip to New York in January? January is a dark, cold month that feels even darker and colder because all the Christmas lights are gone. But that doesn't mean you have to stay indoors. Just make sure your to-do list is filled with cozy, (heart)warming activities.

Eating comfort food

Love for the city goes through the stomach, so good food is always a must. While we look for cooling and fresh dishes in the summer, our bodies crave warmth and comfort food during the winter. One of my favorites for food that is good for your soul is Veselka, a Ukrainian diner beloved by East Villagers. After their perogies, potato pancakes, and bean soup, you can handle any winter blues. Another restaurant where you can enjoy delicious and slightly more upscale dining is Lafayette, a grand café that seemingly hasn't changed since the 1920s.

Admiring Washington Square Park in the snow

If it snows, promise me you'll go to Washington Square Park, okay? The little park with its iconic Arch has something truly magical when it's covered in a fluffy layer of white. The lanterns look like they came straight out of the Gilded Age, and their glow through thick snowflakes is incredibly mysterious. I know it all sounds very dreamy, but it's really fairy-tale-like.

Drinking hot drinks

Hot chocolate alone might not be enough to thaw your blood in January. A boozy hot chocolate sounds much more appealing. This month, seek out winter-themed bars for warm drinks like spiked hot cider, mulled wine, and Irish coffee. The Standard Hotel in the East Village transforms its garden into a winter wonderland filled with yurts and Christmas trees. You can sit there for cheese fondue or for a quick drink (reservation needed). The Loreley Beer Garden keeps its garden heated until January 12 and serves the most Instagram-worthy, warm, alcoholic drinks.

Ice skating in Central Park

Most Christmas things go back up to the attic right after Christmas. Goodbye lights, farewell Christmas markets, and see you next year fresh-smelling pine branches. Unfortunately. What does stay for a while is the ice rink in Central Park, the Wollman Rink. On this iconic rink, you skate in circles surrounded by the park and the Midtown skyscrapers.

Buying books

Is there anything cozier than a store filled with rows and stacks of books that you can dream away under a thick blanket? I don't think so. At the Strand, you'll find everything: from modern books to antique books and from cookbooks to children's books. They also have a nice collection of stationery and fun gifts. Other nice bookstores to get lost in during winter are McNally Jackson (Nolita and Williamsburg), Books Are Magic (Cobble Hill), Alabaster Bookshop (East Village), or Three Lives & Company (West Village).

Brunching for a long time

The hardest goodbye is saying goodbye to your warm bed on a cold winter morning. If you're not quite ready to face the frozen day, I have the best solution for you: go brunching for a long time. Brunch is sacred in NYC. Every Saturday and Sunday, every restaurant is full of people sipping mimosas and poking at omelets. Go to Pardon My French for French vibes and French Toast. Hang out at Bubby’s with a stack of pancakes before heading to the Whitney museum. Or do classic and order a bagel with salmon at Russ & Daughters. The possibilities are endless.

Watching movies

Is the weather too harsh to do anything outside? Maybe it's a good idea to go to a movie. Diving into a dark room with a huge bucket of popcorn (with spray butter?) and mega soda is the perfect way to stay warm. A few nice cinemas are Village East Cinema, which has an art deco interior; Angelica, where they often show indie films; and Film Forum, where a film snob can express themselves.

Winter walk along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Nothing beats a winter walk with a warm drink as a reward afterward. At least, that's what I think. And when you take a walk along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, you get a free view of the Manhattan skyline. The nice thing about early twilight is that around half past four/five o'clock, you can already see a sunset as a backdrop to the skyline.

Laughing at the Comedy Cellar

Laughter is the best way to get warm immediately. Fortunately, New York loves comedy. The most famous club is the Comedy Cellar, where you can see not only unknown stand-up comedians but also surprise performances from the world's best. Reservations are smart, but if you arrive early, you can often snag a spot.

Seeing Frozen the musical

When the city is frozen, there's nothing more fitting than the musical Frozen. Leave it to Disney to put on an impressive show. Trust me, this is not just fun for the kids; everyone enjoys it.

Discovering Restaurant Week

Throw all your good intentions out the window and eat your fill during restaurant week. During this week, a large number of restaurants offer fixed menus at a low price. Some restaurants serve their classics, while others come up with something original for the occasion. During these days, everyone can try that expensive restaurant or get inspired to try something completely different. This week starts on the 22nd of January, and reservations can be made from the 8th.

Seaport District

Seaport is a small neighborhood northeast of the Financial District. With its cobblestone streets and brick houses, this neighborhood feels like it came straight out of the past and stands in stark contrast to the modern FiDi. The neighborhood itself is already cozy, but during the winter months, Seaport is also dressed up in a winter wonderland outfit. Bars and restaurants sell winter drinks and dishes, and there is an ice rink on top of Pier 17 on the East River with a view of the Brooklyn Bridge. How New York do you want it to be?

Written by: Anna van der Heijden