Witness the magic of New York this winter with direct flights from EDI - so get your skates on!

Last updated Dec 01, 2022

There's just something special about New York in the winter time.

Yes, you've got the magic of Christmas and New Year in a city which, frankly, knows how to celebrate - but you've also got wonderful winter walks, snow-covered parks to enjoy and, of course, plenty of ice skating.

Here's a look at some of our top tips if you're lucky enough to be visiting the Big Apple this winter.

Get your skates on at the Rockefeller rink

New York - Christmas

Venture on to the New York's most famous ice rink, in the shadow of the city's most famous Christmas tree.

The Rockefeller during the festive period is one of the star attractions in these parts, few places will do quite as much to get you into the Christmas spirit.

The rink is open from October through to April, so even if you're not visiting in late December there's plenty opportunity to get the skates on and venture on to the ice.

Worth noting, there a few better places from which to see the city's skyline than the Top of the Rock.

Explore Central Park in the snow

New York - Central Park

One of the star attractions in the winter months, particularly when it's under a fresh coat of snow.

There's an undeniable charm about Central Park no matter the time of year, however we'd suggest wrapping up warm and visiting when the temperatures drop. So far as winter walks go you'd struggle to find many better,

Whether you want to stretch the legs, do a spot of skating on the Wollman Rink, or go sledding in the snow on Pilgrim Hill or Cedar Hill - it's all there for you.

Bring in the new year at Times Square

New York - New year's party

The New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square has become stuff of legend. The ball at One Times Square attracts hundreds of thousands of people each year - many from all corners of the globe.

You've likely heard all about it, but another famous New Year tradition is the wishing wall. People are invited to write their wishes on confetti (whether it be a personal goal or a dream) and this is then released down on to the crowds gathered below.

If it's a party you're after you'll not be short on options. Some of the most famous venues across the city bring in the bells with their own special gatherings.

Pay Brooklyn Bridge Park a visit

Brooklyn Bridge Park 2

Grab a coffee and take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying some fantastic views of the city along the way.

The nearby Brooklyn Bridge Park is also a great place to stop off and take in the surroundings. This park, one of the finest public spaces in the whole of New York, is open year-round with events and exhibitions a regular occurrence.

Don't forget your hat and gloves - it can get chilly!

See the city at its most beautiful - but wrap up warm!

New York winter - skyline 2

There can be no disputing it, this place looks fantastic in the winter time.

Snow covered parks and streets, packed ice rinks, and (if you're visiting over Christmas) the bright and busy festive decorations bring a unique atmosphere to New York City.

As we've already touched upon, pack some warm clothes because when it gets cold, it really does get cold. New York doesn't do winter by half measures.

Read more: Our 25 'must dos' when in New York: Book direct flights from Edinburgh to the Big Apple - click here

Visit our New York destination page here.

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