By Carol Cain, on January 23, 2014

Post-holiday in New York City

Something changes when the holidays are over in New York City. It gets a little gloomy since January tends to be a gray, cloudy month. As the energy of holiday festivities fades and people venture back from vacation, it all can seem a bit drab.

Except that it remains one of the best times to travel to the city because New York City hotel rates become more reasonable–by New York standards anyway–and you won’t find yourself always crowded as you walk down the street or into restaurants and shops.

Truth is, despite all the complaining that us natives might be doing (mostly related to the weather), there are things to look forward to when visiting the Big Apple after the holidays.

The Foodie

Restaurant Week takes place during the end of January through February. In 2014, however, the wait is a little longer due to the big game taking place in neighboring New Jersey, curtailing the plans. I suppose if you love your football as much as you love your food, then the whole thing isn’t too bad of a deal. Traditionally, Restaurant Week takes place twice a year, during January through February and then again in June through July. It’s an opportunity to taste some of the finer dishes the city has to offer at a fraction of the price. This is one of the most popular post-holiday foodie events to discover in town.

Hot cocoa and ice skating are the best

The Wine Lover

The New York Wine Festival takes place in early February and offers all the tastings to help keep you warm and in good spirits. From wine pairing courses and tastings to live music events, this is one of the winter highlights for fellow oenophiles.

The Theater Lover

Broadway Week is actually two weeks worth of 2-for-1 ticket specials for some of the best and mot popular Broadway shows. There are some great off-Broadway specials happening as well, and I found many of these shows to be just as worthy of accolades as the ones in the larger theaters. Normally sales are often best found through various Broadway websites, during same-day purchases via TKTS, or during the fall. But if you are here earlier in the year and want to take in a show, this is definitely one sale you don’t want to miss.

For The Nature Lover

Viewfinder Tip: It’s also worth checking out what the New York Parks Department offers visitors, as their list of events are often free and provide a different view of our beloved city parks.

One of our favorite natural escapes in the city is to the New York Botanical Garden. Long after their holiday exhibits have been taken down, the botanical garden continues to celebrate winter and provide ways in which visitors can learn from the landscape and enjoy the scenery. You can choose from winter guided or non-guided tours, or stay warm while exploring their tropical houses. They also host a series of weekend events that are perfect for couples and families.

Of course there’s still ice skating in many parks throughout the city. That accompanied by a hot cup of cocoa can bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Needless to say, there is more to New York City during the winter than just the holidays. I would recommend that you dress warmly, and though we city dwellers aren’t into carrying umbrellas, it is important to note that you might need an umbrella, as well as a pair of boots to help keep your toes warm and dry.

What are your favorite post-holiday activities?