There are many reasons that February brings visitors to New York City. Many come to enjoy the Lunar New Year celebrations, some have a romantic getaway planned for Valentine’s Day, and others, despite the often cold days, take their children exploring the city because they are on school holidays. . Although the weather makes it a little less comfortable for walking, with the right planning and luggage, you can still have a good time in New York City, despite the cold.
Since it’s cold and off-peak season in New York City, you can find bargains on discounted accommodations and flights. Plus, if you’re traveling in early February, you can dine at some of New York City’s best restaurants at a significant discount, as you have a good chance to see New York City Restaurant Week.
Throughout the year, New York City’s cultural neighborhoods are packed with character and rich flavors: Chinatown, Koreatown, and Little Italy, to name a few. Chinatown bursts into a festive celebration for the Lunar New Year every year, as this date usually falls in February (although it is sometimes in January), bringing with it a variety of parades and celebrations to experience.
February Weather in New York
February is a little warmer than January, but not much. It is one of the coldest months, but it is also less likely to rain.
- Average High: 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius)
- Average Low: 29 degrees Fahrenheit (-1.6 degrees Celsius)
Days without freezing are possible, but people, especially children, who are ill-prepared for wet, cold, and snowy conditions will be miserable. Tall buildings can make the wind feel colder and stronger than normal, blocking out most of the heat and sunlight, so be sure to dress for the weather.
What to pack
To keep your body warm, dress in layers. Usually it will be hot in the shops, the subway and the attractions. But since it’s almost impossible to visit New York City without spending time outdoors, pack warm, waterproof clothing such as sweaters, hoodies, a heavy jacket or coat, hat, earmuffs, scarf, gloves, and waterproof boots with isolation. Warm feet make a difference when you walk and explore.
February events in New York City
Braving the cold in February is often worth it, as New York City celebrates the second month with some memorable events.
- Groundhogs from across the country (most famous, Punxsutawney Phil) emerge from their homes on February 2 and judge whether winter is waning or if we have six more weeks left. The Staten Island Zoo has its own groundhogs and events to celebrate Groundhog Day .
- Ice skating in New York City is iconic. Whether you’re skating under the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center or amid the evergreens of Central Park’s Wollman Rink, ice skating is often depicted in a perfect New York City winter postcard. .
- In February, Chinatown celebrates the Chinese New Year , featuring dragons, dancers, and the best Chinese food in town. This wild celebration should not be missed.
- Twice a year, the city celebrates Restaurant Week , when some of the best restaurants in New York offer discounted meals at a fixed price.
- Winter Fashion Week takes place in February. While getting a coveted invite to the hottest show can be hard to come by, you’ll see plenty of action in the Meatpacking District.
- The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is held every February at Madison Square Garden. Dog lovers will love seeing the diverse breeds at this iconic location.
February Travel Tips
- The main downside to traveling to New York City in February is the weather. You can expect it to be cold. You can snow. And, if it snows, the roads and highways can be slippery and dangerous. When it’s very snowy or slippery, you may have additional transportation issues, such as canceled or delayed flights.
- Even though it’s cold, New York City is always a favorite Valentine’s Day pick, so don’t be surprised if you have a hard time booking last-minute travel plans.
- Since most of the students have left for President’s Day, there may be some inflated prices and crowds. President’s Day falls on the third Monday in February. It’s a federal holiday to mark the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, and many businesses are closed this Monday, but restaurants and other tourist attractions generally remain open. Additionally, many American school systems have a vacation week in February, usually President’s Day week, so New York City schoolchildren may be out of school, and many families may choose to plan a vacation in New York City that week.
- When the cold of February is too much to bear, go inside. There are tons of museums and galleries to visit in Manhattan, including the Two Giants alongside Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Museum of Natural History.
- New York City is the place to go shopping. You can enjoy hopscotch along Fifth Avenue shops, or stay completely inside and peruse the high-end boutiques at the World Trade Center Oculus.
Deciding when to visit New York City? Read our helpful monthly guides.
