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Things To Do in New York in November

Things to do in November NYC

The best Things To Do in New York in November range from Hudson Valley fall foliage to major designer bargains at New York City sample sales. The Big Apple is packed with autumn adventures (speaking of apples, don’t miss out on New York City’s farmer’s markets – it’s harvest season)!

Whether you want to find the best viewing spots for the Thanksgiving Day Parade, grab a traditional Turkey Dinner, hit the Ice Skating rinks or cheer on one of our major sports teams, we offer you our insider tips and guide to a great November in NYC.


FREE Central Park Walking Tours

things to do in New York in November

New York City offers FREE walking tours all year round, and autumn in New York is incomparable when it comes to beautiful views of Central Park.

Against a backdrop of cobblestone and some of the world’s greatest ‘parkitechture’, learn about the history, geology and design of one of the world’s most fabulous parks.

See famous sites from movies and TV, find out about fun, free things to do in Central Park, catch the performances of some of NYC’s most gifted entertainers giving it away free (although a small donation in a guitar case or coffee cup is always appreciated), soak in Central Park’s colorful beauty and walk off those famous New York City hot dogs. This is a great way to spend an autumn afternoon in New York City.


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Take a Fall Foliage Cruise or Trip

With dozens of discount tickets available, you can't miss with a trip in or out of the city to see the fall leaves in their glorious autumn colors. Take to the river and join Classic Harbor on one of their classic sailboats and head north up the Hudson River to take in the beautiful fall foliage.

More Fall Foliage Trips

Fall Foliage New York

Photo Credit: Margaret Sneddon, Harpist

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Check the NYC Insider Guide November Events Calendar

Check out all our cool NYC events in November: The New York City Marathon, Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Rockettes at Radio City, Disney on Ice, Veterans Day, Holiday Markets, Ice Skating, NIT Season Tip Off and Championship Game, Nutcracker Ballet at Lincoln Center, Holiday Train Show and so much more.

NYC Insider Guide November Events Calendar

There is never a shortage of things to do in New York in November!!!!

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Where to Stay during November in New York City

November is the perfect time to check into one of our hotels near Rockefeller Center (Rockettes at Radio City, Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Ice Skating) or on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Route or near Central Park for more iconic Ice Skating.

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Make Thanksgiving Reservations

Where to eat on Thanksgiving in New York City

With hundreds of delicious choices for Thanksgiving Dinner in New York City, it may be hard for you to choose just one place. There are 100’s of Thanksgiving Dinner options, ranging from innovative menus to spectacular boat cruises with amazing skyline views around Manhattan. Most of the cruises sell out EARLY, so make your reservations soon.

Daytime Parade Views: There are also dozens of great breakfast spots along the parade route, or you can reserve a private restaurant table, hotel room or a spot on a rooftop. See more:

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Pre-Thanksgiving Parade Balloon Inflation

Thanksgiving Day Parade Inflation 77th Street

Though it may be crowded, it’s worth showing up on parade-eve to watch the world famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Balloons get inflated. They’ll arrive in boxes on Wednesday morning and get lined up on 77th and 81st Streets (the streets below and above the museum) between Central Park West and Columbus Avenues. Though most websites will tell you to go after 3pm, a lot of the prep work and inflating takes place earlier.

Come early, stake out a spot by your favorite balloon, or for whichever one you can get a good spot, and watch it go from flat to full.  Once the balloons are inflated, they remain up all night for viewing.  The best times to go to avoid the biggest crowds are either very early – we’re talking breakfast and balloons – or very late – perhaps balloons and a midnight snack!

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Catch a New York City Sports Team

New York City is home to some of the most exciting sports teams in the world. Go for the fans, go for the food, go for the game.

New York Football Game Jets

MetLife Stadium (formerly the Meadowlands) hosts both the Jets and the Giants; and in the heart of midtown Manhattan, watch the Knicks rock the backboards or the Rangers slash the ice at Madison Square Garden. You can also check out some of our newer teams, the Brooklyn Nets and the NY Islanders, both at Barclay’s Center, and the NYCFC at Yankee Stadium.

Whether your NYC sports adventure takes you on a subway to Queens, Brooklyn or the Bronx, on the bus to New Jersey or just down the street to MSG, fall sports are definitely one of the best things to do in New York in November. 

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Ice Skating in NYC

Do you like to see? Or be seen? Ice skating at Rockefeller Center is a chance to be in the spotlight; or perhaps, spot a figure skating star. There’s also lots to do around Rockefeller Center, from fabulous shopping to television studio tours, this can be a great way to spend an afternoon in NYC.

Ice Skating in New York City

Other great skating spots, for those who want a little more ice time and a little less glitz, Lasker and Wollman rinks in Central Park and Winter Village in Bryant Park are great bets. Read more insider tips at our guide to Ice Skating in New York City

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Fashion Designer Sample Sales

NYC Sample Sales November

November is a HUGE MONTH FOR SAMPLE SALES in New York City. Manolo Blahnik, Valentino, Armani, Hugo Boss, Joseph Abboud and lots more.

Check our New York City sample sale calendar for updates on details, dates and sample sale locations.

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The Best Museum Deals in NYC

Check out our guide to New York City’s Museums, including multi-museum passes and information on which museums are free and when.

Guide to New York City Museums

Whatever your interests, New York City has a museum worth checking out. There are over a hundred museums in New York City, from the biggest and most famous to the smallest and most obscure.

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Christmas Spectacular Starring the Rockettes 2023-2024

November 17, 2023 - January 1, 2024 (Tickets On Sale April 2023)
Daily @ 11am, 2pm, 5pm, 8pm (some variations)

Radio City Christmas with Rockettes

With up to 5 shows per day on weekends, the Rockettes are a tradition during the NYC Holiday Season for more than 75 years. Don’t miss the signature eye-high kicks, precision choreography and exciting, show-stopping numbers – including one with Santa.

Rockettes Tour Packages

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BB Kings

In the heart of midtown Manhattan, BB Kings Blues Club & Grill offers world class performances for modest prices; November boasts a great lineup including Dionne Warwick, Paul Mooney and more (you can even spend an evening with Joan Collins).

BB Kings also hosts some of the best tribute bands in the business – Saturday’s BEATLES Brunches, Louis Armstrong and Bruce Springsteen tributes are just a few of the great tributes you can catch at BB Kings – and every night, there is free live music at Lucille’s; a separate venue within BB Kings. To top off the list, if you’re looking for an amazing Thanksgiving Dinner in New York City idea, here’s a thought: STRAWBERRY FIELDS, The Ultimate Beatles Tribute, and a prix fixe menu ($Adults $49.00, Children $25.00).


What to Wear – What to Bring – November in New York

The short answer? Everything! Average temperatures range from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit, but can also shoot up into the high 70s. Millions of dedicated Thanksgiving parade-goers have watched in everything from umbrellas through rain, sleet and snow; to short-sleeved shirts.  It’s hard to advise on what to wear this time of year.

Before packing, consult with a weather website, but always include outfits with layers this time of year, along with basics like hat, scarf, gloves, waterproof boots/shoes and a small knapsack for dumping layers into while walking around.

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More Things to do in New York City

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Fun Things to do in New York in Winter




Newest NYC Experiences - Be The First!


Best New York City Hotel Rooftops

NYC Hotel Rooftops offer some of the best skyline views in the whole City, along with cocktails and food, views, pools, cabanas, sundecks and retractable roofs. Our top picks for the most surreal views and cocktails include:

New York City Hotel Rooftops

See More: Best New York City Hotel Rooftops


Museums

Museums and attractions are open, some with reduced capacity, safety protocols, reservations and vaccination proof. Check out the new Museum of Ice Cream (SoHo), Guggenheim, MoMA, Whitney and so many more NYC Museums from which to choose.


New York City Museums


Attractions & Sightseeing

NYC attractions are open, some with reservations required. Whether you want to sightsee from the sky or selfie with celebs @ Madame Tussauds, you can be safe and explore.

Go HIGH or Go Home

Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Edge or the new SUMMIT? Which is best and, if we have to choose, which should we visit? There is no easy answer, but here are some facts to help guide your choice.

Edge NYC Observation Deck

  • Empire State Building - (86 and 102 floors) Best for patient movie and history buffs who need to check it off their bucket list. Recently redone indoor 102nd Floor Observatory
  • Top of the Rock - (67-70 floors) Best for sweeping 360° vista views, including of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Shorter lines and cheaper than the ESB.
  • One World Observatory - (100-102 floors) Best for homage to the Twin Towers. Modern and high tech, with phenomenal views
  • Edge - (100-101 floors) Highest outdoor observation deck, glass bottom floor, deck extends 80 feet away from building (photo)
  • Summit One Vanderbilt - (91-93 floors) Opened Oct 2021, all glass elevator, indoor and outdoor decks and glass terraces off the side of the building. One of the hottest tickets in town


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Sightsee from the Sky

Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Edge or Summit? Which is best and, if we have to choose, which should we visit? There is no easy answer, but here are some facts to help guide your choice.

Edge NYC Observation Deck

  • Empire State Building - (86 and 102 floors) Best for patient movie and history buffs who need to check it off their bucket list. Recently redone indoor 102nd Floor Observatory
  • Top of the Rock - (67-70 floors) Best for sweeping 360° vista views, including of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Shorter lines and cheaper than the ESB.
  • One World Observatory - (100-102 floors) Best for homage to the Twin Towers. Modern and high tech, with phenomenal views
  • Edge - (100-101 floors) Highest outdoor observation deck, glass bottom floor, deck extends 80 feet away from building (photo)
  • Summit One Vanderbilt - (91-93 floors) Opens Oct 2021, all glass elevator, indoor and outdoor decks and glass terraces off the side of the building

See All: Top New York City Tourist Attractions

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New York City Night Cruises

See our beautiful Skyline from all angles - in any weather!

Sunset Sail aboard the Schooner Adirondack

NYC Insider Pick
Price starting at US$72
View details

NYC Premiere Dinner & Skyline Cruise

Bestseller
Price starting at US$145
View details

Champagne City Lights Cruise on Yacht Manhattan

Price starting at US$56
View details

Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise

Bestseller
Price starting at US$33
View details

New York City Lights Dinner Cruise

Likely to sell out
Price starting at US$161
View details

Around Manhattan Architecture

Price starting at US$74
View details

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Take in ALL the Tours, Landmarks and Attractions and SAVE

NY Sightseeing Pass, New York Pass, NY Explorer Pass, CityPASS Compared

New York City Passes Compared

See All: New York City Pass Comparison Chart

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Secret NYC Insider Tours

Explore our subways secrets with a local guide, go behind-the-scenes at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, uncover surprising gems and historical tales of Grand Central Station, cocktail your way through Manhattan’s best and most secretive speakeasies and much more!


Things to do in New York with Kids

One of the best parts of NYC is that what is fun for kids is usually just as much fun for adults. If you are joining us in NYC for a family vacation, then please read all about our local kid's favorites, along with special tips just for visitors.

Things to Do in New York With Kids

See All: Visiting New York with Kids.

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FREE Things to do in New York City

There are tons of free things to do in New York all day, every day! Tours, attractions, museums, events, shows, sports, movie and more. Kids, adults, outdoors, indoors, active, lazy...you name it!

Free Things to Do in New York City

See All: Free Things to Do in NYC - weekly calendar of all free walking tours, free museum admissions, free things to do by season and more

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New York City Shopping Guides

New York City Shopping


New York City Nightlife

How do you make the most of your time in the city that never sleeps?? Some of the best 'only in NYC' nightlife experiences include skyline views, dinner cruises, Museums and attractions open late til 2am, rooftops, night tours, comedy clubs and more. Some of our top NYC Nightlife picks:

New York City Nightlife

See all our Top Picks: New York City Nightlife

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Save HUGE $$$$ in NYC

New York City Coupons


Romantic Things to Do in NYC

There are tons of things to do on your romantic New York City vacation. Attractions open late with skyline views, Central Park Tours, VIP Experiences, a helicopter ride. Some of the most popular romantic ways to see NYC include:

Romantic NYC Hotel Deals

NYC Insider Pick
Price starting at US$120
View details

Romantic NYC Champagne & Skyline Cruises

Bestseller
Price starting at US$60
View details

Private Central Park Walking Tour with a Personal Photographer

Price starting at US$147
View details

New York City Private Helicopter Tour

Bestseller
Price starting at US$1,800
View details

Romantic Broadway Show Picks

Price starting at US$120
View details

Valentines Dinner Cruise with the NYC Skyline

Bestseller
Price starting at US$145
View details

See more romantic things to do at: Romantic New York City Vacation and Valentine's Day in NYC


Explore and Indulge Like a Real NYC Foodie

There is no shortage of pizza, bagels, street vendors, cupcakes, craft beer and cocktails, rooftops and mini food parks to explore and so many more food choices in the five boroughs, along with wonderful guides who can't wait to show you them all!!!!

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Spot Celebrities in NYC

Celebrities in NYC

Where to find celebrities in NYC or which celebrities are living in NYC today are common questions by all, but celebrity sightings in NYC are way easier than you may think and happen all the time. You will, of course, see them on the subway, in Central Park, at the gym, in restaurants, at all the current hotspots, at shows and more. But here are some unique ways to see celebrities all over the city.

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Get Out of Town for a Day

NYC is within 3 hours of so many other cities and areas you can visit for just one day. Easily head to Washington DC, Boston, Philadelphia, Niagara Falls, the Hamptons, Woodbury Common Shopping Outlets and more. Whether you live in NY or are visiting, and no matter how much you love NYC, escaping for a day is a treat for everyone. Top choices for 1-day Out of Town:

See All: Day Trips Out of New York City

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More from NYC Insider Guide:





NYC Insider Guide
NYC Insider Guidehttps://www.nycinsiderguide.com
Welcome! I'm Melissa, a fourth generation New Yorker, who has been lucky enough to live in New York for over 30 years. I love just about everything in New York City, the very reason I started this web site, and I look forward to sharing it all with you. Please explore the New York City Insider Guide at your own pace. I hope it helps you plan your New York City Vacation, so you not only go home as a NYC Insider, but plan to visit us again soon.

2 COMMENTS

    • Hi Alan – there’s plenty of free things to do in NYC, as you can see on this page. Most attractions and sightseeing passes offer Senior ticket rates and you can check with AARP for additional deals they sometimes make with the NYC Tourism Board.

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