What’s Happening in NYC in January
After the holiday crowds thin out, travelers will discover a quieter New York City. January in NYC is also a month of massive savings, thanks to events like Broadway and New York Restaurant weeks. And for travelers who are still craving a bit of merriment, there are plenty of ways to feel festive in New York City all January long, including shopping at the Winter Village at Bryant Park. Whether you’re here for the deals or the wintry fun, just remember to pack your best winter jacket, warm boots and a reliable pair of mittens, because the weather in January can get chilly.
NYC Hotel Week — Jan 4 to 14
Let the savings begin during New York City Hotel Week, which runs this year from January 4 to 14. During the promotion, travelers can book rooms at a flat rate of between $100 and $400 per night (some of these properties regularly charge $500 or more.) On the list? Refinery Hotel, making our Midtown hotel rooms available for just $200 a night. Believe us, you don’t want to miss this steal.
A Night at the Museum — Jan 4 and 25
Make like Ben Stiller and spend an evening at the American Museum of Natural History this month, thanks to the institution’s January sleepover parties. Ideal for families with history-loving children, the event includes an evening snack, light breakfast, an IMAX film, a fossil-finding mission, live exhibitions and presentations and run of the museum — without any crowds. Tickets to A Night at the Museum start at $123.
Winter Jazzfest — Jan 4 – 12
Begin 2019 with a dose of culture during the annual Winter Jazzfest: a stacked lineup of performances with brass band sets and a madcap mashup of art rock and jazz. Tickets for select shows start at $15, though serious jazz fanatics can snag a multi-day festival pass for $90 in advance.
National Hat Day — Jan 15
It’s National Hat Day! And seeing as Refinery is in a former hat factory, we’re excited to celebrate accordingly. Don your favorite hat and join in on the fun! Check out our In Bed With) with NYC’s hat doyenne Linda Pagan
NYC Restaurant Week — Jan 21 – Feb 8
Twice a year, some of the hottest restaurants in New York City make their sought-after (and expensive) dishes available for a fraction of the cost. Here’s how it works: Just make a reservation during the first New York City Restaurant Week of 2019 (January 21 to February 8), and remember that reservations open on January 9: and are guaranteed to fill quickly. Opt for a 2-course, prix fixe lunch for just $26, or go all-out with a 3-course dinner for $42. Among the restaurants participating this year are chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s ABC Cocina and Kitchen; two of chef Alex Stupak’s Empellón restaurants and Butter, the Midtown restaurant helmed by chef Alex Guarnaschelli.
Broadway Week — Jan 21 – Feb 10
Score two-for-one Broadway tickets during Broadway Week, which also starts January 21 (though it extends until February 10). Tickets go on sale on January 9, making it one of the best days of 2019 to score affordable tickets to some of the best shows on Broadway right now, including Aladdin, Frozen, Waitress and the perennial classic, The Lion King. Additional participating shows will be unveiled that day, so be prepared to make a split-second decision.
Photos courtesy of @sam_nivola & @johnnybutlermusic