What to Do in New York in February

When most people think of the best time to visit New York, mid-winter may not come to mind. Everyone flocks to Manhattan for the holidays or takes a long weekend in the warmer months. Little do they know that February might just be the best time to visit NYC. If you know where to look and what to seek out, the city, even at its frostiest, will never let you down. Here’s what to do in New York in February.

As with any visit to New York, deciding where to eat should be one of of your highest priorities. Kicking off the month of February is NYC Restaurant Week, which goes until February 10th. At hundreds of participating restaurants from across the city, you can enjoy prix fixe lunches at dinners for discounted prices ($29 and $42, respectively).

After enjoying a great meal, take a trip to Chinatown on February 5th to ring in the year of the Rooster and experience the Chinese New Year Parade. While you’re in the neighborhood, grab a drink at Genuine Liquorette on Grand Street for a cocktail or a glass of wine to celebrate the new year.

Of course, if you want to embrace your inner romantic for Valentine’s Day, New York has endless options to choose from. For those looking for a creative date spot, check out Romance Under the Stars at the Hayden Planetarium. For those preferring to embrace the anti-romance of the day, Love Bites: The Power Ballads Sing-Along at Union Hall on February 10th is the perfect place to belt out you favorite 80s power ballads with a cocktail in hand.

The biggest party of the month is saved for last with Mardi Gras on February 28th. Although bars far and wide will be hosting impromptu parties, nothing compares to the Mardi Gras Bash! at The Bell House. This yearly blowout features tons of New Orleans-approved bands and is sure to almost make you forget that it’s still below freezing outside.