I Love New York Blog

Credit: Photo by Joe Buglewicz, Courtesy of NYC & CO

New York State is home to many of the world’s most famous stages, as well as historical theaters, contemporary dance and theater troupes, and important performing arts organizations from Buffalo to Brooklyn. Even now, when the velvet curtains remain closed, “The show must go on!” That’s why New York’s theaters have arranged to stream memorable performances, to keep audiences entertained from home until these beloved spaces can open again. Here are options for every type of theater fan and for those who miss the thrill of watching a live performance, from opera to Broadway shows to intimate music concerts. New Yorkers, order in from your favorite restaurant and make a night of it, the way you would have a pre-theater meal before a show. For those outside the state, order favorite classic New York foods you can have shipped to your home and experience a night out in New York from your own home and get inspired for a future trip to the state! …

Get outside and experience a fun outdoor winter activity in New York and you’ll understand why this is a favorite season. Things to do in winter include captivating hikes, exhilarating mountain coaster rides, walks to visit frozen waterfalls or fountains, strolls through sculpture gardens, and a range of sports and activities for those in search of relaxation or an adrenaline rush. Whether you’re setting out for another ski trip or trying an exciting new adventure for the first time, New York has you covered! …

Winter in New York State is an exciting, fun-filled, and enchanting time of year. With world-class attractions set against snow-covered mountains, shining frozen lakes, rustic rural villages, and wintry cityscapes, New York is the perfect place to bask in the glow of the season.

Whether you’re working remotely, learning from home, or enjoying more screen time these days, download your favorite photo from the list below. Simply click on the links to video conference– and mobile-friendly version of each photo and right click to download the image, then go to your favorite video conferencing tool that allows for backgrounds, and look for a "virtual background" option under the Preferences tab (remember to uncheck the "mirror my screen" option so the image isn't reversed). Now set the photo you select as your video conferencing background, or as the home screen image for your desktop computer or mobile device, to remind you, friends, and colleagues of the beauty of New York in winter, and to inspire future travel ideas! …

New York serves as the setting for many of the most memorable holiday movies and TV show episodes ever made. Seeing the sparkling lights of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree or watching the New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square is inspiring on screen, especially when it’s not possible to see these iconic symbols in person. Fortunately, these and other New York holiday traditions are available anytime and anywhere, thanks to these movies and TV shows that will get you in a festive mood while allowing you to experience New York-style holiday spirit. Let a classic scene from one of these gems inspire a future holiday season trip to New York State! …

Updated: 11/30/2022

The holiday spirit shines brightly throughout New York State. This year, you can find drive-through light displays, Santa sightings, classic holiday performances, and much more. Get ready to celebrate the season with these winter holiday happenings across New York.