As Things to Do Editor at Time Out New York, it's Rossilynne's job to find the best, most fun, most interesting events around the city. Consider her your guide to making the most of New York. She's fueled by constant curiosity, loves a quirky story, and never grew out of always asking "why?"

Rossilynne's been covering arts and culture for more than a decade at publications including Saveur Magazine, Atlas Obscura, Thrillist, Business Insider, Hyperallergic, Google Arts & Culture, The Hechinger Report, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Pittsburgh City Paper, Pittsburgh Magazine, the Tribune-Review, Carnegie Magazine, About.com and The Incline. She's the author of the book, Secret New York City: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure (get a personalized, signed copy here). In addition, Rossilynne teaches aspiring journalists at Pace University.

When she's not writing, she's reading something for the feminist book club she co-founded, running an Instagram account for a sassy cat, photographing ghost signs and meandering through Central Park. One more fun fact: Rossilynne is a certified water taste tester (seriously).

Send event ideas her way: rossilynne.culgan@timeout.com.

Rossilynne Skena Culgan

Rossilynne Skena Culgan

Things to Do Editor

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Articles (153)

The best things to do in NYC this weekend

The best things to do in NYC this weekend

Looking for the best things to do in NYC this weekend? Whether you’re the group planner searching for more things to do in NYC today or you have no plans yet, here are some ideas to add to your list for this weekend: Lunar New Year celebrations, Daybreaker at Othership, the NYC Winter Ballet, L’Appartement 4F's Manhattan opening, and free events around town. All you have to do is scroll down to plan your weekend! RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best New York attractions Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in New York City news, culture and dining. 
The best things to do for Valentine’s Day in NYC

The best things to do for Valentine’s Day in NYC

Don't leave Valentine's Day up to fate. NYC has awesome amorous events, from concerts to dance classes and more, to attend with your date, your friends or even solo. Whether you love or hate Cupid's holiday, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do on Valentine’s day, including romantic restaurants, decadent chocolate shops and the most romantic things to do to get you in the mood—or not!  Without further ado, our list of Valentine's things to do, presented in chronological order so you can keep the fun going all month long. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Valentine’s Day in NYCRECOMMENDED: The most romantic hotels to book in NYC  
NYC events in March 2025

NYC events in March 2025

The city is just beginning to warm up and thaw out from its winter slumber with some incredible NYC events in March, including St. Patrick's Day and Women’s History Month. For sure, we'll all be heading to the best Irish pubs in the city, but there's more to do from the powerful Harlem Renaissance exhibit at the Met to the fashion-forward Orchid Show at NYBG. And finally, we can start fantasizing about packing away that puffy coat and gearing up best things to do in spring. RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar for 2025
The best things to do in NYC this week

The best things to do in NYC this week

If you’re looking for the best things to do in NYC this week, or even for today, there are tons of fun options, including Anne Frank: The Exhibition, a Wicked-themed bath experience, a zero-proof cocktail making class, Daybreaker at Othership, and awesome free events in NYC! For more ideas, scroll down to see this week's best things to do in NYC. RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in New York Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in New York City news, culture and dining. 
The 101 best TV shows of all time you have to watch

The 101 best TV shows of all time you have to watch

Television used to be considered one of the lowest forms of entertainment. It was derided as ‘the idiot box’ and ‘the boob tube’. Edward R Murrow referred to it as ‘the opiate of the masses’, and the phrase ‘I don’t even own a TV’ was considered a major bragging right. And for a long time, it was hard to say that television’s poor reputation was undeserved.  A lot has changed. Television is now the dominant medium in basically all of entertainment, to the degree that the only thing separating movies and TV is the screen you’re watching on. Now, if you don’t own a television – or a laptop or a tablet or a phone – you’re basically left out of the cultural conversation completely. The shift in perception is widely credited to the arrival of The Sopranos, which completely reinvented the notion of what a TV show could do. But that doesn’t mean everything that came before is primordial slurry. While this list of the greatest TV shows ever is dominated by 21st century programs, there are many shows that deserve credit for laying the groundwork for this current golden age. Chiseling them down to a neat top 100 is difficult, so we elected to leave off talk shows, variety shows and sketch comedy, focusing on scripted, episodic dramas, comedies and miniseries.  So don’t touch that dial – these are the greatest TV shows of all-time.
Incredible immersive experiences to do in NYC right now

Incredible immersive experiences to do in NYC right now

As much as New Yorkers love their city, they want to be transported to another space and time — at least that's the trend museums, companies and artists are capitalizing on. Immersive exhibits, events and experiences are popping up all over NYC these days. From theatrical experiences to trippy digital art taking over massive spaces, there's no shortage of ways to be immersed in a different reality. With so many ways to be immersed, we decided it was high time to round up all the cool, immersive events, exhibits and experiences happening in NYC now and coming up soon so you won't miss the chance to experience something new and potentially mind-blowing. RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now
The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now

The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now

New York City has tons of things going for it, from incredible buildings to breathtaking parks. But surely, the top of the list includes NYC’s vast array of museums and galleries, covering every field of culture and knowledge: There are quirky museums and interactive museums, free museums and world renowned art institutions like the Met. Between them, they offer so many exhibitions of every variety and taste that it's hard to keep track of them. But if you’ve starting to suffer a sudden attack of FOMA (that's fear of missing art ;)), don't worry! We've got you covered with our select list of the best museum exhibitions in NYC. Don't waste any time—head to NYC's best museum exhibits now! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to museums in NYC
The best spas in NYC to visit for some R&R

The best spas in NYC to visit for some R&R

When you're really feeling "the grind," it's your body and mind's way of telling you to go to the spa. If a weekend getaway isn’t in the cards, hitting one of the best spas in New York City is especially a great alternative. The city's spas dish out serious serenity in the form of massages, facials and other relaxing treatments so you can be refreshed and on the way to stress-free bliss. Spas are not just for melting away stress (though that’s certainly a welcome side effect), they also offer services that can soothe sore muscles, refresh tired skin or get you ready for a beach weekend or big night out. Others offer facilities where you can spend a full day unwinding (girls’ day, anyone?). Some offer or even specialize in couples massages for a romantic date option. NYC spas range from affordable to all-out luxurious. Treat yourself to a pampering at one of these spas—you deserve it. What are the best spas in NYC?
The best indoor activities in NYC

The best indoor activities in NYC

NYC is an amazing place to spend time outside. You can’t go wrong strolling the streets, chilling in a beautiful park, dining outside, admiring some public art, sipping a cocktail at a rooftop bar or enjoying a street fair. But alas, the weather doesn’t always cooperate. Rain, snow and humidity can spoil outdoor plans. Fortunately, there are plenty of indoor activities in NYC that make it worth leaving your apartment when the conditions outside are less than ideal. From world-class museums and slick mini golf spots to cozy bookstores, indoor climbing gyms and top-notch shopping, you can plan a day out without worrying about downpours, snowstorms, intense heat or whatever inconvenient weather may arise. Get out there and enjoy these indoor activities in NYC.
The 18 best flower delivery services in NYC this  season

The 18 best flower delivery services in NYC this season

Sometimes the best gift of all is flowers. Whether you're staying with the fam, visiting old school friends or celebrating with your other half, a beautiful bouquet sometimes just says 'I appreciate you' so much better. From glorious poinsettias to a curated bunch of delights, we've got you covered with the best flower delivery services in the Big Apple.  Luckily, we live in NYC in the 21st century where you can get flowers delivered straight to your door for the very next day – or in some cases, that exact same day. And it’s not just bouquets you can send to your loved one. You can get potted plants (perfect for plant fanatics), good quality chocolates, candles, and even more brought straight to their door. We’ve saved your bacon by rounding up all of the very best flower delivery services in NYC, ready for you to choose your fave. And if you're not afraid of a little long-term commitment, many of the shops included in our round-up offer a subscription model so you can keep 'em coming all year round... RECOMMENDED: 🍫 Check out the best chocolate deliveries in the USA How do we know it's the best of the best? Our lists are expertly curated by our local experts far and wide to offer you the lowdown on the best delivery services in NYC. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
The best gyms and health clubs in New York

The best gyms and health clubs in New York

Want to jumpstart your health and wellness? A good place to begin is by joining one of these top-notch NYC gyms. Finding the perfect fitness center that won't cost you an arm and a leg can feel like a huge feat, but we prefer you save your precious energy for the gym, so we’ve sweated through the city’s best and most budget-friendly health clubs across all five boroughs to ease your search. Here’s our essential list of our favorite places to get our blood pumping, which offer daily passes and monthly memberships among other perks like high-end amenities (hello heated pools!) and new fitness classes (and some non-traditional, weird fitness classes, too). Good luck with all your wellness goals, and after you dive in, go treat yourself to the best bagels in the city. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to fitness in NYC
Unique date ideas in NYC

Unique date ideas in NYC

With so many things to do in NYC, from fabulous restaurants to world-renowned museums to beautiful parks, there’s really no reason to get stuck when you’re looking for ways to impress a date. Grabbing a drink, checking out local attractions or going out for a meal are obvious choices, however, so when things are getting a little more serious and you really need to turn on the charm, make an impression with an activity that's out of the ordinary. It’s time to put on your creative dating cap and check out these unique date ideas in NYC. Our curated list of cool and quirky things to do with your date includes romantic things to do, indoor activities, outdoor pursuits, cultural options and even some cheap date ideas if you’re on a budget. From an intimate concert to a thrilling city tour to creative pursuits like pottery or body painting, try any of these activities and you’re sure to see sparks fly. Your date will know that for sure you’re no average suitor. With any luck, your next date will be a romantic getaway, so get out there and try something new. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to date ideas in NYC

Listings and reviews (654)

Drunk Black History at Littlefield

Drunk Black History at Littlefield

At this hilarious and educational show, comedian Brandon Collins and special guest co-host Electra Telesford lead a booze-fueled lesson in Black history with the help of their friends. Their upcoming show in honor of Black History month will include appearances from Bomani Jones (ESPN), Sarah Cooper (Netflix), Onika McLean (Bravo), and other surprise guests. It’s not your ordinary history retelling—you’ll hear from "comedians, experts, writers, and other professionals who are skunked out of their mind trying to recap the biography of a historical black figure or event that hasn't gotten the mainstream love they deserved." See this always unpredictable show at Littlefield in Brooklyn on Friday, February 28.
Comics Reading Comics

Comics Reading Comics

At Comics Reading Comics, the name says it all: Stand-up comedians take a beloved comic book character and dive into their history, evolution, and cultural impact. The show includes a healthy dose of nostalgia and superhero storytelling.  This weekend's show, hosted on Sunday, January 26 at Caveat, spotlights Dazzler—Marvel’s dazzling disco queen—tracing her journey from her shimmering 1980 debut to her modern-day glow-up. The show features Drew Tessier and Lady Bushra. It's presented by Aidan Ewing of Geeks OUT and the New York Queer Comedy Festival.     
Runway Chalet at TWA Hotel

Runway Chalet at TWA Hotel

Get cozy at TWA Hotel's Runway Chalet pop-up that feels like a 1960s après ski experience. For the winter, the hotel's Pool Bar transforms with flannel decor, a fireplace and seasonal cocktails. Soak in the outdoor pool, which becomes a steamy "pool-cuzzi" heated to 95 degrees, while you watch jets take off and land on the tarmac below. Plus, enjoy some themed cocktails like hot toddies and hot cocoas, as well as aviation-themed drinks.  The Runway Chalet is open for hotel guests and visitors alike, just be sure to book your spot in advance. 
Magic: Distilled Presents "Love Potion" at Great Jones Distilling Co.

Magic: Distilled Presents "Love Potion" at Great Jones Distilling Co.

Enchant that special someone with a Valentine's Day magic show called "Magic: Distilled Presents Love Potion" at Great Jones Distiling Co. in Lower Manhattan.  While you sip speciality Valentine's Day cocktails, NYC's top magicians, led by illusionist Jeanette Andrews, will perform spell-binding table-side and parlor magic before your eyes. This close-up magic form is rarely seen in modern times, making this show feel like a step back in time.  The show's available in two seatings on February 14, one at 7pm and the second at 9pm. Tickets, which cost $100/person, include a reservation in the distillery's Art Deco lounge, a complimentary whiskey tasting, the performance and two drinks from from a select menu of cocktails, wine and beer. Be sure to book your reservation in advance because these tickets are hot.  
The Sound of Spring: A Chinese New Year Concert with The Orchestra Now

The Sound of Spring: A Chinese New Year Concert with The Orchestra Now

Orchestra Now will ring in the Year of the Snake on January 26 at The Sound of Spring, featuring guest appearances by the erhu (the two stringed Chinese instrument) soloist Yan Guowei, the percussionist Zhang Jungli, and the sheng master Wang Lei, all faculty from the world famous Central Conservatory of Music in China. To top it all off, Jinou Anastasia Dong, the winner of the Bard Conservatory’s Concerto Competition, will be making her NYC debut. Check it all out at the Rose Theater of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall. 
Schtick a Pole in It

Schtick a Pole in It

You won't believe how seamlessly good comedy can work with pole dancing (you can read about it here). While stellar stand-ups deliver sets, pro dancers give the crowd something stare at. Think of it as a full-brain experience. Comics Dan Goodman, Joanna Ross and special guests will welcome talented pole dancers and comedians from across NYC.  Each show features a different musical theme, and each one is full of surprises. This time, on Friday, January 24 and Saturday, January 25, the show is celebrating its its 12th anniversary with U2 theme. Think "With or Without You," "Beautiful Day," and more. Expect to hear jokes from five comics and see performances by five dancers. "They're not strippers, it’s not burlesque. It’s aerial dance with a side of crazy gymnastics, and death defying tricks that make your jaw drop," event planners explain. As the event organizers say: "If you don't see shows like this, why are you even paying the NYC rents?" See it at Drom in the East Village.
Straphangers Lounge

Straphangers Lounge

Step inside a subway station like you've never seen before. Rather than tile walls, plastic seats, and paper posters, everything—and we mean everything—is made out of fabric. There's a knitted-and-crocheted MetroCard, a felt version of a Union Square subway tile, and even a textile subway rat! Inspired by artful 49th Street Station, artists Karima Sundarji and Sue Hunter began the project by re-creating the station's mosaic subway signs in knitting, quilting and needlepoint. The project grew from there to create a very nostalgic and very New York exhibition called Straphangers Lounge. You can see it on display this weekend for free at the New York Marriott Marquis, 1535 Broadway, 6th floor in Times Square. It's on view as part of Vogue Knitting Live 2025, a major textile conference. Here's when to see it: Friday, January 17, 5-8pm; Saturday, January 18, 10am-6:30pm; and Sunday, January 19, 10am-3pm.  While you're there, look for a Dr. Zizmor's poster, a MetroCard, an NYC anthora coffee cup, and a Missed Connections poster. 
Drunk Planet Earth

Drunk Planet Earth

At this live show, two comedians will watch Planet Earth, then you can try and stump them with animal trivia. Each time the hosts get a question wrong, they take a shot. Drunk Planet Earth is hosted by comedians Brian Morabito (Comedy Central) and Stephen Buckley (UCB). Find this delightfully nerdy free show at Caveat on the Lower East Side on Friday, January 24; reserve your ticket here.
And Scene comedy show

And Scene comedy show

And Scene is a half-scripted comedy show where actors and improvisers are paired up to perform scenes together. The actors can only say the words as they come in the script, and the improvisers don't know what play they're in, making for a truly chaotic and hilarious evening. See the show on Monday, January 20 at Caveat. This month's performers include: Kyra Sedgewick (The Closer), Thomas Middleditch (Silicon Valley), Neal Bledsoe (Shameless), Anthony Atamanuik (What We Do In The Shadows), Evan Hall (Orange Is the New Black), Brian Morabito (Dropout), Alex Dickson (Last Week Tonight), Stephanie Gomerez (Inventing Anna), Claire Saunders (Sweeney Todd on Broadway), and Brandon Zelman (The Cat in the Hat podcast). Mick Szal (Joker) will serve as host. All the proceeds from the show's livestream will be donated to help the victims of the fires in LA.
The Winter Show

The Winter Show

Walk through 5,000 years of art and design at The Winter Show, the city's premier art and antiques fair. Art lovers won't want to miss this event, which is returning for its 71st edition at the Park Avenue Armory from January 24 to February 2. Explore booths from more than 70 exhibitors who will showcase museum-quality works from ancient to contemporary, including rare masterpieces from Europe and the Americas. A few highlights include a drawing of a sailboat made by a young King Charles III around 1957; a selection from the world's largest collection of playing cards; an assortment of rareworks by Auguste Rodin; and an antique clock made from duck eggs, which measures not only time but also phases of the moon and the schedule of the tide. Special events during the show include the Opening Night Party on January 23 and Young Collectors Night on January 30. DIAGEO will present an immersive exhibit of the 2024 Special Releases Collection, including rare Scotch whiskies aged in carefully selected casks from around the world, including Oban and Lagavulin. 
Edgar Allan Poe's Birthday Celebration

Edgar Allan Poe's Birthday Celebration

Celebrate Edgar Allan Poe's 216th birthday at his cottage in the Bronx on Sunday, January 19. In honor of the late poet's birthday, get free admission on Sunday into the cottage he called home during the 1840s. Find it at 2640 Grand Concourse in the Fordham section of the Bronx.  The party runs from 1 to 5pm, and you can hear readings and performances throughout the day. At 2pm, Time Out's own Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Culgan will read an excerpt about Poe from her new book and share some of her favorite Poe poetry! While you listen to Poe's lyrical phrasing, explore the rooms he lived in and wrote in centuries ago.  Though Poe lived a nomadic lifestyle in the 1800s, he settled in the Bronx with his ailing wife, Virginia, in 1846. With Virginia suffering from tuberculosis, it was thought that the clean air of Fordham could help her; sadly she died in the cottage in 1847. During the couple's time at the home, they kept caged songbirds on the porch, where Poe would pace back and forth looking at the stars. During his time in the Bronx, Poe wrote some of his most famous works, including "The Cask of Amontillado," "The Bells," "Annabel Lee" and "Eureka." Poe died under suspicious—and still mysterious to this day—circumstances in 1849 in Baltimore. A few pieces in The Bronx's Poe Cottage are believed to be original, including a rocking chair, a mirror and the bed where Virginia died. Now, the historic home also features exhibits and artifacts exploring Poe's life.
MLK School Holiday in Prospect Park

MLK School Holiday in Prospect Park

During the day off school on Monday, January 20, families are invited to enjoy an afternoon of nature education programs at the Prospect Park Audubon Center, the first urban Audubon Center in the nation. Here's the programming lineup: — Nature Around Us, 12–3 pm: Enjoy different seasonal discovery stations and nature-themed activities introducing to the plants, insects and animals that call the park home. Learn how to test the water quality and investigate pond samples that are filled with living organisms. — Animal Encounter, 2–3 pm: Join Alliance Naturalists in learning more about the animals in the Audubon Center’s collection. — Winter Wilderness Walk, 3-4 pm: Join an Alliance Naturalist for a tour of how plants and animals live in the winter months. 

News (564)

Abstract mosaics are bringing a powerful message to this Upper East Side subway station

Abstract mosaics are bringing a powerful message to this Upper East Side subway station

Colorful mosaic artwork in the newly updated 68th Street-Hunter College subway station isn't just brightening up the area. Instead, these abstract glass mosaics by Lisa Corinne Davis tell an important story.  The artist and professor says her work explores the “intersecting worlds” at this particular Upper East Side train station where a diverse population comes together. RECOMMENDED: Subway art is part of a Met Museum exhibit for the first time ever “As a graduate of Hunter's MFA program and as a current professor, I have had many years to observe the muscular congregation of the mostly white and wealthy residents of the neighborhood with the racial, ethnic, religious, economic and political diversity of the Hunter College population,” Davis said in a press release. “Their interaction fills this station with ample evidence of both the realities and aspirations of social and geographic mobility. It is a place where intersecting worlds collide and coexist en route to other actual, metaphorical or metaphysical destinations.” “It is a place where intersecting worlds collide and coexist en route to other actual, metaphorical or metaphysical destinations.” Working with MTA Arts & Design, Davis created three permanent pieces for the station titled “Tempestuous Terrain” and the two-part “Liminal Location.” She drew upon her paintings to create mosaics with engraved glass segments and hand-painted glass pieces.  Photograph: Stan Narten, courtesy of MTA Arts & Design In the mosaic
I soaked my troubles away in this Wicked-themed bath experience at NYC's Lush Spa

I soaked my troubles away in this Wicked-themed bath experience at NYC's Lush Spa

On a frigid winter afternoon, I escaped New York City's chill by slipping into a decadent bath experience at the Lush Spa on the Upper East Side. As the bathwater turned pinkish green around me, I realized it was the first time I'd felt truly warm—and gloriously disconnected—in days. But this isn't any ordinary soak. Lush collaborated with Universal Pictures to make a Wicked-themed bath experience complete with products inspired by the movie, a soundtrack, and even an Oz-influenced drink. It's bookable now for $75 with appointments through late 2025. I left feeling almost like I could defy gravity. RECOMMENDED: The best spas in NYC to visit for some R&R Let's start at the beginning: When Lush reached out to ask if I'd be interested in trying the Wicked-themed book-a-bath experience, it was an immediate yes. I'd written about the spa when it opened in fall 2023 but had yet to try it myself. Considering Lush invented the bath bomb, I had a feeling they were going to take this bath experience to the next level—and I was not wrong about that. When I arrived at Lush Spa, I had a few minutes to walk around the sales floor and sniff all the products. I spotted several Wicked-specific items, like the Glinda's Wand bubble bar, the Shiz University massage bar, and a green shower elixir, to name a few.  Photograph: Courtesy of Lush When it was my turn for the bath, I headed upstairs to the cozy spa. Unlike a lot of other spas in the city that keep the design stark and white, this oasi
Want to get engaged, married or renew your vows in Times Square? Now's your chance

Want to get engaged, married or renew your vows in Times Square? Now's your chance

If you're the kind of person who likes a grand gesture to show your love, this might be the grandest one yet. You can proclaim your love with a surprise proposal, a wedding, or a vow renewal ceremony in Times Square on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2025.  This annual tradition hosted by the Times Square Alliance welcomes local lovers—and sweethearts from across the world—to the iconic Red Steps for the special occasion. If you want to get in on Love in Times Square, you've got to apply in advance here.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do for Valentine’s Day in NYC For proposals, you can go big by popping the big question on one of Times Square's gigantic billboards. For those already engaged, you can exchange wedding vows right in Duffy Square in front of a new heart-inspired sculpture. For both of those experiences, you'll have to fill out an application and wait for word on whether you've been selected. Photograph: By Liz Ligon for the Times Square Alliance As for vow renewals, you can re-commit to your longtime lover in a group ceremony on the Red Steps. The vow renewal experience is free and open to all. In particular, the Times Square Alliance welcomes "lovers and partners whose bonds bridge boundaries, be they religious, political, racial, or regional." The vow renewal ceremony begins at 6pm and will conclude by 6:30pm, giving you plenty of time to get a romantic dinner afterward. Be sure to register in advance here.  No matter which stage your relationship is in, hav
Here's how to ice skate for free in honor of Wollman Rink's 75th birthday

Here's how to ice skate for free in honor of Wollman Rink's 75th birthday

It's said that the early bird catches the worm, but this Saturday, the early bird scores free admission to ice skate at Wollman Rink. The first 75 skaters at the door on Saturday, January 25, will get into the rink for free as Wollman Rink celebrates its 75th birthday. The rink opens at 10am, so prepare to get there early! Even if you don't nab free admission, skating this Saturday promises a nostalgia-packed experience with an interactive photographic journey through Wollman Rink's storied history, plus classic treats inspired by the past seven decades.  RECOMMENDED: Where to go ice skating in NYC A birthday party wouldn't be complete without sweet treats, of course. So to celebrate the occasion, there will be a retro-inspired candy bar that takes skaters on a sweet journey through the last seven decades. The Café located in The Clubhouse will also serve free hot chocolate, an ice skating staple that never goes out of style.  Photograph: Courtesy of Wollman Rink As for entertainment, skaters will be treated to performances by members of The Skating Club of New York and Ice Theatre of New York, who will perform special routines at 12pm and 2pm. Those performances harken back to the rink's opening day in 1950 when skaters from the Junior Skating Club of New York took to the ice for a festive performance. Though this weekend's festivities celebrate 75 years, ice skating has been a part of Central Park's DNA for much longer. In fact, original drawings by Central Park's star de
Submerge, a new show at ARTECHOUSE, spotlights emerging digital artists

Submerge, a new show at ARTECHOUSE, spotlights emerging digital artists

ARTECHOUSE, the immersive art experience in Chelsea, typically features the work of a single artist exploring a single topic, such as Afrofuturism, AI·magination and outer space. But for their new installation, ARTECHOUSE has turned over the venue to dozens of emerging artists for a wide-ranging, year-long art extravaganza. Titled “Submerge,” the show will feature more than 100 artists over the course of 2025. The work of artists from across the globe will rotate every four months amid an open call for submissions. Expect to see everything from 3D animation to AI innovation to multimedia storytelling—anything that takes creativity out of confines of computer screens and onto an IRL canvas. Submerge is open to all ages through December 31 with tickets starting at $23.85.  RECOMMENDED: Incredible immersive experiences to do in NYC right now Think of Submerge like a living laboratory and launchpad for a new generation of creatives. Visitors are asked to "submerge" themselves in a continuously changing world of digital art that expands the boundaries of what art can be. The project offers resources, collaboration, mentorship, and exposure to help emerging digital artists thrive.  Photograph: Courtesy of ARTECHOUSE “Submerge Project does for digital art what MTV did for music videos and Hollywood did for movies: it redefines how we experience immersive art today, and helps shape the democratization of its future," ARTECHOUSE leaders say.  The first group of Submerge artists inc
A cool ice sculpture festival is coming to Governors Island this winter

A cool ice sculpture festival is coming to Governors Island this winter

If it's going to be frigid in New York City, we might as well dig in and take advantage of the cold. To embrace the freezing temperatures, head to Governors Island for a very cool ice sculpture show this winter. See local artists carve incredible sculptures of wildlife, stars, and even a human heart—completely out of ice. This year's Governors Island Ice Sculpture Show is set for Saturday, February 8, 2025, from noon to 3pm with a slate of 10 artists. It's free to attend.  RECOMMENDED: Scandinavian-style outdoor spas are back in NYC, offering a cozy winter escape In preparation for the festival, artists were invited to submit proposals inspired by the theme "Governors Island + nature." Ten finalists were selected, and each one has been paired with a professional ice carver from Okamoto Studio for the show.  Photograph: By Julienne Schaer Watch in awe for real-time ice carving from noon to 2pm, then stick around from 2 to 3pm to see the ice sculptures installed and learn who wins awards. The event will also include ice carving workshops from Okamoto Studio, crafts from Red Hook Art Project, live music by disco-infused Afrofuturist funk duo The Illustrious Blacks, and a special performance by NYC-based all-women, trans, and non-binary drumline Fogo Azul. Makina Café will be open in Colonels Row, alongside additional food trucks Nao Caribbean Flavors, The Original Soupman, and Deploy Coffee, curated by Four Wheel Feasts. 2025 Ice Sculpture Show artists Here's what to expect fr
Here's how to score a cheap hotel stay in NYC right now

Here's how to score a cheap hotel stay in NYC right now

Staying at a hotel in New York City can be costly to say the least. In fact, the average hotel night in the city went for a whopping $417/night this past fall. Now that the holiday hustle and bustle has quieted, you can finally score a good deal thanks to NYC Hotel Week. The program, which is a part of New York City Tourism + Conventions, offers 25% off stays for a variety of the city's most celebrated hotels this winter. RECOMMENDED: The 31 best hotels in NYC What is NYC Hotel Week? The event promises "a little winter fun after the holiday rush." Whether you're coming to the city as a tourist or looking for a staycation spot, Hotel Week encourages participants to adventure into new neighborhoods.  When is NYC Hotel Week? The promo runs now through February 9, 2025. Photograph: The Plaza - a Fairmont Managed Hotel How to book an NYC Hotel Week deal Check out the NYC Hotel Week website to browse options offering deals. On the site, you can filter by borough and by neighborhood. As of now, properties in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens are listed on site. More than 140 hotels are on offer. When you choose a hotel that interests you, you'll navigate to that hotel's site and the promo code should apply automatically. Just be sure to double check so you get your deal!  What hotels are worth booking? This is truly a judgment call based on your interests and budget, but we can say that a few spots on Time Out's best hotels list are offering deals. To name a few highlights: The Ro
A major new exhibition will explore Brooklyn's ties to slavery

A major new exhibition will explore Brooklyn's ties to slavery

Depending on what you learned in high school history class, you might be surprised to discover that Brooklyn—an area firmly in the northern Union states—actually has significant ties to slavery. A new exhibit coming to the borough digs into that painful history. Titled "Trace/s: Family History Research and the Legacy of Slavery in Brooklyn," the exhibit will open at the Center for Brooklyn History on January 30. While there are few firsthand testimonies from enslaved people in Brooklyn, the exhibit offers clues to what they endured. It also sheds light on the often-overlooked narratives of enslaved individuals in Kings County and the generational legacies of inequality. The exhibit is free to visit through August 30 in the center's Fransioli Gallery. RECOMMENDED: First look: The Tenement Museum’s first exhibit about a Black family Expect to see archival documents, rare personal accounts from enslaved Brooklynites and artwork that helps visitors visualize this period in Brooklyn's development. The exhibit also delves into genealogy and celebrates the work of family historians, researchers, and artists who trace their roots through this difficult past. Photograph: Courtesy Gertrude Lefferts Vanderbilt collection / Center for Brooklyn History | Indenture and Bill of Sale for Frank, 1816 The exhibition is anchored by large-scale portrait paintings reflecting two family histories. First is born-and-raised Brooklynite Mildred Jones, the living great-great-granddaughter of Samuel
Here's how to score 2-for-1 tickets to more than 60 of NYC's best cultural attractions

Here's how to score 2-for-1 tickets to more than 60 of NYC's best cultural attractions

New York City is packed with world-renowned museums and cultural attractions, of course, but visiting them comes at a price. Unlike our neighbors in Washington, D.C., we've got to pay to get inside these institutions.  But thankfully, New Yorkers (and visitors, too!) can get discounted tickets right now through NYC Must-See Week. This week (well, technically three weeks, but we're not complaining) runs from January 21-February 9 with two-for-one tickets to attractions, museums, performing arts, and tours across the five boroughs. Booking is now open here. RECOMMENDED: Here's how to score a cheap hotel stay in NYC right now We scoured the list of 63 featured attractions. While all are incredibly worthy in their own right, we're going to highlight 10 of our absolute must-dos, with a focus on spots that rarely offer other cheap admission deals.  Photograph: Lila Barth for Time Out New York | Isis in Life and Trust Dizzy's Club: Tap your toes to the sounds of jazz during a night at Dizzy's Club. This cozy club in Columbus Circle offers skyline views and incredible performances every night of the week. Steve Cohen's Chamber Magic: This jaw-dropping magic show absolutely dazzles. Steve Cohen, dubbed the Millionaire's Magician, shows off trick after trick inside the fancy Lotte Palace New York. Tickets start around $175, so score this deal while you can. Life and Trust: If you're mourning the loss of legendary immersive theater show Sleep No More, then get yourself to Life and Tr
Let me tell you—Here are 25 resolutions for New Yorkers in 2025

Let me tell you—Here are 25 resolutions for New Yorkers in 2025

"Let Me Tell You" is a series of columns from our expert editors about NYC living, including the best things to do, where to eat and drink, and what to see at the theater. They publish each Tuesday so you’re hearing from us each week. Last time, Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Skena Culgan shared why going to see "Suffs" is a must-do. The glittering New Year's ball has dropped. The confetti has been cleaned from Times Square. Some resolutions have been made and already forgotten, but there's always time to start anew.  In that spirit, allow me to present 25 resolutions I hope New Yorkers will adopt for 2025 to live their best lives, make the most of the city and be better neighbors. Now, let's try to keep these resolutions, shall we? RECOMMENDED: The 100 best things to do in NYC for locals and tourists 1. Let people exit the train first We begin with a perennial New York City complaint. Let people off the subway train before you try to push into the door. Let's do it this year. Please. Pretty please.  Photograph: By Rossilynne Skena Culgan / Time Out | Kendall Tichner holds a bow and arrow inside Wild Captives studio. 2. Get active with a new skill Getting active is always a common New Year's resolution, and though local gyms are great, why not try something a little more adventurous? You can learn to surf in the Rockaways with Locals Surf School or channel your inner Katniss Everdeen with Wild Captives in Brooklyn.  3. See at least one Broadway show  You're living in the ce
You can now go curling 1,100 feet above the NYC skyline

You can now go curling 1,100 feet above the NYC skyline

Perhaps your idea of "curling" in the winter involves curling up on the couch with a mug of hot cocoa and a good book. Honestly, same. But New Yorkers are now invited to shed their blanket cocoons and go curling at Edge in Hudson Yards. The new pop-up for the winter sport, where players slide stones on a sheet of ice, welcomes all to get their adrenaline flowing from the game—and from the stunning views at the city's highest indoor/outdoor sky deck. In addition to curling, guests at Edge's Sky Chalet can enjoy specialty cocktails and seasonal treats at this wintry escape, which is open from January 17 through March 16. RECOMMENDED: The super-fun bumper cars on ice are back at Bryant Park Whether you're a beginner or a curling pro, the team at Edge promises you'll pick up the game quickly. They describe it as a game of "strategy, precision, and teamwork." Here's its rundown of the rules and terms to know. Photograph: Courtesy of Edge In addition to sliding your stone toward a target, you'll get to enjoy gobsmacking views from 1,100 feet above the Manhattan skyline. In between turns, gaze out at the Empire State Building, the super-tall skyscrapers near Columbus Circle, and the Hudson River. Sky Chalet is located inside Edge, so it's an all-weather experience. The curling experience is fun for all ages, but a heads up that kids under 10 years old may need some help from a grownup. Tickets, bookable here, include a 50-minute curling session on a private lane, plus access to Ed
Subway art is part of a Met Museum exhibit for the first time ever

Subway art is part of a Met Museum exhibit for the first time ever

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has a reach that expands across the globe and back in time. Its collections cover everything from First Century Chinese pottery to Medieval armor to masterpieces of Impressionist painting. Now, for the first time, part of the collection has gone underground.  As part of the exhibit "Flight into Egypt: Black Artists and Ancient Egypt, 1876–Now," see three site-specific installations inside local subway stations. The artworks, commissioned by MTA Arts & Design, "are critical to the story of the ongoing reception of ancient Egypt within Black communities," Met officials explained. Though the pieces are off-site, they are considered part of The Met's exhibition. If you want to get a full understanding of "Flight into Egypt," on view through February 17, you've got to check out the museum's exhibit and the subway art, too. RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now Art in the subway is nothing new. Since the 1980s, the MTA has commissioned permanent artworks for the public transit system. But for the first time, the MTA and The Met worked together to highlight three existing works inspired by ancient Egypt at subway and Metro-North railroad stations. All three of the featured subway artworks are located within a two-mile radius of Harlem. “Celebrations of ancient Egypt unite these three site-specific works.”  "Celebrations of ancient Egypt unite these three site-specific works, symbolizing the global diasporic resonance of and continue