5 hot-spots for those cold NYC winter nights

Yes, the rumors are true: winter is coming. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up a social life as the days get chillier. New York is the city of possibilities and we’ve got more than a few possibilities of warmth lined up for you.

Why not...

1. Try a heated rooftop bar

NYC is famous for its rooftop bars, but what most people don’t know is that many of the city’s rooftops are weather-proofed during the winter, equipped with heating to make sure you can stay at a comfortable temperature while still enjoying the skyline views. Our favorite heated rooftop for after work drinks is The Press Lounge, boasting arguably the best views in Manhattan as well as floor to ceiling glass windows, seconded only by Magic Hour, whose indoor awning somehow keeps the famous carousel ticking on throughout the colder months. And if you’re looking for a rooftop club, Le Bain is a favorite among Outpost members for dancing in the clouds (even in the snow).

2. Jump into a "Sofar" gig

Photo: Sofar Sounds

Sofar Sounds is the city’s go-to provider of new indie music talent. Almost every day, a Sofar Sounds show is taking place in NYC, showcasing the latest unsigned artists. The idea is that the musicians apply to be in the show and the audience apply for tickets (although you'll almost always get them); the shows consist of three or four unsigned acts playing their original songs in unique venues around the city, from gin distilleries to volunteers' homes, and even some of our very own Outpost members have played. Patrons sit on cushions and bring their own blankets to simply relax and enjoy the music, spending the night snug and warm without a reason to go outside. If you're lucky, try to snag a ticket for a BYOB session in one of the private residences which makes for the perfect night in (only 'out') in the winter. 

3. Explore an art gallery by night

Many of New York City’s art galleries are so huge you could spend an entire day there. What you might not know is that you can spend an entire night there, too, on selected dates. Several galleries, including the Guggenheim and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, have late night winter events where you can explore the art after work. The Guggenheim’s "Art After Dark" events come with live entertainment, so you can sip on a drink and listen to a DJ while you appreciate the art, while the Met run drawing classes and other activities on their "Met Fridays," all of which you can enjoy while being wonderfully warm and cosy.

Photo: Guggenheim

4. Head to a specialized food court

Food courts in NYC are exciting, vibrant places. Head to Food Gallery 32 for a wide range of home made Korean food or take a trip to Eataly for Italian cuisine you can even take home with you. If you’re in the mood to stroll in a heated plaza, try Chelsea Market, known as a quintessential New York experience (where you can also shop), or the new Time Out Market in DUMBO, which features some impressive views from its rooftop dining area while still not being within a reasonable budget.

Photo: Abimelec G., Yelp

5. See a Broadway show

No matter the weather, the show must go on, and Broadway is the perfect place to continue it. Spend your winter nights soaking up some culture in the warmth of one of Broadway’s historic theatres. Although prices are normally high, if you use trusted partners like TodayTix or line up on the morning of the performance for "Rush Tickets" you can find some unexpected bargains.