Winter is known for being cold, snowy, wet, and dark. To some, it is the worst season of the year, but to others, it is filled with wonderful winter activities. You can ski, snowboard, ice skate, and sled. Yes, this is the season that makes people freeze and turns your nose red, but there is also so much to do during the winter months; especially if you travel to New York City.

Winter in New York City is one of the most magical times of the year, thanks to all the shiny lights, creative holiday displays, and delicious foods and hot beverages. There are so many things to do in the city this time of year, so narrowing it down to an only a few is tricky. However, here is a list of the best attractions to do in the city so you can experience your own winter adventure:

Bryant Park Winter Village

Eat, shop, and skate all in one park! There are more than 125 boutique shops, including apparel, jewelry, decorative goods, local foods, and much more. One of the best places to grab a bite before hitting the rink is Crepe Café. Skating here is free, but there is a charge for rental skates. The shops are open until Jan. 3 and the rink is open until March 6.

Winter Jazzfest

Winter JazzFest, a signature Greenwich Village marathon, will be Jan. 15 and 16, hosted in several clubs in the city, including (Le) Poisson Rouge and Webster Hall. This is the perfect festival to attend if you are home from college and are interested in jazz music.

Rockefeller Center

In the mood to visit one of the most popular attractions in New York? Then head to Rockefeller Center and see the tree, either during the day or night, when it is all lit up. One of the best times to go is early in the morning when there are only a few people there. No need to push your way through the crowds; you will have full access to the entire plaza to take the perfect tree picture from anywhere. It is a perfect time to also experience the ice skating without all the hassle of waiting in line.

Macy's 34th Street

Whether it is before Christmas or after, visiting this store during the winter is spectacular. The unlimited amount of shopping, several different levels, and amazing deals. Whether you go for the right before Christmas sales or the after Christmas sales, you are sure to get a great deal. You can spend hours in the store and even walk outside to look at the magnificent store windows.

Wollman Rink

Going ice skating in New York City is a blast, even if you fall down on your butt a few thousand times. This rink is located in Central Park and offers classes to learn to skate or open rink time to skate at your pleasure. Spend the day skating or go late at night and skate under the stars in the park.

Toys R Us Times Square

This would normally not be on a list of things to do in the city, but sadly, this toy store is closing its doors at the end of the year. So take on last time to go into the city and experience the giant Ferris wheel, the life-size Barbie dollhouse, or the 20-foot animatronic T-Rex dinosaur.

Chelsea Market

Take time from the freezing cold and warm up inside Chelsea Market. Located in the area known as the Meatpacking District, Chelsea Market is one of the greatest indoor food halls of the world, with more than 35 vendors, including a cupcake shop, cheese shop, crepe store, and juice bar. Warm up by shopping in the market for some delicious food. The hallway of the market is lined with lights and great holiday cheer.

The High Line

The High Line is a 1.45-mile-long park built on an elevated section of the New York Railroad. The High Line runs from Gansevoort Street through Chelsea. Take a nice day to walk the entire High Line to see different forms of art and different views of the city. On a nice sunny day, this is a perfect way to walk the city instead of on the busy streets.

The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall

The Rockettes are the stars of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and the perfect show to watch with friends or family. If you are looking for holiday cheer, look no further than this show. Don't miss out on Santa Claus and the Toy Soldiers as well. While it may be a tourist destination, it is also great to see at least once in your life.

New York Botanical Garden

Located in the Bronx, the botanical garden has lakes, conservatories, greenhouses, plant collections, and even a forest. This winter, The Holiday Train Show is being exhibited. The exhibit includes model trains that pass through New York City landmarks.

Union Square Holiday Market

Over 100 merchants are located at The Union Square Holiday Market, which runs until Dec. 24. There are local handmade accessories, bags, jewelry, and more. Shopping in the city is great, but shopping locally at small vendors is perfect for the holiday season.