They don't call New York the city that never sleeps for nothing. It's true; the always-bustling Big Apple doesn't take a day off—not even in the winter, when shoe-soaking snow, rain, and sleet blanket the sidewalks and the thermostat shows off below-zero temps. Huddles of friends hide out in bars alongside fireplaces or cozy up in cafes with steaming cups of cocoa; families lace up their skates and hit the ice; and tourists and locals fill the many museums and partake in a slew of other quintessential winter activities. Rooftops, store windows, and the city skyline—dressed to impress in powdery snow and twinkling lights—sparkle after dark. So, while chaining yourself to your bed and catching up on that Netflix queue until the thaw might sound enticing, we recommend piling on the layers and getting out there. Your perfect winter day in NYC awaits.

Watch our video on how to spend the perfect winter day in New York City. >