Meta Description: Discover the best things to do during Presidents Week in NYC 2026. From free museums to Broadway shows, ice skating, and historical sites - your complete NYC winter break guide.
What is Presidents Week in New York City?
Presidents Week, also known as Presidents Day Weekend, falls in mid-February and marks one of the most exciting times to visit New York City. In 2026, Presidents Day is Monday, February 16th, creating a long weekend from February 14-16 that families and travelers use to explore everything the city has to offer.
This annual school break transforms NYC into a hub of special events, museum exhibitions, theater performances, and winter activities designed specifically for families and visitors looking to make the most of their winter vacation.
Top Museums and Cultural Attractions During Presidents Week
Free and Discounted Museum Days
Several New York City museums offer special programming and admission deals during Presidents Week:
American Museum of Natural History (amnh.org) hosts special Presidents Week programming with extended hours and family-friendly workshops. The museum's dinosaur halls, space exhibits, and the Rose Center for Earth and Space remain perennial favorites for visitors of all ages.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (metmuseum.org) features pay-what-you-wish admission for New York State residents and provides special family tours during the holiday week. The Egyptian Temple of Dendur and the Arms and Armor collection captivate young history enthusiasts.
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (intrepidmuseum.org) offers hands-on exhibits aboard a real aircraft carrier, featuring the Space Shuttle Enterprise and interactive flight simulators perfect for school-age children.
Historical Sites with Presidential Connections
Federal Hall National Memorial (nps.gov/feha) stands at 26 Wall Street where George Washington took the oath of office as the first U.S. President. This free National Park Service site offers educational programs throughout Presidents Week.
Hamilton Grange National Memorial (nps.gov/hagr) in Harlem showcases Alexander Hamilton's restored home and provides free ranger-led tours discussing early American history and the Founding Fathers.
Broadway Shows and Theater Performances
Presidents Week brings families to Broadway in record numbers. Popular family-friendly shows typically include:
- The Lion King at the Minskoff Theatre
- Aladdin at the New Amsterdam Theatre
- Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Lyric Theatre
Book tickets in advance through official channels like Broadway.com or Telecharge.com to secure better seats and pricing. Many shows offer lottery tickets and rush policies for budget-conscious theatergoers.
Winter Outdoor Activities in NYC
Ice Skating Rinks
Rockefeller Center Ice Rink (therinkatrockcenter.com) remains NYC's most iconic skating destination, though it typically closes in early April, so Presidents Week offers prime skating time.
Bryant Park Winter Village (bryantpark.org) combines free ice skating with holiday market shopping. No reservation needed, and skate rentals are available on-site.
Wollman Rink in Central Park (wollmanrinknyc.com) provides a picturesque skating experience with Manhattan skyline views, operating throughout winter including Presidents Week.
Central Park Winter Adventures
Central Park transforms into a winter wonderland during February. Families can enjoy:
- Sledding at Pilgrim Hill or Cedar Hill after snowfall
- The Central Park Zoo's winter animal programs
- Scenic winter walks through the Ramble
- Horse-drawn carriage rides for a magical city experience
Special Events and Festivals During Presidents Week 2026
NYC Restaurant Week Winter Edition
NYC Restaurant Week often overlaps with Presidents Week, offering prix-fixe menus at hundreds of participating restaurants. This culinary event lets visitors sample cuisine from some of New York's finest establishments at reduced prices.
Lincoln Center Programming
Lincoln Center hosts special performances during school break weeks, including family concerts by the New York Philharmonic and performances at the David H. Koch Theater.
Chelsea Market and Food Halls
Chelsea Market offers indoor exploration perfect for cold February days, featuring dozens of food vendors, shops, and the opportunity to walk the High Line adjacent to the market.
Shopping and Indoor Entertainment
Flagship Stores and Toy Destinations
FAO Schwarz at Rockefeller Center creates magical experiences for children with its giant piano keyboard and interactive toy displays.
The LEGO Store in Flatiron offers building stations and impressive LEGO sculptures of NYC landmarks.
Nintendo New York in Rockefeller Center provides interactive gaming experiences and exclusive merchandise.
Getting Around NYC During Presidents Week
Public Transportation Tips
The MTA subway system remains the most efficient way to navigate New York City. Consider purchasing a 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard if staying the full week, which provides unlimited subway and bus rides.
Citi Bike (citibikenyc.com) offers bike-sharing for exploring neighborhoods during milder February days, though check weather conditions before relying on cycling.
Budget-Friendly Activities and Free Attractions
Free Museums and Attractions
- Staten Island Ferry (siferry.com) provides free round-trip service with spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline
- New York Public Library (nypl.org) main branch offers free tours of the iconic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
- Grand Central Terminal (grandcentralterminal.com) features free architecture tours and the famous whispering gallery
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Beyond Central Park, explore The Battery in Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge Park with stunning waterfront views, or walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge itself.
Where to Stay During Presidents Week
Family-Friendly Hotel Areas
Midtown Manhattan offers proximity to major attractions, theaters, and Times Square, though prices run higher during peak season.
Upper West Side provides residential charm near Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History, with slightly better value than Midtown.
Brooklyn neighborhoods like DUMBO or Park Slope offer authentic New York experiences with easier parking and often more spacious accommodations.
Book accommodations well in advance as Presidents Week represents peak tourism season. Consider properties with kitchen facilities to offset dining costs.
Dining Recommendations for Families
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
Popular family dining spots include Ellen's Stardust Diner where singing servers entertain while you eat, Serendipity 3 for famous frozen hot chocolate, and Shake Shack locations throughout the city for classic American burgers.
For diverse cuisines, explore Chinatown (explorechinatown.com) for dim sum adventures, Little Italy for Italian fare, or Koreatown for Korean BBQ and unique desserts.
Safety and Practical Tips
Weather Preparation
February in NYC averages 25-40°F (-4 to 4°C). Layer clothing, bring waterproof boots, and pack hats and gloves. Many indoor attractions provide coat check services.
Crowd Management
Presidents Week attracts significant crowds. Arrive at popular attractions when they open, book timed tickets online when possible, and have backup plans for particularly busy venues.
Navigation Apps
Download Google Maps, Citymapper, or the official MYmta app for real-time transit directions and service updates.
Planning Your Presidents Week Itinerary
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Midtown & Museums
- Morning: American Museum of Natural History
- Lunch: Upper West Side cafes
- Afternoon: Rockefeller Center ice skating
- Evening: Broadway show
Day 2: Lower Manhattan History
- Morning: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (book ferry tickets in advance)
- Lunch: Stone Street historic district
- Afternoon: 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- Evening: South Street Seaport dining
Day 3: Culture & Parks
- Morning: Central Park Zoo and exploring
- Lunch: Central Park Boathouse or nearby restaurants
- Afternoon: Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Evening: Times Square and dinner
Frequently Asked Questions About Presidents Week in NYC
When is Presidents Week 2026? Presidents Day falls on Monday, February 16, 2026, with most schools observing break the entire week of February 16-20, though some start the weekend before.
Do I need to book attractions in advance? Yes, especially for popular museums, Broadway shows, and the Statue of Liberty. Many attractions offer timed entry during peak periods.
Is NYC expensive during Presidents Week? Prices increase during this peak tourism period. Hotels, shows, and some attractions charge premium rates. Budget accordingly and book early for better deals.
What's the weather like? Expect cold temperatures between 25-40°F with possibility of snow. Check forecasts before your trip and pack layers.
Contact Information
Have questions about planning your Presidents Week trip to NYC? We're here to help! Reach out to us for personalized recommendations, itinerary planning assistance, or any questions about making the most of your New York City visit.
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