With Thanksgiving approaching, many of you are probably wondering how to avoid spending all day on the couch. New York offers plenty of activities to make Thanksgiving Day memorable while also burning some turkey calories. Here’s a list of things to do alone, with family and kids, or with friends.

Thanksgiving Day with Friends in New York

Want to avoid the Black Friday rush and have enjoyable shopping while everyone else is gathered around the table? New York is well-known for its luxurious shopping centers, such as Bloomingdale’s and Bergdorf Goodman. You can add a few things to your Black Friday deals or treat yourself to something you wanted for a long time. Even if you prefer a minimalist wardrobe and do not buy much, a simple act of window-shopping with friends can also be a fun way to relax and do nothing.

Places to Visit with a Family

With Christmas around the corner, New York offers plenty of holiday markets where families can have a great time together. Go to Bryant Park and Union Square for a true winter atmosphere and beautiful decorations. Iconic ice-skating rinks at Central Park and Rockefeller Center are also a must for both adults and kids. New York is also perfect for the Christmas tree hunt. Gorgeous trees have already been installed in various iconic (and less well-known) locations, so you can offer your kids the chance to create a top list of their favorite trees.

If you hate crowds, a simple walk in the park and duck feeding in the pond can provide a great alternative. The local zoo can also be less packed on Thanksgiving, offering a chance to watch the animals without fuss. Finally, strolling down picturesque paths is perfect for everyone seeking to rewind and have quality time in nature with the family.

Thanksgiving Day in New York Alone

There are hundreds of ways to spend Thanksgiving in New York that won’t make you feel depressed for not having family and friends around. During the day, you can climb to the top of the world by visiting the Empire State Building. Keep in mind that entry is not free – you need to book a ticket in advance.

When the night falls, we recommend checking the spectacular night illumination at Brooklyn Botanic Garden. If you miss the taste of homemade turkey, lots of restaurants in New York offer holiday menus and takeaways.

Happy Thanksgiving!