Things to do in NYC this week: Rainy day, 'non-touristy,' fun
Good Night New York 4-3-25
The Daily Show's Roy Woods Jr. joins Good Night New York to promote the upcoming Y'all Comedy Fest. Plus, gourmet takes on classic fast food.
NEW YORK - Looking for something new to do in New York City?
Whether you’re a local in search of something fun or a visitor ready to go beyond the usual tourist stops, these five experiences promise to bring the vibes.
Snack your way through NYC at Smorgasburg
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 12: Guests are seen at The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival Presented By Coca-Cola - Smorgasburg presented by Thrillist hosted by the Cast of Chopped at Pier 92 on October 12, 20
Smorgasburg, NYC’s beloved outdoor food market, returns the first weekend of April 2025 through October—and it’s bigger and tastier than ever. With dozens of rotating vendors, this open-air feast is perfect for trying everything from Korean fried chicken to ube donuts.
Fridays: Oculus Plaza at the World Trade Center
Saturdays: Marsha P. Johnson State Park, Williamsburg (No pets allowed)
Sundays: Breeze Hill in Prospect Park (enter at Lincoln Road)
Come hungry, bring friends, and soak up the city’s best eats with skyline views and serious weekend vibes.
See more information here.
Eat high-low at So & So’s Neighborhood Piano Bar
Step behind a mysterious blue door and find So & So’s, a piano bar-meets-speakeasy serving nostalgic comfort food with upscale flair. Think grilled cheese fondue, oysters & champagne, and the Bodega Cat, a cheeky espresso martini in a NYC coffee cup. Come for the food, stay for the live music and laid-back glam.
Where: Romer Hell’s Kitchen, 305 W 48th St, NYC
When: Open evenings
Price: Varies by dish
Make reservations here.
Escape to The Plaza with orchids and elegance
Credit: The Plaza
In honor of the New York Botanical Garden's Orchid Show, The Plaza is offering an Orchid Show Experience Package with a two-night luxury stay, NYBG admission, and a private golf cart tour. Don’t want the full getaway? Enjoy the Orchid-Themed Afternoon Tea at The Palm Court, a floral twist on a timeless New York tradition.
Where: The Plaza Hotel, Fifth Avenue at Central Park South
When: Packages available through April 26, 2025
Price: Afternoon Tea starts at $150 per person; hotel package varies
Make reservations here.
See fire dancers and LED belly dancers... in a spa
"Wonders of Light" is back at QC New York with live fire performances and dazzling LED belly dancers lighting up the night sky. Soak in a 98-degree outdoor pool while artists perform against the Manhattan skyline—it's as magical as it sounds. Plus, enjoy heated walkways, garden igloos, and an Italian-style aperitivo spread starting at 6 PM Sunday through Thursday.
When: Mondays and Fridays through April 28
Time: Shows every 45 minutes from 5:15 PM to 9:00 PM
Price: Included with spa admission
Make reservations here.
Catch a rare revival of Paul Taylor’s dance masterpieces
Dance lovers, don’t miss this! The Paul Taylor Dance Company is reviving three rarely seen works—Tablet, Churchyard, and Noah’s Minstrels—for the first time in decades. With two rotating programs, including the iconic Esplanade celebrating its 50th anniversary, this is a deep dive into the genius of one of America’s most influential choreographers.
Where: The Joyce Theater, 175 Eighth Ave at 19th Street
When: June 17–22
Price: Tickets start at $27
Make reservations here.
Bowl, sip, and snack in style at Lucky Strike Chelsea Piers
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 03: Tyler Glasnow bowls during the Mookie Betts 5050 Foundation charity bowling event at Lucky Strike LA Live on February 03, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Mat Hayward/Getty Images for Mookie Betts 5050
Bowlero has officially transformed into Lucky Strike Chelsea Piers, and it’s more than just a name change. Expect a refreshed vibe with elevated cocktails, a new craft menu (hello, Mike’s Hot Honey!), immersive arcade games, and DJ-worthy playlists. It’s bowling, but better.
Where: 60 Chelsea Piers
When: Open daily
Price: Varies by activity
Make reservations here.