By: Stefanie DiMartino

Another new month is here! The days might be getting shorter, but there’s certainly no shortage of things to do here in NYC. So, if you’re looking for all the best things to do and see, best in dining/drinks, and the best entertainment and art/exhibits, then these are my top NYC picks for all November long!

Watch my NYC autumn/winter guide for 2021-2022 here: 

For the Best Restaurants for Thanksgiving dinner this year, read here!

The Top 16 Best Things to do in NYC this November

NYC BEST THINGS TO DO

THE WOMAN IN BLACK: A GHOST STORY IN A PUB

Now – January 2022 | $84-$114+

The McKittrick Hotel, 530 West 27th Street, New York, NY 10001

The Woman in Black is an award-winning production that tells the tale of a “lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the spectre of a Woman in Black. He engages a skeptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and exorcise the fear that grips his soul.” 

As someone who does not like anything scary or horror related, I was definitely feeling a bit nervous. I made sure to have some liquid courage before, and during the show! The McKittrick has some of the best cocktails ever! My personal favorites are Sleep No More and Northern Lights. Be sure to also grab some pub fare: Scotch Egg, Pigs in a Blanket, Stilton Cheese, Piccalilli (pickled vegetables and mustard), Water Crackers, and Bread Twists.

I had no idea what to expect, but it’s honestly best to go into this show without expectations. This show will far exceed any expectations you might have anyway.

Set in a dark, intimate pub with spooky, chilling vibes, you are transported back in time. The storytelling is absolutely phenomenal and powerful. The emotions that the actors evoke make you feel exactly what they’re feeling. You almost feel as though you’ve become one of the characters. As you watch, mesmerized and needing to know what happens next, you are feeling their feelings and fear and are fully immersed in the story. 

While there are some jump scares, I cannot recommend this show enough (even if you scare easily like I do)! It’s the perfect amount of scare and suspense. At its core, it is a simple ghost story. But in its telling, The Woman In Black is clever, thrilling, and entertaining. And, you really cannot top the acting. You are gripping your seat the entire time, enthralled by the story and mystery. 

So, who exactly is The Woman In Black? If you’d like to know, then be sure to get tickets to find out, if you dare! 

CLASSIC HARBOR LINE: FALL FOLIAGE CRUISES

Now – November 15 | $88+

What better way to get into the spirit of “all things fall” than with a fall foliage cruise! Only taking place in November, this is one of the top things to do in NYC! “Celebrate Autumn on one of our NYC Fall Foliage Cruises. Join us for the last leaves of fall and jump aboard one of our classic boats and head north up the Hudson River to take in the beautiful fall foliage. Escape from the chaos of the city and join us for a 2.25 – 2.5 hour fall foliage cruise on luxury yacht Manhattan or hop aboard a 3.5 hour fall foliage sail aboard Schooner Adirondack! Feel the crisp autumn air upon your face and take in the brilliant crimson red, pumpkin orange and a golden yellow of the Hudson Valley for an afternoon of leaf peeping.” – Classic Harbor Line

SPEAKEASY MAGICK

Thursday, Friday, & Saturday nights | Age 18+ | $150+ 

Manderley Bar at The McKittrick Hotel, 530 West 27th Street, New York, NY 10001

Absolutely perfect for a date night or a night out with friends, family, or anyone! Speakeasy Magick is a show so amazing that only describing it with words cannot possibly do it justice! But, some of the best words I can think of to describe it are: dazzling, thrilling, captivating, enchanting, and straight up mind-blowing! 

Truly, you need to experience it in person for yourself to be awe-struck. 

The show is hosted by acclaimed magician, Todd Robbins. And, keep in mind, this is no ordinary magic show. Once you step inside, you feel as if you’ve been transported to a different time. You are immersed right into this fantastical world. You are not simply watching magic being performed – as a guest, you are an active part of the magic. It is one of the most interactive and entertaining experiences ever.

You get to chance to be up close and personal with a rotating cast of tremendously talented magicians and mentalists. Each one with unique and special “tricks” up their sleeves (literally and figuratively)!

Todd Robbins describes it accurately as a “soirée of secrets” and that’s exactly what Speakeasy Magick is. It is the most perfect escape from reality and will make you a true believer in magic and the impossible. 

MAD HATTER GIN & TEA PARTY

Now – November 21 | Age 21+ | $59+

330 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10017

Only for a limited time in NYC this November, take a trip down the rabbit hole. Alice in Wonderland fans, don’t miss out! There are very limited tickets still available. “The Mad Hatter, Dormouse, and Hare are unleashing teatime mayhem with an immersive experience and taste of Wonderland in New York! Prepare to go mad at one of their bibulous tea parties! Begin your journey down the rabbit hole and let your mad hosts guide you through a menu of tantalizing tea party cocktails made with the most curious ingredients. But do remember, if you don’t know where you are going, then it doesn’t much matter which way you go… Just be sure that you’re not late!” – Mad Hatter Gin & Tea Party

STRANGER THINGS: THE OFFICIAL STORE 

Now – December 5, 2021 | Monday-Sunday, 10am-10pm | FREE! (minus cost of any merchandise)

200 West 42nd Street New York, NY 10036

Calling all Stranger Things fans! Brand new in NYC is Stranger Things: The Official Store. If you’ve wanted to take a journey through Hawkins, now’s your chance before the official exhibit hits NYC in May 2022! 

“Step into the show’s most iconic locations and check out all of the gnarly merch and rad moments you will find inside. Take photos at Hawkins Middle’s Snowball Dance and in Joyce’s House, shop in the Starcourt Mall, avoid the Rift in the Russian Lab, play games at the Palace Arcade, and take a stroll through the Upside Down, if you dare. Just know that you might come face to face with a Demogorgon—don’t say we didn’t warn you!” – Stranger Things: The Official Store

THE ESCAPE GAME

Ongoing | Mon-Thurs, 10am-12am, Fri-Sun, 8am-1am | $41.99+

The Escape Game New York, 295 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10004

The Escape Game is in the heart of midtown, located right near Grand Central. Talk about a convenient location! The Escape Game is the perfect group activity! It is an immersive and interactive experience where you and your team work together to find clues, solve puzzles, and ultimately complete a mission. And what is that mission? Of course, to “escape” the room in time!  

You get one hour to escape and it’s a really fun challenge! There are a ton of different themed rooms you can choose from like “Prison Break,” “The Playground,” and “Gold Rush”. But, we chose to retrieve a stolen painting from an art curator’s office in “The Heist.” 

If you’re looking for a cool activity to do with friends and family this autumn/winter, definitely keep The Escape Game in mind. Be sure to reserve in advance to get your spot because it is a very popular place and can get booked up real fast! 

Note: Per the “Key to NYC” requirement, guests 12 and older will need to show proof they have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized for emergency use by the FDA or WHO.

MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION

Now – January 2022 | Wednesday – Sunday, 10am-6pm | $20+

100 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10013

“This unique exhibition in New York City invites you to step into the universe of the greatest masterpieces of Michelangelo, seen from a totally new perspective. It is brought to you by the organizers of the finest themed exhibitions such as: Star Trek, King Tut, Titanic, Frida Kahlo, Michael Jackson and more.” – Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition

NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN HOLIDAY TRAIN SHOW

November 20, 2021 – January 23, 2022 | Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-6pm | $32+

2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10458

The New York Botanical Garden is always worth a visit, especially when there are special exhibits on display. One of the best things in NYC beginning end of November is the NYBG train show. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit! “NYBG’s Holiday Train Show—a favorite holiday tradition—is back for its 30th year! See model trains zip through an enchanting display of more than 175 New York landmarks, each delightfully re-created from natural materials such as birch bark, lotus pods, and cinnamon sticks. On select dates, start a new holiday tradition as day turns to night with NYBG GLOW. Explore our festively illuminated landscape during these special evenings that feature music, dance, food, and more, making for the perfect night out this season.” – NYBG

BROOKLYN DINER: NEW YORK, NEW YORK A MUSICAL REVUE

Friday & Saturday nights | 7-8pm | $40+

Brooklyn Diner, 155 W 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036

There really is no place like New York. And the Brooklyn Diner proves just that.

FOOD

The food at Brooklyn Diner is absolutely amazing. It’s not the usual food you think of when you hear “diner.” The menu features a great variety with a lot of comfort food to choose from! I personally enjoyed the pre-fixe menu. For my appetizer, I chose the hummus plate and it was seriously the best hummus I ever had – creamy and flavorful. The eggplant parmigiana was my entree choice and it did not disappoint. The sauce wasn’t overpowering and it was delicious with a nice crisp to it. And what better way to end your meal than with strawberry cheesecake? It is so good and is a strong competitor to Juniors’ cheesecake! There are also specialty cocktails such as the “Brooklyn Bridge,” an interesting (and delicious) twist on a Moscow Mule, and the “Cyclone,” a spiked milkshake! 

ENTERTAINMENT

As if the food wasn’t good enough, you also get to enjoy “New York, New York A Musical Revue” which is a 1-hour show while dining! It’s dinner theater meets Broadway! The cast features 4 extraordinarily talented Broadway stars and performers. They are full of energy and charisma along with incredible singing chops! They belt out fan favorite tunes such as Taylor Swift’s “Welcome to New York,” Alicia Keys’ “Empire State of Mind,” Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind,” and of course, Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York.” The cast sings these timeless songs as an homage to New York, the greatest city in the world. And, the show is interactive – you get to be a part of all the fun! You can sing and dance along and really experience this show. It’s a must-see and makes for a wonderful night out with family, friends, coworkers – anyone!

Call 212-265-5400 to book your seats today!

Note: As with all indoor entertainment, activities and dining in NYC, proof of vaccination is required.

SARAHFUNKY NYC TOURS

Saturdays, Sundays, Custom day/time | $49-$599

Excitingly, the borders are officially re-opened to vaccinated international travelers! So, this means that tourism is on the rise again here in NYC! And, there’s no time like the present to book a SarahFunky NYC tour. Rated 5-stars on TripAdvisor, you certainly do not want to miss out on any of these one-of-a-kind experiences! 

There are quite a few tour options to choose from to fit your interests and your budget!

For a truly unique experience, book a custom designed private tour with either Sarah, Luis, Marcus, Gary, or Nicola! For the best of both worlds, with food and sightseeing, consider joining the Best of New York Food Tour with Luis- offered onSunday mornings. The tour includes four epic spots and behind the scenes experiences! Another option is to join A Secrets of New York Tour on Saturday mornings and visit hidden locations in lower Manhattan and learn secrets most New Yorkers don’t even know! Each guide is an NYC expert and enjoys showing others around the city they love, so be sure to book today!

And now, you can also get expert help with planning your dream NYC vacation with FunkyTours Concierge! You can make your NYC trip and experience more special with custom-designed plans that fit your budget and your unique interests.

BRYANT PARK/BANK OF AMERICA WINTER VILLAGE

Holiday Shops: Now-January 2, 2022 | Daily, 11am-8pm

The Lodge: Now-March 6, 2022 | Daily, 10am-10pm 

Bryant Park, 40th – 42nd Street, 5th – 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10018

The Winter Village at Bryant Park is the perfect place to visit to get into the holiday spirit. Truly, the Winter Village is a winter wonderland in the heart of the city. It offers something for everyone! You can enjoy the Holiday Shops, ice-skating, and rink side eats and drinks! There are plenty of great photo ops and you can leisurely stroll around, people-watch, and admire the beautiful Christmas tree!

The Bryant Park ice rink is the only rink in NYC that’s free. But, if you don’t have your own skates, you will have to pay for skate rentals which range in price from $15-$45. 

You can also reserve a cozy igloo! “Revel with friends inside your very own igloo—the ultimate winter experience! Enjoy these cozy domes, surrounded by skyscrapers, and just steps from the iconic ice skating rink at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park.” -Bryant Park

NYC DINING/DRINKS

EATALY NYC DOWNTOWN: LA PIZZA & LA PASTA A COLORI

101 Liberty Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10007

If you want authentic Italian, then La Pizza & La Pasta A Colori at Eataly downtown is a dining experience you don’t want to miss. Eataly itself is unique and unlike anywhere else in that it’s not just a restaurant! It’s also an expansive market, and so much more!

La Pizza & La Pasta A Colori offers a casual, colorful, warm, and welcoming environment. While dining, you can also take in beautiful downtown city views.

The staff was courteous and attentive, especially our waitress. She was fantastic, friendly, and gave great recommendations. Everything from the ambiance, to the drinks, to the food was amazing! And my grandpa, an 87-year-old “off-the-boat” Italian, gave his seal of approval and loved it, so you know it’s the real deal! I cannot recommend it enough. 

FOOD

Starting with drinks, I had an A Colori Specialty Cocktail – Amante Del Tramonto (Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Lemon, Pomegranate Syrup, and Lambrusco). It was crisp and the perfect amount of sweet. Also had a glass of Barolo Serralunga d’Alba 2015. If you are a wine person, this is a perfect pour!

A basket of bread with fresh olive oil is brought to the table as a starter. For an appetizer, we had the Arancino allo Zafferano mozzarella e piselli. Essentially, rice balls with mozzarella and peas. The rice balls had a nice crunch and the melty mozzarella and peas added a nice taste and texture.

The main courses were Pappardelle al Ragù di Funghi e Tartufo (Housemade Pappardelle, Mushroom Ragù, Parmigiano Reggiano® DOP, Burgundy Truffle). This is such a hearty pasta dish, packed with flavor. You can tell the pappardelle are freshly made and you can really taste the truffle and the mushroom. It’s delicious! 

A bit on the lighter side, but certainly not lacking in any flavor was the Quadrati (Housemade Local Ricotta and Spinach Filled Pasta, Lemon Butter, Pistachio). The lemon butter was light and fragrant and the pistachios added a really nice texture to the dish.

No meal is ever complete without dessert. I highly recommend trying the A Colori Castagnole Colorate, which are fried and sugared ricotta doughnuts made with Calabro Ricotta and filled with Raspberry, Mango and Blueberry Jam. They are SO good! Also, the tiramisu is a must-have. I’ve had tiramisu at countless restaurants and this one seriously ranks as one of the best! It’s the perfect blend of rich and creamy. Buon Appetito!

HARLEM RESTAURANT WEEK

Now – November 21, 2021

Harlem Restaurant Week is back for its 12th season! It is the only neighborhood specific Restaurant Week featuring 60 restaurants & bars to experience! You (and your tastebuds) do not want to miss this!

One of the best things to do in NYC this November is to support Harlem Restaurant Week! The two-week dining promotional period will take place November 7 – 21 with dine-in, take-out and delivery options featuring restaurants and bars in Central, East, and West Harlem featuring everything from fresh fruit smoothies to award-winning cocktails to sumptuous fine dining.  A few highlights include: Best Bites for $10, Lunch for $25 and Dinner for $35. Please see the full list of participating restaurants here; All deals and list of participating restaurants can be found at www.harlemrestaurantweek.com.

Also, Harlem Park to Park and Harlem Restaurant Week have partnered with the Angel Food Project to provide families with a free HRW meal. The community outreach initiative will bring quality meals to local families in need and highlight the support Harlem’s hospitality community continues to provide as a collective.

NYC MUSEUM/ART EXHIBITIONS

CHRISTIAN DIOR: DESIGNER OF DREAMS

Now – February 20, 2022  | $16+ 

Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, New York 11238

“The New York premiere of the exhibition Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams traces the groundbreaking history and legacy of the House of Dior. The exhibition brings to life Dior’s many sources of inspiration—from the splendor of flowers and other natural forms to classical and contemporary art. The exhibition includes a vast array of over two hundred haute couture garments as well as photographs, archival videos, sketches, vintage perfume elements, accessories, and works from the Museum’s collection.” – Brooklyn Museum

ARTECHOUSE: MACHINE HALLUCINATION: NYC

Now – January 17, 2022 | $25+

439 West 15th Street, New York, NY 10011

ARTECHOUSE creates, produces and presents innovative art across platforms. If you’re looking for a new exhibit this November in NYC, then you don’t want to miss this! 

“Machine Hallucination: NYC is a groundbreaking immersive exhibition created by ARTECHOUSE New York in collaboration with the award-winning media artist Refik Anadol. The exhibition is a floor-to-ceiling kaleidoscope of experiential art created using machine learning. A dazzling deep-dive down the rabbit hole of machine intelligence aesthetics, the exhibition offers an alternative way to imagine the future of cinema and post-digital architecture in a world of neural networks, immersive environments, and machine learning.

Prepare for a time and space exploration into New York City’s past and potential future. This completely immersive exhibition is of New York, by New York and for New York — a fitting tribute to one of the world’s greatest cities and architectural marvels. Exploring New York through the mind of a machine, Machine Hallucination: NYC aims to uncover the ever-changing shape of the city, evoking our collective memory and the ways that new forms of visual representation can alter our perception of this iconic destination.” – Machine Hallucination: NYC/ARTECHOUSE

NYC BROADWAY/SHOWS

A COMMERCIAL JINGLE FOR REGINA COMET

Now – November 21, 2022 | $59+

DR2 Theatre, 103 East 15th Street, New York, NY 10003

Now in its final weeks, don’t miss out on seeing this unique show! “Two nobodies dream of writing one hit song for everybody, but their day job composing jingles for commercials isn’t the big break they hoped. That is, until they’re plucked from obscurity by a world-famous pop star named Regina Comet (if destiny had a child, it would be her) and she wants them to create an anthem for her supernova pipes…and her new perfume. They’re so close to the big-time they can smell it, but following your passion doesn’t always lead where you expect.

The show is whip-smart and stupid funny, packed with songs as catchy as a jingle, and only 80 minutes (half a Wicked) long. Don’t miss this hit in the making that’s for anyone who has a dream and isn’t ashamed it’s unrealistic.” – A Commercial Jingle for Regina Comet

Note: The Daryl Roth Theatre requires all audience members to provide proof of vaccination OR proof of a negative PCR test taken up to 72 hours prior to performance or proof of a negative antigen test taken up to 6 hours prior to performance. In addition, masks are required at all times within the building. Masks should fit snugly around the nose, mouth, and chin. Disposable masks are available upon request.

In conclusion, these are the top 16 best things to do in NYC November. Have fun and most importantly, stay safe!