Winter Snowstorm Disrupts Tourism in New York City During Peak Holiday Travel

Published on December 28, 2025

A winter snowstorm that hit New York City and much of the northeastern United States this past weekend brought about significant disruptions to holiday travel. With the city receiving about 4 inches (10.2 centimetres) of snow overnight from Friday to early Saturday, and up to 10 inches in other parts of the state, the storm caused major delays for travelers.

Tourism in New York City, one of the world’s top destinations during the holiday season, was particularly impacted. Many tourists hoping to visit the city for its famous winter attractions, such as the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice skating at Bryant Park, faced delays in both their arrivals and departures due to the storm. The inclement weather also affected flights, trains, and road travel, leading to widespread cancellations and delays.

Major Travel Disruptions Across the Northeast

The snowstorm that blanketed New York City was part of a larger system that affected several northeastern states, including New Jersey, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. Airports throughout the region experienced significant flight delays and cancellations, with John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport in New York being hit the hardest. According to flight tracking data, hundreds of flights were delayed or cancelled as a result of the weather conditions, leaving many passengers stranded during the busy holiday travel period.

Train travel was also disrupted, with Amtrak reporting delays on routes running between New York City and other major northeastern cities, including Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. Additionally, bus services and car travel were severely impacted by snow-covered roads and poor visibility, making it difficult for tourists and locals alike to navigate the city.

For visitors planning to spend time in New York City, the storm was a major inconvenience. Popular tourist spots such as Central Park, Times Square, and Broadway theaters saw fewer visitors as snowstorms complicated transportation routes. However, those who did make it into the city were still able to enjoy some of New York’s signature winter activities, including holiday light displays and shopping along Fifth Avenue, despite the weather.

Disruptions to New York City’s Tourist Attractions

The snowstorm presented challenges for many of New York’s outdoor and iconic attractions. While the snow-covered landscapes of Central Park and the iconic view from the Empire State Building still drew some tourists, others chose to delay their sightseeing until the weather improved. The storm also caused temporary closures or limited hours at certain attractions, as safety protocols were put in place to ensure the well-being of visitors.

The famous ice skating rinks at Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park saw fewer tourists than expected, as travel disruptions and inclement weather kept many people indoors. For tourists visiting New York specifically to experience these winter traditions, the storm posed challenges, as ice skates and reservations had to be rescheduled.

Additionally, the annual holiday markets in Union Square and Columbus Circle were affected by the snowstorm, as vendor operations were interrupted and fewer visitors attended. Retailers along 5th Avenue, particularly those offering holiday shopping specials, experienced a dip in foot traffic due to delays in tourists’ travel plans.

Impact on Local Transportation and Services

Beyond the disruptions at airports and train stations, New York City’s public transportation network also felt the impact of the snowstorm. Although the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) worked to keep subway and bus lines running, delays were inevitable. Passengers reported crowded subway cars as people sought shelter from the cold and waited for the weather to clear. Snow-covered sidewalks also made walking difficult in some areas, particularly in neighborhoods where street clearing efforts were slower.

The snowstorm also impacted ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, with travelers struggling to find available drivers due to poor road conditions. While taxis were still available in parts of Manhattan, traffic congestion and road closures made it difficult for tourists to reach their destinations on time.

How Tourists Can Navigate Weather-Related Challenges

For tourists visiting New York City during the holiday season, there are a few strategies that can help mitigate the impacts of a snowstorm. First and foremost, travelers are advised to stay updated on weather reports and transportation schedules through apps and websites. Real-time flight tracking services and train/bus delay information can help visitors adjust their plans accordingly.

Travelers should also consider booking accommodations with flexible cancellation policies, in case of weather-related delays. Hotels in Manhattan and other tourist-heavy areas often offer convenient services and are centrally located to tourist attractions, making them a good option for those navigating weather disruptions.

For those already in New York City, taking advantage of indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and Broadway shows is an excellent way to enjoy the city without braving the harsh weather. Museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) are great alternatives for tourists looking to spend time indoors while staying warm.

Looking Ahead: Managing Holiday Travel in Future Storms

Looking forward to the rest of the holiday season and beyond, tourists need to be prepared for similar weather events in the future. As snowstorms become more frequent during the winter months in the northeast, travelers should be proactive about their travel plans and allow for extra time in case of delays.

New York City’s tourism sector is resilient and continues to attract millions of visitors each year despite occasional disruptions. While the snowstorm caused significant inconvenience for many, it remains an integral part of the city’s winter charm, and visitors continue to flock to the Big Apple to enjoy the holiday season.

Conclusion

The snowstorm that affected New York City and the broader northeastern US region caused notable disruptions to holiday travel, impacting both locals and tourists. With delays at airports, on roads, and at train stations, travelers faced challenges in reaching their destinations. However, for those already in the city, New York’s vibrant holiday atmosphere remained strong, and alternative indoor activities helped mitigate the effects of the weather. With the tourism industry continuing to recover and grow, New York City’s attractions will remain popular, despite the occasional winter weather hurdle.