When Dry January has you feeling happier, more productive, and energized… Here is our list of activities to help you extend that sober streak.

1. Explore the High Line: A Walk Above the City

Photo from U.S. Department of Agriculture

Location: From Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to 34th Street (between 10th and 12th Avenues)

The High Line is an elevated park built on a historic freight rail line that cuts through the heart of Manhattan. It offers visitors a peaceful yet dynamic space to walk, relax, and enjoy spectacular views of the city skyline, the Hudson River, and beautiful gardens. As you stroll through the park, you can explore various art installations, pop-up gardens, and architectural features. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city, and since it's a public space, it's completely free to access.

If you are really into history or would like to follow a educated guide, NYC boasts many walking tours around all different neighborhoods, some of the guided tours are even free. Walking tours are a fantastic way to learn more about the rich history and culture of the city while getting some exercise.

2. Take a Cooking Class: Spice Up Your Culinary Skills

Locations: Sur La Table (SoHo), The Institute of Culinary Education (Flatiron), or Eataly (Downtown Manhattan) ** Fever lists many additional experiences.

If you love food and want to enhance your cooking abilities, why not spend a few hours learning something new in the kitchen? NYC has a variety of cooking schools that offer hands-on classes for every level, from basic knife skills to mastering specific cuisines.

Join a pasta-making workshop, sushi rolling class, or even a baking course. Many of these cooking schools offer evening classes, making them ideal for an after-work activity or a fun group outing. While many of these courses are BYOB, the delicious meals and cultivated culinary skills you gain make alcohol a minor factor. Some venues, like Eataly, even combine learning with tasting, so you can enjoy some delightful Italian wine pairings after class, for those who choose to indulge.

3. Catch a Broadway Show or Off-Broadway Performance

By chensiyuan - chensiyuan, CC BY-SA 4.0,

Location: Broadway Theater District, Off-Broadway venues in Lower Manhattan.

No trip to NYC would be complete without experiencing the magic of the theater. Broadway is known for its over the top productions, with shows like Hamilton, The Lion King, and Wicked attracting visitors from all over the world. But don’t overlook the Off-Broadway scene, which offers more intimate performances and experimental productions. Pro tip! You can try the digital lottery or in-person rush for heavily discounted seats.

4. Take a Sunset or Nighttime Boat Cruise

For a completely different view of New York, hop on a boat cruise. Arguably the best views on the NYC skyline are from the , and there are several sunset and nighttime cruises that allow you to take in the city lights, especially as the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge come into view. Cruises like the Classic Harbor Line offer a peaceful, picturesque way to unwind, with opportunities for photography and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Empire State Building, and beyond.

Many of these cruises focus on the natural beauty of the harbor, with no alcohol involved—just fresh air, beautiful surroundings, and the sound of the water lapping against the boat. Some cruises even offer guided tours where you can learn about the history and landmarks of the harbor.

5. Join a Painting or Pottery Class: Unleash Your Creativity

Locations: Paint Nite (Various Locations), The Art Studio NY (Upper West Side), and The Pottery Studio (Brooklyn)

Get the creative juices flowing with a hands-on experience, take a painting or pottery class. NYC offers many beginner-friendly studios that allow you to tap into your artistic side. At Paint Nite, you can paint a beautiful canvas with a group of friends while following a professional instructor. These events are often social and relaxing, perfect for a solo night or going out with friends.

If you're more into sculpting than painting, sign up for a pottery class. Studios like The Pottery Studio in Brooklyn and The Art Studio NY on the Upper West Side offer beginner classes where you can mold clay into beautiful bowls, vases, or sculptures. Many pottery classes are accompanied by relaxing music and a friendly, supportive community, making it an ideal activity for stress relief and self-expression.

6. Take a Yoga or Meditation Class: Find Inner Peace

Locations: Yoga to the People (East Village), The Rubin Museum of Art (Chelsea), or SkyTing Yoga (Chinatown)

In a city that never sleeps, finding moments of tranquility can be a challenge. Thankfully, NYC has no shortage of yoga studios and meditation centers that offer classes for every level, from beginner to advanced.

You can try a vinyasa flow class at Yoga to the People, attend a sound bath meditation at The Rubin Museum of Art, or unwind with a gentle restorative session at SkyTing Yoga. Many studios also offer outdoor yoga during the summer months in parks like Washington Square Park or Prospect Park, so you can enjoy a calming session surrounded by nature.

TOP 6 NYC Activities that DONT INCLUDE DRINKING.