Top 5 Free Things to Do in New York City in February

The average temperature in New York City in February is a chilly 27 to 40 degrees. February is also New York's snowiest month, with an average snowfall of 8.5 inches. Dress warmly, though, and you can enjoy some only-in-New-York experiences - skating amid skyscrapers, riding a ferry, watching lion dancers celebrating the Chinese New Year, seeing tiger cubs frolic in the snow, and warming up in the company of Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, and Salvador Dali.

Ice Skating in Bryant Park

February is your last chance until next fall to go ice skating on the lovely outdoor rink in Bryant Park. With its convenient midtown location, dramatic views of the Empire State Building, and classic jazz music playing on the loudspeakers, the "Pond," as the rink is called, is a true New York City gem. Best of all, admission is free. (Through February 27)

Staten Island Ferry

Looking for something special to do on Valentine's Day? Few things are as romantic as a boat ride. Bundle up and take the Staten Island Ferry for breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Trips take 25 minutes each way. The Staten Island Ferry is always free and runs around the clock. (Every day)

Chinese New Year Parades

The Chinese New Year, also called the Lunar New Year, sometimes falls in January, but more often falls in February. New York City hosts one of the biggest Lunar New Year celebrations in the country. It starts with 600,000 firecrackers and a cultural fair in Roosevelt Park in lower Manhattan, and continues with spectacular parades in Manhattan's Chinatown and in Flushing, Queens. All events are free. (Dates for 2011: Firecracker Ceremony is February 3. Manhattan Chinatown parade is February 6. Flushing, Queens parade is February 12.)

Tiger Cubs at the Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo has three adorable Siberian tiger cubs who love to play in the snow, so seeing them in the winter is ideal. If you visit the zoo in February, you'll also be rewarded with fewer crowds and easier access to the animals than in warmer months. Bundle up, and be prepared to do a lot of walking, as the shuttle doesn't start running until April. The Bronx Zoo, normally $16 for adult admission, is free every Wednesday.

Museum of Modern Art

On a cold February evening, it's nice to be inside. It's even better when you can visit a world-famous museum for free. The Museum of Modern Art, which normally charges $20 admission for adults, is free every Friday evening from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The free admission includes all exhibits, including special exhibits, and films. Tip: Expect long lines in the afternoon. Beat the crush by arriving after 6:00 pm.