The Best Insider Experiences in New York City

New York is particularly magical during the winter season—from pop-up holiday markets and the dazzling tree at Rockefeller Center to Wollman skating rink in Central Park and the decked-out windows of Fifth Avenue. But no matter what time of year you visit, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy insider access and off-the-beaten-path experiences in the Big Apple. Read on for a taste of what Indagare can offer for travelers of all ages and interests, from VIP museum tours and hands-on classes that are perfect for winter afternoons to springtime activities that you can start planning now.

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For the Style Maven: America's fashion capital, New York City has no shortage of glamorous outings to embrace your inner Carrie Bradshaw. Indagare can arrange a private shopping excursion to the best stores in SoHo, access to a designer trunk show, a curator-led tour of The Met’s Costume Institute and even a full “glam squad” to style your hair, nails and makeup right in your hotel room before a night on the town.

Related: Melissa’s New York City: Where to Stay, Eat, Shop and More

For the Broadway-Bound: Theater lovers should take advantage of backstage access and VIP meet-and-greets at some of Broadway's most beloved shows, as well as behind-the-scenes tours of historic venues like the Apollo Theater, Carnegie Hall and Radio City. The American Ballet Theatre's annual Nutcracker performances are a surefire hit with young dance enthusiasts, and Indagare can even privatize Central Park's Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre for an adorable family-friendly party.

For the Comedy Buff: Live from New York, it’s your chance to experience a hilarious taping of a TV comedy show. Tickets are available to such late-night favorites as Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers and The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, in addition to stand-up and improv shows at classic spots like the Comedy Cellar or Upright Citizens Brigade. Indagare can also arrange behind-the-scenes tours of Rockefeller Center's NBC Studios.

For the Gourmand: Whether you’re dining downtown or uptown, New York's foodie scene is always evolving, as is the city's selection of exclusive cooking classes and food tours. Take a mozzarella-making class with an Italian chef or a cake-decorating course at one of the city's hottest bakeries. For the true devotees, Indagare can advise on private cooking classes to craft multi-course meals or a tasting dinner with a renowned local chef.

For the Romantic: If you're spending a few days in New York with the one you love—or perhaps even planning to propose—why not head out for a private helicopter flight over the illuminated buildings of Lower Manhattan? On warmer nights, a sunset sail along the Hudson River is another scenic option.

For the Sports Fanatic: Fitness junkies and active travelers can spend an afternoon rock-climbing at Chelsea Piers, playing ping-pong at SPIN social club, or a bike tour of Brooklyn on a warm day. For avid fans, we recommend a behind-the-scenes tour of iconic athletic venues such as Madison Square Garden, Citi Field or Yankee Stadium.