First real snow of the season lands in NYC and it’s beautiful

For the past few weeks, Mother nature has been toying with us , bringing unseasonably warm weather one day and in the blink of an eye switching to blistering cold. But after teasing with flurries here and there, the first real snow of the season is here. Sure, it’s messy and makes every kind of commute possible even more of a weekend headache, but it certainly it can’t be denied that snowfall in New York City is a special kind of beautiful. We’ve rounded up a few lovely Instagram shots captured by elated New Yorkers to prove our case in point.

According to the Weather Channel, freezing rain will create some hazardous conditions so if you choose to venture out, be on the lookout for slippery ice patches and dangerous road conditions. If you’re stuck inside, kill some time by finishing up some last-minute holiday shopping. Whatever you choose, stay safe and happy first snow day!

Washington Square Park looks like a real-life winter wonderland.

How magical is Rockefeller Center right now?

It’s moments like this that help make it clear why Central Park is the city’s most Instagrammed location.

Not even a snow storm can stop the Flatiron Building from being stunning.

The beautiful townhouses in Park Slope Historic District dazzle in any weather...

while DUMBO actually looks frightening.

Astoria Park’s Christmas tree just got a little more festive.

Rockaway Beach serving up snow and sand.

The iconic Brooklyn Bridge had very few visitors on the morning of the first snow.

Times Square gets white washed by the snow and people are loving it.

Do you want to build a snowman?