New York City is a truly magical place to vacation. With giant Christmas trees, ice skating rinks, Broadway shows and much more, it's a true winter wonderland.
If you're not sure what to do this holiday season, these things are sure to make you want to pack your bags, book your ticket, and hit the town.
Here are my top things to do in New York at Christmas!
Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park is known for hosting events. In fact, they host over 1,000 free activities, classes, and events a year. Winter Village has ice skating, a rink-side bar, a dining hall and holiday shops.
In fact, it's the only place in New York where you can go ice skating for free. However, renting the skateboard will still cost US $ 20.
If it's too cold for you, you can spend time on the observation deck. It is located on the second floor of the Skating Pavilion and overlooks the rink.
Here you can enjoy games and art supplies. The best part is that it's free!
Eggnog at Miracle on 9th Street
What's better than Christmas-themed drinks? Nothing. Nico de Soto, Greg Boehm and Zach Sharaga created Miracle on 9th Street, a holiday-inspired pop-up bar.
Located in the East Village, you'll find cocktails with names like Bad Santa and Fa La La and they're all served in Santa Claus or reindeer mugs with candy cane garnishes.
Their special eggnog consists of brown butter brandy, amontillado sherry, almond milk, cream, eggs and nutmeg. They're open seasonally from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve, so be sure to stop by while they're open.
5th Ave store and Christmas window displays
5th Avenue is arguably New York's most well-known area, and for good reason. The Christmas season on 5th ave consists of ornate department store window displays.
Some of the highlights include Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy's, Bloomingdales and Lord & Taylor. It makes Christmas gift shopping that much more enjoyable.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is located at the entrance to Central Park at 59th Street and Central Park West. Here you'll find aisles upon aisles of art, jewelry, homewares and delicious food.
It is known around the world as one of the most elegant places to go for holiday shopping.
It runs from November 28th to December 24th and is open from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm and Sunday from 10am to 7pm.
Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
If you're in New York, going to see the Rockettes is a must. Alright, that might be an exaggeration, but it's still one of the coolest things to do while visiting.
This year, they announced that the Christmas production will be technologically transformed with an all-new final scene and redesigned elements. We're talking about 100 drones that fly by to create a magical light show for the audience.
The beloved holiday show runs from November 9th to January 1st, with shows every day. Tickets start at US$ 50 and can go up to US$ 600 depending on seats.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
For over 8 decades, the Rockefeller Building has placed an iconic Christmas tree. Today, more than half a million people pass by the tree every day, making it the heart of Christmas in New York.
This year the tree will be lit for the first time on November 28th and will remain lit until January 7th.
If you want to go ice skating under the magic tree, Rockefeller Center offers an ice skating rink that is open to the public with sessions starting at 8:30 am and going until 10:30 pm. Admission varies from US $ 25 to US $ 33, depending on the time of year.
The closer you get to the holidays, the more expensive it gets.
Santa Claus and Christmas Display at Macy's
No Christmas display tour would be complete without stopping at Macy's. Not only will you be able to see the display, but you will also get to meet Santa Claus.
Macy's has two sets of display cases, for a total of six. During peak hours, over 10,000 people pass by every hour.
Last year, the theme of the window was “The Perfect Gift Brings People Together” and featured a fireworks display, a large Christmas tree in a domestic setting, an ice skating rink in the bustling city, and Santa Claus as the conductor of a holiday show.
Holiday themed cocktails at Bar 54
At the Hyatt Centric Times Square hotel, you'll find Bar 54, the highest rooftop lounge in New York City. They have indoor and outdoor seating, and while on vacation, you can find vacation-themed cocktails to sip while enjoying views of New York City.
Holiday Exhibitions at the Plaza Hotel
The Plaza Hotel is known for its luxurious atmosphere and beautiful decor. You may know him from Home Alone or Gossip Girl.
During the holiday season, the Plaza Hotel goes all out and displays Christmas trees, wreaths, and lighted wreaths everywhere you look. It's one of the best places to warm up, have some tea and get into the holiday spirit.
The Nutcracker by New York Ballet
What would a trip to New York be without some shows? During Christmas, the New York City Ballet performs a Christmas classic, The Nutcracker.
With 90 dancers, 62 musicians and over 125 children, this ballet is extremely magical.
From November 23rd, there are concerts almost every day (except Mondays) until December 30th. The two-hour show is a bit more expensive, costing between US$$90 and US$$185, depending on which section you choose.
New York is magical any time of the year, but it's even more special during the holiday season. That's why I recommend trying it at least once in your life!
Read too:
Shopping (for women) in New York
10 places to visit in New York
Christmas in New York on a Budget
New York | Visiting the 9/11 Memorial
Do you already know New York?
Pingback: 10 things you must do in New Orleans - Wenttrip