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What to Do in New York City at Christmas: A Guide to Holiday Magic
New York City is a magical place at any time of year, but it's especially enchanting during the Christmas season. The city is adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a sense of holiday cheer that's infectious. There's so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together this guide to help you plan your perfect
Must-See Sights
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: This iconic Christmas tree is a must-see for any visitor to New York City during the holiday season. The tree is surrounded by ice skaters and vendors selling holiday gifts.
- The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade: While technically not a Christmas event, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved New York City tradition that kicks off the holiday season. The parade features giant inflatable balloons, marching bands, and floats from popular TV shows and movies.
- The Radio City Christmas Spectacular: This dazzling holiday show features the Rockettes performing their famous high-kicking routines. The show is a must-see for families and anyone who loves Christmas music and dance.
- The New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show: This enchanting exhibit features miniature trains chugging through a miniature New York City landscape made entirely of gingerbread, candy, and other holiday treats.
- The Brooklyn Botanic Garden Holiday Train Show: This is another great option for families looking for a festive train show. The exhibit features miniature trains running through a miniature New York City landscape made of plants and flowers.
Holiday Shopping
- The Shops at Columbus Circle: This upscale shopping center is home to luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Chanel. It's also a great place to find unique holiday gifts.
- The Plaza Hotel: This iconic New York City hotel is a great place to do some holiday shopping. The hotel's shops sell everything from designer clothes to gourmet food.
- Saks Fifth Avenue: This luxury department store is a great place to find the perfect holiday gift for that special someone. Saks Fifth Avenue also has a beautiful Christmas window display that's not to be missed.
- Union Square Holiday Market: This outdoor market features hundreds of vendors selling handmade crafts, gifts, and food. It's a great place to find unique and affordable holiday gifts.
- Bryant Park Winter Village: This outdoor ice skating rink and holiday market is a great place to spend a winter afternoon. The market features vendors selling holiday gifts, food, and drinks.
Holiday Activities
- Ice Skating: There are several outdoor ice skating rinks in New York City during the holiday season. Some of the most popular include Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and Wollman Rink in Central Park.
- See a Holiday Show: There are several holiday shows playing on Broadway during the Christmas season. Some popular options include "The Nutcracker," "A Christmas Carol," and "Elf."
- Visit a Holiday Market: There are several holiday markets in New York City, including the Union Square Holiday Market and the Bryant Park Winter Village.
- Take a Holiday Tour: There are several holiday tours of New York City available. Some popular options include bus tours, walking tours, and boat tours.
- Enjoy a Holiday Meal: There are several restaurants in New York City that offer special holiday menus. Some popular options include Le Bernardin, Daniel, and Per Se.
Tips for Planning Your Trip
- Book your hotel early. New York City is a popular tourist destination during the Christmas season, so it's important to book your hotel early to get the best rates.
- Purchase tickets for shows and attractions in advance. Some popular shows and attractions sell out quickly, so it's important to purchase tickets in advance.
- Be prepared for crowds. New York City is a busy place during the holiday season, so be prepared for crowds.
- Dress warmly. The weather in New York City can be cold during the winter, so be sure to dress warmly.
- Have fun! New York City is a magical place during the Christmas season. Take some time to relax and enjoy the festivities.
FAQs
- How to get around New York City during the Christmas season?
- The best way to get around New York City during the Christmas season is by subway. You can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service.
- How to find affordable accommodations in New York City during the Christmas season?
- The best way to find affordable accommodations in New York City during the Christmas season is to book your hotel early. You can also look for deals on websites like Expedia and Priceline.
- How to avoid crowds in New York City during the Christmas season?
- The best way to avoid crowds in New York City during the Christmas season is to visit during the week or early in the morning. You can also avoid popular tourist attractions.
- How to stay safe in New York City during the Christmas season?
- New York City is a safe city, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Don't leave your belongings unattended and be aware of your surroundings when walking at night.
- How to make the most of your trip to New York City during the Christmas season?
- The best way to make the most of your trip to New York City during the Christmas season is to plan your itinerary in advance. Be sure to include some time for relaxation and exploration.