New York City during the holiday season always promises a unique and festive experience. New York City during any time of the year is always a treat, but there’s something special about the holiday season that gives it that extra glow like in all the movies.
With so many options, though, the Big Apple can be a little overwhelming. Whether you have a day, a weekend, or even longer, here are a few things you can check out that are definitely worth your time.
Window Shopping
Definitely make sure to check out Tiffany & Co., Henri Bendel, Bergdorf Goodman, and Bloomingdale’s after that, all located within a few blocks of each other. Make your way down towards Saks Fifth Avenue (the theme this year is “Celebrating Disney’s Snow White,” conveniently located right to the stunning St. Patrick’s Cathedral). Each store has its own theme, one they worked hard to come up with and present to you in the most attractive presentation possible.
If you’re feeling antsy and in the mood to walk a little more, head down to Macy’s and Lord and Taylor’s, past Bryant Park (where there’s one of the pop-up holiday markets New York City has to offer!)
Here’s a helpful guide to help you map out your plan, complete with an Instagram feed that lets you preview the pictures previous visitors took.
Rockefeller Center
It’s made its way into almost every Christmas movie that takes place in New York, and no wonder! The Rockefeller Christmas tree is a stunning sight to behold, and no matter how many times you’ve seen it decked out for Christmas, it’s always magical.
Not surprisingly, this is a popular tourist destination, especially given its location down the block from the Radio City Music Hall. The tree lighting was on November 29, 2017 (if you missed it this year, don’t worry, you can go to the next one) and will remain lit until January 7, 2018 at 9 PM. To get up close and personal, either go early in the morning (the lights turn on at 5:30), or late at night (the lights turn off at 11:35), or even during the rain. A light drizzle never hurt anyone, and better yet, it clears out many of the tree’s visitors very quickly, giving you plenty of time for photo ops.
Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show
Of course, what would New York City at Christmas be without the Rockettes? Reserve your tickets early, to make sure you get a good seat, and sit back and relax while the Nutcracker, Sleigh Ride, the 12 Days of Christmas, and plenty more entertain you. Relive old memories and make some new ones, and see how many times you count the Rockettes kick!
New Year’s Eve in Times Square
If you’re feeling really brave, get here between 1 and 3 in the afternoon on New Year’s Eve. Make sure you use the bathroom ahead of time, because if you leave the pen, consider your spot gone. It’ll be cold, so dress warmly. Get ready for close quarters with thousands of other people, and bring snacks, because the restaurants won’t be open all night to feed you.
And a word to the wise – no big bags, and no alcohol permitted, so just leave those at home.
