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It’s the most magical time of year and one of the best reasons to visit the Big Apple. From the holiday shops and window displays to the decked out rooftop bars and must-see attractions, there’s no better place to be. Even if it means bundling up, there’s something unique about the hustle and bustle of New York City during the holiday season.
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree has traveled over seventy miles from Wallkill, NY to the city that never sleeps. For both tourists and native New Yorkers alike, it’s a must to see the famous, world-wide symbol of the holiday season. The 72-foot tree topped with a Swarovski star contains 3 million Swarovski crystals and is wrapped in five miles of LED lights. Visiting the tree is one of the top best things to do especially since it’s free of cost.
Bryant Park Holiday Shops
Monday-Friday: 11AM-8PM
Saturday-Sunday: 10AM-8PM
After you take a few loops around the Bryant Park ice skating rink, why not browse the open-air holiday market. If you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift, you might just find it here. There are over 170 unique vendors, housed in small kiosks along Bryant Park’s alleys and terraces. It’s a winter wonderland where you can find anything from clothing and jewelry to household gifts, crafts, art and much more. Don’t forget to check out the mouthwatering food vendors and boutiques with goods from around the world!
Christmas Spectacular
If you have yet to experience the Christmas Spectacular, you are missing out! This family-friendly event is truly breathtaking and brings out the joy of the holiday season. Starring the Radio City Rockettes and over 140 performers, the show offers a nice mix of singing and dancing. Like always, the Christmas Spectacular will include breathtaking holiday visuals although this year, there will be an all new final finale worth seeing. The rockettes will also be showing off their new costumes while the creative directors impress the audience with state of the art technology.
Eataly’s Flatiron Rooftop Restaurant (Serra by Birreria)
Located on Eataly’s top floor and usually covered in greenery, Serra by Birreria will be decked out in snow-white flowers, hanging chandeliers and twinkling lights this holiday. Upon entering, you’ll feel as if you’re walking into a snow globe, only a snow globe with a bar. Their winter wonderland menu will include special cheeses from the northern region of Italy, gnocchi and other delicious warming dishes. It’ll be a chance to enjoy craft cocktails in a setting that is picturesque like the Italian Alps.
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
You may be thinking it’s too cold to visit a rooftop but in this case it’s not. At 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, wrap yourself in a robe as you sit in heated igloos with spectacular views of NYC’s skyscrapers.
Although available on a first come first serve basis, sharing igloos with strangers and making friends is what it’s all about. At 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar you’ll be singing to popular Christmas songs as the lights flicker to the beat and you sip on spiked hot chocolate.
Macy’s Santaland
This 13,000 square foot indoor display is perfect for the entire family. Aside from Santa himself, they’ll be Christmas carolers, prancing reindeer, an enchanted forest, animatronic toys, and a train exhibit. The day gives parents great photo ops of their children and a sneak peek into Santa’s workshop. Naughty or nice, you can share your wish list with Santa and watch as his sleigh gets ready for the big night. And, since Santa is a popular man, reservations are required whether it be a few days in advance or thirty minutes beforehand.
Union Square Holiday Market
Monday-Friday: 11AM-8PM
Saturday: 10AM-8PM • Sunday 11AM-7PM
Union Square’s European-style open market and its 150 vendors makes baring the cold a bit easier. Open until December 24th, the Union Square Holiday Market is known for attracting thousands of people each year. It’s the perfect opportunity to hunt for a unique holiday gift since who doesn’t love handcrafted goods, clothing, jewelry and accessories? Guests can also enjoy delicious food from vendors like Milk Bar, Waffles and Dinges or Momofuko. It’s something a bit less touristy that allows you to sip on artisanal hot chocolate and listen to live music.
NYBG's Holiday Train Show
NY Botanical Garden (Open until January 21st)
This is one of NYC’s favorite holiday traditions and one of the most enchanting attractions yet. With almost a half-mile track, you’ll get to see all different model trains and crafted miniatures of NYC under thousands of twinkling lights. The exhibit lets you watch trains zip through 175 New York landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and other iconic skyscrapers. It’s especially great for kids since they can enjoy a ride on the Everett Express and play in an adventure garden filled with holiday spirit.
The Ride *Holiday Edition*
November 15th, 2018 – January 6th, 2019
Looking to experience the magic and wonder of NYC’s holiday season? The Ride puts a seasonal twist on their usual tour of the city. Along the 4.2 mile ride they have holiday music, hilarious tour guides and seasonal performances. It’s the perfect chance to celebrate the most festive time of year with friends and family. The stadium style seating makes it a moving theater with NYC as the stage. The Ride Holiday Edition is certainly not your average sightseeing bus tour so be sure to purchase tickets in advance.
Grand Central Holiday Fair
Monday-Friday: 10AM-8PM
Saturday: 10AM-7PM • Sunday: 11AM-6PM
Nothing compares to Grand Central’s indoor holiday fair which is open until December 24th. Located in one of the most beautiful architectural settings, it’s a holiday gift in itself. With over forty vendors, you can easily find one of a kind gifts for everyone in the family. From artwork and clothing to accessories, home goods and toys, it’s effortless to find an interesting gift. Whether you stop on your daily commute or make the special trip, it’s something you wont want to miss!
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20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 