If you dream of visiting a winter wonderland this holiday season, look no further than New York City. New York is a magical place to experience during the winter with countless festive activities and attractions.
Here are six of my top holiday hits in New York to help spread Christmas cheer and sing loud for all to hear — just like Buddy the Elf.
1. Visit The Tree At Rockefeller Center
This iconic spectacle is a beloved tradition in New York City. Rockefeller Center carefully selects and erects a massive 100-foot-tall Christmas tree each year. The lighting of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree takes place after Thanksgiving and stands until mid-January.
Bring your loved ones for a night of ice skating alongside twinkling lights, or finish your holiday shopping at the shops on Fifth Avenue.
2. Browse Sparkling Window Displays
Speaking of the shops on Fifth Avenue, many storefronts decorate for Christmas and go all out. Head to Saks Fifth Avenue to see the opulent window displays or the wintry light show that occurs every 10 minutes. Continue down the street to see Cartier’s classic big red holiday bow or the giant Swarovski snowflake on 57th and Fifth. Other iconic holiday storefronts decorated to the nines for the holidays include Bloomingdale's, Macy’s and Bergdorf Goodman.
3. Ice Skate At Bryant Park’s Winter Village
Growing up, Bryant Park was always my favorite place during the holidays because the Winter Village offers so much in one place.
The ice skating rink offers free admission, so bring skates or rent them for a fee. Insider tip: get your own lock so you don’t need to buy one for the lockers.
Over 175 boutique-style holiday shops surround the giant rink, selling gifts, crafts, clothing, jewelry and artisanal goods.
Did ice skating or holiday shopping work up an appetite? Enjoy a wide range of delicious bites like hot chocolate, crepes and empanadas.
Finally, snap festive pics with the Bryant Park Christmas tree that towers over the Winter Village.
4. Stroll Through Holiday Markets
Bryant Park isn’t the only place to find one-of-a-kind gifts, festive treats and holiday spirit. Some other well-known holiday markets in NYC include to following:
5. Catch A Holiday Show
Add a touch of magic and festivity to your visit to NYC with some popular choices of entertainment for the holidays:
6. Dig Into Holiday-Themed Dining
Celebrate at one of the festively adorned restaurants in New York. Many restaurants offer special holiday menus to get you into the spirit of the season. Here are some of my festive favorites.
- Rolf’s Bar & Restaurant is famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations that are up year-round. The German restaurant shows off thousands of ornaments, twinkling lights and garlands.
- Tavern on the Green is perfect for the holiday season. This restaurant offers seasonal menus in a beautiful, festive setting in Central Park.
- Serendipity 3 is an NYC classic known for its frozen hot chocolate. The restaurant decorates for the holiday season, creating a whimsical and festive ambiance to enjoy a sweet treat.
- Take a step into a true winter wonderland when you dine at Serra by Birreria on Eataly’s rooftop. It offers enchanting decorations and a special holiday menu featuring seasonal dishes and specialty drinks.
Whether you’re looking for things to do in New York at the end of the year or seeking a festive escape, New York City promises a magical experience that will leave you and your loved ones with lifelong memories.
Read “Your Guide To Hilton Grand Vacations' New York City Timeshares” to discover which Big Apple property best fits your winter getaway.