There are few places more magical than New York during the holidays. Sparkling lights, towering trees, and the hustle and bustle of shoppers really make you feel like you’re starring in a Hallmark movie. Here is my list of the best things to do in New York this holiday season!
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See the Tree at Rockefeller
If you visited New York City at Christmas and didn’t see the Rockefeller tree, did you really even visit?
The pinnacle of Christmas in New York, the Rockefeller tree towers 60-100 feet tall with five miles of LED lights and 900 pound star. It’s truly nothing short of spectacular! Seeing the tree isn’t the only thing to do here though – you can also ice skate on the rink just below the iconic tree.
THE DETAILS | Visiting the tree is free! It does get quite busy, especially on the weekends, so you might have to wait your turn to snap a pic. As for ice skating, you can skate from 7am to midnight for anywhere from $25-60 depending on what day and time you visit. Buy tickets in advance here.
Go Shopping on Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue lights up during the holiday season (literally!). Shops and big-name department stores put on incredible displays with festive decorations and thousands of lights. You’ve got to see the Saks light show – it runs every 10minutes from 5-10pm so you’ve got plenty of chances to see it! The famous Plaza Hotel from the movie “Home Alone” is also located here on Fifth – the hotel is decked out in Christmas decorations too, so make sure you stop by to see it! Check out their Champagne Bar or the Palm Court for some afternoon tea or a gorgeous dining experience.
Fifth Avenue is famously one of the best streets for shopping in the city – so go ahead and knock out some Christmas shopping while you’re here! You’ll find a wide variety of stores, ranging from high end designers to more affordable options.
Stop by Ralph's Coffee Truck
Located on Fifth avenue just a minute away from the Rockefeller center is Ralph Lauren’s signature coffee truck. This festive little cart sells coffee, hot chocolate, and baked goods. Stop by and grab a warm drink on your way to see the tree or do some holiday shopping!
Visit Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park offers activities year round, but easily the most notable is their Winter Village. The park is lined with holiday shops selling seasonal goods, drinks, snacks and sweets, and everything in between. Grab a boozy hot chocolate at The Lodge before browsing all the different stands.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Winter Village without ice skating! The Rink is open daily from 8am-10pm and admission to the skating rink is actually free if you bring your own skates! Skate rentals will run you anywhere from $18-55 depending on what day and time you visit. You do have to reserve a time on the ice whether you bring skates or not, so make sure you book that in advance here!
Bryant Park also offers private igloos, where you can enjoy festive drinks and snacks just steps away from the rink! Igloo reservations go quickly, so book well in advance!
See the Lights in Dyker Heights
This fun little neighborhood in Brooklyn is home to some of the most outrageous Christmas lights in the city! We booked a tour through Bucketlisters, which included a bus ride to and from Dyker Heights as well as a fun tour guide to show us the best houses.
Visit Miracle on 9th Street
Started back in 2014, Miracle has grown from a single bar in East Village to an international sensation. Visit the original Miracle Bar on 9th street and enjoy holiday themed cocktails and over the top festive decorations!
I highly making a reservation as it can get pretty packed this time of year!
Other popular holiday pop-ups include City Winery at Rockefeller, The Pink Winter Lodge, Sippin Santa, and Rolf’s (which is actually open and decorated for Christmas year round).
Try the Holiday Drinks at Starbucks Reserve
Three stories tall and boasting an impressive menu of holiday drinks and bites, the Reserve is a great spot to visit for my avid coffee drinkers. Try the peppermint mocha espresso martini, or go for the full espresso martini flight if you’re feeling extra fun! Visit the tasting room on the bottom floor to try craft coffee flavors or book one of their signature experiences.
