The holidays are one of my favorite times in the city. Granted it is cold, but theres just a warm glow over the city with all the lights and everyone buzzing around because the holidays
I’ve been getting a few requests from people for recommendations in the city and asking what some of my favorite things to do/see so I’ve put together this guide for must-do/see holiday activities.
1. Saks Fifth Avenue window display / Rockefeller Center tree (611 5th Avenue)
This street is always packed with tourists or New Yorkers trying to get somewhere. It’s basically in the heart of fancy shopping, amazing dining awesome touristy sights.
However, the window display is definitely a must-see and absolutely beautiful in person. I would recommend going at night in order to see the lights, and check out the Rockefeller tree while you’re there.
(230 5th Avenue)
This has to be one of my favorite rooftop bar experiences yet. Not only can you experience the NYC skyline while sipping on spiked apple cider, hot chocolate, or their amazing raspberry mojitos and scarf down some truffle fries, but you also get to do all of that while wearing fluffy red robes IN a heated igloo. The first time I came here was when I first moved to the city and winter is still one of my favorite places to take friends when they’re visiting. All in all, this is a great place to socialize and take in the breathtaking view. I think they even still have a brunch on Sundays!
Another cool place in the city with heated igloos is City Winery at Rockefeller Center which overlooks Rockefeller Plaza and the Christmas Tree. It’s free to enter City Winery, but to there’s a min spend of $250 for a heated igloo (which is about $50/a person for 5 people).
3. Lotte New York Palace Hotel
(455 Madison Avenue )
One of the iconic places in Gossip Girl season 1, I’ve always wanted to visit the Palace Hotel during Christmas. There’s a huge beautiful Christmas tree located on the opposite entrance of the hotel. Super cute for photos!
4. Ice skating at Bryant Park’s Winter Village
(Bryant Park – between 40th and 42nd Streets
admission pricing: FREE
skate rentals: $20
A must see in NY during the holidays! The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park have handmade gifts from over 170 vendors, so statistically, you’re sure to find something they like. Sip a hot cider, shop for scarves, watch the figure skaters glide across the ice, and try to remember which one of your cousins is allergic to wool, which one will only wear wool, and which one didn’t get you a present last year.
If skating is more your vibe there’s also other rinks located in…
admission pricing: Mon-Thurs — $12 Fri – Sunday — $19
skate rentals: $9 (CASH ONLY)
admission pricing: $27-32.
skate rentals: $8
5. Plaza Hotel( 768 5th Avenue )
The Plaza Hotel on the upper east side (from the movie Elouise) is always adorned with festive decorations and lights. Inside, you can sip on afternoon tea in the Palm Court, enjoy the Champagne Bar that overlooks the famous Pulitzer Fountain.
6. One Penn Plaza (FiDi)
There’s tons and tons of well-lit Christmas trees in the area across from One Penn Plaza and its the perfect photo spot.
7. Oculus at the World Trade Center (FiDi)
After checking out the trees at the One Penn Plaza, you can walk over towards the Oculus and shop the holiday pop-ups and see the beautiful holiday decor or do a bit of shopping!
8. The Giant Ornaments + Lights (By Radio City)
This isn’t typically an area that most people go to visit because people tend to pass by on their way to other famous locations nearby (for example Radio City). Snap some photos in front of these giant ornaments that are located across from the Radio City Music Hall, and then stop by to watch The Rockettes or head to Rockefeller Center.
If you have any other questions, feel free to comment below or shoot me a DM. If you head to see any of these places be sure to tag/DM me in your pics so I can check them out and show you all some love! 🙂
