It's Christmas time in the City...
…well in NYC at least!
In Florida, it’s a balmy 70 degrees and people are still wearing shorts at the beach making sandmen instead of snowmen. And you know what popped up on my timeline yesterday? My Christmas trip to NYC two years ago. It was a spontaneous trip, bought about two weeks prior because United had a deal for $140 round trip tickets out of Orlando Airport.
From the minute I stepped out of my Uber, you could feel the rush of magic in the chilly air. There’s just something about the city that never sleeps. The whole place breathes with Holiday spirit filled with lights, cozy bars, and dazzling displays of tinsel in window panes.
Wondering how to enjoy all the Christmas magic in New York City? Below are some of the best things to do in NYC at Christmas time to be feeling festive.
Best things to do in NYC during Christmas
I prefer this tree….at the Palace xoxo
See the Rockefeller Tree
This is one of those “things you do in the place you are supposed to do them.” Pro Tip- don’t ice skate right in front of the tree, it’s tiny & expensive. Instead I list below where to go!
ROLF’S
This one is on the top of my NYC Christmas bucket list as I was too late to make a reservation two years ago. This place is a GEM and instagrammable goldmine. I mean just look at that first photo! It’s a true wonderland. Make your reservation HERE.
Dyker Heights Holiday Lights
Drive just over the Brooklyn and you will see the largest lights display on the East Coast, heck maybe even the USA! I would highly suggest doing the lights tour to get the full experience. They spend THOUSANDS on lights and electric bills to create this dreamy winter wonderland.
Bryant Park Winter Village
Located on 42nd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues, this is THE place to ice skate. The line to go skate around 7pm was about an hour, so not terrible considering how busy the place is. My suggestion would be to show up around 5pm right when it gets dark and beat the crowds. It’s actually FREE to skate, you just would pay for the rental. When you are tuckered out from all that skating in circles, you can walk around the Christmas Markets and warm up with some Hot Chocolate. Some other good Christmas markets to check out are Union Square, Smorgasburg in Brooklyn, and Columbus Circle.
See the Rocketettes Christmas Spectacular
Another one on my Christmas NYC bucket list. As a little girl, I dreamed of becoming one of these poised and glamorous professional dancers. Unfortunately, I never was able to tap dance well, but I can’t wait to go back and admire from my seat.
Admire store fronts on Fifth Avenue
The Saks Fifth Avenue light show is superb. I could watch the light show all night. Bloomingdales, Macy’s, and Barney’s also have wonderful displays.
Eat all the festive food
For example, one of my favorite ice cream places Tipsy Scoop get’s into the holiday spirit with numerous seasonal flavors like Candy Cane vodka Martini. YUM!
8. Stay in an ELF inspired hotel room
This year, Club Wydhman’s Midtown 45 will be transforming one of their suites into a scene right out of the fairytale movie “Elf".” The "Elf"-inspired suite was available to book beginning on Nov. 25 for nights between Dec. 2 and 26 through the Club Wyndham website. Prices for the suite begin at $399 or 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points on select nights. Paper snowflakes, toys, sugar, and syrup. Oh and smiles — they’re his favorite. Book your magical room HERE.
9. Empire State Building
While touristy, no trip to NYC is complete without an amazing view of the city skyline. If it’s your first time to the city, I suggest doing the observation deck. But if you’re a frequent visitor to the city, I suggest going to Bar SixtyFive or 230 Fifth where you only have to pay for your drink and the view is included!
10. Palace Hotel
Any Gossip girl fans? Then you know which tree I’m talking about! This tree is a gorgeous backdrop for photos. Pop in for coffee and warm treats and pretend you are living your best Blair Waldorf life.
What is on your NYC Christmas bucket list? Did I miss anything? I’d love to know your favorite things to do during Christmas in NYC!
Sincerely,
Sarah
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