Experience the Magic of NYC at Its Most Wonderful Time of the Year
The super festive holiday season in the Big Apple may very well be the hap-happiest season of all, and yes, there will most definitely be much mistltoeing and hearts will be glowing. As we approach the magic of winter, NYC undeniably becomes a shimmering, sparkling holiday dream. Our festive insider’s guide is here with everything you need to know about the city’s must-see attractions, along with hidden holiday gems and exclusive tour options. Both first-time visitors and locals can discover all that the city has to offer at its most wonderful time of the year.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Christmas in New York just isn’t Christmas without the dazzling Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center, which is nothing short of magical. This bedazzled beaut shimmers and shines with mesmerizing lights from top to bottom. And of course, while you ooh and ahh at the traditional Norway spruce, you can also check out the iconic ice skating rink in Rockefeller Plaza, which certainly provides a serene wintry backdrop while sightseeing.
Fifth Avenue Window Displays
The Fifth Avenue Window Displays are a beloved NYC tradition during the festive season, and Fifth Avenue is legendary when it comes to highly esteemed designer storefronts and world-famous luxury department stores. During the holidays, you can peruse the whimsical window displays at Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman. Tiffany & Co. is also home to the Swarovski Crystal Snowflake, which is another must-see as you take in the avenue’s glistening sights.
Bryant Park Winter Village
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland that has plenty of shops, vendors, mouth-watering eats, locally sourced goods, and one-of-a-kind gifts, the Bryant Park Winter Village is a NYC holiday attraction that will not disappoint. Grab a steaming cup of hot cocoa to set the mood and embark on your very merry shopping journey.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The annual performance of the Christmas Spectacular is a box office smash year after year. The Christmas Spectacular stars Santa, of course, alongside the world-renowned Radio City Rockettes who help kick off the celebratory Christmas season.
Central Park Carriage Ride:
Romance is always in the air during a Central Park Carriage Ride, but now it’s even more romantic when you factor in the park’s peaceful winter surroundings where all is calm and all is bright. Your cozy carriage ride awaits with stops at Belvedere Castle, Wollman Rink, Strawberry Fields, and Bethesda Fountain.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights are renowned in NYC; this Brooklyn neighborhood goes all out and then some when it comes to larger-than-life holiday displays. The jaw-dropping Christmas displays showcase ginormous jolly Santa’s, sleighs, extraordinary holiday lights, and piped-in Christmas Carols.
The Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
Bronx Zoo lovers can rejoice since the zoo will be gloriously illuminated with six holiday light trails. This family-friendly holiday festivity will not only showcase immersive holiday light experiences, but hands-on activities, holiday entertainment, and delicious seasonal treats as well.
Queens’ Winter Lantern Festival
The beautiful Queens’ Winter Lantern Festival incorporates the intricate craftsmanship and tradition of Chinese Lantern Festivals. The special nighttime trail will very much be a world of light, highlighting over 1,000 handmade Chinese lanterns by experienced artisans.
Rooftop Igloo Bars
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar is off-the-beaten-path and up in the clouds; this incredible NYC rooftop bar will be transformed into an igloo wonderland this winter, which will include a $49 price-fixe dinner during their communal igloo dining experience. (Private igloos can be reserved, too!) Times Square’s highest rooftop bar, Bar 54, has unbelievable skyline views, craft cocktails, and delectable small plates; according to Yelp, Bar 54 has been known to have pop-up rooftop igloos in the past, so definitely be on the lookout for their igloo dining this winter season, too.
Local Holiday Markets:
Although Bryant Park, Union Square, and Grand Central are home to some of the best holiday markets, NYC also has some lesser-known holiday markets, and one of them could very well become your new go-to this season. The Columbus Circle Holiday Market features over 140 vendors, the Herald Holiday Market encapsulates the Miracle on 34th St. charm, and the Uptown Holiday Market in Harlem surely evokes the seasonal spirit.
The Must-Have Frrrozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity 3
One might say that hot chocolate is pretty much the signature holiday treat. However, at Serendipity 3, it’s their craveable Frrrozen Hot Chocolate that’s all the rage, and I think Elf would approve.
Private Tours New York offers exclusive holiday tours, where you can fully experience NYC festively decked out for the holidays. The exceptional tours feature the best holiday sightseeing from the comfort of your very own luxury vehicle. Plus, Private Tours New York offers curated small group or family tours that guarantee door-to-door transportation and flexible itineraries, where you can truly see the city your way. This holiday season, see the city sparkle with the convenience of a private guide or festive group ride!
Whether you are hoping to buy holiday gifts for family and friends, or whether you’re looking to simply treat yourself, there are plenty of holiday shopping opportunities at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, where all of your favorite designer brands are in one fantastic outlet center that features unbeatable prices. Woodbury Commons is home to luxe brands like Prada, Gucci, and Saint Laurent, along with everyday favorites like Coach, J. Crew, and Banana Republic.
Getting to Woodbury Common from NYC
If you’re wondering how to get to Woodbury Common from NYC, Woodbury Bus has just the ticket. Woodbury Bus, located at 810 8th Avenue, guarantees reserved seating and flexible morning departures and afternoon/evening return trips. Woodbury Bus is an easy, reliable, and festive way to connect visitors from NYC to nearby destinations, like Woodbury Commons, for holiday shopping trips. (And the ultra-scenic bus route is certainly a plus as you travel to the idyllic Hudson Valley.)
