Curator’s statement
There’s nothing quite as magical as Manhattan during the Christmas season! Whether you’re traveling with friends, your spouse, family, or even enjoying a solo trip, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. I’ve made the trip over the holidays three times, and still dream of returning!
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Things to do in New York City
No holiday visit to the big city is complete without catching the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular; it’s so magical that you’ll want to see it more than once (I’ve been twice!)
I also highly recommend taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park. The NYC Horse Carriage Rides company offers an unforgettable experience and will even take pictures of your group at iconic spots.
For another special holiday treat, plan a night of ice skating at one of the city’s famous rinks. No need to be an experienced skater; you’ll be amazed by the stunning views of the city all lit up!
Visiting the holiday markets is also a must this time of year. Both Central Park and Bryant Park provide unique options for food, drinks, and shopping.
For an ultimate Instagram-worthy experience, stop by Frosty’s pop-up bar, where the decorations are extravagant, and the drink prices can be steep, but it’s fun to see at least once.
If this is your first trip to the Big Apple, be sure to visit the top of 30 Rock or the Chrysler Building, either during the day or at night.
And, of course, if you love theater, you’ll want to schedule a show during your stay.
Most importantly, schedule time to walk around one night to see the fabulous light displays all around the city!
Places to eat & drink in New York City
When visiting in December, dining at the holiday markets is a must! Mrs. Claus’ Cafe in Central Park serves some of the most scrumptious cheese wheel pasta noodles you’ll ever taste, and several stands offer specialty hot chocolate that is simply divine.
For a special dinner treat, skip the Instagram-famous Rolf’s, known for its over-the-top decorations, and head instead to Friend of a Farmer near Central Park for a delightfully intimate experience.
You can also dine at one of the rink-level restaurants in Rockefeller Center (Jupiter, Five Acres, or Naro), where you might even witness a marriage proposal or two.
If you find yourself roaming around Times Square, be sure to stop by Pasta Lovers for an amazing margherita pizza. After a late night of seeing the lights, swing by Famous Original Ray’s Pizza to get the true NYC experience!
Need to know
To avoid the crowds, plan your visit shortly after the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. As Christmas approaches, the streets become increasingly packed, which can add stress to your experience. It’s best to stay for no more than three to four days, as the hustle and bustle of New York City during the holidays can be quite exhausting. Make restaurant reservations and purchase tickets for events/tours as far out as possible. Dining out earlier in the day can also help you avoid busy restaurants. I highly recommend staying close to Central Park if you want to escape the chaos of Times Square, as many attractions are within walking distance. Additionally, make the subway your go-to option for traveling outside your immediate area. Traffic is more intense during this time of year, but the subway allows you to navigate the city quickly and is budget-friendly.
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