Best Places to Visit in New York in December

Are you looking for the best places to visit in New York during the winter season? Then you are in luck! New York City is one of the most vibrant cities in the world and there are plenty of things to do and places to visit during the winter season. From iconic landmarks to festive holiday activities, there is something for everyone in the “Big Apple”. This guide provides an overview of the top attractions and activities to enjoy in New York during the month of December.

Exploring the Iconic Landmarks

No visit to New York City is complete without exploring the many iconic landmarks that define the city. From the Empire State Building to the Statue of Liberty, there are plenty of iconic landmarks to visit. One of the most popular landmarks is the Empire State Building, which is an iconic skyscraper located in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood. The building is 1,454 feet tall and is the third-tallest building in the United States. Visitors can take the elevator to the observation deck on the 86th floor for breathtaking views of the city and beyond.

The Statue of Liberty is another must-see landmark located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It is a gigantic neoclassical sculpture that was a gift from France to the United States. Visitors can take a ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan to Liberty Island and climb to the pedestal for stunning views of the New York City skyline.

Visiting Museums and Art Galleries

New York City is home to some of the world’s best museums and art galleries. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most popular attractions in the city and is the largest art museum in the United States. It is home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from all over the world, including works by Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh. The museum has multiple exhibitions and is open 365 days a year.

The Museum of Modern Art is another must-see attraction and is home to a vast collection of contemporary and modern art. The museum features works by artists such as Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Roy Lichtenstein, as well as rotating exhibitions of contemporary art.

Exploring Central Park

Central Park is the largest public park in New York City and is a must-see destination for any visitor. The park is 843 acres in size and is home to numerous attractions, such as the Central Park Zoo, the Central Park Carousel, the Belvedere Castle, and the Strawberry Fields memorial. During the winter season, it is a great place to go for a walk, go ice-skating, or simply enjoy the beautiful winter scenery.

Holiday Events and Activities

New York City is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with Christmas decorations, festive holiday lights, and plenty of holiday events and activities. One of the most popular holiday events is the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting. The tree is lit up in mid-December and is a sight to behold. The city also has numerous holiday markets, such as Union Square Holiday Market, Bryant Park Winter Village, and Columbus Circle Holiday Market, where visitors can find unique holiday gifts and enjoy festive holiday activities.

The Best Restaurants and Bars

New York City is home to some of the world’s best restaurants and bars. From fine-dining restaurants to casual eateries, there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular restaurants include Gramercy Tavern, Eleven Madison Park, and Le Bernardin. For a unique dining experience, visitors can try one of the city’s many pop-up restaurants, such as the Loring Place Pop-Up in Greenwich Village or the Bowery Market in the East Village.

Additional Tips for Tourists

New York City is a bustling city with plenty of activities to enjoy. Here are a few more tips to keep in mind when visiting the city:

• Bring comfortable shoes – New York City is a walking city and it is best to wear comfortable shoes to explore the city.
• Bring a map – New York City can be a bit confusing to navigate and it is best to bring a map or download a navigation app to help you get around.
• Bring cash – Many restaurants and bars in New York City accept cash only, so it is a good idea to carry some cash with you.
• Dress in layers – The weather in New York City can be unpredictable, so it is best to dress in layers.

Visiting New York City during the winter season can be a magical experience and there is plenty to do and see. From iconic landmarks to festive holiday events, there is something for everyone in the “Big Apple”. This guide provides an overview of the best places to visit in New York during the month of December, with information on iconic landmarks, museums and art galleries, Central Park, holiday events, and the best restaurants and bars. Keep these tips in mind and plan your trip accordingly to get the most out of your visit.