Best Things To Do In New York At Christmas

New York City is the quintessential holiday destination for anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit. With its towering skyscrapers, vast array of shops and boutiques, and legendary landmarks, the city offers a unique and exciting wintertime experience for all who visit. From classic holiday markets to world-famous ice skating rinks, there is no shortage of festive activities to enjoy in the Big Apple during the Christmas season.

History of New York City at Christmas

New York City has long been associated with the holiday season, and its history of celebrating Christmas dates back to the 19th century. Some of the earliest Christmas celebrations in the city were held in public squares, where people gathered to sing carols and enjoy festive decorations. Over the years, New York City has become increasingly associated with the holiday season, and its iconic decorations, dazzling displays, and iconic attractions now attract thousands of visitors each year.

Today, the city is home to some of the most iconic holiday destinations in the world. From the dazzling Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the ever-popular Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, there is no shortage of festive cheer to be found in New York City during the holiday season. With activities ranging from holiday shopping to ice skating, visitors can easily find something to do in the Big Apple to get into the holiday spirit.

Popular Attractions in NYC

When visiting New York City during the Christmas season, it’s impossible to miss some of the city’s most iconic attractions. From window displays at iconic department stores to holiday markets and ice skating rinks, there is no shortage of festive activities to enjoy in the city. Here are some of the most popular attractions in New York City during Christmas:

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is one of the most iconic holiday attractions in New York City. Every year since 1933, a giant Norway spruce is placed at Rockefeller Plaza and decorated with tens of thousands of multi-colored lights. The tree lighting ceremony, which takes place in early December, draws crowds from all over the city and is one of the most popular events of the holiday season.

Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular

Since 1933, visitors to New York City can enjoy the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, which features a variety of musical numbers and performances by the famous Rockettes. The show is a family favorite, and it is one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit.

Fifth Avenue Shopping

Fifth Avenue is known as one of the most luxurious shopping districts in the world, and during the Christmas season it is even more magical. From window displays at world-famous stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman to festive decorations, Fifth Avenue is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to find some unique holiday gifts.

Holiday Markets

One of the best ways to experience New York City during Christmas is by visiting one of its many holiday markets. From Union Square Holiday Market to Bryant Park Winter Village, there are plenty of festive markets to explore in the Big Apple during this special time of year. Holiday markets feature a variety of vendors selling unique gifts and decorations, as well as food stalls offering delicious treats.

Ice Skating Rinks

Ice skating rinks are a must-visit destination during winter in New York City. There are plenty of rinks throughout the city, including iconic ones like Wollman Rink in Central Park and LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert skater, you’ll find plenty of fun on the ice this holiday season.

Exploring New York City on a Sightseeing Tour

One of the best ways to explore New York City during the holidays is by taking a sightseeing tour. There are a variety of tours available that will take you to some of the most iconic landmarks and attractions in the city, from Times Square and Central Park to Rockefeller Center and Fifth Avenue shopping. On a tour, you’ll get a unique perspective on all that New York City has to offer during this festive time of year.

New York City Sightseeing Tour

Explore all that New York City has to offer on this comprehensive sightseeing tour. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, and Rockefeller Center, as well as get a chance to explore some lesser-known gems like Chinatown and Little Italy. The tour includes a guide with interesting facts about each stop along the way, as well as a unique perspective on New York City’s history and culture.

Christmas Lights Tour

Experience all of New York City’s festive decorations on this unique holiday lights tour. You’ll visit some of the city’s most iconic sights, from Fifth Avenue shopping to Rockefeller Center, and take in all the spectacular lights displays along the way. This tour also includes stops at some of the city’s best holiday markets, giving you a chance to do some shopping and find some unique gifts for your loved ones.

Ice Skating Tour

Explore some of New York City’s best ice skating rinks on this exciting tour. You’ll visit iconic rinks like Wollman Rink in Central Park and LeFrak Center at Prospect Park, and get a chance to learn some basic skating techniques from an experienced guide. At each stop along the way, you’ll have plenty of time to hone your skills on the ice and take part in some friendly competitions with other tour members.

Conclusion

New York City is one of the most magical places to visit during the holidays, and it offers plenty of festive activities for all who come through its doors. From classic attractions like Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular to unique activities like ice skating tours and holiday markets, there is no shortage of ways to get into the spirit this season in The Big Apple!