Things To See In NYC At Christmas

New York City is one of the most popular cities in the world. Every year it attracts millions of tourists from all over the world and at Christmas time it is no exception. If you are looking for a holiday destination this Christmas, then New York is definitely worth considering. There are so many things to see and do in NYC at Christmas, from seeing the iconic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center to visiting iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, there is something for everyone. In this blog post, we will be taking a look at all the amazing things to see in NYC at Christmas, so read on to find out more!

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic holiday attractions in NYC. Every year, a giant Norway Spruce is chosen and is adorned with over 50,000 LED lights and topped off with a large star. The tree is illuminated with a lighting ceremony which takes place in early December and draws in huge crowds. The tree is also surrounded by a huge ice-skating rink, so if you are feeling adventurous you can have a go at skating.

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is one of the most famous landmarks in New York City. During Christmas time, the building is lit up in a festive light display which is sure to take your breath away. At the top of the building, visitors can enjoy amazing views of the city, including views of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center. The Empire State Building also has an observation deck, which is the highest in the city and offers visitors breathtaking views of the city.

Window Shopping in NYC

One of the most iconic holiday activities in NYC is window shopping. Many of the big department stores in Manhattan adorn their windows with festive decorations, creating a truly magical experience. Stores such as Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue are all famous for their festive window displays which draw in huge crowds. It is also possible to take a guided tour of the stores’ windows, to ensure that you don’t miss any of the beautiful displays.

Christmas Markets

Christmas markets are a great way to get into the festive spirit in NYC. There are many different markets that take place around the city during the holiday season. The Union Square Holiday Market is one of the most popular markets in the city and features over 100 vendors selling handmade items, food, and drinks. Other markets include the Columbus Circle Holiday Market, the Bryant Park Winter Village, and the Grand Central Holiday Fair. All of these markets are great places to find unique and festive gifts for your loved ones.

Ice Skating Rinks

Ice skating is one of the most popular activities in NYC during the holiday season. There are many different rinks around the city, including the famous Rockefeller Center Ice Rink and the Wollman Rink in Central Park. If you are feeling brave, you can even try ice-skating on the Hudson River at the Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers. Whatever rink you choose, it is sure to be a fun and festive experience!

Radio City Christmas Spectacular

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an annual holiday show that takes place at the famous Radio City Music Hall. The show is a must-see for any visitor to NYC during the holiday season, featuring a cast of over 100 performers, including the iconic Rockettes. The show features classic Christmas songs, incredible dancing and even a visit from Santa Claus.

Holiday Lights and Decorations

One of the best things about visiting NYC during the holiday season is the amazing decorations and lights. Many of the streets and buildings in the city are adorned with festive decorations, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Some of the most popular places to view the lights and decorations are Fifth Avenue, Dyker Heights, and the Bryant Park Winter Village.

Conclusion

These are just some of the amazing things to see in NYC at Christmas. From iconic attractions such as the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to festive markets and ice-skating rinks, there is something for everyone. So, if you are considering visiting NYC this Christmas, make sure to check out some of these attractions! Be sure to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance, and don’t forget to dress warmly as the city can get cold during the winter months.

Things To See In NYC At Christmas: Frequently Asked Questions

The holiday season is almost here, and there’s no better place to experience the holiday spirit than in New York City. With so many attractions and events, it can be overwhelming to plan your holiday itinerary in the city that never sleeps. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about the things to see in NYC at Christmas to make your holiday planning a little easier.

Q1. What are the best holiday markets to visit in New York City?

One of the best things about the holiday season in NYC is the many holiday markets that pop up all over the city. Here are some of the best holiday markets to visit:

Bryant Park Winter Village

Located in the heart of Manhattan, Bryant Park Winter Village is a must-visit holiday market in NYC. With over 150 holiday vendors, a skating rink, and plenty of food options, this market has something for everyone.

Union Square Holiday Market

If you’re looking for a more traditional holiday market experience, head to Union Square Holiday Market. This market features over 100 vendors selling holiday gifts, food, and drinks. Don’t forget to check out the live music and holiday events happening daily.

Columbus Circle Holiday Market

Located in the heart of Columbus Circle, this market is a great spot to pick up unique holiday gifts. With over 100 vendors selling everything from jewelry to clothing to artisanal food, this market is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Q2. What are the best holiday lights to see in New York City?

New York City is known for its stunning holiday lights, and there are plenty of places to see them. Here are some of the best holiday lights to see in NYC:

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

No holiday trip to NYC is complete without seeing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This iconic tree is over 75 feet tall and features over 50,000 LED lights. The tree is lit every night from December through January.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

For a more off-the-beaten-path holiday experience, head to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. This neighborhood is known for its elaborate holiday displays, with many residents going all out with their decorations.

Fifth Avenue Window Displays

Many of the department stores on Fifth Avenue go all out with their holiday window displays. Macy’s, Bergdorf Goodman, and Saks Fifth Avenue are must-sees during the holiday season.

Q3. What are the best holiday shows to see in New York City?

New York City is home to some of the best holiday shows in the world. Here are some of the best shows to see during the holiday season:

Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Featuring the famous Rockettes, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a holiday classic in NYC. This show features singing, dancing, and plenty of holiday cheer.

New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker

The New York City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is another holiday classic in NYC. Featuring beautiful sets, stunning costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic music, this show is a must-see for ballet fans.

A Christmas Carol

For a more traditional holiday show, check out A Christmas Carol at the Merchant’s House Museum. This intimate show features only four actors and is set in a 19th-century townhouse, making for a unique and immersive holiday experience.

Q4. What are the best ice-skating rinks to visit in New York City during the holidays?

Ice-skating is a quintessential holiday activity in NYC, and there are plenty of rinks to choose from. Here are some of the best ice-skating rinks to visit during the holidays:

The Rink at Rockefeller Center

Located right under the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, this ice-skating rink is one of the most iconic in NYC. Skating here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t want to miss.

Wollman Rink in Central Park

For a more scenic skating experience, head to Wollman Rink in Central Park. This rink is surrounded by stunning views of the park and skyline, making it the perfect spot for a romantic holiday date.

Bryant Park Winter Village Skating Rink

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly skating option, check out the skating rink at Bryant Park Winter Village. Skate rentals are affordable, and the rink is located right in the heart of Manhattan.

Conclusion

New York City is truly magical during the holiday season, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re visiting the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, shopping at one of the city’s many holiday markets, or seeing a show at Radio City Music Hall, there’s a holiday experience in NYC for everyone. We hope this guide to the most frequently asked questions about the things to see in NYC at Christmas has been helpful in planning your holiday itinerary. Happy holidays!