Top Things To Do In NYC In December

New York City is one of the most iconic cities in the world, and it’s no surprise that it is a top destination for visitors from around the globe. From vibrant culture to world-class entertainment and cuisine, NYC has something for everyone. With the holiday season in full swing, December is an especially exciting time to visit the city that never sleeps. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or a first-time visitor, here are some of the best things to do in NYC in December.

Explore the Holidays in New York City

New York City is known for its extravagant holiday displays, and December is the perfect time to take them all in. From the stunning Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the enchanting department store window displays, there are plenty of ways to get into the holiday spirit. Take a stroll through the West Village and admire the festive decorations, or go shopping in Midtown and experience the hustle and bustle of the season. For a truly magical experience, be sure to check out Dyker Heights for some of the most extravagant holiday decorations in the city.

Go Ice Skating

No winter in New York City is complete without a trip to an ice rink. Whether you’re an experienced skater or a first-timer, there are plenty of options for getting your feet wet on the ice. The iconic Rockefeller Center Rink is a popular destination for ice skaters, but there are also plenty of other options for those looking for a more low-key experience. Central Park’s Wollman Rink offers stunning views of the skyline, while the Riverbank State Park Rink is perfect for families looking for a fun day out. For something a bit different, try skate classes at Bryant Park or take a spin on the outdoor rinks at Bryant Park and Prospect Park.

Experience the Holiday Markets

The holiday season is the perfect time to explore NYC’s bustling markets and sample some of the city’s best food, drinks and crafts. From Union Square’s iconic holiday market to the bustling Grand Central Holiday Fair, there are plenty of options for finding unique gifts and sampling some of NYC’s best food and drinks. If you’re looking for something even more unique, check out the Brooklyn Flea Market or head to one of the city’s many holiday pop-ups.

Take in a Show

If you’re an experienced theater-goer or a first-time visitor, there’s no better way to experience NYC than by taking in a show. From classic Broadway hits like The Lion King and Phantom of the Opera to more modern productions like Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen, there’s something for everyone on the Great White Way. Looking for something off-Broadway? Check out one of NYC’s many alternative theaters for some truly unique productions.

Shop ’til You Drop

Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or just want to treat yourself, New York City has some of the best shopping in the world. From iconic department stores like Macy’s and Lord & Taylor to independent boutiques and discount stores, there are plenty of options for finding what you need. For those looking for luxury items, be sure to check out Fifth Avenue, while bargain hunters should head to SoHo or Chinatown for some great deals.

Try Out Some Iconic Foods

No trip to New York City would be complete without sampling some of its iconic foods. From pizza and bagels to cheesecake and hot dogs, there are plenty of classic NYC dishes to try out. For those looking to try something a bit different, check out some of NYC’s best ethnic cuisines, from Italian and Chinese to Indian and Middle Eastern. Craving something sweet? Try some of NYC’s famous desserts, like Brooklyn-style cheesecake or black and white cookies.

Take a Tour

If you’re looking for an easy way to explore NYC, taking a tour is a great option. There are plenty of tour companies that offer guided tours of various neighborhoods and attractions, giving you an insider’s look at the city. For those looking for a more immersive experience, try one of Viator’s NYC walking tours, which offer an interactive look at some of NYC’s most iconic neighborhoods and attractions. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, book a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which allows you to explore NYC on your own schedule without having to worry about getting lost.

For a different perspective on the city, check out GetYourGuide’s NYC helicopter tour. This tour gives you breathtaking views of the city skyline, as well as a close up look at some of NYC’s most iconic attractions like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty. If cruising around the city isn’t your thing, GetYourGuide also offers NYC sightseeing cruises, which take you around Manhattan Island and provide stunning views of some of NYC’s most iconic sights.

Exploring Beyond Manhattan

New York City is much more than just Manhattan; there are plenty of other boroughs that are worth exploring. For those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, head to Brooklyn for some cultural gems like Prospect Park and Brooklyn Bridge Park. For something completely different, take a ride on Staten Island Ferry for stellar views of both Manhattan and New Jersey or explore Queens for its diverse cultural attractions like MoMA PS1 or Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

Conclusion

New York City has so much to offer in December and beyond! Whether you’re an experienced traveler or a first-time visitor, there are plenty of ways to experience the city that never sleeps during this magical time of year. From exploring holiday markets and taking in shows on Broadway to sampling iconic foods and venturing beyond Manhattan, there are plenty of things to do in NYC in December that will leave you feeling inspired and energized.