There is no time more magical in NYC than when the city comes alive with holiday markets, ice skating, holiday shows, and decorations during Christmastime. As a year-round resident of the city, I can attest to the fact that there is a shift in the atmosphere when the holidays approach as little corners of the city transform into snow globe-worthy Christmas scenes.
If you are lucky enough to spend some time in New York City during the month of December, its pertinent to plan ahead to squeeze in all the Christmas activities. While you could easily spend weeks in the city and find something new to go do or see during the season, read on for the 5 stops you must add to your NYC Christmas itinerary during your next visit.
Bryant Park Winter Village
First stop on our NYC Christmas itinerary is the lively Bryant Park Winter Village. Upon entering Bryant Park, you will be greeted with nearly 200 different shopping kiosks selling unique items and food. Looking for gifts? You will find no shortage of inspiration while wandering through the stands. Or perhaps you want to bring a souvenir home to remember your trip by! From ornaments, to candles, to jewelry and everything in between, you will surely find treasure at the Bryant Park Winter Village.
The food stands boast all types of sweet and savory treats. But if you are looking for something to top off your NYC Christmas trip, keep an eye out for some of the most fancy hot chocolate you will see in your lifetime. Beyond hot chocolate, you will find pasta, s’mores, crepes, and so much more.
In the center of it all lies the skating rink! If you are interested in lacing up some skates for yourself, I recommend booking a reservation in advance as the availability fills up pretty quick. The rink offers skate rentals and bag storage for an additional cost.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
There is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than heading over to Radio City Music Hall to be dazzled by the Rockettes in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. No matter how old or young you are, I guarantee you will enjoy every second of this performance. From singing, to dancing, to a visit from Santa, and even live animals (but I don’t want to give away too much)- this show will be unlike any other you have ever attended before. This is an absolute must-add to your NYC Christmas itinerary.
The show is incredibly popular, so I recommend scoping out tickets in advance. Keep an eye out for deals during Black Friday as I’ve had luck finding discounted seats!
Rockefeller Center Tree
You can’t leave NYC without stopping by Rockefeller Center to admire the iconic Christmas Tree. The tree lighting usually occurs during the first week of December, and remains lit throughout the rest of the Christmas season. Visiting the Rockefeller Tree is one of those experiences that pictures don’t do justice, so be sure to add it to your NYC Christmas itinerary.
Plus, there is ice skating available at Rockefeller Center! Similar to Bryant Park, I recommend booking a reservation in advance as this rink gets busy during the holidays.
If skating isn’t your thing but you want to spend some time admiring others on the rink, there are “Holiday Chalets” you can book as well. The après-style chalets allow you to make a 40-minute reservation for parties up to 6 and you will have a prime view of the skating rink. Plus, reservations include two non-alcoholic beverages and the option to purchase additional food and beverages.
NYC Ballet Nutcracker
Since the 1950s, the New York City Ballet has been captivating audiences with their performance of the Nutcracker during Christmastime. This bucket-list performance is a great way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. Plus for those traveling with kids, the show is appropriate for children of all ages.
With hundreds of dancers and musicians, the ballet will be nothing short of awe-inspiring. Running through December and into early January, there are tickets available nearly every day. Like the other shows and activities I’ve mentioned, its incredibly popular so I recommend booking tickets in advance.
Grab a Drink at a Christmas Bar
There are a number of bars throughout the city that go over-the-top to decorate their interiors from floor to ceiling so that every which way you turn its an explosion of Christmas. If you are able to fit some time for a drink, book a reservation at one of these bars to top off your NYC Christmastime itinerary.
Rolf’s
Self-labelled as “The Most Festive Restaurant in NYC”, Rolf’s is a cute, little German bar that goes all out to fill the space with lights, ornaments, and greenery to live up to its title. Note that to make a reservation, you must call in advance as there is no online-reservation option.
Address: 281 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
This Victorian-style bar is a popular spot year-round for its unique decor and fun drinks. During Christmastime, Lillie’s Victorian elevates its decorations to include life-size Santa’s, giant gifts hanging from the ceiling, and a giant Christmas tree in the window. Reservations are available online.
Union Square Address: 13 East 17th Street New York, New York, 10003
Times Square Address: 249 West 49th Street New York, New York, 10019
Oscar Wilde
Owned by the same people as Lillie’s Victorian Establishment, Oscar Wilde is another festive Victorian-style bar downtown that is filled to the brim with Christmas decorations. Reservations are available online.
Address: 45 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Miracle on 9th Street
A little different from my first three recommendations, Miracle on 9th Street is a Christmas pop-up bar during the holiday season. From the exterior to the interior, this bar is boasting with Christmas cheer. Reservations are available online. Note that it costs $11.95 per guest to make a reservation (non-refundable) but you will get a Christmas-themed mug included in your visit!
Address: 649 E 9th St, New York, NY 10009
Looking for More Things to Do in NYC?
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