Girls Guide to Christmas in NYC
New York City is the place to be during the holiday season. During the holiday’s New York City turns into a winter wonderland and becomes my favorite time to be in the city! Despite the chilly weather, there's something unforgettable about New York during the holidays. The city is bustling with holiday markets, glittering street lights, and exciting activities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, there’s something magical in every corner. Here’s my ultimate guide to make the most of NYC’s holiday season:
Rockefeller center
If you’re coming to New York City during the holidays you must come here. The grandest tree you’ll see this Christmas in the center of Rockefeller Center. Each year the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree comes from a different place in the tri-state area. This year’s unique tree is actually coming from Massachusetts! The tree was found in the backyard home of a couple who planted the tree years ago in The Berkshires. Rockefeller center is also home to one of the many ice skating rinks in the city!
Shop at the Holiday Markets
The holiday markets are the best place to shop during the holidays and I find myself revisiting them as much as possible during this time of the year!
Bryant Park Winter Village:
Location: Bryant Park, Midtown Manhattan
The main attraction here is the ice skating rink, where you can skate for free if you bring your own skates. Alongside the rink, you'll find holiday shops, unique local vendors, and food stands with seasonal treats. You also cannot miss the après-ski-inspired bar! The perfect spot for warming up with a festive drink. This spot is ideal for a winter adventure in the heart of the city.
Union Square Holiday Market:
Location: Union Square, Manhattan
This European-style winter market features over 160 vendors from around the world in the heart of NYC. Stroll through aisles of eclectic booths, where you can find authentic treasures sourced from Italy to Mexico. You'll find everything from handcrafted jewelry, artisan candles, and cozy winter accessories to gourmet treats and global holiday decor. This market is the perfect spot to pick up unique gifts while enjoying the holiday spirit.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market:
Location: Columbus Circle & Central Park South
Just outside of the iconic Central Park this holiday market is a favorite of mine! Authentic feels of a Christmas market with handmade items from local artisans, hot cocoa, and yummy snacks. There are approximately 100 booths full of unique gifts like zodiac charm necklaces, adorable pet accessories, and beautifully crafted home decor. After shopping take your warm hot coco and take a stroll through Central Park.
Stroll Through Central Park
Central Park is beautiful year round, but enchanting during winter. With the horse and carriage rides fully decorated and tourists happily exploring it’s a great place to be. If you’re lucky, come here after a snowfall to feel like you’re living in a scene from a holiday movie.
Visit the plaza Hotel
The Plaza Hotel is famous from Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and an iconic NYC location during your holiday trip. They go all out with lavish decorations and massive Christmas trees in the lobby. Come here just for pics or make a reservation ahead of time to enjoy the elegant and historic setting. Another fun thing to do here is Afternoon tea in The Palm Court. Travel tip: plan to come here the same day as you visit The Plaza Hotel because they are right by one another.
Walk Down Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue is home to New York City’s best Holiday Window Displays. Unfortunately the Saks 5th ave light show is cancelled this year but you can still find many amazing displays around the city. Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman create stunning holiday window displays every year.
Go ice skating
There are several famous rinks in the city. Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, or Central Park’s Rink. Bryant Park’s rink is free if you bring your own skates and my personal favorite after trying them all.
DINe at festive restaurants
Lillies Victorian- The best Christmas bar in town! Trust me, not only are the decorations of this spot phenomenal but they also have amazing food and great drinks.
Papilon Bistro- Another French restaurant that is dressed up perfectly for Christmas. From Teddy bear Christmas trees to garland and ribbons all over the walls you will be feeling extra festive here! A large bar here where people stand around or tables to eat dinner.
Tavern on the Green- Gorgeous restaurant just outside of Central Park with an aesthetic tree in the center and twinkly lights all around. If your too lucky and the weather is nice you can sit in the seats around the tree. Otherwise the seating is inside looking right outside to the park grounds.
White Horse Tavern- this is the spot to go to if you’re in your twenties and looking to mingle and be festive. An awesome bar with Christmas decorations and amazing Christmas cocktails like mulled wine and “Under the Mistletoe.”
Tiny’s- The giant pink bow outside makes Tiny’s my number one recommendation for a Pink Christmas destination to see! I actually went to college with the girl who designed this fabulous bow for the restaurant. Not only is it a site to see but I have also been to this restaurant and it is in my opinion perfection. It reminds me a lot of La Maison Rose in Paris with the outside to the inside with 2 floors and pink aesthetic.
See the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall
This is on my bucket list for this year! Something I have never done is go to the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes and I can’t wait to experience it this year.
NYC during the holiday is pure magic and a must visit destination during the season! Always feel free to reach out with any additional questions and I hope you have the merriest holiday season!
xx
Jules