New York City during the holidays is like nowhere else. With thousands of things to do—whether it’s ice skating or shopping—it can be hard to decide where to start. So here are some narrowed-down must-visit holiday experiences in NYC to help you make the most of the season.
Bryant Park Winter Village
The “Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park” on the Upper and Fountain Terraces and along 40th Street is a fan-favorite destination during the holiday season. From bumper cars on ice to holiday shops, this destination is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
Unlike other ice rinks, Bryant Park’s rink stands out as the only one in the city to offer free admission if you bring your own skates. For those without skates, skate rentals are available from $18 to $50, and complimentary lockers make it very convenient to store small belongings. After skating, you can choose from nearly two hundred shops selling everything from one-of-a-kind gifts and hand-crafted trinkets to custom artwork. Food lovers can also buy from multicultural food vendors providing trendy foods such as Dubai chocolate strawberries and cheese wheel pasta.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic trees in the world. The tree stands between 70 and 100 feet tall, making it a tourist attraction for people all over the world. Dating back to 1931, it is an annual tradition for a new tree to be selected and put up at the Rockefeller Plaza. Visitors can admire the tree and capture breathtaking photos, with the rink at the Rockefeller Center just around the corner.
Union Square Holiday Market
Established in 1993, the Union Square Holiday Market is one of the city’s largest and longest-running holiday markets. You can shop from over a hundred vendors, and it is jam-packed with unique presents, handcrafted goods, and delicious festive foods. With its wide range of affordable yet high-quality items, it is the perfect spot for shoppers on a budget. As you browse, you can celebrate the holiday spirit while accompanied by colorful lights, festive music, and a cup of hot chocolate.
‘The Nutcracker’ at the New York City Ballet
For a more classic holiday experience, you can spend an evening watching The Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet. This timeless ballet is shown at the Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The production has been performed annually for many years, bringing to life the magical story of Clara. From its breathtaking choreography to Tchaikovsky’s music, this performance is enjoyable for audiences of all ages.
New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show
If you are looking for a unique holiday event, the New York Botanical Garden’s annual Holiday Train Show is a must. This experience is centered around a miniature version of New York City that showcases over 175 structures, including the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Empire State Building. What makes the show so special is not just the trains, but the attention to detail and the winter scenery of the Botanical Garden. This family-friendly event also offers interactive experiences, such as train rides and workshops, making it a perfect holiday destination.
