Christmas in New York could provide you and your loved ones with memories you will treasure for a lifetime. When you are not busy exploring its festive markets or practicing your skills on one of the many ice rinks, you can treat yourself to delicious dishes or catch a fun-filled show.
As you will not want to return home with any regrets, you must identify the finest experiences the Big Apple has to offer during the holiday season. Find the best of the best by checking out the below top things to do in NYC this Christmas.
The Best Accommodation: The Plaza Hotel
The Plaza Hotel has become synonymous with Christmas in New York City, as it has served as a festive backdrop in various movies, such as Home Alone 2 and Sleepless in Seattle. It has not only featured in iconic Christmas movies, but it offers an elegant interior and fun seasonal packages. For example, you could order a 6ft Christmas tree in your room, book the Home Alone 2 package, browse the pop-up holiday gift shop, or enjoy a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus.
The Best Restaurant: Tavern on the Green
Tavern on the Green is arguably one of the most famous restaurants in New York City, and for a good reason. Despite being a great venue to visit throughout the year, it is a must-book during the festive holiday season. The elegant restaurant features a beautiful Christmas tree, colorful fairy lights, much greenery, and live jazz music. Also, you will want to try its spiced cider or festive cocktails, which will warm you after exploring Central Park during winter.
The Best Show: Radio City Christmas Spectacular
New York City isn’t short of exceptional shows over Christmas, such as The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol. However, if you don’t have time to see all of the shows on offer during your stay, then ensure you at least attend Radio City Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. The festive show has delighted audiences since 1931, and you would be wise to buy Rockettes tickets to watch the festive synchronized dancers for yourself. It is an NYC show staple you would be foolish to miss.
The Best Festive Attraction: Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Once Thanksgiving is over, Rockefeller Center preps for its annual tree lighting ceremony, which often takes place on December 1st every year. For more than eight decades, people from across the world have visited Rockefeller Plaza to view the beauty of the iconic tree, which now features more than 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and a 900-pound Swarovski star with three million crystals.
Visitors can view the illuminated 79-foot Christmas tree from 6 am to 12 am daily. On Christmas Day, it is lit for 24 hours. It is sure to be a highlight of a Christmas trip to the Big Apple and will give you that Christmassy feeling. It is one destination you must visit between shopping, dining, and exploring New York’s landmarks and attractions.
If you want to get into the festive spirit this year, New York City offers everything to give you that Christmas feeling.