Image Captured by: Javan Ng Photography
The holidays are a positively magical time anywhere, but the city of New York seems to sparkle just a little brighter than the rest. As locals, we may be biased, but there’s a reason why so many holiday movies and songs seem to mention our special city specifically! Exploring New York is an unforgettable experience no matter the season, but in the months leading up to the holidays, the city seems to simply explode with excitement and good cheer. Trying to pick and choose which sights to see can be overwhelming, so we’ve gathered the best of the best when it comes to holiday activities in the Big Apple.
Union Square Christmas Markets
Gift-giving is a beloved holiday tradition, and while the Grinch taught us that presents aren’t everything, nothing gets us more in the yuletide spirit than a little shopping! The Union Square Christmas Markets offer a cultivated collection of locally crafted goods, artwork, decor, and more. Open every year from November 21st to December 24th, this NYC mainstay is just like Santa’s workshop, if Santa was a New Yorker who enjoyed indulging in hand-crafted hot chocolate as he perused the holiday vendors. Make your list, check it twice, and head to Union Square Christmas Markets for a generous dose of holiday cheer.
Check Out a Seasonal Themed Restaurant
New York City takes the holidays seriously. While almost every bar, restaurant, and hotel in the city goes all out with decorations and holiday-themed nosh, some locations completely transform into a winter wonderland that would even please the palates of Ebenezer Scrooge himself. One such magical place is a pop-up bar called Miracle, with convenient locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Completely decked out from floor to ceiling in nostalgic Christmas decor, Miracle offers holiday-themed libations such as the Run Run Rudolph, taking the term ‘holiday spirit’ to a whole new level. If your style is a little more swanky, head to the Ophelia Lounge on the 26th floor of Beekman Tower. This gem boasts an après-ski meets snow globe theme, with glimmering crystal garlands and gilded candelabras to boot. Enjoy small plates made to share or warm up with a unique cocktail as you admire the city skyline from your sheep-skin draped perch.
Take the Holidays to New Heights with a Heli Tour
Ever wonder what Santa sees as he and his reindeer glide through the city on his sleigh? Let us show you! HeliNY will take you dashing through the sky for a once in a lifetime holiday experience. We offer several different tour options in our new state-of-the-art, heated helicopter fleet for you to take in the sights from a bird’s-eye view. From the Empire State Building to Times Square, cozy up to your loved ones and experience the city like never before as our experienced pilots guide you through the skies. A New York City Helicopter Tour makes an incredible gift for anyone on your list while helping you beat the crowds and make unforgettable memories.
-The HeliNY Team
