Top 5 Things to do in NYC this Holiday Season

Top 5 Things to do in NYC this Holiday Season
Christmas in New York City–there’s something undeniably magical about it. From the decorations in Rockefeller Center to the winter wonderland-themed windows of the 5th Avenue stores, New Yorkers love getting into the spirit of the season — and tourists from all over the world flock to the Big Apple every year around the holidays to take in all the splendor.
Heading to New York City this holiday season? We’ve put together our top 5 sights and destinations to experience in the city during the holidays.
Bryant Park Winter Village. Open Saturday, October 29 through January 2nd, Bryant Park’s Winter Village is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the city. With a 17,000-square-foot ice-skating rink (which happens to be free of charge), over 100 shopping kiosks, and delicious local food, you’ll find yourself spending hours wandering the little shops, picking up handmade treats, crafts, and gifts. You’ll find this holiday gem at 41 W 40th St between Sixth and Fifth Avenues.

 
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Possibly as iconic as the Empire State Building, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most popular sights in the city come December. Even though it attracts large crowds, it’s a sight you don’t want to miss. Even local New Yorkers who see it year after year love the feeling it elicits. Standing at 78-feet, the 10-ton Norway Spruce is covered in over 45,000 LED lights. It’s lit for the holiday season starting Wednesday, November 30 at 7pm and every evening after that through January 7. Not many Christmas trees get their own television special. So it’s absolutely worth checking out. Rockefeller Center on 49th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. Plan on staying to skate and sip on some hot cocoa to end the night.

 
City Views by Helicopter. One of the best NYC tours out there is hands down an aerial helicopter tour. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of Manhattan and the surrounding areas. See the city by day or night to take in all the sights and bright holiday lights. You’ll see all the top landmarks–everything from the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island to the Freedom Tower, George Washington Bridge, Central Park, Yankee Stadium, and more. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the city, or you’re back to experience a holiday in New York, this is a must-add to your list.

 
Holiday Lights of Dyker Heights. If you’re a fan of holiday decorations, Dyker Heights is a must. Take a quick trip over the bridge to Brooklyn to see just how competitive Brooklyn neighbors get with their holiday decorations. Head over in mid-December on a weekend between the hours of 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm for prime viewing. Taking the subway? Get on the D/M trains at 18th Avenue. Rumor has it the best lights are on 11th Avenue to 13th Avenue and from 83rd to 86th Street.

 
A Broadway Show. A trip to New York City wouldn’t be complete without a ticket to a Broadway (or off-Broadway) show. And during the holidays there are so many to choose from! From the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and the Nutcracker Ballet to Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer the Musical and A Christmas Carol at the Merchant House, there are options for everyone.

Your holiday in New York City is sure to create memories to last a lifetime, and get you into the holiday spirit–guaranteed!