If you will be in New York during the holiday season, use this as your holiday check list to make sure you see it all! I am still checking some of these off after four holiday seasons here!
Sections
4
Food and Drink
Trees to See
Things to Do
Shows
Food and Drink
The most magical Christmas destination- I am quick to reccomend it and take any visitors here this time of year! Some tips: - It is open all year round - To sit at a table, everyone at your table needs to order an entree -There is a time limit at the table during peak times of year - Reservations can only be made over the phone or in person - You can wait outside in line when they open to try to get a table - There is a bar portion of the restaurant that is first come, first served. It can get pretty packed. I recommend going early- especially if you're going on a weekend!
Rolf's
2
The viral frozen hot chocolate! Be prepared to wait in a line if you're visiting on a weekend during the holidays.
Glace by Noglu
Ralph's changes their sleeves every holiday season to a sweet holiday Ralph Lauren bear scene. The store and resturant always has amazing decorations as well!
Ralph's Coffee
I have heard amazing things about their frozen hot chocolate!
Serendipity 3 - Upper East Side
Known for their elaborate holiday decorations, this place fills up fast. Make a reservation early!
Oscar Wilde
Trees to See
Most (maybe all) of these trees have their own tree lighting ceremonies which are a fun, free night that bring the community together.
The main classic tree - a must see!
Rockefeller Center
I love the Seaport area- it's such a acute area to do some holiday shopping. Check out the tree while you are there!
Holiday Tree Lighting - The Seaport
An underrated NYC tree- I just found out about this tree last year. It is beautiful and very large and unexpected! The area is a little quieter than other touristy spots which also adds to the appeal.
Annual Tree Lighting - NYSE
So beautiful to walk by and see, especially at night. A great spot to stop for a photo.
The Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
I love this park, it's an Upper East Side staple along the East River. They have a tree lighting with caroling every year.
Mulchfest - NYC Parks
The Plaza is known for their Christmas tree display
The Plaza Hotel
Their beautiful tree is located in their courtyard and is a great photo op for hotel guests and anyone passing by
Lotte New York Palace
A beautiful tree for guests and visitors to admire, it is worth the stop!
The Peninsula New York
If you're on the Upper East Side, it is worth it to walk along Park Avenue and admire the trees!
Tree Lighting - The Fund for Park Avenue
Things to Do
Perfect holiday fun for all ages- ice skating, local vendors, local cuisine, and more. It gets very crowded, if you can go on a week day or night, I would recommend that! If not, go early! :)
Bryant Park Winter Village - Activities
Nestled in Central park- a beautiful picturesque spot for ice skating- you get a beautiful of the city.
Wollman Rink
A Christmas in New York classic- I did this on a week night (cheaper tickets!) one of my first Christmas seasons in New York and it is without one of my favorite experiences I have ever had. It is run very smoothly and feels safe, even with all of th...
The Rink At Rockefeller Center
Ride to the top floor and admire the rooms of Christmas and holiday decor. From decorated trees to elaborate gingerbread houses- this is one of my favorite things to do every year. You feel like you're in Elf at Gimble's.
Bergdorf Goodman
Head to Macy's in Herald Square and admire the decorations outside and inside! It is so beautiful and grand.
Macy's
The mall is a great place to shop indoors and stay warm! The mall is decked out in lights and the area behind the mall with the vessel is all lit up. You can admire it indoors and outdoors
Shine Bright at Hudson Yards
Another great holiday market- tons of local food and shop vendors. A great place to purchase gifts for loved ones.
Union Square Holiday Market
Another great holiday market, this one is located on the west side and is easy to stop at if you are already headed that way!
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Shows
A must see. I've landed tickets last minute from getting an “obstructed view” seat which turned out to be completely fine! A great show for all ages.
Radio City Rockettes | The Rockettes
One of the most notable productions for the NYC Ballet.
George Balanchine's The Nutcracker® | New York City Ballet