Christmas is breaking through in the bustling streets of New York City! As the festive vibe sweeps through Manhattan and beyond, there's an avalanche of exciting activities to indulge in this holiday season. Wander through the heart of Midtown, immerse yourself in festive fairs, or go ice skating amidst towering skyscrapers... the plethora of options is quite dizzying, indeed. Given this, we've embarked on a quest to simplify your holiday planning. Amidst the festive hustle and bustle, why not take a moment to see another side of the city? If you really want to spoil yourself this season, why don't you relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spa hotels in NYC? These havens of tranquility might be just what you need after a long day of Christmas shopping or ice-skating. Even the most Scrooge-like amongst our New York City editors have their favorite Christmas rituals. Browse through the pick of their cherished traditions below, and get ready to bask in the warmth of the holiday merriment.
Experiencing Winters in Central Park
As someone who thrives in sub-zero temperatures, New York's wintertime is my paradise instead of a dreaded chill. One of the Gotham city's sought-after winter escapes for me is Central Park during the frosty December nights. This offers a respite from the bustling Fifth Avenue mob, yet immerses me in the city's joyful holiday spirit. Witnessing people ice skate at the Wollman rink and enjoying carriage rides is a delightful pastime for me, as I prefer seeing the jolly mishaps of youngsters on the ice rather than being a participant. Spending a few hours meandering in the picturesque park, with Christmas melodies streaming into my ears and fingertips nestled in my jacket pockets, brings unadulterated joy. —A Seasonal Enthusiast
Experience the Magic of Fifth Avenue's Festive Spirit
Typically, my Christmas celebrations happen in the sunny landscape of Florida, a stark contrast to the snowy winter wonderland that is New York during the holidays. However, before departing, I indulge in the ritual of an enchanting stroll down Fifth Avenue. Normally, I embark on this festive journey from the southern end of Central Park, progressing toward the iconic Rockefeller Center to admire its grand Christmas tree. En route, the glittering window displays of high-end retailers like Louis Vuitton, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman are a sight to behold. After soaking in this opulence, I find myself diverting to Sixth Avenue, to take in the incredible sight of the oversized Christmas ornaments near Radio City Music Hall.
The avenues might be bustling with enthusiastic tourists (pro tip: a weekday morning visit makes for a less crowded experience), but the vibrancy and cheer is truly heartwarming. So, immerse yourself in this festive vibe and the languid rhythm of the crowd—or turn up your favorite Yuletide melody and embrace the city's Christmas spirit in your own joyous bubble. —Your Name, Professional Writer
Experience the Charm of Gallow Green
Perched atop The McKittrick Hotel, Gallow Green, a stunning rooftop bar morphs into a snug winter cabin each year. This location also offers an unceasingly engrossing theatrical performance, Sleep No More—an intriguing reimagining of Shakespeare's Macbeth dipped in a film noir style. Once the elevator doors part, you are welcomed by an enchanting sight of pine trees mantled in snow and a pathway illuminated, leading you to a log cabin. Here, awaits a warm atmosphere with hot toddies and comforting delicacies served in a rustic-yet-stylish ambience. This alluringly transformative experience is a must-see during your holiday visit to New York. —Scott Bay, associate editor
Experience the Magic at Radio City Music Hall's Christmas Spectacular
There is something truly enchanting about experiencing the Radio City Rockettes in their seasonal brilliance. This evokes not just a sense of nostalgia, but also a deep connection to the quintessential New York holiday spirit. I nostalgically remember the aura of my initial encounter with the Christmas Spectacular as a youngster - the mesmerizing dances, the radiating lights, and the palpable enthusiasm that made it seem like a scene straight from a yuletide blockbuster. Despite being a grown-up now, the sheer joy derived from this holiday extravaganza remains intact. The dancing precision and limitless exuberance of the Rockettes are so captivating that observers can't resist being spellbound by the spectacle. Sharing this magical experience with someone witnessing it for the first time, or introducing them to the legendary venue is a thrill in itself. -Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor
Discover Festive Magic in Dyker Heights
In recent years, I've been an annual visitor to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, journeying by subway to this neighborhood where the spirit of Christmas is epitomized in stunning yard displays. Think of it as a joyful explosion of Christmas magic, with illuminated, vibrant yards featuring colossal inflatable animals, mechanically-driven Santas, an enchanting army of nutcrackers and an array of bustling Christmas lights, so bright and numerous, they can obscure time-frame perception. Be sure to remember: the greatest concentration of light spectacles can be located between 11th and 13th Avenues, from 83rd to 86th Streets. As you enjoy the neighborhood's remarkable displays, why not savor a cozy hot chocolate and a delectable pastry at Panino Rustico? Their local specialties contribute to the area's festive charm. —The reflections of Lara Kramer, committed traveller and global associate director of audience development
Unwind at a Tranquil Urban Oasis
If the thought of navigating through throngs of holiday shoppers around the Rockefeller tree doesn't appeal to you, I totally get it. As a firm believer in self-care, my ideal Christmas break involves escaping from the bustling crowds and dedicating some time for rejuvenation. Whether it's slipping into a deep-tissue massage or indulging in full-service spa amenities, I enjoy prioritizing the 'me time'. Though there's no shortage of quality massages on offer in the heart of Chinatown, a unique wellness hideaway that I'm eager to explore this year is BATHHOUSE in Williamsburg. Additionally, residing in Brooklyn affords me the convenience of a short commute to and from this new favorite oasis of mine. And here’s a bonus tip: Just in the neighboring streets, you'll find Artist & Fleas and Rough Trade. These gems offer a perfect opportunity to side-step busy department stores and find unique gifts to finish your holiday shopping, all within walking distance.
—Professional Writer
Delight in the Seasonal Delicacies of Breads Bakery
Known for its mouthwatering baked goods, Breads Bakery is a remarkable gem in New York City. Their tantalizing chocolate babka is a year-round favorite and an ideal choice as a unique gift for housewarming parties. However, their holiday specialities truly steal the limelight, promising a sensory feast of flavor and texture. One can enjoy diverse offerings like the festive challah with its exquisite blend of sesame, nigella, sunflower, or the festive cranberry gouda rolls that become popular over Thanksgiving. But nothing says Christmas and Hanukkah like their signature Linzer tarts or crisp potato latkes. Their intriguing invention, the Harvest Babka, stands out this year. This savory adaptation of their famed pastry boasts the goodness of roasted sweet potatoes, red onion, and gruyere cheese. It's a picturesque embodiment of the holiday spirit on a plate, perfect for leisurely mornings when you're seeking simplicity complemented with the rich taste of celebration.—By a seasoned food editor
Experience the Wintery Magic at the Bronx Zoo
The enchanting aura of the Bronx Zoo during the holiday season is comparable to the magic of stepping into a radiant winter fairyland. Every corner is adorned with glowing Christmas trees, harmonious ensembles serenading with traditional carols, and the odd sight of a stilt walker crossing your path, adding to the charm. The pièce de résistance is the lantern safari, presenting a chance to marvel at gleaming replicas of a myriad of global fauna, including giraffes, polar bears, and sea turtles. The adventure doesn't stop there; the tantalizing aroma of s'mores being prepared and the fascinating sight of on-site ice sculptors chiseling away are equally enjoyable. And, what's a winter outing without hot cocoa? This warming beverage is plentifully available to fight off the chill. —Madison Flager, Adept Commerce Editor
The Magic of Morning Skating in Bryant Park
There's something uniquely enchanting about starting a winter's day with a sunrise skating session in Bryant Park. Leaving the comfort of my home in Brooklyn behind, I make the early trek to join the 8 a.m. crowd when the park's ice rink unfurls its frosty charm. Not just an attraction for tourists but also a rendezvous for in-office professionals from throughout Midtown – you'll often spot busy executives swapping their business footwear for hockey and ice skates. All the while, they relish a seamless blend of exercise, enjoyment, and the entrancing New York Public Library as their backdrop. It's the city's own slice of a snowy fairytale come to life!
As the dawn breaks on weekdays, the rink offers a welcomed tranquility, a stark contrast to its more bustling weekend ambience. It's also cost-effective – if you have your skates, access to the rink won't cost you a penny. However, if you need to rent them, it will set you back by $21 to $36. The guarantee is a fantastic experience in an urban winter utopia, one that is unmarred by the usual throngs of people or children that frequent it on weekends. - A unique experience, as narrated by Meredith Carey, our esteemed former travel bookings editor.
Discover Unique Gift Ideas at a Holiday Pop-Up Store
Ready to bring a dash of the holiday spirit to your shopping experience? The Upper East Side welcomes LTD by Lizzie Tisch, a holiday pop-up store that's here for the whole festive season. Dive into a wonderland of fashion, art, travel, beauty, and design, all perfectly curated and beautifully displayed. What's more, each item is uniquely special, encouraging you to indulge in an adventurous shopping spree. The anticipation is building for the chance to witness the stunning work of Paul Arnhold Glass, meticulously crafted in Red Hook. Another must-see is Le Lion's astrological embroidered merchandise, offering a whimsical twist to any outfit. Be prepared to be charmed by the inspiring and imaginative aura of this festive pop-up shop. - Your Personal Guide to Festive NYC Shopping
An Excursion into Fine Art and Authentic Cuisine
One surefire way to kindle that festive spirit is a leisurely exploration of the Neue Galerie, nestled just one block down from the renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art on the iconic Fifth Avenue. This exquisite museum, a gem in itself, is housed in an elegant Beaux-Arts structure, famously recognized as the William Starr Miller House. Guests are treated to an awe-inspiring display of rare German and Austrian art from the early 1900s, complimented by a revolving series of exhibitions that spotlight the likes of Weimar Republic's masterpieces and introspective artist's self-portraits. However, the crown jewel of this museum has to be their impressive lineup of art pieces by Gustav Klimt, featuring the one-of-a-kind gold-encrusted Adele Bloch-Bauer I, a splendid representation of Klimt's unique "golden style". A visit here is incomplete without investing a couple of hours to meander through its various galleries and appreciate the beauty of detail.
Once your senses have been sufficiently stirred by the art, you may want to refresh your palate down at the gallery's well-loved Café Sabarsky. Here, you can mingle with the locals who come to enjoy an evening break filled with hearty helpings of schnitzel and the famous sachertorte. This charming Viennese cafe embodies the perfect fusion of art and gastronomy, making both food and art enthusiasts feel right at home. —Betsy Blumenthal, editor, features and franchises
Experience the Magic of the Met's Christmas Tree
Escape the chilly city air to the warmth of the grand Metropolitan Museum's Great Hall. As you pass by the grand staircase, make your way to Gallery 305. Here, annually, the museum boasts a magnificent, 20-foot blue spruce placed prominently in its Medieval Sculpture Hall. Yet, this is more than an ordinary Christmas tree display. It's unique charm comes from an exquisite eighteenth-century Neapolitan Nativity scene tucked at its base, all set against the backdrop of an impressive eighteenth-century Spanish choir screen procured from the Cathedral of Valladolid. This memorable, museum visit during the Christmas season is a New York City tradition not to be missed. Make your visit seamless by scheduling an advanced, timed ticket or reservation for 2022, as per your convenience.
Experience a Whiskey Haven at Great Jones
Rest easy and warm your soul in the magnificent ambiance of Manhattan’s pioneering Whiskey distillery in over a century - Great Jones. This whiskey sanctuary that started its journey last year, offers a delightful respite from the frigid temperatures of NoHo and presents a festive retreat this Christmas. Take pleasure visiting their stylishly adorned speakeasy while sampling mouthwatering delights such as winter squash touched with pomegranate and sprinkled with pumpkin seeds, or a wild mushroom flatbread enriched with black truffle crème fraîche. However, the true star making its mark here is, undoubtedly, the Whiskey. Prominently featured in a creative holiday cocktail menu is their signature Great Jones Bourbon and Rye, brewed locally right on the premises. The drinks menu showcases inventive takes on the classics, like a seasonally inspired mojito intertwined with cranberries, fresh mint, and the lucidity of white Vermouth. The celebration doesn't end with the drinks; a decadent treat awaits you at the end. Before you call it a night, relish a whimsical dessert of marshmallows and a selection of sweets dipped in dark chocolate fondue made for two. So, this Christmas, why not embark on a whiskey-infused, culinary rollercoaster at Great Jones?—S.B.
Experience the Holiday Spirit at Brooklyn Flea
Embrace the opportunity to support local businesses this holiday season. Whether it's opting for a convenient phone order, purchasing a gift voucher for future use, or leisurely exploring what's on offer, Brooklyn Flea in Dumbo provides the perfect starting point. This year, I embarked on my shopping journey rather early, delving into an array of handcrafted leather goods, chic vintage tweed wear, delicately slender air plants, and vividly colored antique furniture, all idyllically set under the monumental Manhattan Bridge archway. It’s noteworthy that the city's festive markets remain a goldmine of unique finds, with every stallholder presenting irresistible temptations. —Alex Erdekian, Travel Bookings Editor
Discover Unique Christmas Trinkets in Little Italy
Forget the stereotypical New York tourist traps, in Little Italy, you can dive right into the distinct charm of a store that celebrates Christmas throughout the year. There's something special about exploring a magical realm filled with sparkling glass decorations, plump, inviting Christmas trees, and exquisite porcelain figures singing carols - be it during the festivity of December, or the blossoming springtime in March. Moreover, in proximity, lies the majestic St. Patrick’s Basilica that's well worth a visit. Treat yourself to the perfectly sweet cannoli from Caffé Palermo or enjoy the rich and hearty taste of the family-sized Sunday Sauce at Aunt Jake’s for an authentic Little Italy experience. —A.E.
Experience a serene West Village
Jostling crowds are a regular spectacle in the lead-up to holiday season. However, New York City exhibits a captivating tranquility on critical days like Christmas or New Year's Day. It's a magical time to meander through usually bustling neighborhoods - West Village being a favorite. Take a leisurely stroll admiring chic stores through their glass facades, even as they are shut, or marvel at the architectural beauty of stately brownstones. Revel in the rare freedom to stride down central city lanes devoid of throngs. Yet, in true New York spirit, small bars faithful to their 'city-that-never-sleeps' ethos, remain open. Should you feel the chill deep into your fingers and toes, you can pop in for a warm respite. Such unusual calm interspersed with comforting nooks, truly enhances the charm of this city, making it even more endearing.
-M.S.
Uncover Festive Surprises at Union Square's Holiday Market
One cannot resist the allure of a vibrant holiday market, and the annual tradition of visiting the Union Square market further reinforces the sentiment. The enchanting atmosphere with multiple stalls beckoning eager shoppers makes even the most indifferent person embrace the holiday spirit. This place not only caters to spontaneous holiday gifting needs, sporting a range of charming items, but is also a foodie's paradise. My partner has a penchant for the German Bratwurst stall, although my personal favorite is the unbeatable Taste of Persia booth that features ash reshteh.
This dish, a traditional Persian soup, is lovingly prepared by Chef Saeed Pourkay, who has been satiating the gastronomic cravings of patrons for over ten years. Combining a hearty blend of lentils, noodles, and onions, this dish is beautifully garnished with fried garlic, mint, and whey—perfect for bringing warmth during those chilly Christmas shopping sprees. It's worth hoping he graces the market with his culinary gifts this festive season! - Arati Menon, digital director across the globe
Explore accommodations in close proximity
Experience an unforgettable festive holiday at Penny Williamsburg, a Brooklyn hotel that couples vibrant energy with chic design, offering incredible city vistas from the comfort of your own room.
Reserve Here—Through: Booking.com
Alternatively, check out Nine Orchard, an architectural gem that has been restored to its former glory amidst the lively vibe of the Lower East Side, adding a dash of elegance to the historical location.
The iconic Hotel Chelsea, well-known for its history with well-known musicians, still retains its rock n roll ambience, making it a top choice for music enthusiasts even today.
Lastly, the Aman New York is Aman's debut urban venture in the United States, offering a refined retreat for those seeking a serene and luxurious stay while in the city.