You hear those jingle bells? It is that time of year, and it is hard to find a more festive place to spend the holidays than NYC. With an endless list of things to do and sights to see, we put together a list of some of our favorites. From ice skating below the Empire State Building to seeing the incredible window displays, we hope you can experience all these yourself.
Bryant Park
The Winter Village at Bryant Park is a literal holiday wonderland. With an ice rink surrounded by city lights and a view of the Empire State building, loosen up those legs and get out there because it is sure to be an experience not easily forgotten. If gliding on ice isn’t your thing, there are a ton of small shops set up for the holiday season to get your friends and family something unique to New York. You’re sure to work up an appetite, so don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate and check out the food vendors.
Dyker Heights
Dyker Heights pulls out all the stops when it comes to decorating for the holidays. With more lights and inflatable Santas than one can imagine, taking a stroll around this neighborhood is sure to impress even the scrooges. Each house is brighter than the next, and the residents make sure you’ll leave wondering if you’ll ever see a more festive block in your life. To get to the best of the best, go from 11th to 13th Avenue, and from 83rd to 86th Street.
Rockefeller Center
This wouldn’t be a NYC holiday list without Rockefeller Center. Normally packed shoulder-to-shoulder, a silver lining to 2020 means less tourists and more room to soak in the holiday spirit. The Rockefeller Center is a wellspring of holiday sightseeing, festive activities, good food, and cheerful atmosphere. Enjoy some ice skating or watch the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree illuminate with thousands of lights. Spending a day here around the holidays is something everyone should experience at least once.
Central Park
Central Park is incredible any time of year, but there is something to be said for the aura the park holds during the holidays. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride, ice skate on the famous Wollman rink, or just take a stroll and soak in the beauty that Central Park is so well known for. Either way, December is a great time to explore all it has to offer, and a massive bonus if you happen to catch the park under a blanket of fresh snow.