48 Festive Hours in NYC
New York City during the holiday season is nothing short of magical. The city, known for its iconic skyline and vibrant culture, transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive lights, holiday displays, and an energy that captures the spirit of the season. Two full days in the city is enough time to pack in all the NYC Holiday classics like the Rockettes, shopping on 5th Avenue, and strolling through Central Park along with some new traditions like Elf the Musical, new to Broadway this year.
Here are my top 10 Holiday activities for a quick little Holiday getaway in the City.
1. Go See the Rockettes
One of the highlights of New York City during the holiday season is the annual performance of the Rockettes, the iconic dance group at Radio City Music Hall. Their Christmas Spectacular is a treasured tradition for families and tourists, featuring their famous high kicks, synchronized routines, and choreography. I especially love the nativity scene at the end with live camels and sheep.
2. Laugh along at Elf the Musical
This year, you can also enjoy a delightful twist with Elf the Musical, a heartwarming and comedic holiday production based on the beloved film Elf starring Will Ferrell. The musical brings the story of Buddy, an oversized elf raised at the North Pole, to life with energetic songs, colorful costumes, and holiday cheer.
The combination of the Rockettes and Elf the Musical creates the perfect start to a festive season in New York City, bound to fill you with warmth, laughter, and the spirit of Christmas.
3. Walk through Central Park
Before or after the show, take a visit to Central Park. This sprawling park in the middle of Manhattan is a year-round attraction, but it takes on an especially magical quality during the winter months. Whether you’re bundled up in a cozy scarf or bundled in layers, walking through Central Park in the winter is a truly magical experience. Don’t want to walk through the park? Try a carriage ride or a relaxing boat ride at the Central Park Boathouse, which brings me to number four on this Holiday must do list.
4. Have Dinner at Central Park Boat House
Enjoy one of the best views in the city from your cozy table at this landmark restaurant. The pasta was delicious but the view alone was worth this stop. We loved watching the rowboats through the large glass picture window.
5. Travel by Pedicab through the City
For a more lively and fun way to explore the city, a pedicab ride is an excellent option. These charming, bicycle-powered carriages allow you to sit back and enjoy the scene without having to walk. This time of year drivers are happy to blast holiday classics and most have cute neon signs for perfect travel pictures. Please learn from our mistake and negotiate your rate before you take off.
6. Do Some Holiday Shopping
No trip to New York City is complete without shopping. For those who appreciate the fun and whimsical, try some of my favorites like FAO Schwarz, Anthropologie, and Free People. Zara, Sephora and Lululemon are also worth the stop and located nearby on famous 5th Avenue.
FAO is currently featuring the interactive Jelly Cat Cafe pop up. Customers can order stuffed food from the menu which Diner “staff” then pretends to cook up and wrap to go. Jelly cat is a British brand known for its irresistibly soft and quirky stuffed animals, which make for perfect holiday gifts. These cuddly companions are available at select toy stores across the city, where you can find everything from adorable bunnies to imaginative creatures like unicorns and dragons.
7.Look at the Window Displays
Shopping in New York during the holidays doesn’t have to cost a thing with the extravagant window displays that line the major department stores. Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdale’s go all-out with their holiday window displays, each telling a festive story with intricate designs, sparkling lights, and seasonal themes. These windows are not just displays—they are an art form that draws crowds of visitors each year. Wandering along Fifth Avenue and admiring the creativity of these elaborate windows is a NYC holiday tradition and not to be missed.
8. Get a Liberty Bagel
When it’s time for a snack, you can’t miss Liberty Bagels, a classic New York stop serving up one of the city’s best bagels. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional bagel with cream cream cheese or a more extravagant creation like the popular rainbow bagel, this is a must to complete your NYC experience.
9. Visit Bryant Park Winter Village
Whether you choose to ice skate, shop or eat your way through Bryant Park, its festive atmosphere is bound to get you in the holiday spirit. Try a gourmet hot cocoa, candy topped waffle, or s’more while walking through local vendor and artist’s booths. My favorite? Mure + Grand for the cutest sweatshirts and tote bags.
10. Go Ice Skating
Ice skating in Rockefeller Center is as classic as the Radio City Rockettes and the setting is beautiful, especially once the Christmas tree is lit. Sadly, we missed the tree lighting by just a couple of days. Bryant Park rink is less expensive, often less crowded and almost as magical as Rockefeller Center. I find simply watching is just as special as getting on the ice myself
New York City during the holiday season offers an endless list of experiences, from world-class performances like Elf the Musical and the Rockettes’ spectacular to the peaceful beauty of Central Park in winter. Whether you’re indulging in a warm, chewy bagel at Liberty Bagels or exploring whimsical stores like FAO Schwarz , New York combines festive cheer with unforgettable sights, sounds, and tastes. The city’s holiday magic, captured in its window displays, the music of Broadway, and the charm of its iconic landmarks, is an experience that lingers long after the snow has melted, and the holiday season has passed.
