I took my husband to New York City for his first time in Christmas of 2023 and this list is was perfect itinerary for a single day weekend in the Big Apple:  Central Park Start at the south side of Central Park. Walk through the park a little bit to see The Balto Statue and if you have an extra day, visit The Central Park Zoo, if you are short on time skip this and work your way down to The Plaza Hotel. The Plaza Hotel The Plaza Hotel, famous from the book series “Eloise”. Is a stunning lobby decorated to the gills for Christmastime. Be sure to visit during the day though, this place is so popular for non-hotel guests that they close the lobby at 5 p.m. to allow paying guests to have some privacy. 5th Avenue Head south down the famous Fifth Avenue for some of the most famous Christmas decorations in the world. Start with Bergdorf Goodman and work your way down towards Saks stopping in at Tiffany’s and Trump Tower, along with anything else that suits your fancy.
St Thomas and St Patrick's CathedralsAlong 5th Avenue are St. Thomas and St. Patrick's Cathedrals. St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of the most famous in New York. Both have beautiful architecture inside and out. We preferred St. Thomas over St. Patrick because it was a bit more ornate, and you didn't have to be part of a tour to walk around. St. Patrick requires a ticket to walk further in than the main lobby. Get a tour ticket to St. Patrick's Cathedral on their website: saintpatrickscathedral.org
Rockefeller Center Turn off 5th Avenue towards the Rockefeller Center to see the famous Christmas tree. I have never ice skated down in the plaza, but have always wanted too. You can make a timed reservation online at www.rockefellercenter.com. You can also reserve a private Chalet to enjoy drinks and watch the skaters from above. If you want a truly special view of New York City, and aren’t afraid of heights, go to The Top of The Rock, the 70-floor-high observation deck at the top of The Rockefeller Center. Tickets can be purchase online in advance, but I recommend waiting to get them day of. When we went the weather was foggy and they informed us the visibility was limited, so we ended up skipping it to save money. Its really incredible on a clear day to see just how truly massive the city is. Make all of your reservations for Rockefeller Center at www.rockefellercenter.com
Chrysler Building, Grand Central Terminal, and The Empire State BuildingThese are quick, walk through stops. They aren’t necessarily the most Christmasy but they are true marvels that any New York visitor must see at least once. Plus, they aren’t far off the route onto the next stop!
Bryant Park Christmas Market The Christmas market at Bryant Park has really grown over the years. It has it’s own little ice skating rink in the middle and cute wooden stalls for shops and restaurants all around the edge of the park. Get a crepe, a hot beverage, and shop through the Christmas ornaments, hand made sweaters, soaps, and other perfect Christmas gifts. Macy’s The next most famous Christmas store, off of 5th avenue is Macy’s flagship store. They decorate inside and out, so make sure to stop in and walk through the entire building for beautiful Christmas displays.
Radio City Music Hall From there, head back north to hopefully catch The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. They have been performing their Christmas Spectacular since 1932 and it the name says it all.  All of the things in the list above can be crammed into one jam-packed day. If you have more time in New York City here are some other things I recommend visiting:
Christmas decorated bars and restaurants:
Other places to eat and drink:
Read about more things to do in New York City any time of the year! Similar travel ideas:
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Talkin' 'bout Tacos:
I'm Taylor, aka Tacos! I am sharing my journeys and experiences from across the world hoping to inspire travel and adventure in all who read. Archives
December 2024
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