Itineraries for Your Trip to New York City
3 Days in New York City During the Holidays
There’s nowhere better to be for the holiday season than New York City. From late November onwards, the city’s sometimes gruff demeanor seems to melt, only to be replaced by a burst of festive cheer. Suddenly, Manhattan’s streets and shop windows are festooned with twinkling lights, holiday markets spring up in parks and public squares, and ice skaters flock to rinks in Central Park and Rockefeller Center.
I know from personal experience what a special time it is in the Big Apple—even as the years go by, the magic never seems to lessen. From themed cruises to market tours and everything in between, here’s how to make the most of three days in New York City for the holidays.
New York City can be cold and snowy around the holidays—wrap up warm and pack stylish boots and accessories.
If you only have time for one thing, make it Rockefeller Center for its storied tree.
To kick off your holiday plans in New York—pun very much intended—begin with one of the city’s most beloved Christmastime traditions: the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular. The family-friendly show, which features the high-kicking Rockettes alongside many other acts and performers, is an unmissable Big Apple attraction.
Once your matinee has ended—and with darkness already descending—it’s time to embark on a glittering Midtown Manhattan walking tour. Glimpse the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, discover Fifth Avenue's elaborately decorated department store windows, and admire the luminous St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
After a brilliantly festive first day, the magic continues when you set off on day two's holiday-themed sightseeing cruise. Aboard a decorated vessel with cozy mugs of cocoa in hand, admire a perspective on New York City that only a few visitors get to see.
Once you’re back on dry land, stop for a quick bite before seeing a holiday lights extravaganza. You'll depart from Midtown Manhattan for your destination, Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. New Yorkers love the residential neighborhood for its over-the-top Christmas displays and decorations, and you will too.
Still need to pick up some gifts for friends and loved ones? On your final day in the Big Apple, combine your shopping with a festive outing when you take part in a guided tour of the city’s Christmas markets. In between browsing, don’t forget to pick goodies for yourself.
Finally, after dropping off your purchases at your hotel, head out for one last magical New York moment: a skating session on Central Park’s Wollman Rink. Wrap up in your snuggliest outfit, and practice your pirouettes like generations of skaters have done before you. Happy holidays!