Christmas time in the City……..
I love New York City 365 days a year but there is something about Christmas time that makes it more magical. The twinkling lights, holiday windows, the intoxicating energy of the season all add to the everyday energy of New York.
Below are some fun suggestions for a wonderful weekend in New York during the holidays.
Let’s begin with where to stay……………..The Baccarat Hotel. This elegant hotel will not only have you sitting in the lap of luxury but it is conveniently located. It is also diagonally across the street from the Museum of Modern Art.
Most of the below recommendations are within walking distance to the Baccarat Hotel. Let’s get started on our adventure so you can choose what you’d like to do.
*Ice skating: You have three choices; Central Park, Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park. All are wonderful experiences but each unique in its own way. Central Park is outdoor skating surrounded by beauty and nature. The skating at Bryant Park is in an enclosed pavilion so you don’t have to endure the winter elements. Rockefeller Center is special because you are able to skate under the infamous Christmas tree.
*Christmas Villages: There is one in Bryant Park surrounding the ice skating pavilion. The second is in Union Square. It is bigger than Bryant Park but both are filled with unique vendors selling everything from mustard to mittens.
*Rockefeller Center: The tree in Rockefeller Center is always breathtaking and festive. While it’s always beautiful, I recommend waiting until it gets dark for that extra sparkle of the twinkling lights.
*St. Patrick’s Cathedral: No matter your religion, stop in at the church. It’s across the street from Rockefeller Center and the holiday décor is simply gorgeous.
*5th Avenue: The stores on Fifth Avenue use the holidays to strut their creative genius like a peacock. The windows and buildings are all decorative with their individual holiday theme. Grab a hot cocoa and enjoy the holiday inspiration strolling down the avenue. If you see something you like in the window, let the shopping spree begin!
*The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular: This time honored annual show is amazing for kids and adults alike. No spoiler alerts here but I promise it does not disappoint.
*Tavern On The Green: Brunch is a weekend staple in New York. Tavern On The Green offers great food and live jazz on Saturday and Sunday. The last time I was there, the band felt like something straight out of the movies. I sat mesmerized bopping to the music for hours. Fear not if you over indulge on brunch; Central Park is right outside the restaurant door and the perfect place to take a post brunch leisurely walk.
*Afternoon tea: Should all your adventures tucker you out, stop by the Baccarat Hotel for afternoon tea. Stepping into the Grand Salon is pure elegance. Try and get one of the faux fur chairs by the window. You won’t want to leave!
*Broadway Show: I won’t make any specific recommendation because it depends on your taste. Just know there is a plethora of musicals, dramas and comedies to choose from.
*Drinks: I like to go to the Mandarin Oriental for a nice drink. The Aviary on the 35th floor has a spectacular view of Columbus Circle and Central Park.
*Dinner: There are endless choices of restaurants depending on the type of food you are craving, I love Mastro’s Steakhouse, 11 Madison Park, Tribeca Grill, Oceana, Per Se, Jean-Georges and David Burke Kitchen just to name a few.
*Horse and Carriage Ride: If you are lucky enough to visit during a snow storm, take a horse and carriage ride through Central Park. The beauty of the snow falling while gliding through the park is something you won’t soon forget.
I could go on forever with things to do in New York. I think the recommendations I have made will ensure a fabulous weekend in New York.
Happy Holidays!
