After finishing my semester abroad in Canada and before flying back to Germany, I took the opportunity to visit all the popular New York City Christmas decorations. It was my first time in New York and visiting the city at Christmastime was a big dream of mine for many years. If you’re loving Christmas like it is portrayed in American movies – NYC is the place to go for you! The whole city is sparkling and twinkling and you can hear Christmas music at every corner and in every store. In case you aren’t already in a Christmas mood when coming to the city, I can promise that only 3 days in New York City will definitely put you into one.
For getting the ultimate Christmas feeling and having the best time in the metropolis during that time of the year, I have put together the seven best spots for getting the perfect New York Christmas experience.
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The Best 7 New York City Christmas Decorations
1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Ice Skating
Without a doubt, the area of the Rockefeller Center was my absolute favorite place during Christmas time in New York City. From far away I already noticed the huge Christmas tree in front of the Rockefeller Center, and, coming closer I also spotted the ice rink in front of it. Such an Instagramable place, which will definitely put you into a Christmas mood. And, once you are that close to the high Rockefeller Center buildings, you should not miss the opportunity to go up as well! With a height of 259 meters, the Top of the Rock observation deck offers the best views over Manhattan.
2. Ice skating in Central Park
If you need a little break from the rushing crowds and messy traffic in the city, Central Park is the place to go. Even though it is not the cheapest place for ice skating, the famous Wollman ice rink in the middle of Central Park is worth it. Hot chocolate, Christmas music, and a view of the Manhattan skyline. All this makes ice skating in Central Park an unforgettable experience on your New York City itinerary. And for those of you who don’t want to go on the ice themselves, I can guarantee that watching other people and enjoying the atmosphere is at least the same fun.
3. Christmas Shopping at Macy’s
Nothing makes you more aware of the fact that it’s Christmas time than going to Macy’s – New York’s largest department store. Spread over ten floors, you will find people running around with shopping bags and searching for last-minute Christmas gifts. If you’re traveling on a budget, like me, don’t worry. If you can control yourself, you don’t need to buy anything. Enjoying the atmosphere and looking at all the detailed New York City Christmas decorations in the store as well as in the shop windows is enough reason for a visit!
4. Christmas market in Bryant Park
As the city is incredibly big, New York has a large number of different Christmas markets across the city. In my eyes, the market in Bryant Park is the best! The Winter Village, which is close to the Central Station, offers a free admission ice rink, which is surrounded by several small holiday shops. You can enjoy the atmosphere while drinking hot chocolate, shopping for some little and personal Christmas presents, or skating on the ice rink. The tall skyscrapers around you will contribute to the ultimate New York City feeling.
5. Holiday Window Shopping at Fifth Avenue
Shopping like Blair and Serena? Strolling around like Carrie Bradshaw? No problem! Walking down 5th Avenue during Christmas time will make you feel like a glamourous New York City Lady. Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, or Tiffany’s: 5th Avenue is home to the most luxurious brands. Every year, the shops along the street present their remarkable and extraordinary holiday window designs. Especially when it gets dark, the lights in the windows contribute to a magical window show. As the special decorations attract thousands of visitors each day, I recommend going there either early in the morning or when it’s already dark to beat the crowds.
6. Broadway Christmas show
Unfortunately, I haven’t had time to see a Broadway show myself, but I heard so much positive feedback about the Radio City Rockettes show, that I didn’t want to hide this tip from you. This show is definitely on my list for my next NYC Christmas visit and I can’t wait for it.
7. Dyker Heights Brooklyn Christmas Lights
Manhattan shows a lot of beautiful holiday decorations and offers many great areas to stay in New York City. However, the most authentic New York Christmas decorations are found on the other side of the East River: in Brooklyn. The neighborhood of Dyker Heights is famous for decorating its houses and there is an unspoken competition among the residents of Dyker Heights. Who owns the best-looking house? Come to Brooklyn and decide for yourself!
Besides all the New York Christmas decorations mentioned above, you will find many other Christmas ornaments everywhere in the city. So please don’t just focus on the main spots but also walk around with open eyes and gaze at all the sparkling magic in New York City! If you can’t get enough of all the cozy winter vibes, there are many options for romantic winter getaways in NYC and around. And, once in New York, I recommend visiting the Christmas decorations in Washington DC as well!
Want to explore more of New York’s top attractions? Read my article about the 10 must-see attractions in New York City. And let me know about your NYC Christmas experiences in the comments down below!
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