How to Spend the Holidays in NYC

Can you believe it's that time of the year again? The older I get the more I realize how quickly time flies by. I am still reminiscing about my vacation in Mexico this past June (man, I miss the beach). As we begin to prepare for the New Year, spend time with loved ones, and indulge in desserts that our waistlines disapprove of. There’s no question about it; this time of the year is simply magical. If you are new to this city, just visiting, or a native New Yorker here are a few things you can still do this holiday season.

Take a picture in front of a huge Christmas tree

Nothing says you're in the holiday spirit more than taking a picture in front of a Christmas tree. The most recognizable tree is in Rockefeller Center (this tree comes down January 7^th). There is a Christmas lighting ceremony that occurs the first week of December every year.  In addition to this tree, there are a several trees around the city. There is a tree at Washington Square Park (you'll feel like you're in Paris), one at South Street Seaport and another in Bryant Square Park.

Shop at the worlds' largest Macy's

Located in mid-town Manhattan on 34th Street, this massive Macy's is a shopper’s dream come true. There is an entire floor dedicated to shoes (picture that...just shoes). There are ten floors, countless escalators and countless amount of places to grab a bite to eat including McDonald's, Annie's Pretzels, and Ben & Jerry's ice cream shop. This Macy's is also decked out with holiday decor. I feel like I'm in a scene from "Miracle on 34th Street" when I'm there, which is one of my favorite Christmas movies.

photo credit: kevinandamanda.com

View the holiday windows on 5th Avenue 

Exactly one avenue over from Rockefeller Center is 5th avenue. Make sure you stop by to view the holiday windows of high-fashion retailers like Bergdorf Goodman, Lord & Taylor, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue and more.

See the Christmas Spectacular show starring The Rockettes'

You can't come to New York and not see a live show…It’s like a rite of passage in this city. Keeping with the holiday spirit you should stop by Radio City Music Hall and see the beautiful and talented Rockettes'. Use the discount code DEC6WEB for 50% off your ticket purchase. The final performance is on December 30^th.

Go ice-skating in Bryant Park

A staple in the winter time, nothing makes you enjoy the holiday season more than ice skating with family and friends. Instead of ice skating at Rockefeller Center, like most people do, you should make your way to Bryant Park. The lines are much shorter and it's FREE! This rink will close on March 2, 2014.

Indulge in some holiday dessert

Ladies, you can start those diets in January. Gentlemen, you can put those protein shakes down...this is NOT the time. Enjoy some desserts or some hot chocolate. My favorite is Max Brenner located in Union Square.  If you love chocolate, you must make your way here. Try the chocolate fondue with a side of marshmallows, a chocolate martini or chocolate chunks pizza. Cafeteria located in Chelsea also has some pretty amazing deep fried oreos. Lastly, you can try Serendipity where they are known for their frozen hot chocolate. 

With my friend Indira from college at Cafeteria

Play in the snow

If you've never seen snow, this will be an amazing experience for you.  It doesn't snow that often in the city; but when it does, it's always a joy. If you make your way to Central Park you may be able to make some snow angels or have a snowball fight. Word of advice...stay away from the "yellow" snow.

Epic snow ball fight in Times Square-Winter 2009

  

NYC touristy things

If you have any more downtime after doing some of the things I mentioned above, feel free to do some New York City touristy things like walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, visit the 9/11 Memorial or spend an evening in Times Square. 

My cousin Sierra came in town from Montreal. 

Happy Holidays!