The Ultimate Guide to Visiting NYC in December
- Lauren
- 9 minutes ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 3 minutes ago
Have you been dreaming of visiting New York City in December? Growing up, one of my dreams was to spend Christmas in NYC. I wanted to see all of beautiful Christmas decorations in the big city and I wanted to watch the Radio City Rockettes dance the night away (yes, I wanted to be a Rockette when I was younger)! Visiting the Big Apple during the holiday season is not cheap but it sure is worth it. I spent a long girl's weekend NYC and want to share all of my tips, tricks, and recommendations with you. Here's my guide to spending the holidays in New York City:
Things To Do
There are obviously an abundance of things to do in NYC, but visitors only have so much time on their hands. Here are my top things to do in NYC in December.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
I feel like visiting Rockefeller Center in December is a must. There's just something about everyone gathering to look at the tree and see people ice skating at Rockefeller Center. If you plan it right (travel at the beginning of December), you could even catch the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting. You can even try your hand at ice skating and feel like you're in a Hallmark holiday movie!
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
One of my all-time favorite winter activities in NYC is going to see the Radio City Chrismtas Spectacular. As a former dancer, I admire the choreography and skills incorporated into the show that the Rockettes put on. I highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance because the shows sell out quickly! This is seriously one of the best Christmas shows in NYC.
Christmas Shopping
You're in New York City, you obviously have to do a little bit of shopping even if it is just window shopping. For artisan items and great stocking stuffers, stop by Bryant Park Winter Village. The Winter Village has shops, a bar and food hall, and ice skating! There's also the fair share of department stores, like Macy's, Bloomingdale's, and Saks Fifth Avenue that are all spruced up with holiday decor around this time.
Broadway Shows
Even if you're already going to see the Radio City Rockette's, you must go see a Broadway show. There are loads of incredible theater productions in NYC, afterall it is the largest in the world! I highly recommend Wicked or Moulin Rouge! For some inexpensive tickets to great shows, download the Todaytix app. A local NYC friend introduced me to the app and it was definitely a game changer.
Walk Through Central Park
If you're lucky enough to visit New York City with snow, you must go to Central Park. It is the most magical feeling walking through (and if you're not careful, sliding through) Central Park with a blanket of snow on the grass and ducks in the pond. All feels right in that moment!
Where To Stay
Finding a place to stay in the Big Apple can be tough, especially in December. The city is usually busy during this time (for obvious reasons) and it can be very expensive. I highly recommend staying at the New York Hilton Midtown because of its central location and great accommodations. All of the staff here was friendly, and the room was very nice and comfy. You can also easily walk to so many different spots around the city from the hotel without even taking the subway.
If you have the opportunity, The Plaza Hotel is truly one of the best hotels I have ever stayed in. Top notch service, quality accommodations, and a feeling of relaxation. You will feel like royalty at The Plaza. Check out my blog post about my stay there!
What To Eat/Drink
Located in NoHo, KYU is a great restaurant for groups to split a bunch of Asian-inspired dishes. I highly recommend the tuna crispy rice, baby back ribs, and the roasted cauliflower. KYU is also on InKind, here is a referral for $25 off a $50+ meal if you are new to the app!
Madame George is a cocktail lounge in Midtown that will send you back in time. This cocktail lounge has moody lighting, velvet seating, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer. It is intimate without feeling stuffy, elegant but still relaxed – basically, it is the perfect place to go on a cold winter night!
This SoHo restaurant serves up vibrant Mediterranean dishes that feel both comforting and fresh. It is warm and lively inside, and the menu is built for sharing. I recommend trying the fried halloumi and the falafel!
Valerie has a glamorous, old-New-York feel – art deco details, warm lighting, and a cocktail list that makes you want to linger a little longer than planned. Whether you're with the girls or having couples trip, Valerie is the perfect spot for some drinks and even some apps!
Originally established in Paris as a tea room in 1903, Angelina serves pastries some of the most incredible hot chocolate you will ever drink. As a hot chocolate lover, I will say Angelina's is rich, thick, and delicious! It's like a little taste of France in New York City!!
What To Wear/Pack
You're worried about what to wear in NYC in December. This is an important topic! Please take it from me, pack your winter clothes! It happened to snow quite a bit while we were there (which cancelled flights for a day) and ended up being about 15ºF one day. Bring a thick jacket, hat, mittens/gloves, and a pair of long johns. Check the weather before your trip and if there's any chance of snow, I would recommend packing some short boots and thick socks.
Is December a Good Time to Visit NYC?
The question everyone thinks about when considering a trip to NYC: is it really worth it to travel to NYC in December? In my opinion, yes.
New York City is already a popular place and has a large population. Be prepared for a large number of people at the different activities, be prepared to wait in line sometimes. As always in NYC, remember to make reservations for food and drinks.
New York is also typically a pricey place to visit/live. Traveling in December when everyone else wants to visit and all the holiday decorations are up means that prices are going to be even higher. Be prepared to spend more money than you typically would on a NYC trip.
All of this being said, the magic that you feel from the holiday decor and everyone oooing and aaaing makes the crowds and money worth it! NYC in December is perfect for everyone, those looking for a romantic NYC trip, a Christmas girls trip, or a family holiday in the city!
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