It’s cold, but New Yorkers embrace the winter season with festive cheer. There’s so much to see and do that planning your itinerary can be tricky, so here are seven must-try winter experiences in NYC.
1. Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
A longtime holiday tradition, Rockefeller Center in midtown Manhattan hosts the city’s most famous Christmas tree each winter. Standing at least 23 meters tall and decorated with tens of thousands of LED lights, it’s a must-see for anyone touring NYC during the holiday season.
2. Check Out an Ice Skating Rink
NYC has several iconic ice skating rinks, each with its perks:
- Bryant Park: Free skating and shorter lines during the week.
- Rockefeller Center: Ticketed skating by the Christmas tree guarantees your spot.
- Central Park’s Wollman Rink: The largest and most famous rink, offering more space to spread out.
3. Celebrate Chinese New Year in Chinatown
If your visit coincides with the Lunar New Year (late January to late February), witness dragons dancing through Chinatown streets. The annual parade starts on Mott Street and winds through the neighborhood, with impromptu performances along the way. Warm up afterward with Joe’s Shanghai famous soup dumplings.
4. Go Sledding in Central Park
When snow blankets Central Park, its hills become a sledding paradise. Grab a sled, pick a hill, and slide away! For fewer crowds, venture deeper into the park — you might even find yourself in a friendly snowball fight.
5. Explore Pop-Up Shops
During the holiday season, temporary pop-up shops appear in Union Square Park, Columbus Circle, and Bryant Park. Many items are handcrafted, making them perfect for unique souvenirs or gifts.
6. See the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Nothing says holidays like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Watch the Rockettes perform festive dances and catch a special appearance by Santa Claus. Stick around at the stage door afterward to meet some of the Rockettes and get your program signed.
7. Tour the Fifth Avenue Holiday Display Windows
Feast your eyes on elaborate holiday displays along Fifth Avenue:
- Bergdorf Goodman: Start at 58th Street.
- Saks Fifth Avenue: Enjoy the spectacular holiday light show.
- Macy’s, Herald Square: Don’t miss the animated winter scenes in its window displays, made famous by the classic film Miracle on 34th Street.
NYC’s holiday magic is alive through these experiences, whether you’re skating, shopping, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Text Copyright © gousa.in
