Have a Happy Holiday Season in NYC!
Published: November 23rd, 2014“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…” – Andy Williams
Who doesn’t love the holidays in New York City? Kate, Hotel Giraffe’s Sales Coordinator, sure does! Growing up on Long Island, she has been lucky enough to experience this magical time in NYC since she was a little girl. As we count down the days to the 2014 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the kickoff for the holiday season, Kate shares with us a few of her favorite attractions.
New York City during the holiday season is one of the most spectacular times of the year! There are so many events to choose from; whether it’s going to the holiday shops, viewing the holiday windows or seeing the Rockefeller Center Tree. I still remember visiting the city as a child, and now that I live here it continues to be one of my favorite times of the year! Here are my ‘must see’ recommendations for New York City’s holiday season!
Holiday Shops
There are numerous places in the city to explore the small boutique stores with jewelry, candles, handbags and clothing as well as specialty holiday items. The markets also have an amazing assortment of food vendors to choose from with specialty chocolates and baked goods! So stop by Bryant Park’s Winter Village, Grand Central’s Holiday Fair (which is also hosting the holiday train show), Union Square’s Holiday Market or Columbus Circle’s Holiday Market to find all of your holiday needs!
Rockefeller Center Holiday Tree
Of course no one can forget the famous tree in Rockefeller Center! Take pictures under the giant tree and go ice skating on one of the most famous ice rinks in the world! It’s a time with your family that you will remember forever! If you are in New York City on Wednesday December 3rd, you will be able to see the tree lighting, quite possibly the biggest event of the season. It’s an incredible time with live performances from various artists, but be sure to get there early for a good view. Don’t forget to dress extra warm!
Holiday Window Displays:
Every year luxury department stores decorate their holiday windows with extravagant seasonal scenes. It’s mesmerizing for children and families to see, you can literally feel the magic. Viewing lines tend to run long, but they move quickly. To be dazzled, plan to visit the windows at Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys and Bergdorf Goodman during your holiday trip.
Toy Stores and Holiday Shows:
You’ve never seen a toy store quite like the famous FAO Schwarz which is the oldest and quite possibly the most unique toy store in the United States. There you’ll find floor after floor of wonderful gift ideas! I also recommend The American Girl Place, where you can reserve tea parties with your American Girl dolls and shop for their holiday outfits. If you would like to schedule a tea party, make sure to inform your concierge ahead of time as reservations are incredibly hard to come by! And who doesn’t love Legos? The Lego Store, with every kind of Lego to choose from and amazing life size Lego statues, is a hit for boys and girls of all ages. Insider’s Tip: A perfect place to eat and wind down after all of the walking and shopping in the city is a special dessert place called “Serendipity 3”, best known for its Frrrozen Hot Chocolates!
My favorite seasonal show to see is Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular at the Radio City Music Hall. Travelers and natives alike can watch the famous Rockettes, sing and dance(and kick!!!) to their favorite holiday songs. It’s a fantastic time for the whole family! If you are looking for a quiet night out, grab dinner and then go see “The Nutcracker Ballet” at Lincoln Center. It is always an amazing performance by some of the best professional dancers and will make any adult feel like a kid again.
What are your favorite things to do during the holidays? Please feel welcome to share your recommendations for your fellow travelers and our team! If you would like further assistance contact our concierge team at the Hotel Elysee, Hotel Giraffe , Casablanca Hotel, or Library Hotel!
Happy Holidays from all of us at The Library Hotel Collection!