As Perry Como sings in his Christmas classic, “There’s no place like home for the holidays”, but New York City is certainly a close second in places to be during the most wonderful time of the year. If NYC is your home, consider yourself lucky to live in the base of all of the best Christmas movies as well as the most stunning shop windows, illuminating decorations, spectacular events, and adorable seasonal cuisines and collectibles. So whether you’re just visiting the Big Apple or you’re a local looking for that hint of holiday spirit in your own backyard, we’ve provided the perfectly festive yet fabulous list for this Christmas season.
-Amber Lyons
SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, MIDTOWN
611 Fifth Avenue
If you’re looking to discover that perfect gift or simply view the world-famous holiday window display, Saks is go-to for fashion lovers and sightseers alike. This year’s theme is Disney’s Snow White, welcoming children as well as children-at-heart. They will even host several Snow White-themed holiday breakfasts for the whole family to enjoy.
THE CARLYLE HOTEL, UPPER EAST SIDE
35 East 76th Street
Offering a holiday morning tea during the weekends and some of the most upscale hangouts at the Bemelmans Bar, this world-famous Manhattan hotel is your luxurious home away from home for the holidays.
TIFFANY AND CO BLUE BOX CAFE, MIDTOWN
727 Fifth Avenue
With its grand opening less than a month ago, the adorably chic Blue Box Cafe literally allows guest to have Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Just after finding a beautiful piece of Tiffany’s jewelry, step inside for tea time and feel just like Holly Golightly.
ROCKEFELLER TREE LIGHTING, MIDTOWN
30 Rockefeller Plaza
Illuminating midtown, the largest Christmas Tree in New York City is sure to put anyone in a festive spirit.
NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN’S WINTER WONDERLAND BALL, BRONX PARK
2900 Southern Boulevard
December 15th
Supporting children’s educational program, this black-tie event has attracted guests such as Anne Hathaway, Georgina Bloomberg, Tinsley Mortimer, and more. Book your table at this glamourous winter wonderland here.
THE PLAZA HOTEL, UPPER EAST SIDE
768 5th Avenue
This monumental hotel is another great spot to reside, from a tourist’s visit to a local’s stay-cation. Live like a true Eloise by indulging in a Christmas dinner at the Todd English Food Hall, enjoying tea at The Palm Court, or shopping the exclusive holiday artwork of Michael Storrings.
DAVID H. KOCH THEATRE, UPPER WEST SIDE
20 Lincoln Center Plaza
David H Koch The Nutcracker – Image Courtesy of Andrea Mohin
Experience The Nutcracker, one of the most monumental ballets and musical compositions, at the world-renowned David H. Koch Theatre.
WOLLMAN RINK, CENTRAL PARK
830 Fifth Avenue
Wollman Rink – Image Courtesy of Miguel Sanz
For the more hands-on holiday-fan, make the most of the chilly New York City weather and go ice skating in the heart of Central Park.
UNION SQUARE HOLIDAY MARKET, EAST VILLAGE
14th Street & Union Square West
Shop for unique, handmade treasures for your loved ones at New York City’s most buzzing street markets.
BERGDORF GOODMAN, UPPER EAST SIDE
754 Fifth Avenue
Another fashion hotspot on and off the holiday season, Bergdorf Goodman is the place to be for shopping and window viewing. 2017 “To New York, With Love” windows are modern as they are luxurious.
