Last Updated on June 22, 2020 by Amanda Stancati

No one does Christmas spirit quite like NYC. Filled with hurried streets, hectic shoppers, and endearing festivities, the city’s graceful frenzy adds to the holiday cheer. While NYC holiday traditions may be tourist traps, they’re worth every second. Here are five magical experiences to make Christmas in NYC the perfect holiday.

Ice Skating
Thoughts of a classic New York holiday experience bring skating at Rockefeller Center to mind. Lace up your skates and find locals and tourists gliding by the 85-foot tree, lit with 45,000 lights until January 7. Skating on the world-famous rink is a little pricey ($27-$30 for adults during peak season + $12 skate rental) – and there’s room for only 150 skaters which can mean long wait times. Alternatives equal in ambiance include Central Park’s larger Wollman Rink ($11.25-$18 on weekends + $8 rentals) and Winter Village at Bryant Park (free general admission + $15-$19 skate rentals).

Holiday Window Displays
Even the most discerning shoppers can embrace window shopping during the holidays in NYC. Adorned with elaborate displays, stores become an attraction inviting admiring eyes and shoppers alike. Stroll along Fifth Avenue stopping at the likes of Saks, Lord & Taylor, and Bergdorf Goodman. Macy’s is always a favourite; as well as the famous toy store, FAO Schwarz, known for its giant floor piano and movie cameos.

Radio City Music Hall
Until December 31, tourists can indulge in the family-friendly holiday variety show, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, at the world’s largest indoor theatre. An American classic, the Rockettes have been kicking up their heels since 1932. Each year the show is better than the last. Escape to a winter wonderland and see a living nativity, watch as ice skaters, Santa Clauses, and dancing teddy bears take the stage, and take a 3D ride to the North Pole during this exciting performance.

The Nutcracker Ballet
Get carried away into Tschaikovsky’s enchanting melodies and George Balanchine’s stunning choreography at the New York City Ballet until January 3. First performed in 1954, the Nutcracker is a timeless treasure, whether it’s your first time watching or an annual delight.

Holiday Train Show
The New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show, on until January 19 in the Bronx, showcases model trains zooming past more than 150 iconic landmarks along its quarter-mile track. Highlights include the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Yankee Stadium, and Radio City Music Hall. This mini-city is created entirely of natural materials – barks, leaves, pinecones, and more – envisioned by artist Paul Busse and his team.

Wishing you the happiest of holidays in NYC!
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