Christmas is a magical time and spending it in the city can be even more special. The twinkling lights, the brilliant decorations, and music in the streets… a New York Christmas is like no other. Whether you want to feel nostalgic, stop by famous movie locations, or explore the city with a festive lens – check out NYC’s most magical Christmas landmarks.
Holiday Windows
Stroll down between Fifth and Sixth Ave to window shop with less shopping and more aweing. Start at Macy’s on 34th Street to find spectacular Christmas themed displays full of cute, moving characters and fun, fashionable mannequins. While holiday windows are also on display at Lord & Taylor, Bloomingdale’s, and Barney’s, the biggest Christmas wonder can be found at Saks – where a light show plays against the building every 10 minutes, accompanied by music. It’s the ultimate backdrop for imagining you’re in your own movie...
Macy's Santaland
Once dropped off by the Thanksgiving Day Parade, Santa Claus takes up residence on the eighth floor of Macy’s. Have your own miracle on 34th Street at Santaland, an indoor holiday landscape that welcomes guests to a magical North Pole setting. Say hello to elves as you walk over the Rainbow Bridge and stop by Santa’s workshop. If you want to go directly to Mr. Claus, you can get an express pass – but personally we think this wonderland is too magical to miss. Just be sure to make a reservation to catch Santa before Christmas Day.
Winter Village
Next stop: the village. Head to Bryant Park and get cozy in The Lodge, or just wander around the park and browse its 170 kiosks as you sip on hot chocolate. You’ll find plenty of delicious food and a variety of art, jewelry, fuzzy pajamas, and more potential christmas gifts — even for your pets!
And don’t miss the Rink in the center of it all. Whether you want to rent $20 skates, bring your own, or simply enjoy watching amateurs trying their best on the ice, this free ice rink promises a holly-jolly time for everyone.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Standing between 60-100 feet tall and a yearly tradition since 1931, this special Christmas tree lives outside Rockefeller Center between West 48th and 51st Street and Fifth and Sixth Avenue. The lighting of the tree marks the beginning of the holidays with a huge public ceremony – which is now even broadcast on live TV. Once lit, this grand tree is passed by half a million people over the holiday season — taking pictures, skating, shopping, or on their way to a show...
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Across the street from Rockefeller Center on Sixth Ave is Radio City Music Hall. And Christmas here is spectacular. For over eight decades, this 90-minute show has been dazzling audiences with the Rockettes’ legendary kicks and mesmerizing scenery. And while there’s something new every year, audiences can be assured to see Santa, “the Parade of the Wooden Soldiers”, and “the Living Nativity.”
A timeless show for all ages — it’s no surprise why so many families make the Christmas Spectacular a holiday tradition.
Serendipity 3
Take a break with a meal at Serendipity 3 — maybe share a treat just like John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale in the movie of the same name (Serendipity). This whimsical restaurant is full of playful oddities such as disco balls and arches of Christmas ornaments. Their desserts are the highlight of any visit — the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate is amazing and comes in original, caramel, mint, white chocolate, and other fun flavors.
It can get pretty busy so it’s best book reservations. But walk-ins are still welcomed and you can check out awesome souvenirs while you wait.
Central Park
There are many movie landmarks in this park but some of the best are from Christmas movies: Bethesda Terrace featured in both Home Alone 2 and Elf, the Gapstow Bridge in Home Alone 2 where Kevin first meets the Pigeon Lady, and Wollman Rink where John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale have another Serendipity moment. Enjoying the park’s beauty is nice but there are plenty of fun winter activities to do too... like playing in the snow.
Embrace your inner child and have a snowball fight with friends like Buddy Elf by Pinebank Arch in the south west portion of the park. But if snowballs aren’t your style, grab a sled and cruise down some hills. For a fast adventure go to Pilgrim Hill near 72nd Street and Fifth Ave for the steepest slopes, or Cedar Hill between 76th and 79th Street for a less crowded area.
Now we've got your attention, how about we get to know each other a little better? We'll start, with something you probably don't know about us...
SpareRoom are proud partners with Breaking Ground – one of NYC's leading homeless charities, who provide permanent supportive housing and outreach services for those on the streets that need it most. Every month, we match the amount won in our Live Rent Free competition and donate the same to Breaking Ground. It's just one of the ways we can help give everyone the home they deserve.
Want to get involved? You already are, as long as you're entering Live Rent Free every month. Find out more here >>> **Live Rent Free**