Holiday In New York City

There’s nothing like a visit to New York City during the holiday season. For those who want to venture out of the East End for some additional cheer, I’ve created a list of my top picks of festive things to do and see in the Big Apple.

Because it’s New York City, I find it’s best to stick to the classics. Here are some of my top holiday destinations:

Tiffany Blue Box Café

Located on the fourth floor of the flagship Tiffany & Co. on Fifth Avenue, this café serves American classics. If you can get a reservation, it’s definitely worth the visit. I went last year and, spoiler alert, there were multiple ladies dressed as Audrey Hepburn — a site worth seeing.

The Plaza Hotel

Every year I stop by The Plaza on Fifth Avenue for a glass of champagne and some holiday cheer. It’s the quintessential New York holiday experience. You can even honor The Plaza’s most famous fictional resident with an Eloise-themed tea in The Palm Court.

Bergdorf Goodman Windows

After The Plaza, be sure to stop and gaze upon the Bergdorf Goodman window displays, called “Bergdorf GoodTimes.” These Fifth Avenue displays mix fantasy, fashion, and surprise. This year’s windows evoke the spirit of a holiday fête.

Ice Skating

My pick would be Central Park’s Wollman Rink on Fifth Avenue. Stop by the Central Park Carousel while you’re there.

Serendipity 3

The legendary restaurant and general store founded in 1954 later became the backdrop for the 2001 film “Serendipity” with John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale. Try the famous Frrrozen Hot Chocolate.

Catch A Show

Although your initial reaction might be to avoid midtown this time of year, it’s worth the hustle and bustle to see the Radio City Rockettes, a Broadway play, or George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker” at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

The Tree

Of course, it’s not a holiday trip to the city without seeing the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. My suggestion: Make the trip over later in the evening when the crowds have died down. It’s worth fighting sleep to get the tree all, or partially, to yourself.

jessica@indyeastend.com
@hamptondaze