Best of Christmas in New York

Because I grew up so close to New York City it is inevitable that each year around this time I get a flurry of texts from out of state and international friends looking for recommendations of the best things to do in New York during Christmas time. This list is my favorite things to do during the holiday season.

It's hard to know what's a tourist trap and what is essential, so its best to make a plan before you get there. It's easy to get sucked in to people selling tours or offering you great deals on meals. If you're staying in New York City I suggest Airbnb, it's an easy way to pick your neighborhood location closest to all the things you won't want to miss.

1. Rockefeller Plaza

The closer you get to Christmas, the busier it's going to be but the tree is something absolutely worth seeing. You could take a trip to Top of the Rock, go to NBC studios, enjoy the many stores in the area or even go ice skating right below the tree. It's a Christmas time staple.

2. The storefronts on fifth ave

Another holiday classic, the storefronts on fifth ave and their over the top window displays will dazzle you and make you feel like Christmas as a kid again. As a bonus, you could get some holiday shopping done!

3. Macy's Herald Square

Along with another beautiful window display there's no more classic place to see Santa than Macy's Herald Square. Whether you love Elf or Miracle on 33rd street this store is a holiday classic from the first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 90 years ago.

4. Bryant Park Winter Village

Probably my all time favorite, this winter village is a marketplace for small and local vendors. Another beautiful place to go ice skating, grab some hot chocolate and do your holiday shopping. Tuesday's are free sample nights with all the food vendors so go hungry!

5. Central Park

In my opinion, the best ice skating spot and always with the shortest lines. You can recreate the snowball fight scene from Elf or just walk around, soak in the crisp air and holiday spirit.

6. FAO Shwartz

If you're traveling with kids or just kids at heart FAO Shwartz is guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit. One of the most iconic toy stores in the world, shop for the little one in your life or treat yourself.

7. Radio City Christmas Show

The radio city Christmas spectacular is a classic with the rockettes being international celebrities. However the biggest celebrity comes at the end with Santa Claus himself making his big appearance.

I've always said that New York City in the winter is a snow globe and there are endless things to do to get you in the holiday mood, if you think I missed something that should definitely be on the list let me know in the comments below!