Before Billy and I moved to New York City in November 2020, we had an annual tradition of leaving Los Angeles in mid-December and flying to my family’s home in Massachusetts. We would then take the train to Grand Central and spend a few days in NYC at Christmastime. This was something that I looked forward to year after year. Last year was our first official Christmas living in New York City. Things were a bit different because of Covid, but we still had an amazing holiday (which actually felt like a month-long celebration). As we get closer to the holidays, I looked back on my previous trips and created a Christmas in NYC guide which is filled with recommendations on places to visit, dine, and where you’ll find the most holiday spirit.
PS: If you’re interested in an even more in-depth look at the city during holidays, you can read about our past trips (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and our first Christmas living here).
After the sun sets, stop by Saks Fifth Avenue’s light display. The ten story building is covered in over 700,000 LED lights which change colors throughout the 5 minute show. This spectacular display happens every 10 minutes throughout the evening. It starts at 4:35pm and goes until 11:35pm. (Midtown—611 5th Ave, NY.)
Each time I walked by St. Patrick’s Cathedral I’d take a photo of the Neo-gothic architecture and wonder what the inside looked like. A few years ago, my mother and I walked in right before a mass began and I couldn’t believe how impressive it was. (Midtown—Fifth Avenue, between 50th/51st Streets.)
I was introduced to Jacques Torres from the original Gossip Girl. You’ll find freshly baked cookies, chocolate truffles, bonbons, various tasty gifts, and of course hot cocoa to bring with you to Central Park. There are a few locations throughout the city, but the one that’s closest to the park is on the Upper West Side. (Upper Westside—285 Amsterdam Ave, NY.)
Starting back on our first trip in 2016, when we stayed at the Park Central Hotel (just a few blocks away), we started a tradition of visiting Central Park. We began our day by going for a stroll and ending up at Wollman Rink where we watched the ice skaters as holiday music played in the background. Each year that followed, we looked forward to this fun ritual. Last December, a few days before Christmas, there was a blizzard, so we ventured out the next day to see what the park looked like covered in a fresh blanket of snow. It was beyond breathtaking and I’m counting down the days until the first NYC snowstorm. (Borders the Upper East Side, Upper Westside, Harlem, and Midtown.)
Every year (aside from 2020), it’s been a tradition to view the Rockefeller Christmas Tree in person. I’ve noticed if we go around 11:30pm the crowds have thinned out making it a more enjoyable experience. This world renowned tree is lit every day from 6am to 12pm. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve it stays lit for 24 hours. (Midtown—45 Rockefeller Plaza, NY.)
Having dinner at Gnoccheria by Luzzo’s isn’t specific to the holidays, but this Italian eatery is super-cozy, making it the perfect date night restaurant. You won’t regret ordering the Tris Signature Dish which is what they’re most known for. It’s a shareable tray of homemade gnocchi in three delicious sauces—Pesto Genovese, Quattro Formaggi, and Sorrentina. (East Village—234 E 4th St, NY; reservations are highly recommended.)
Since our first trip to NYC (with last year being an exception), Billy and I have made a point to stop by The Plaza Hotel. There have been many memorable visits (my favorite was the morning of Christmas Eve when it had just started snowing and Santa arrived on his sleigh). Last December, it was disappointing not being able to walk around the shops and visit the Eloise store since the hotel was closed. For my upcoming birthday (December 23rd), we’re having holiday tea at The Palm Court and I couldn’t be more excited! (Midtown—768 5th Ave, NY; reservations are strongly encouraged.)
In the heart of NYC, the Union Square Holiday Market has over 160 vendors displaying their unique and one-of-a-kid creations. You can expect to find artwork, apparel, jewelry, toys, accessories, food, and various gifts that will surely stand out. I love shopping here because my gifts feel more personal and it’s a great way to support small businesses and local artists. (Union Square—14th St, NY. -17th St between Union Square E and Union Square W.)
Last year Billy and I celebrated my birthday at The Greens at Pier 17. We dined inside a private rooftop cabin (complete with a virtual fireplace). It was perfect because we could social distance while still being able to celebrate. This year’s menu differs from last years (I had the most amazing fondue here). There are dishes from different cultures—Southern, Japanese, Latin, and they have a vegan and sweets menu. The Greens is also well-known for their vast selection of cocktails, especially their seasonal menu. You’ll find cold weather favorites like Allspice Blanket, Meri Can Coffee, and Mulled Wine, along with a collection of Old Fashioned drinks. They also all serve up martinis, create your own cocktails, beer, hard seltzer, wine, champagne, and non-alcoholic refreshments. (Financial District—Pier 17 89 South St, NY; reservations are strongly encouraged.)
A few years ago, my family and I had our Christmas Eve dinner at Beauty & Essex. After that, this restaurant rose to the top of my list of favorite places to drink and dine (even shop) at. From its Great Gatsby-esque vibes, jewel-tone bar, mouthwatering dishes, and DJ playing house music…it’s the ideal spot for a date night, cocktails with friends, or Sunday brunch. (Lower East Side—146 Essex St, NY.)
NYC during the Christmas season isn’t complete without walking around and viewing the legendary window displays. Each year, some of the most famous designers and retailers go above and beyond decorating their storefronts, which can simply be described as works of art. This tradition started with Macy’s all the way back in 1874. Here are a few Insta-worthy stores to check…Bloomingdales, Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co., Saks Fifth Avenue, David Yurman, and Macy’s. To see the most, I recommend starting your walk on Fifth Avenue (by The Plaza) and continuing south until you get to 34th St. Then make a left and you’ll end up at Macy’s in Herald Square where there are tons of places to shop. (Midtown—along 5th Avenue and 34th St. Note: Bloomingdales is on 3rd Ave at 59th St.)
One of my favorite traditions is spending an evening sipping hot cocoa while I Christmas shop in Bryant Park’s Winter Village. Once I’m finished, I’ll grab a bite to eat at The Lodge and listen to Christmas music playing over the ice skating rink. (Midtown—Avenue of the Americas, 5th Avenue. – 40th and 42nd Sts; the tree lighting ceremony takes place on December 6, from 6-7pm.)
From the cozy Swiss Alps-inspired bar area to the glistening crystal glass room, Tavern on the Green was the perfect choice for our Thanksgiving dinner. We ordered off the four course prix fixe menu. Everything tasted amazing, but the Bourbon pecan tart with homemade whipped cream was out of this world. Once we were finished, we went out into the courtyard and took photos of the giant Christmas tree. All season long, this iconic Central Park restaurant will be serving up holiday favorites. I’d love to go back and give their brunch a try. (Upper Westside—W 67th St, NY; reservations are encouraged.)
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