How to Make the Most of Magical NYC Holiday Season: Ultimate Guide for December Travelers!

New York City during the holiday season is like stepping into a festive wonderland! The city dresses up in dazzling lights, decorations, and a contagious holiday spirit.

Unique activities to enjoy in NYC during the festive season

Winter Wonderland Decor: The entire city transforms with twinkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and breathtaking window displays. Don’t miss the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree—a must-see spectacle.
Ice Skating: Lace up your skates! The rink at Rockefeller Center, and the Wollman Rink at Central Park offer a magical experience, surrounded by skyscrapers and holiday cheer.
Holiday Markets: Explore the charming holiday markets like Bryant Park’s Winter Village or Union Square Holiday Market. Find unique gifts, artisanal crafts, and delicious seasonal treats.
Broadway Shows: Catch a special holiday-themed Broadway performance or a classic show. The atmosphere is electric, and some productions have unique seasonal twists.
New Year’s Eve in Times Square: It’s iconic but can be crowded! Join the massive crowd to watch the ball drop or find a rooftop party for a stunning view of the festivities.
Holiday Lights Bus Tour: Take a bus or walking tour to see the best holiday lights and decorations across different neighborhoods, like Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, known for its extravagant displays.
Hot Chocolate & Treats: Warm up with NYC’s best hot chocolates and seasonal treats. Serendipity 3, and Jacques Torres Chocolate at the Grand Central Terminal are fantastic spots.
Museum Exhibits: Explore holiday-themed exhibitions at museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Museum of Natural History.
Holiday Music & Performances: Enjoy festive concerts, choir performances, and special holiday-themed events at various venues across the city.
Shopping: Dive into holiday shopping extravaganzas at flagship stores like Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdale’s, each decked out in holiday glory.

Pack smartly for the winter weather

Be ready for chilly temperatures, usually ranging from 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F) in December. Layers, a good coat, gloves, and a scarf will keep you cozy as you dive into the festive vibes of NYC during this magical time of the year!

Warm Clothing: Layer up! Pack thermal underwear, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and a heavy winter coat. A waterproof jacket or coat with a hoodie can be handy if it snows or rains.
Pants: Consider packing thick pants or jeans for warmth. You might also want to bring waterproof pants if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Umbrella: While it’s not solely for snow, it’s handy for rainy days that often accompany winter weather.
Chargers & Power Banks: Cold weather can drain device batteries faster, so carry chargers and power banks for your electronics.
Skin Protection: Cold weather can be harsh on the skin. Pack moisturizer, lip balm, and sunscreen (yes, even in winter) to protect your skin from windburn and UV rays bouncing off the snow.

Winter Accessories: Don’t forget gloves, a scarf, and a hat to keep warm. Opt for ones made of wool or fleece for extra insulation.

Available in different colors.

Socks: Pack wool or thermal socks to keep your feet warm and dry.

Footwear: Comfortable waterproof boots are a must. Look for ones with good traction to navigate through snow and ice without slipping.

Dine in style!

Available in different colors.

Remember, layers are your best friend in dealing with fluctuating temperatures. And if you plan on spending significant time outdoors, having the right gear will make your holiday experience in NYC much more enjoyable despite the winter chill!

tips to make your NYC winter holiday trip even smoother

Transportation: Expect increased crowds and traffic due to holiday shoppers and tourists. Plan extra time for getting around the city. The subway remains a reliable and convenient option.
Reservations: Restaurants, shows, and popular attractions can get booked up quickly during this season. Make reservations in advance to secure your spot.
Budget: Keep in mind that prices might be higher during the holiday season, especially for accommodations and certain activities. Having a budget and booking early can help manage costs.
Early Sunset: Days are shorter with earlier sunsets, around 4:30-5:00 pm, so plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
Crowds: Expect crowds, especially in iconic spots like Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and popular holiday markets. Try visiting early in the day to avoid the busiest times.
Safety: Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Be cautious of pickpockets, and keep your belongings secure.
Holiday Closures: Some attractions might have altered hours or be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, so check schedules in advance.
Local Events: Keep an eye out for local events, parades, and special holiday-themed activities. There are often pop-up events and festive gatherings throughout the city.
New Year’s Eve: If you plan to celebrate in Times Square, arrive early, dress warmly, and be prepared to stay put for a while due to the crowd control measures.

How much do I tip in New York CIty?

Tipping in New York City: It’s customary to tip in NYC, especially during the holidays. Plan to tip hotel staff, servers, tour guides, and others providing services.
- - Hotel Staff: $1-$2 for carrying luggage or hailing a cab. $1-$5 per night for housekeeping.
  - Servers at Restaurants: 15%-20% of the total bill before tax is standard, but you can opt for the lower end of this range if desired.
  - Tour Guides: For private tours, around $10-$20 per person per day can be reasonable. For group tours, $3-$5 per person is also acceptable.
  - Transportation Services: Rounding up to the nearest dollar for taxis or adding a 10%-15% tip is customary. For private drivers, 15%-20% is common.
  - Other Services: 15%-20% for services like spa treatments, hairdressers, or personal services.

These figures are more conservative and can be adjusted based on your satisfaction with the service received. It’s always a good practice to tip within your means and in consideration of the quality of service provided.

How to plan your trip to New York City

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Travel Tip(s)

Scan for seasonal deals before booking your stay.

If you have a bar fridge in your hotel room, check with reception whether the content is on the house, or pay as you use.

Lastly, embrace the festive atmosphere! New York City during the holiday season is a unique experience filled with joy, lights, and countless opportunities to create lasting memories. Enjoy every moment of the magic!