The "most wonderful time of the year" in New York

There is always something going on in New York, and when (sing it)  "the most wonderfull time of the year" comes along, they really know how to go all out! Christmastime in New York City is magic; Vegas has nothing on these lights! Thousands of tourists pour into New York City every year for the holiday festivities. It is definitely the busiest time of year there, and with all of the excitement and preparation that goes into making it a city-wide holiday celebration, it is no surprise!

The Christmas tree at Bryant Park is always a big attraction, and the site has a great ice skating rink, that does not charge an admission fee. South Street Seaport sets up a massive 40-foot Norwegian Spruce, shimmering with lights. From November 25, through Christmas Eve, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays the Big Apple Chorus will be performing. A 40-foot fir will be lit underneath the Washington Square Arch at Washington Square Park, creating a brilliantly festive sight in the East Village. The Winter Garden Holiday Lights spectacle dazzles, and is a bit different of an exhibit from the standard tree displays. With 45-foot palm trees, it may seem a little out of the ordinary for New York, but decked out with 100,000 sparkling lights it makes an incredible sight!

The major department stores put on fabulous window displays, in which Macy’s, Barney’s, Saks, and Bloomingdales do their best to out-do each other year after year. Each one amazing, people happily wait in long lines stretching around the city blocks to see them. Visiting Santa at the Macy’s Herald Square is a tradition for many, and some folks will claim with conviction that though there are many imposters, the true Santa Claus exists here.

Even the Museum of Natural History, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the New York Botanical Garden get in on the action, and create unbelievable exhibits that will amaze the eyes of spectators both young and old alike. Since July, people have been crafting origami figures that will be on display at the Museum of Natural History. This year’s theme includes a focus on the blue whale and giant dinosaurs, which will surely be a treat for anyone visiting this holiday season.

And then there is the most famous of all holiday sights in New York City: the massive tree at Rockefeller Center, which alone brings thousands to gaze in wonder at its radiance. For many, it is the single most important symbol of the holidays, and it is always a pleasure to witness, no matter how many times you have done so before.

Planning a trip to New York City during Christmas is perhaps the best time to do so. Staying in midtown will keep you right in the thick of the action, and it's a nice central vantage point for traveling all over Manhattan. These are some great hotels that will offer maximum luxury when its time to retreat from all of your reveling: The Plaza Hotel, The Pierre, The London Hotel NYC, and The Four Seasons Hotel. The best part about these awesome hotels in addition to being amazing places to stay while in New York, is that when you book through us, you will receive Exclusive Complimentary Perks!