The Best Things to Do in NYC in December

by Anne-Marie Rutella

Overview

New York City takes on a different vibe in December. Holiday decorations sparkle throughout the city, and a fresh dusting of snow makes everything look clean and new. Despite the cold, New York still attracts a great deal of tourists in the winter.
Outdoor Winter Fun

Outdoor ice skating is a quintessential New York City winter sport offered at many Manhattan locations. Both Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park have rinks, and Central Park has two, the Wollman and Lasker rinks. Central Park also boasts lovely hills for sledding. During December, department stores such as Macy's, Tiffany & Co. and FAO Schwartz try to outdo each other with gorgeous window displays. Strolling through the city looking at the festively decorated windows is a favorite and frugal wintertime hobby of locals and tourists alike. The smell of street vendors roasting chestnuts is a staple in winter, and even the Bronx Zoo gets in on the act, hosting its Holiday Lights exhibit after dark.

Christmas Extravaganzas

Rockefeller Center, at 50th Street and Fifth Avenue, is famous for its annual lighting ceremony of the mammoth evergreen that overlooks the iconic ice-skating rink--it can be viewed throughout December. While there, you can view the entire skyline, including the Empire State Building (lit up in holiday colors) from the Top of the Rock observation deck. Down the street, Radio City Music Hall has offered its annual Christmas Spectacular, starring the Rockettes, for more than 75 years. Segments of the show include the "Nutcracker," "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers" and the "Living Nativity." You can also visit Macy's flagship location at 34th Street and Herald Square. Mrs. Claus and Santa's helpers guide visitors through a festively decorated maze of the North Pole to get to Santa himself, who happily listens to children's secret Christmas wishes.
Times Square / New Year's Eve

Celebrate New Year's Eve at the "Crossroads of the World," where you can watch the ball drop from atop One Times Square. Be sure to dress warmly, arrive early for a prime viewing location, and travel as lightly as possible. No bags or knapsacks are allowed in the area for security reasons. Keep in mind that drinking in public is illegal in New York City. Some Broadway shows and restaurants will be open, and while you're there, you can check out the Toys 'R' Us giant Ferris wheel full of fun characters.