As a native New Yorker, the December season is my favorite time of year in the city. Yes, it is crowded at Rockefeller Center, and yes, the subway is really hot when you have three layers and a puffer on. However, there is a sort of magical whimsy in the air when the twinkling lights blend, and the giving season to spend time with friends, family and loved ones begins.
Here are the top seven things you need to do, and one piece of advice: just because a place is praised on social media, doesn’t mean it’s good.
Rockefeller Tree
The tree is iconic, but be prepared. You will get crushed and almost lose members of your group on the way to the tree. I would skip ice skating here as it is likely full, but the Prometheus statue is gorgeous, so go downstairs and check it out!
st patricks cathedral
It’s a respite in the hustle and bustle of the street. This humongous Catholic church is calmly quiet and serene. The scent of incense envelops you, and make sure to enjoy the gorgeous architecture and nativity scene at the front.
Bryant Park WINter Market + Library
If you get overstimulated by the overcrowded winter market (me too), take a look at the beautiful architecture inside the library. Now, usually tourists are not allowed in the Rose Reading Room, but if you are going solo, you will blend right in. The ceiling is breathtaking, and the rest of the library is a sight to be explored as well.
The Strand
The Strand is a bookstore that sells both cool second-hand finds and new & popular books. I love the Strand value section for cheap books, but they have something for everyone. This is my favorite bookstore, and it is also the setting of one of my favorite holiday shows, “Dash & Lily.”
Elizabeth Street Garden
Elizabeth St. Garden in NoLita (North of Little Italy) is one of my favorite places in the city. While yes, in the winter it is hard to appreciate as much as when the garden blooms in the spring/summer, the place is beautifully adorned for the holidays.
Ice skating in dumbo
Skating in DUMBO feels cinematic, especially with the bridge looming overhead and the skyline glowing at night. It’s far less chaotic than Midtown rinks and much more relaxed, making it ideal if you actually want to enjoy skating. Plus, it’s easier on your wallet, which is always a win in NYC.
Christmas Spectacular
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is pure holiday tradition, from the precision of the Rockettes to the larger-than-life set pieces. Even if you’ve seen it before, it somehow feels magical every single time. It’s nostalgic, festive and one of those experiences that instantly puts you in the holiday spirit.
Central Park
Central Park in the winter feels like stepping into a snow globe, even when there isn’t actual snow. Walking through the park gives you a quiet break from the chaos of the city while still feeling unmistakably New York. Whether you’re strolling, people-watching or just warming up with coffee, it’s beautiful year-round.
The West Village
The West Village is charming no matter the season, but during the holidays, it feels especially cozy and alive. The streets are lined with brownstones, small shops, and cafés that make wandering around feel so relaxing. The new Tashkent supermarket on West 4th is a must-stop for incredible Eastern European and Uzbek food — comforting, authentic, and hard to find elsewhere.
While New Yorkers often complain about how unaware the tourists walking around are, the city is enchanting. Just enjoy the sights with your family, friends, or significant other. We locals sometimes forget that we choose to stay here because it’s amazing and breathtaking.