10 Holiday Magical Places
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#2 of 10: New York, New York
A trip to New York City during the holidays is a feast for the senses -- fanciful, elaborately-decorated department store windows beckon to passers-by; trees twinkle with colorful lights (including the nearly 80-foot one at Rockefeller Plaza); sidewalk vendors send the aroma of roasting chestnuts into the cold winter air; and the songs of carolers bring a small-town feel to this thriving metropolis. The season begins with Santa's grand arrival at the conclusion of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and ends with a flourish when the ball drops in Times Square, signaling the arrival of the New Year. The weeks in-between are unquestionably the most magical time of year in this bustling city.
We've chosen ten can't-miss things to do in the Big Apple during the holiday season. Take a look at the links below to get planning notes, kip tips, and maps for what is truly an unforgettable experience:
- The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade: The most exciting moment of this 80-year-old parade is the same every year, but the anticipation of it only adds to the fun for kids: Santa's much-heralded arrival at Macy's and his temporary home in Santaland, the unofficial signal that the Christmas season has begun. More than 3million spectators line the route of this famous parade each year and if you can't get there in person, you can join the millions who will be watching from their television sets on NBC at 9 a.m. ... Read more
- Macy's Santaland: Hop aboard the Macyland Express for a magical journey through the Enchanted Forest to the North Pole that culminates with a private visit with Santa. Along the way kids stare transfixed at the expansive Christmas scenes, marveling at the model train displays... Read more
- Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular: It's been a sell-out hit for more than 75 years, and there's a reason — seeing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is truly awe-inspiring from the moment you walk into the opulent theater until the lights come back up at the show's conclusion. Whether you cathc the show at the historic theater or in your hometown, prepare to be captivated ... Read more
- Tour of Store Window Displays: Fanciful department store windows have become a hallmark of the holidays in New York City, eagerly awaited each year by tourists and locals alike. The stores plan all year for the unveilings each November, protecting the top-secret themes and design...Read more
- Rockefeller Plaza: Although trees are brightly decorated all over New York City, none compare to the majesty of the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree. Set amongst a glorious display of holiday decorations throughout the Plaza (including the gossamer-winged, horn blowing angels that guide... Read more
- Historic Richmond Town: Travel back through time at Historic Richmond Town, a living history museum and village in the heart of Staten Island that was originally populated by colonists in the 1690s. During December, visitors are surrounded by the sights and sounds of Christmases past... Read more
- Lighting of the World's Largest Menorah: The miracle of Hanukkah takes on even greater significance for kids as they look upon the 32-foot, 4,000-pound, golden candelabra that grandly takes the spotlight near Central Park on the corner of 5th Avenue and 59th Street. The celebration begins at 5:30 p.m. on... Read more
- Holiday Events in Central Park: Central Park is a year-round destination for visitors to New York City, but special events during the month of December make it a can't-miss spot for families -- and best of all, the events are free and don't require advance registration. The season kicks off December 7... Read more
- New York City Ballet's Nutcracker: Seeing The Nutcracker is a right of passage for many children; seeing the New York City Ballet's version of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The holiday classic takes on even greater grandeur here, with more than 100 dancers... Read more
- New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show: Leave the holiday hustle and bustle of Manhattan behind and head to the Bronx for this beloved family event. Now in its 18th year, from November 21, 2009 to January 10, 2010, visitors to the Holiday Train Show get a birds-eye view of nearly 150 miniaturized five-borough landmarks... Read more
- Grand Central Terminal Holiday Laser Show, Holiday Market, and Train Show: Grand Central Terminal is a kid-favorite New York City destination throughout the year, but the Holiday Fair, Laser Light Show, and Holiday Train Show make it even more of a must-do. Vendors selling unusual, handmade... Read more
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