Writer Maria Fernanda Torres at Radio City, New York, N.Y.
Photo by Maria Fernanda Torres
By Maria Fernanda Torres
Hi there! Guess what? The season we have all been waiting for is finally here! I know we are busy and stressed with finals, and it can be difficult to enjoy this season when we are so busy. For this reason, I decided to help you out a little, so hear me out! What a great idea would it be to enjoy this season in the most magical city there is?… Yes, New York City!
I’m sure you know of people going to New York City to see Christmas / holiday displays; however, you may have wondered where all these places are. Well, wonder less! Here is a Christmassy New York Guide, just for you!
We will start in Grand Central since most people take Metro North from Connecticut to the city. From Grand Central Terminal exit on 42nd Street and walk west to:
Bryant Park:
830 5th Ave. New York, NY
Transformed into a Holiday market, here you can find many local vendors. From tons of delicious food, and hot cocoa to so many Christmas gift ideas, and an ice-skating ring! If you can, support local businesses this holiday season, and what a great way to do it in the most magical city in the world.
Macy’s At Herald Square:
151 W 34th St, New York, NY
Famous for its holiday window displays, Macy’s is at it again! Walk around to see the displays and beautiful decorations, and why not look around for a bit? If you get here at 10 a.m. when it opens the employees will welcome you by singing and clapping. So fun!
Oculus:
185 Greenwich St. New York, NY
This is probably the most beautiful train station/shopping mall there is in the world. Built after the 9/11 attack, the intention of its design was to resemble a dove leaving a child’s hands, to honor the lives lost this day. It is a one-of-a-kind building, and a must to visit during this time. The decorations are top-notch.
Hudson Yards New York:
30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY
Located next to the Vessel, The Shops at Hudson Yards Christmas decorations were not going to disappoint during this season. Wells Fargo just added an exhibition called Shine Bright, featuring a 32-foot hot air balloon suspended inside the mall. Definitely walk around and enjoy it, and why not see what the stores have to offer?
Tip: Underneath the Hudson Yards you can find the Little Spain Market, delicious for its traditional food, a cozy place to take a little break, and enjoy some coffee.
Chelsea Market:
75 9th Ave, New York, N.Y.
The vibe here is industrial yet modern. The decorations are so cute during the month of December. It is definitely, a great place to visit during this time of year. By the way, since you are here, you should try the No. 1 Tacos! Best tacos ever. Trust me, I’m Mexican. There is also a Christmas display underneath the market, you can buy tickets here. Bring your student
ID! Students have a discount for this display.
Tip: Next to Chelsea Market, you can find the Starbucks Reserve Roastery New York, this is a humongous Starbucks with a bar included. Fancy is combined with the history of Starbucks coffee in one gigantic place.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show:
611 5th Ave, New York, N.Y.
The famous light show at the Fifth Avenue store attracts thousands of tourists every year during this holiday season.
The show starts at 5 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m. The duration of the light show is 4 to 5 minutes and the show takes place every 10 minutes.
Rockefeller Center – Christmas Tree:
30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY
The stapler of Christmas is right here. This iconic, and gigantic Christmas tree is a must to visit! Walk around the Rockefeller Center, take pictures with the tree, and enjoy the beautiful Christmas Angels.
Radio City Music Hall:
1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020
Home to The Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes, this building it’s worth paying the visit by only looking at it. Go ahead and enjoy the view, and take some pictures of yourself with it too!
Giant Red Ornaments:
1251 6th Ave, New York, NY
You can find these cute Christmas displays at 1251 6th Ave, NY. It is just a great exhibit to feel the Christmas spirit and to take pictures with.
Ice skating in Central Park, Wollman Skating Rink:
830 5th Ave. New York, NY
Located in Central Park, the views of this ice-skating rink will leave you breathless. Home to iconic movies like Home Alone 2 and Serendipity. You can click here to see the schedule and to buy tickets. There is also a cafeteria where you can buy hot cocoa and quick bites to keep
yourself warm.
Tip: I recommend going here at night, the view from the city at night is amazing.
I suggest visiting on a weekday because it will be less crowded than on the weekends, but do not let this stop you from going! Also, don’t forget to download the app “NYC Subway” to help you move easily throughout the city.
I hope this guide helps you in your Holiday endeavors! The most important thing is to enjoy what the city has to offer, and embrace the experience!
I will see you next year, with more guides to come, so you can enjoy the cold winter better than ever. For now, I hope you enjoy this season surrounded by people you love. Enjoy this little break, you deserve it.
Happy Holidays!
Maria Fernanda Torres
Maria Fernanda Torres is a writer for The Voice.
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