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Christmas time in NYC. What magic!
Our family packed up the car and managed to fit a week's worth of sight seeing into one long weekend this past Christmas. I've lived around New York for my entire life, but there is always something new to see.
We started with, where else, Times Square at night! We stayed at the trendy 'W' hotel just a stone's throw from the famous New Year's Eve ball. But on the 47th floor, it's amazing how quiet it seems from the noise below.
Next, on to Radio City Music Hall to see the annual Christmas Extravaganza and the world famous Rockettes. A backstage tour revealed that many of the performers are from all over the US and have dreamed of being a Rockette since childhood. There was still time left to brave the crowds to see the magnificently lit tree towering over the Rockerfeller Center Sakting rink.
It is hard to descibe the view that we had the next morning on a crystal clear day from the top of '60 Rock.' You can see north to Central Park, east to the Brooklyn Bridge, South to the Statue of Liberty, and West to New Jersey' Pallisades. Spectacular!
The Christmas tree at the Rockerfeller Center rink is ablaze a night. But the best time to avoid the crowds is early in the day. Be sure to stop by NBC sutdios Today Show and also the Saks Fifth Avenue windows which are famous for their ornate holiday decorations.
We stopped at St. Patricks Cathedral which was even more crowded than the Museum of Natural History. But it is a special place at this time of year.
To cap off the commercialism of the season, we made a pilgrimage to Apple's eye popping glass store across from The Plaza Hotel. It makes you want to buy.
We will no doubt be back soon for another Christmas visit. This trip only scratched the surface.
Comments
Jimbo says...
Wow, great photos. It looks like New York really pull out all the stops for Christmas. And manage to keep it classy too. Its certainly a city I want to visit very soon, maybe at Christmas as it looks special.
Posted 551 days ago.
Hugo says...
Great pics Chris - captures the NY NY Christmas spirit. Never been there around Christmas but will make a point of doing so.
Knowing NY can get rather chilly though I will remember my hat, ear muffs, long johns and hot water bottle! I'm sure the bustle keeps you warm though.
Posted 540 days ago.
victoria says...
Oh, that makes me want to hop on a plane and go right now! Great pics too. I'd agree with Hugo about the chill factor - I've never known cold like New York winters, and recommend those duvet coats all Manhattanites seem to wear: the top floor at Saks is ace for luxurious fur-trimmed ankle-length macs that keep you snug while your nose turns blue. (also handy for sleeping under should your plane get snowed in at JFK - grr)
Posted 540 days ago.
Amelia says...
Looks great - I went there for Christmas 2005 and had a fantastic time. That city definitely has a special atmosphere over the festive period! I'd really recommend going to the rotating restaurant at the Marriott in Time Square. We went there on Christmas Eve, and it was pretty magical. Great food and cocktails too!
Posted 497 days ago.
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