This Christmas will be my first in 22 years not spent with my family. I will be spending my first Christmas away from home in Long Island, with my boyfriend and his family. Growing up, I watched multiple Christmas movies that had NYC featured in them; Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, Eloise at Christmastime and Home Alone. Even though I have lived in New York state my entire life, I have never been to New York City. This Christmas, I am beyond excited to experience the NYC Christmas magic. Here is what's on my list of things to do in NYC this Holiday season:
1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
This annual tradition is free and open to the public. The tree lighting ceremony takes place each December where thousands gather to watch and millions at home watch the live event. The tree remains lit, on display until the first week of January. The tree is a part of Buddy and Jovie's first date in Elf and is also in my personal favorite, Eloise at Christmastime. I am looking forward to seeing the tree in his entirety and this years tree is from Central New York; it was grown in Oneonta.
2. The Plaza Hotel
The Plaza was my childhood dream growing up. After reading the stories of Elosie, Nanny, and Skipperdee living in this classic hotel, I am beyond excited to see this magical location. Home Alone used the Plaza as Kevin's choice of room and board during his time in NYC. Kevin even encountered President Trump in the lobby of the hotel in the movie (an excuse to watch it again to catch a glimpse of what I'm talking about). The Plaza is definitely a higher end establishment to stay in, one that I can not afford! I would love to visit the Eloise Suite or have tea at the Eloise Cafe, but a photo on the carpet-lined staircase will have to do.
3. Wollman Rink in Central Park
This ice skating rink is owned by Donald Trump, who purchased it from the City. This famous ice skating rink charges a fee to skate or to spectate- so might as well lace those skates up, and get out on the ice! My boyfriend is a Hockey player and admitted he's always wanted to go ice skating here. I've never been ice skating and am interested to see how I'll do! This rink has been featured in many Hollywood films, and I can't wait to feel the magic of the holiday season while trying something new.
4. Empire State Building
The Empire State building even gets ready for the Holidays by lighting up for Christmas! I have never been to the city, so to see this famous beauty all lit up for the holidays is at the top of my list! Located in Manhattan, I am sure to be awestruck to see this beauty at night. The Empire State building is a popular landmark in New York. Even though I may not be climbing it, I'm looking forward to snapping a few pic's outside the front.
5. Radio City Music Hall
Home of the holiday favorite, The Rockettes, Radio City Music Hall is a New York special spot. Even Radio City is adorned with a Christmas tree on top. I would never be able to afford to see The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular, I'll be ready to kick my leg up outside!
Each one of these New York City favorites are special in their own way. I hope if you are in the area during the Holiday season that you'll take the opportunity to celebrate some Holiday magic the New York way!
