Top 6 Things To Do In NYC During The Holidays

Celebrate the holidays in style with New York City’s most enchanting seasonal experiences. Whether you're enjoying an extended stay at AKA Central Park, AKA Times Square, AKA Sutton Place, or a festive weekend escape at Hotel AKA NoMad, each location places you within easy reach of Manhattan’s most iconic holiday attractions. From dazzling lights and world-famous performances to charming markets and ice skating beneath the skyline, your perfect NYC holiday begins at AKA.

1. See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

           No holiday visit to New York City is complete without witnessing the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Towering above the plaza and adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, this glowing symbol of holiday magic draws visitors from around the world. The surrounding energy is            electric, with festive music, bustling crowds, and the unmistakable spirit of the season. Just below the tree, the famous ice-skating rink offers a quintessential NYC winter experience—gliding across the ice beneath the sparkling lights is a memory you’ll treasure forever.

2. Skate at Wollman Rink in Central Park

           For a more serene and scenic skating experience, head to Wollman Rink in Central Park. Nestled among snow-dusted trees and framed by the Manhattan skyline, this outdoor rink feels like a winter postcard come to life. Whether you're skating hand-in-hand with a loved one,            teaching little ones to glide, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Wollman Rink offers a dreamy escape in the heart of the city.

3. Explore Holiday Markets

           New York’s holiday markets are a treasure trove of seasonal charm. Bryant Park’s Winter Village is a festive favorite, featuring rows of artisan stalls selling handcrafted gifts, gourmet treats, and cozy winter accessories. Sip hot cocoa as you browse, or warm up in one of the park’s igloos               or a unique experience. For indoor shopping, Grand Central’s Holiday Fair provides a magical setting beneath the terminal’s celestial ceiling, with curated vendors offering everything from jewelry to holiday décor.

4. Watch the Radio City Christmas Spectacular

           Step into the grandeur of Radio City Music Hall and experience the legendary Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. This dazzling production combines high-energy choreography, stunning visuals, and heartwarming holiday scenes that have captivated audiences for generations.            It’s a beloved tradition that captures the spirit of the season and leaves everyone, from first-time visitors to lifelong New Yorkers feeling festive and inspired.

5. Visit the Holiday Train Show at Grand Central Terminal

           Tucked inside the New York Transit Museum Gallery Annex at Grand Central Terminal, the Holiday Train Show is a delightful miniature world where model trains weave through a scaled-down version of New York City. Iconic landmarks, tiny twinkling lights, and intricate details make this            nostalgic display a favorite for families and train enthusiasts alike. It’s a charming way to celebrate the season while exploring one of the city’s most historic transportation hubs.

6. Stroll Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Windows

           Fifth Avenue transforms into a glittering corridor of creativity during the holidays, with department stores unveiling elaborate window displays that blend fashion, art, and storytelling. Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Macy’s each present their own unique take on holiday magic,              drawing crowds eager to admire the craftsmanship and imagination. Be sure to catch the Saks light show, a dazzling spectacle of music and illumination that turns the building’s façade into a canvas of celebration.