Christmas time in NYC is truly one of the most magical times of the year in the big apple. From the beautiful Christmas Markets, to ice skating in the city that never sleeps, Christmas in New York is definitely one of my favorite times of the year.

Christmas Time in NYC

I wanted to share some of the best spots in NYC that really capture the Christmas spirit with you. I went from Sunday until Tuesday for a short work trip, and even in that little amount of time, I was able to see some beautiful pop-ups for the holidays! Last year, I was actually in New York City with my family at Christmas time and the energy on the streets on Christmas Eve is truly like nothing I have experienced before. Church bells are ringing, lights are everywhere, and a hot pretzel can be the cure to not freezing your a$$ off (right?!).

Bryant Park: Bryant Park is where the two above photos were taken on Monday and it was seriously so perfect and beautiful! You can ice skate, gaze at the Christmas Tree, and shop around their Christmas Market for food and little trinkets!

Rockefeller Center: I remember when my parents first took me to Rockefeller Center. Not only did the Top of the Rock have the most amazing views of the Big Apple, but the Christmas Tree is probably the tallest and most ginormous decorated tree I have ever seen. I ice-skated there when I was about thirteen and it was magical! Parents take your kids there, I promise they will LOVE it! 

Central Park: Central Park is another staple, along with the Plaza Hotel at the start of it. Eloise at Christmas Time was one of my favorite movies growing up and same goes with Home Alone at Christmas Time. Both of these iconic films were shot at the Plaza and Central Park. If you haven't been to Central Park before, the iconic park which is surrounded by skyscrapers, is the only park in the city where you can feel as if you are outside of New York City, without actually being outside the city. The massive landmark stretches over 40 blocks! During winter they set up an ice skating rink toward the start of the park and it's an amazing place to go on a date, go with girlfriends, or parents: to take your kids! The famous rock from Home Alone is also just next to the skating rink and if you climb it, you get a fabulous view of the park, the skating rink, and the buildings surrounding the park.