Things To Do
Christmas Tree & Ice-Skating at Rockefeller Centre
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic destinations for Christmas in NYC . If you’re willing to splurge, ice skating at Rockefeller Center is the ultimate NYC Christmas experience. You absolutely need to book this ahead of time and arrive early (the lines get insane).
Christmas Market at Bryant Park
Bryant Park’s Christmas Village is another festive favourite! The park transforms into a bustling holiday market with food stalls, pop-up shops, ice skating, curling, seasonal decorations, and cozy hot drinks – definitely a “can’t miss” NYC tradition.
Walk Through Central Park
Escape the busy city streets in Central Park – where the NYC holiday magic quietly comes to life. Stroll through the snowy paths, watch the ice skaters at Wollman Rink, or hop on a horse-drawn carriage.
Cocktails at The Plaza Hotel
Love the movie 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York'? Head into The Plaza Hotel for a cocktail. Reservations recommended, but walk-in seating is typically available.
Christmas Spectacular at the Radio City Music Hall
The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular is a New York holiday must-see. This iconic women’s dance company has been performing high-energy holiday sets since 1925. You’ll also be amazed by the giant, ever-changing Christmas tree at the front of the theater – pure magic!
Times Square
Times Square at Christmas is a vibrant, electric experience filled with street performers, dazzling lights, festive billboards, flagship retail stores, and bustling holiday crowds. The expansive digital screens light up Times Square day and night. Also, don’t miss the nearby attractions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and holiday Broadway shows.
Breakfast Spot - Jack's Wife Freda
Jack's Wife Freda is an iconic SoHo spot known for its cozy vibe, Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Whether you're grabbing brunch, a casual dinner, or just coffee, it's a local favorite that’s perfect for people-watching and capturing the charm of our neighborhood.
Lunch or Dinner Spot - 12 Chairs Cafe
12 Chairs is a laid-back café serving up homestyle Middle Eastern comfort food. It’s known for its relaxed vibe, cozy wooden interiors, and flavorful dishes like shakshuka, schnitzel, hummus, and fresh pitas. The perfect place for lunch or a casual dinner.
Drinks Spot – La Esquina (Speakeasy Bar)
La Esquina is one of the coolest speakeasy bars in NYC – and also a stop on our second date! To get inside, you walk through a busy Mexican taqueria before passing through a hidden door that leads downstairs to an intimate, dimly lit bar. It has amazing cocktails and a buzzy experience – we love it!
The Dead Rabbit (Irish Bar with Trad Music)
One of NYC's most-loved Irish bars. They have incredible Christmas decoration, amazing trad music, and some of the best pints in NYC! An absolute must-visit when you're in the city!
Mitr Thai Restaurant
One of our favourite Thai restaurants.
Spring Lounge Bar
This is where our first date ended – and where we took our very first photo together, on St. Patrick’s Day! Located just a block from our apartment, it’s a place we pass daily, reminding us of that special night. A beloved neighborhood gem, it’s now one of our favorite spots for a casual drink or a nightcap.
Bemelmans Bar in the Carlyle Hotel
Replicate our first date at Bemelmans Bar – a timeless gem of New York glamour tucked inside the Carlyle Hotel. The bar is named in honor of Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the Madeline children’s books. See Bemelmans’ whimsical, hand-painted murals on the walls. It's also where celebrities stay before the MET Gala. There's often live piano music to go with your classic cocktails for an intimate night out!
Middle-Eastern Dinner Spot - Shuka
A gorgeous Middle-Eastern restaurant where Michael first met many of Aoife’s friends in the city.