3 day itinerary
New York City
Personalized with:Christmas timeWith childrenHoliday shows
Itinerary
Spending Christmas time in New York City with children is like stepping into a holiday wonderland. The city is decked out in twinkling lights, festive decorations, and there’s a palpable sense of joy in the air. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 3-day itinerary that captures the magic of the season!
Day 1: Arrival and Holiday Lights
Morning:
- Arrival in NYC: Settle into your hotel. If you’re staying in Midtown, you’ll be right in the heart of the holiday action!
- Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a family-friendly spot like . The singing waitstaff will entertain the kids while you enjoy classic diner fare.
Midday:
- : Head over to see the iconic Christmas tree! The kids will love the giant ornaments and the ice skating rink. If they’re up for it, rent some skates and glide around the rink (or just enjoy watching the skaters).
- Lunch: Grab a quick bite at nearby for some delicious sandwiches and their famous banana pudding.
Afternoon:
- Holiday Windows: Stroll down Fifth Avenue to check out the holiday window displays at stores like and . The kids will be mesmerized by the elaborate decorations and animated displays.
Evening:
- Dinner: Enjoy a festive dinner at in Times Square, where the family-style Italian dishes are perfect for sharing.
- Holiday Show: End your day with a magical experience by catching the featuring the Rockettes. The dazzling performances and festive spirit will leave everyone in awe!
Day 2: and More Holiday Cheer
Morning:
- Breakfast: Start your day with a cozy breakfast at near . Their pancakes are a hit with kids!
- : After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through . If there’s snow, consider renting a sled or going ice skating at . The park is beautiful this time of year!
Midday:
- Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab lunch at in , where you can enjoy views of the lake.
- Visit the : The zoo is small but delightful, and the kids will love seeing the animals, especially the penguins!
Afternoon:
- The Met or the : Depending on your kids’ interests, choose one of these iconic museums. The has a fantastic dinosaur exhibit that’s always a hit!
Evening:
- Dinner: Head to in Times Square for a fun, rock ‘n’ roll-themed dinner.
- Holiday Lights Tour: After dinner, take a holiday lights bus tour or a walking tour to see the best light displays around the city. The neighborhood in Brooklyn is famous for its extravagant decorations!
Day 3: Culture and Celebration
Morning:
- Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at in SoHo for a classic French bistro experience.
- Visit the and : Take a ferry from Battery Park. The kids will love the boat ride, and exploring the is a great way to learn about history.
Midday:
- Lunch: Have lunch at , a historic spot that offers a kid-friendly menu.
- Explore Lower Manhattan: After lunch, take a stroll through the Financial District and visit the . It’s a poignant experience, and the reflecting pools are beautiful.
Afternoon:
- : Head to for some shopping and to see the holiday decorations. There’s often a holiday market, and the kids can enjoy some treats.
- Visit the : The stunning architecture of the is a sight to behold, and there are plenty of shops to explore.
Evening:
- Dinner: For your last night, treat yourselves to dinner at for their famous cheesecake and classic diner fare.
- Broadway Show: If the kids are up for it, catch a family-friendly Broadway show like or . The energy and spectacle will be a perfect way to end your NYC holiday adventure!
Tips:
- Dress Warmly: NYC can be quite chilly in December, so make sure everyone is bundled up!
- Plan Ahead: Book tickets for shows and attractions in advance to avoid long lines.
- Use Public Transport: The subway is a great way to get around the city quickly and efficiently.
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful holiday memories in New York City! Enjoy every magical moment! 🎄✨