A Trip To The City // Christmas In New York

My dream has always been to visit New York City at Christmas time. This dream finally came true this past December. I could write about this city forever, but don't worry, I will just share the highlights with you!

10 Must See Things In New York City

1.) Times Square

As cliche as this is... my favorite place of the entire trip was Times Square. I never wanted to leave. We ended up here every single night. There is absolutely nothing like getting off of the subway and walking out into Times Sqaure. It's breathtaking.

2.) 5th Avenue

Okay so considering I am a fashion lover, 5th Avenue was incredible to me. This is where you will find: Saks 5th Avenue, Versace, Tiffany's, Louis Vuitton, Bergdorf Goodman,Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, a SIX STORY Nike (this blew my mind), a three story Victoria's Secret (every girls dream), and SO many more! I LOVED 5th Avenue!

3.) Top of the Rock

Matt and I could not decide if we wanted to see Top of the Rock or Empire State, so we did the right thing and went to both haha. The upper decks at Top of the Rock are 850 feet above street level and they have multiple observation decks. We went to Top of the Rock at night and it's the most stunning view I have ever seen. This is a perfect view of the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. One of the best parts of Top of the Rock for Matt and I, was that it started snowing while we were up there. It was a dream.

4.) Empire State Building

I truly never wanted to leave the top of Empire State. You always hear about the view from the top, but no words can ever describe the beauty of it. At 1,050 feet above Manhattan you can't help but stand in amazement of the beauty of this city. We got to Empire State in perfect timing and got to the top when the sun started setting. WHAT A VIEW. Not only did Empire State have an incredible view, but all the way through the building, until you got ready to go to the obseravtion deck there, was something to look at or do. Empire State truly tries to give you that authentic New York experience.

5.) Grand Central Station

Grand Central is a world-famous landmark in Manhattan. There is so much beauty in this building. Definitely the most beautiful architectural place I have ever seen. The roof, the detail of the walls, the railing, the windows... everything is gorgeous. It was another place we just stood in for a while because we wanted to take it all in.

6.) Bryant Park & Central Park

I put these two together because we only got to see Central Park when it was dark (it was still magical). Bryant Park had the most spectacular Holiday area (I'll get to this later). Central Park was HUGE. Matt and I were just shocked at how big it was. The view of the city skyline in Central Park is amazing!

7.) China Town & Little Italy

This was just a great experience. We saw beautiful graffiti and went to the cutest Christmas store! Hands down best place for a good Cannoli.

8.) Flatiron Building

This was probably one of my favorite places to see. Pictures do no justice for how cool this triangular building actually is. It's located on the intersection of Broadway and 5th and has some of the best spots near it.

9.) Ground Zero & 9/11 Museum

There aren't many words to describe this experience. For anyone who has visited, you understand how unforgettable every detail is. The overwhelming power of this place has you caught up in how much every person had to face on that day.There is just something sacred about the entire place. The museum is also a must see. It's so beautifully done. The entire place shows so much respect to those who lost their lives that day.

10.) Brooklyn Bridge & Dumbo

This is a MUST DO THING if you are visiting New York. The Brooklyn Bridge connects you from Manhattan to Brooklyn and the beauty of the bridge is remarkable. It was the world's first steel wire suspenson bridge. There is nothing like it. It is truly captivating.

Dumbo is short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Dumbo is a place with trendy boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. It is known for its cobblestone streets and picture worthy views. We loved this stop!

Places To Eat In New York

1.) Juniors

Cheesecake from Juniors is a MUST. Do not leave the city without trying a slice (or three).

2.) Serendiptiy 3

I'm pretty sure I left a piece of my heart here. Frozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity was probably my favorite treat the entire trip. Plus, the whole place is so cute and home-y. Oh, and if you love the movie Serendipity, then you can't miss this spot. This is where the famous hot chocolate scene is filmed and you can even sit at the same table they sat at in the movie.

3.) Capri in Little Italy

Matt and I grabbed cheese pizza here for lunch one day and it was SO GOOD.

4.) Cannoli King in Little Italy

This was Matt's fave sweet treat the whole trip. If you are wanting a famous italian treat in Little Italy, then look no further.

5.) Bill's Bar & Burger

Best hamburger joint in NYC! The service was great and it was such a fun atmosphere. Also, I had the best milkshake ever here!

6.) Front Street Pizza in Dumbo

If you want inexpensive and delicious pizza, this is your place. This whole restaraunt captivates everything you think Brooklyn will be. The pizza, the friendliness, and the strong brooklyn accents make you feel at home.

7.) Shake Shack

I know they have multiple locations, but we had never been to a Shake Shack. We loved it! If you do the right thing and stop here then make sure you get cheese fries!

8.) Meltshop

So good with a unique menu! Also another inexpensize stop!

Christmas In New York City

1.) Rockefeller Center

This one is an obvious stop. See the tree! It's incredible! This is also home to the giant ornaments you always see in Hallmark Christmas movies!

2.) Bryant Park

I am a huge fan of this place. It captures Christmas and has a beautiul tree with great ice skating! There is also a great hot chocolate stand! It's called S'mores N'more!

3.) The Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall

SO SO SO GOOD! The dancers, actors, musicians, and the light effects all make you feel like you are in a Christmas dream. I can't imagine the effort put into this show. It is an incredible experience.

4.) Union Square Holiday Market

This place also makes you feel like you are walking through a Hallmark Christmas movie. There is something for every person here!

5.) Saks 5th Avenue Lights

I am sensitive, but I don't cry easily. This light show was so magical that I started tearing up. I think it's when I realized my dream New York Christmas trip was happening. This light show is amazing for all ages and will make you feel like a kid again.

6.) The Plaza Hotel

A famous New York landmark not just at Christmas time, but especially cool during the holiday season because it's the place where the famous Christmas movie, Home Alone 2, was filmed. Not only that,, but the place is just simply stunning. They have the most beautiful Christmas Decor!

(Side note: Bride Wars is one of my favorite movies and that whole movie revolves around The Plaza Hotel.)

more pics!!

I coud write so much more! If you are thinking about going to New York during Christmas, just do it! I can not wait to visit this beautiful city again!

I hope you enjoyed this blog and it gave you some insight! If you have been to New York , drop a comment below and tell me your favorite part of the city!

XOXO,

KP