Because there’s more to the Big Apple than Radio City and Rockefeller Center.
There's nothing quite like New York during the holidays. Between the lights, the decorations, and the promise of a white Christmas (well, maybe not this year), the city can feel almost magical. The Rockefeller tree, Radio City's Christmas Spectacular, and the extravagant holiday window displays at the department stores on Fifth Avenue are annual must-sees, drawing crowds of tourists and locals alike, but what happens when you want to escape the masses while keeping in the Christmas spirit? Here, we've rounded up some alternatives that are sure to keep you in a festive mood.
Known for its art-filled lobby peppered with modern sculptures and contemporary paintings, The Crosby Street Hotel regularly serves afternoon tea, but in December, they kick it up a notch, offering a special holiday spread. There's a choice of savory and sweet menus, which include classics such as gingerbread spiced English trifle and warm figgy pudding.
Bleecker Street is the secret shopping gem of the West Village. Retailers on the quiet stretch of blocks range from boutiques like Goorin Hat Brothers and Swedish candy store Sockerbit to more mainstream staples Michael Kors and Alexis Bittar. Far less crowded than midtown, the neighborhood goes all out for the holiday season with fresh garlands and oversized wreaths.
While it might be a bit smaller than the Rockefeller tree, the Met's nativity tree is just as iconic. The traditional Neopolitan nativity scene is adorned with porcelain angels hovering above the branches and Biblical figurines placed around the moss- covered stand. After meandering around nearby collections, the perfect end to a Met trip during the holiday season is cocktail hour on the mezzanine. The Great Hall Balcony bar is open Fridays and Saturdays from 4:30-8:30 p.m. and is accompanied by live classical music.
Designed by the famed architecture and design firm, Rockwell Group, Luminaries at Brookfield Place features more than 650 colorful lanterns hanging from the ceiling in the complex's Winter Garden. The lanterns are interactive and guests can choose a specific lighting display at the installation's Wishing Station.
Fill a travel mug with hot cocoa and head to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights spectacle in Brooklyn. The neighborhood houses go all out for the season, putting any wreath or garland-draped yards to shame. If you're looking for a more guided experience, check out the Christmas Lights Tour—formerly referred to as the Christmas Lights & Cannoli tour—which boasts the tagline "Rockefeller Center? FUHGETTABOUDIT!" and promises sightings of a mechanical reindeer, nativity scenes, and 30-foot toy soldiers.
