December is a popular time to visit New York City; Manhattan is draped in glittering holiday lights, towering Christmas trees and holiday-themed attractions suitable for all ages. Take a brisk walk while finishing your Christmas shopping, grab a cup of cocoa or coffee and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city in December.
Rockefeller Center Attractions
Rockefeller Center is in full swing during the month of December with festive lights, decorations and holiday music. Check out the towering annual tree and burn calories while taking part in a time-honored New York City tradition. According to The Mayo Clinic, ice skating burns approximately 500 or more calories per hour. Additional attractions at Rockefeller Center include taking a tour of the building or taking in the stunning panoramic views from the observation deck. The "Top of the Rock Observation Deck" towers above the city on the 70th floor, providing breathtaking views of the famous skyline.
Holiday Trees
Rockefeller Center's tree may the most well-known tree in city, but several others are worth checking out. Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art's 20-foot Christmas tree with a collection of nativity figures, cherubs and angels artfully designed around its base. Or take a stroll through South Street Seaport and marvel at the live performances and 50 foot "Chorus Tree."
Holiday Markets
Stroll through holiday markets such as the "Fete's de Noel" in Bryant Park, where you can view products from more than 120 different vendors -- including personalized ornaments, artisan crafts, artwork and specialty food items. Christmas in Little Italy" has been an annual event since 2007. Beginning in early December and lasting for three weekends, the festival features a tree-lighting ceremony, live entertainment, living Nativity and a Christmas parade. Browse at the outdoor holiday market in Union Square or warm up at the indoor market in Grand Central station.
Tour Holiday Windows
Take a leisurely walk throughout midtown Manhattan while window shopping, checking items off of your list of gifts to buy and touring New York's famous holiday window displays. The Mayo Clinic estimates that walking at a pace of two miles per hour burns approximately 180 calories or more. Get an effective workout while marveling at each store's creativity. Windows commonly feature music, moving figures, light displays and breathtaking holiday-themed scenarios. Stores include Barneys, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Henri Bendel, Bloomingdale's, Macy's and Lord and Taylor.
See A Show
Radio City's Christmas Spectacular is perhaps one of the most renowned shows of the holiday season. The show has taken place for more than 75 years and features the high-kicking Rockettes, dancing Santas, stunning winter vistas and so much more. The show debuted in 1933 and remains a popular holiday attraction for people of all ages. Or, warm your spirit with "George Balanchine's The Nutcracker," performed by the New York City Ballet. The ballet, popular for decades, is characterized by stirring scenes filled with children, a glowing Christmas tree, waltzing snowflakes and marching toy soldiers. If neither show appeals to you, consider purchasing tickets to one a Broadway shows.
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