NYC Holiday Guide: On a Budget

The most beautiful (but cold) time of the year in New York City is finally here! From Thanksgiving to New Years, all the shops in NYC look beautiful in bright twinkle lights, and holiday decor to grab you into their stores. After living in New York City for a few years, I have rounded up my favorite spots to take friends in NYC while on a budget (most of the spots are free).

Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park

If you want to be able to ice skate, shop and eat yummy treats, the best place is Bryant Park Christmas Holiday Market! There is SO much to do, you could easily spend a few hours. I highly suggest walking around the shops, then heading to The Lodge Urban Space to warm up, and finishing up by eating your food outside while watching the ice skaters! There is a good amount of outdoor to watch the ice skaters while sipping some hot cocoa or chow down a yummy dessert.

Ice Skating in Central Park

Central Park is beautiful to walk around in the winter time! Bundle up and make sure to go over to the ice skating rink to join in or watch families go around the rink! Best way to watch? Pick up some of the hot foods and sit down to enjoy the view on the rocks and sky scrapers in the distance.

Walk down 5th Avenue to see the Holiday Windows

Fifth Ave is known for their reputation of having impressive window displays!. It's beautiful seeing all the designer window displays carefully created while incorporating items that are sold inside the store for gifts!

Macy's Herald Square Christmas Decorations

The Iconic Macy's Herald Square has it's own impressive Christmas decorations They put so much thought and color into every detail - they even have animatronics!! After passing the front of Macy's window display, head into the store and look up at all the decorations! If you're looking for an easy way to stay warm, walk around the store and pick up a few gifts or explore all the different floors.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

My last must-see is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree! The beautiful lights covering the entire tree is absolutely beautiful! I suggest walking around the area and looking down at the skaters after getting a picture with the large tree. Don't ice skate though - the line is very long and you will use up a chunk of your time. If you're a local, save ice skating on the rink for after the holidays.

Hope you enjoyed reading all my favorite holiday spots that are perfect on a budget! If you have a NYC favorite holiday spot, share it below!