It’s a cliché, but there’s really nothing like New York City during the holidays: The last-minute shoppers bustling with their bags, kids looking up at glittery buildings with wide-eyed wonder, festive music wafting through the air, and streets abuzz with good cheer. But ask any local to visit Midtown Manhattan during December and they might groan. Even though the area has become one of the world’s most iconic holiday destinations, many New Yorkers eschew it during the festive season, preferring to stick out the winter in the comfort of their own neighborhoods. That’s a mistake, though — there’s no better place to experience the quintessential New York City holiday spirit than at Rockefeller Center.
Rockefeller Center is, of course, home to the most famous Christmas tree in the world, as well as the beloved ice rink that allows winter wonder-seekers to skate under the magical glow of said tree. But that same festive New York City energy can also be found within the quieter corners and hidden gems of Rockefeller Center — and during the less-crowded hours of early morning and late night. Whether you’re a New Yorker or an out-of-town visitor, there are stores perfect for holiday gift shopping, chic eateries for dining and celebrating with friends and family, and unique events and activities you won’t be able to find elsewhere in the city.
When it comes to gifts, Rockefeller Center is quite literally a one-stop shop. There are more store options than even longtime New Yorkers are probably aware of, plus super-sized versions of some of the city’s most popular shops. For example, Rockefeller Center is home to the largest outpost of the independent bookstore McNally Jackson, including a full-sized Goods for the Study (its sister stationary store) inside to stock up on holiday cards. The Brooklyn-based cool-girl jewelry brand Catbird also has a location in the Center, if you’re looking to gift anything especially sparkly or dainty this year — or treat yourself to a welded friendship bracelet. Other shops include Hill House Home (for all your Nap Dress needs), Alex Mill, a John Hardy concept store, Rough Trade (an independent record store), and the iconic toy store FAO Schwarz.
Once you’ve shopped ’til you’ve dropped, cheers to the holidays at one of the cocktail bars and restaurants in Rockefeller Center, including popular options like NARO, Le Rock, Jupiter, and The Tipsy Baker (a bakery by day and bar by night). There’s also Pebble Bar, located in a townhouse in Rockefeller Center with an especially storied history: Regulars in the watering hole’s past have included novelists, late-night hosts, and actors from New York City’s most famous sketch comedy show. Or, sink into one of the red velvet banquettes at Smith & Mills (located at the rink level), grab a cocktail, and feel yourself instantly immersed in old-school New York City charm.
Rockefeller Center also offers heart-pounding and jaw-dropping activities that will give you a whole new perspective on New York City. If you’re a New Yorker and you’ve never visited Top of the Rock, this is your sign. Your friend-of-a-friend’s apartment roof is no match for the view from the Center’s 70th floor, and winter is an especially romantic time to gaze wistfully at the skyline. Even if you’ve already been, you may not recognize some of the new experiences now available at Top of the Rock. Take SKYLIFT, an open-air glass platform that rises three stories above the rooftop of 30 Rock to give you unobstructed 360-degree views of the city. You can also replicate the vertigo-inducing 1930s photograph “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” with your own photo opp on The Beam. To really impress out-of-town friends and family, grab the VIP Rock Pass, a two-hour guided experience that includes VIP access to the lounge, Top of the Rock, SKYLIFT, and The Beam, as well as a champagne toast.
Those who are more heights-averse can still enjoy the vantage point (without sweaty palms) at The Weather Room, a 67th-floor café and bar offering panoramic views of the city. Or, visit The Rink at Rockefeller Center presented by Chase Freedom for a view of the Christmas tree from the safety of the ground. (Pro tip: Rent a rinkside Après Skate Chalet presented by Balsam Hill to enjoy beverages and snacks in a cozy, private room after you’re done skating.) And if you’re planning your own holiday party this year, Rockefeller Center also offers rentable venues for private events. One such space is Radio Park, a hidden rooftop garden on the top of Radio City Music Hall that will have every guest (even lifelong New Yorkers) saying, “I didn’t know this was here!”
If you let your preconceptions of Rockefeller Center guide you, you’re missing out on one of the best holiday experiences the city has to offer. So, don’t spend another festive season cocooning yourself in your well-trodden neighborhood haunts — this year, be sure to add Rockefeller Center to your nice list.
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