There is something incredibly magical about the holiday season in New York City. It’s as if someone found the cord to a long neglected outlet and plugged it in. BAM! The city is even more lit up than usual. And, the people. There are so very many people. But, that just adds to the electricity. People come to NYC for the holidays for a reason. They want to be a part of “it”.
There are amazing restaurants and newly discovered neighborhoods, but at the holidays, I find the traditional spots are the ones who really deliver.
Take, the Four Seasons Hotel. Centrally located. With the newly renovated TY bar, you can grab dinner or a drink before you head to a show or go peruse the lights.
A little further north on the Upper East Side is the Carlyle Hotel. This is where JFK and Jackie stayed and where luminaries such as Woody Allen and Rita Wilson entertain at night. Bemelman’s Bar, decorated with murals straight out of the Madeliene series, is so civilized, with live piano music and a well heeled crowd. The perfect place to admire the bracelet you picked up at Hermes, just down the street. (At least this is what I fantasize about!).
The King Cole Bar at the St. Regis hotel is a total throwback. Located directly across from the Polo Bar, Ralph Lauren’s newest restaurant and one of the hottest tickets in town, it is the perfect place to start the evening or to recap an amazing day!
Skating at Rockefeller Center, at the base of the tree, is the fantasy of many. The rink is actually quite small, much smaller than Wollman Rink in Central Park. So, either be prepared to wait your turn or reserve a spot with The Rink. You’ll enjoy skating on and off at your leisure and cookies and hot cocoa. Definitely a bit of a splurge during peak season, but really fun to enjoy just once!
The temperatures have been a little more Palm Beach than typical NYC, so be sure you don’t pack a heavier coat than you need. Wear comfortable shoes…and if you must have your heels, plan on changing once you’ve arrived at your destination. Walking is definitely the best way to get around!
It truly is the most wonderful time of year and if you happen to be in NYC….have a magical time!
