December in New York City is one of the best times to visit but also one of the busiest. The magic of the holiday season is in full swing with a wide array of stunning window displays, towering trees, holiday goodies at every confectionary, and festive food and beverage specials at restaurants all over the city (with a few offering some of the most ornate decorations you’ll find in the city). Here are a few spots we love all year long!
Enjoy a Weekend in New York City This December
Eat
Conwell Coffee Hall is one of the city’s buzziest coffee spots, and it’s easy to see why. The stunning space can be found within the former space of Life & Trust, which was tucked away just off Wall Street. Named after one of Life & Trust’s most known CEOs (J.G. Conwell), this caffeinated hotspot has caught New Yorkers’ and visitors’ eyes and taste buds. We were invited to taste the menu offerings like Avocado Toast, Roasted Tomato Soup, Grilled Cheese Croissants, Roasted Beets with goat cheese, and NYC’s Best French Toast. Not a huge coffee fan? You’ll find various teas and other beverages, including a coffee soda.
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beers is an Instagrammable burger dream. The brand has locations all over the country (and the world) and serves up a variety of imaginative burgers with fun flavors. The restaurant had us in to check out some of the classic offerings like The Old-Fashioned burger, the craft salads (you can even get a burger salad if you’re cutting back on carbs), and, of course, the world-famous CrazyShakes. We opted for the New Yorker, a sweet confection with strawberries, graham cracker crumbs, whipped cream, vanilla, and a delicious slice of cheesecake on top.
Heritage Grand Bakery and the attached Heritage Grand Restaurant & Pizza Bar provide a feast perfect for any palate. While the former offers all the delicious pastries and baked goods you could want, the latter serves upscale Mediterranean cuisine with a delightful range of flavors. During our media visit, we tasted a selection of goods, including heritage meatballs, seafood saffron risotto, and olive oil cake. The ambiance provides a perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of Bryant Park Winter Village, filled with huge crowds of shoppers and tourists just across the street.
Play
The New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show is a timeless tradition for good reason. As one of the season’s best events (at one of the city’s best attractions), the Holiday Train Show is the perfect outing for families, friends, couples, and even solo travelers. We were invited to experience this year’s show and caught up in the magic of the backgrounds, props, and fun trains zipping past at every turn. Scenes include famous NYC landmarks like Macy’s Herald Square, the Wonder Wheel from Coney Island, Grand Central Terminal, and the Haupt Conservatory (where the Holiday Train Show is housed). The special event is perfect for children of all ages to marvel at the mystery of a bygone era of travel.
INTER_ is a truly unique immersive experience that allows interaction with nearly all the accessible space in the exhibit. We were invited to visit the space and loved the motion-activated screens, picturesque arches, and all the spaces designed to encourage movement, touch, and many other senses. INTER is intended to urge visitors to take a step back, take a moment to themselves, and be present during their visit. After playing with the elements inside the exhibit, visitors are encouraged to take home souvenir videos in a special INTER booth and make custom bracelets based on their elements and zodiac at the DIY Creation Station.
The New York CityPass offers an exceptional value proposition for anyone exploring some of the city’s most iconic attractions. We took one for a spin recently and loved the ease of entry and booking—most attractions require reservations, which can be made right in the app. Passes can then be added to your Apple or Google wallet for fast entry and minimal lines. As a CityPASS holder, you can explore top New York City landmarks like the Empire State Building and the American Museum of Natural History. Enjoy breathtaking views and ferry access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, or visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Other options include Circle Line Cruise, Intrepid Museum, Guggenheim Museum, Museum of Modern Arts, and the Edge at Hudson Yards for diverse experiences.
Stay
Hyatt Herald Square offers an ideal location for those looking to explore the vibrant surroundings of New York City. Situated just moments away from Penn Station and the iconic Macy’s Herald Square, this hotel combines convenience with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy clean, efficient spaces equipped with contemporary amenities, making it an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers. Whether you’re here to shop, sightsee, or attend meetings, Hyatt Herald Square provides a welcoming retreat amidst the bustling city energy.
The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel, seamlessly blends history and luxury in the heart of New York City. The stunning hotel boasts a classic charm with its nine-story Victorian atrium and original architectural details. Each room is elegantly designed with plush furnishings and thoughtful amenities. The hotel also features world-class dining options from renowned chefs, offering an exquisite culinary experience right on-site. Additionally, The Beekman’s convenient location puts guests within close proximity to iconic landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge, the World Trade Center, and South Street Seaport.
The Empire Hotel is a historic landmark ideally situated in Manhattan’s vibrant Upper West Side, just steps away from Central Park, Lincoln Center, and Columbus Circle. This iconic hotel combines classic charm with modern sophistication, providing guests with a memorable stay in the heart of New York City. With its chic and stylish rooms, The Empire Hotel offers comfort and convenience, enhanced by luxurious amenities and unparalleled service. Guests can unwind at the hotel’s rooftop pool and lounge, boasting stunning views of the city skyline, or indulge in culinary delights at The Empire Rooftop.
