With only two weeks till Christmas (!!!) I wanted to share a NYC guide of my favorite photo opps for anyone spending time in New York during the holidays. I have a full visitor’s guide, cozy restaurant guide and holiday bar guide here too but these are my top spots I can’t miss each year! From charming brownstones to crazy Christmas displays, there’s so much to see and do during this magical time of year!
Bleecker Street: Wandering around the West Village is one of my favorite things to do anytime of year but especially during the holiday season. I love the storefronts at Hillhouse Home and LoveShackFancy, but make sure to wander by the neighborhood brownstones too for festive garland and wreaths.
Rolf’s: The most famous Christmas photo spot in NYC, head here right as they open to get in line for some spiked eggnog and a shot of the ornament filled restaurant and bar. If you can’t make it in, try Pete’s Tavern a few blocks down for a drink and their festive lights!
Christmas Trees: It’s hard to pick a favorite tree so try to see them all if you can! My favorites are the Lotte Palace Tree (at the famous Gossip Girl hotel), the Wall Street and South Street Seaport trees in my neighborhood and of course, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. For the best photo opps, make sure to get there early in the morning before the crowds arrive!
Bryant Park: From the Instagram-worthy food and drinks to the ice rink to the holiday market, Bryant Park is a must stop during the holiday season. Plan to spend a few hours trying different dishes, seasonal drinks and taking a spin on the ice!
The Oculus and Brookfield Place: If you’re downtown (and in need of some last minute Christmas shopping!) stop in either spots for the amazing Christmas decorations and an Instaworthy shot from above while at the Oculus.
Ralph’s at Ralph Lauren: Ralph Lauren (888 Madison Avenue) is always decorated to perfection this time of year so I love to walk up to the store after looking at all the store windows and lights to grab hot chocolate here at the Ralph’s coffee shop (or their cute truck near the tree at Rockefeller Center!). The chicest way to warm up!
Fifth Avenue Hotel and Window Displays: From the gorgeous Cartier building tied up in a red bow to the Saks Fifth Avenue light display, wandering down Fifth Avenue is photo moment after photo moment. It’s also the perfect way to pop into some hotels such as The Peninsula and The Plaza, to see their amazing decorations throughout the lobbies.