There are many movies based in New York around wintertime. Ranging from Home Alone 2 to Elf and many more, these movies always seem to highlight everything good about spending the holidays in New York. But what are these things? Hop in the yellow taxi and come find out!

            The first stop is Rockefeller Center, also known as the “ultimate tourist attraction during the winter season.” With attractions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and the ice skating rink, it is no wonder that this is a popular attraction in New York City. According to Wikipedia, the tradition of the Christmas tree officially started in 1933, but dates back to the Depression-era. It is put up in early November and taken down a week after New Years. The “Top of the Rock” (the top of 50 Rockefeller Plaza) offers a great view of the city (though it is very cold). The ice skating rink, which was completed in 1936, is great attraction for families and couples. Not much is better than skating around in the middle of New York City!

            The second place on the tour is Central Park. Although Central Park is said to be the prettiest during autumn, it is also quite beautiful in winter. Just a short walk from Rockefeller Center, Central Park offers things such as moonlight, snowy walks, horse-drawn carriage rides, and giant frozen lakes. Horse-drawn carriage rides began in New York in 1935 and have been a romantic activity ever since. Taking a moonlit, snowy walk is also a romantic activity, but fun for families as well. With attractions like Strawberry Fields and Belvedere Castle, Central Park never seems to disappoint during any season!

            Moving downtown, the third place on the tour is Macy’s. As well as many other shopping destinations, Macy’s is full of holiday cheer. It moved to its current location in 1902. Soon enough, this store became one of the largest department stores in the world, as it takes up an entire city block. From the beginning, Macy’s has “used publicity devices such as a store Santa Claus, themed exhibits, and illuminated window displays to draw in customers.” Nowadays, it also has a Christmas tree that is set up every year with the word “Believe” in bright lights. Inside, it is annually decorated for the Holiday season. Some people don’t even shop in Macy’s, they just go to see the decorations!

            The fourth and final stop is the Brooklyn Bridge. No trip to New York City would be complete without a visit to the Brooklyn Bridge. Although quite a romantic attraction, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a great memory to have. Since it’s completion in 1883, it has been a very famous New York landmark. The pedestrian walkway makes it easy for one to stop for a minute and take everything in. Especially at night, the Brooklyn Bridge provides a spectacular view of Manhattan. It is quite cold up there though, so make sure to bring your hat and gloves!

            Of course there are other things to do such as visiting museums, seeing a Broadway show in Times Square, or even visiting the Statue of Liberty. The city is beautifully decorated and is a great place to be for the season.

            I hope you enjoyed the tour! Thank you for visiting New York!