6 Days in NYC: Broadway, Shopping, Nightlife & More!

Discover the best of New York City in December, from iconic Broadway shows to vibrant nightlife and holiday shopping. This detailed 6-day itinerary will guide you through the city's must-see attractions, offering tips for maximizing your time and budget.

Day 1 in New York: Experience the Magic of Broadway

See a Broadway Show

Experience the magic of Broadway, with a wide variety of shows to choose from. Consider Off-Broadway or comedy clubs for budget-friendly options.

Ascend to New York's Heights

Conquer the Top of the Rock observation deck for panoramic views of the city, including the Empire State Building.

Explore Greenwich Village

Discover the charming and historic Greenwich Village neighborhood.

Santa's Secret Immersive Holiday Experience

Step into Santa's secret speakeasy and enjoy a unique holiday experience with Christmas-themed cocktails and a variety show.

Day 2 in New York: Art and History in the City

Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Explore the vast collection of art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a must-see for art enthusiasts.

Visit the New York Public Library

Marvel at the architectural beauty of the New York Public Library, a historical landmark.

Visit the 9/11 Memorial

Pay tribute at the poignant 9/11 Memorial, a powerful reflection on history.

Christmas Markets in Bryant Park

Experience the festive atmosphere of the Bryant Park Winter Village, a large Christmas market with an ice rink and holiday shops.

Day 3 in New York: A Day in Central Park

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

Visit Central Park Zoo

Discover the Central Park Zoo, a great choice for families with children.

Central Park in Winter

Stroll through the snowy beauty of Central Park, a winter wonderland with frozen water surfaces and snow-covered trees.

Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center

Glide across the ice at the iconic Rockefeller Center rink, surrounded by holiday cheer and twinkling lights.

Day 4 in New York: Discover the City's Diverse Neighborhoods

Visit Harlem

Explore the vibrant and historic Harlem neighborhood, rich in culture and history.

Visit Little Italy

Discover the charming and historic Little Italy neighborhood.

Visit Chinatown

Explore the vibrant and historic Chinatown neighborhood.

Explore DUMBO

Discover the artsy and charming DUMBO neighborhood in Brooklyn, with galleries, theaters, and boutiques.

Day 5 in New York: A Day of Festive Cheer

Christmas Markets in Columbus Circle

Explore the festive Columbus Circle Holiday Market, a great place to find unique gifts and enjoy the holiday spirit.

New York Botanical Garden's Glow

Explore the New York Botanical Garden's GLOW, an outdoor holiday light spectacle with choreographed lights and dazzling installations.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour

Experience the extravagant Christmas light displays of Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, a neighborhood famous for its over-the-top holiday decorations.

Christmas Light Displays on Fifth Avenue

Admire the elaborate holiday light displays and window displays of the high-end stores along Fifth Avenue.

Day 6 in New York: A Day of Exploration and Adventure

Visit the American Museum of Natural History

Discover the wonders of natural history at the American Museum of Natural History, perfect for families.

Conquer the Empire State Building

Reach the 86th-floor observatory of the Empire State Building for breathtaking 120km panoramic views.

See the Statue of Liberty

Take a ferry to Liberty Island to see the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Take a Helicopter Tour

Soar above the city on a helicopter tour for breathtaking aerial views of iconic landmarks.

References

Weather in New York

In December, New York City experiences cold and potentially snowy weather, with average temperatures ranging from 25°F (-4°C) to 40°F (4°C). It's essential to pack warm layers, including a waterproof coat, gloves, hats, and scarves, as well as waterproof boots or shoes to handle the snow and slush. Consider bringing thermal underwear and warm socks to keep you cozy. Additionally, be prepared for windy conditions, which can make the temperature feel even colder. It's also a good idea to book tickets for shows and events in advance, as December is a popular time for tourists. If you're planning to visit popular attractions, try to arrive early to avoid crowds. Lastly, be mindful of potential subway delays due to severe weather, and consider staying in a local neighborhood outside of Manhattan to save on hotel prices.

Transportation in New York

Getting around New York City can be quite straightforward, with various transportation options available. Walking is often the easiest way to get around, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city's sights and sounds. The NYC subway system, including the iconic Grand Central Terminal, provides a convenient and affordable way to travel between attractions, with over 450 subway stations and a 24-hour operation. You can buy individual fares at stations or purchase a Metrocard, which works on a number of transit options in the city. Alternatively, you can take the bus, hail a cab, Uber, or Lyft, or rent a car through services like Zipcar for short periods. It's worth noting that walking is a great way to explore the city, with wide sidewalks and designated street crossings, and you can also consider renting a bike and riding on paths like the Central Park routes or the High Line.

Dos in New York

Bring any medical prescriptions you may need, as you may not be able to refill them in the US.
Pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking in New York.
Familiarize yourself with the US tipping culture and calculate the tip at the checkout, as 15-20% is considered the norm in restaurants.
Purchase travel insurance that includes medical and theft coverage, as the health service is expensive and medical emergencies can be costly.
Let your bank and credit card company know the countries you're visiting to avoid any issues.
Carry a First Aid Kit with you, especially if you're planning to engage in outdoor activities.
Respect lines and waiting your turn, as this is an important aspect of American culture.
Be mindful of personal space and keep a comfortable distance from others.

Don'ts in New York

Don't Take expensive jewelry with you, and consider wearing costume jewelry instead.
Don't Overspend on trendy restaurants, and consider trying more affordable options.
Don't Try to cover every single landmark in New York, pick a few spots to focus on.
Don't Ignore petty crimes in New York, such as pickpocketing or scams.