By Tasniha Islam & Valeria Valle Rojas, Class IV
This year, take advantage of your OMNY card and visit New York City’s most iconic attractions while fulfilling your holiday dreams. The busy city and hectic streets have transformed into a winter wonderland with activities for all.
Embrace the cold
Grab a hot chocolate and throw on your cutest puffer!
Wollman Rink- Until March 15 2025!
Experience the magic of ice skating under the New York City skyline at Wollman Rink this winter! Wollman Rink stands out because of its iconic location in Central Park, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, a spacious ice surface, and a classic NYC winter experience that no other rink can match.
Rating: 3/5
After visiting, we can confirm the ample space and beautiful scenery in the heart of Central Park. However, the rink can get very crowded on weekends and holidays, which leads to longer wait times and less time to skate. The food was slightly overpriced, offering food like gnocchi, but priced at $20 for just a small serving. Overall, this provided a memorable family-friendly experience.
Adults: $27.00
Children (Ages 4-12): $10.00
Seniors (Ages 65+): $10.00
Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanical Garden - Until January 5th 2025!
The winter light show at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden transforms the serene landscape into a magical wonderland with glowing displays, twinkling lights, and illuminated pathways.
Rating: 3.8/5
The light displays create a festive, enchanting atmosphere that adds a touch of magic to the holiday season. The beautiful landscape also makes for stunning photo opportunities. It’s a great activity for families, as children and adults alike enjoy the whimsical, interactive nature of the light showing. Although, the light show is only available during specific dates, which may be inconvenient for some, and tends to get crowded during its peak hours. Bring some extra cash to check out the delicious food stalls, bites start from $8. From hot chocolate to turkey sandwiches; don’t miss out on the Lightscape Café.
Value Nights (discounted prices) | Off-Peak | Peak | |
Adults | $24 | $36 | $45 |
Child (3-12) | $12 | $18 | $23 |
Baby (0-2) | free | free | free |
Sit Back, Relax
Don’t forget the popcorn!
The Nutcracker - Until January 4 2025!
Step into a world of magic and enchantment with The Nutcracker as dazzling dance meets timeless music in this beloved holiday classic! This is a classic ballet that tells the story of a young girl’s magical journey with her Nutcracker prince through a fantasy world filled with dancing snowflakes, vibrant characters, and the Land of Sweets. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, it’s a beloved holiday tradition.
Rating: 4/5
Although we haven’t personally seen this, it’s often praised for its beautiful choreography, enchanting music, and stunning visual effects, and it usually receives high marks from critics. This show fosters impressive dance performances, a captivating story, and a festive spirit that the cast brings to the stage. It’s a timeless and family-friendly performance that appeals to all ages - a definite watch.
PRICES VARY WITH AVAILABILITY AND SEATS
Radio City Rockettes - Until January 5th 2025!
Experience the magic of the holiday season with the world-famous Radio City Rockettes in a high-energy, dazzling show filled with a beautiful dance, glittering costumes, and festive cheer!
Rating: 4.2/5
This show is highly acclaimed by critics, who praise the dancers for their precise choreography, vibrant costumes, and festive energy. It’s considered a must-see holiday event in New York City.
PRICES VARY
(usually starts at $75+)
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park - Until January 5 2025!
If you simply aren't in the mood for long entertainment or activities, the holiday markets around the city are a great place to spend time while finding treats, from food and drinks, to trinkets socks, and ornaments, or even just to admire the creativity of vendors and the holiday atmosphere. Bryant Park’s Winter Village has holiday shops open from 11 am to 8 pm on weekdays and from 10 am to 8 pm on weekends. This attraction is popular citywide, and keeps returning annually because of residents’ love for all the things the Winter Village had to offer. Although the winter village itself stays around until March 2, the shops are only open until January 5th. You can find almost anything in the many shops, but it could get a little crowded.
Rating: 4.6/5
During our visit, the holiday spirit was definitely in the air. There were many people, so it could be a little overwhelming, especially during the Park’s peak hours, but depending on the time you go, lines in some shops are not too lengthy. There were cute stands and lots of treats we wanted to try, but some shops could get a bit pricey. The music was very fitting to the atmosphere and added fun. Since the park is located in Midtown Manhattan, there are lots of places nearby to visit after or before your trip to the Winter Village. You should bring a friend or family member if you’d like to share the experience, but even visiting alone can be just as memorable.
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