December in New York is truly a winter wonderland, with seasonal lights decorating the city and a good chance of snow. There are also a wide variety of activities to experience upstate. Be sure to bring warm clothes if you travel to New York at this time of year and be wary of ice on the streets and sidewalks.
Get your skates on and enjoy the ice around town at the seasonal rinks in Manhattan. Rockefeller Center is one of the most well-known locations and has been operating since 1936.
Rockefeller Center Ice Rink
47th/50th Streets at 5th/7th Avenues
212-332-7654
In Central Park, you can choose between the Wollman and Lasker Rinks.
Lasker Ice Skating Rink
110th Street at Lenox Avenue
917-492-3857
Wollman Rink
63rd Street (in park)
212-439-6900
You can also skate at The Pond at Bryant Park.
The Pond at Bryant Park
40th Street at 5th Avenue
866-221-5157
See special routines by the Radio City Rockettes along with Santa, a Living Nativity and a host of other colorful holiday characters at this special show. This is a great activity for the entire family that takes place during November and December every year.
Radio City Music Hall
1260 6th Avenue between 50th and 51st Streets
866-858-0007
radiocitychristmas.com
Every year, thousands of people flock to Manhattan's Times Square to celebrate the turning of the new year under the giant ball. This is a packed, televised event and you'll need to arrive early if you plan to participate.
Head to Rockefeller Center to see the famous giant Christmas tree or check out the seasonal window displays at the major department stores along Fifth Avenue (between 49th and 58th Streets), as well as Macy's in Herald Square. Wherever you look, the city will be decorated with ornaments and twinkling lights for the holidays.
Head upstate from mid-December to enjoy skiing and other winter sports at one of New York's many resorts. Whether you choose to visit the Catskills, Adirondacks, or Finger Lakes, you're bound to enjoy the quality snow and activities in the region.
