The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. Sometimes that means staying close to home; other times it means getting out to explore a new winter destination or visit a familiar favorite.
If you’re dreaming of glittering city lights, the energy of New York City reaches new heights during the winter months. The always-bustling city transforms into a magical winter wonderland, making it a dream destination for festive travelers.
Here we highlight seven things to do and how the city offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement, creating an unforgettable urban holiday experience.
1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: Witness the world-famous tree, one of NYC’s must-see holiday landmarks. Lit daily from 5am to midnight (except on Christmas Eve when it’s lit for a full 24 hours and New Year’s Eve when it shines from 5am to 9pm), the dazzling tree remains on display from early December through mid-January.
2. Ice Skating in Central Park or Bryant Park: Glide through enchanting outdoor rinks surrounded by the city’s skyline. The Wollman Rink in the heart of Central Park is a must-do for skaters of all ages and skill levels. The rink at Bryant Park, located in its seasonal Winter Village, offers free admission, as well as skate rentals, skating shows, and other holiday festivities.
3. Holiday Window Displays: Stroll the city sidewalks on and around Fifth Avenue to marvel at intricate, themed storefronts. Starting at Bloomingdales on Lexington Avenue and heading over to and south on Fifth, you’ll pass beautifully creative displays and sparkling lights from Tiffany & Co., Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and more before reaching the multiple holiday windows at Macy’s.
4. Santaland at Macy’s Department Store: If you don’t mind the crowds, paying a visit to Macy’s — and particularly Santaland — is an immersive and nostalgic way for kids of all ages to enjoy the holidays, whether you want to admire the decorations, do a little shopping, or get a photo with Santa himself.
5. Take in a Holiday Performance: Catch wonderful holiday-themed shows such as “The Nutcracker” at Lincoln Center, “Elf the Musical,” “A Christmas Carol,” and “The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular” at various venues on (and off) Broadway.
6. Shop the Holiday Markets: Eat drink, browse, and shop for unique gifts at the fun and festive Union Square, Bryant Park, or Columbus Circle outdoor markets.
7. New Year’s Eve at Times Square: For those who want to brave the cold and the crowds to ring in the new year, there’s nothing like New Year’s Eve at Times Square. Stake out your spot in the crowd, enjoy the music and festivities, then watch the iconic ball drop at midnight at this world-famous, annual event.
About the local Equity Estates homes:
Located on the 25th floor of a quiet, residential high-rise just between Midtown and the Upper East Side, our Midtown East I residence is a modern two-bedroom, two-bath architectural wonder. Floor-to-ceiling windows and two private balconies present unparalleled south-facing views and fill the space with warmth and light.
A full gourmet kitchen with bar-style seating is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine or a home-cooked holiday meal, while a separate sitting space in the living area is ideal for relaxing with a good book after a day out enjoying all of the holiday magic the city has to offer.
Our stunning three-bedroom Midtown East II home offers amazing views of the city, a dramatic great room with 20-ft. ceilings, a fireplace (perfect for cold winter nights), and floor to ceiling windows. Step out on to the private balcony to enjoy more incredible views.
This residence is near popular NYC destinations like Museum Mile, Central Park, boutique shopping, and upscale dining, all with convenient access to public transportation from the Lexington Avenue subway station.
Your Holiday Adventure Awaits
Whether you crave the excitement of a bustling metropolis or the warmth of sandy beaches our Equity Estates destinations each have something special to offer during the holiday season.
Your Destination Manager will work with you to plan your holiday itinerary before you arrive and make sure your stay is effortless and unforgettable. They can also arrange for holiday decorations, special experiences, and private chefs to come in and cook for you while you’re in your Equity Estates home. Leave the details to us and arrive to a fully stocked kitchen and bar with groceries of your choice. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury are yours.
If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or schedule a call. Your magical winter holiday awaits!
