Last Updated
The Big Apple is home to a ton of festive, cheery attractions. Whether you’re from the area and looking for some fun things to do, or trying to plan a trip, this list has got you covered! Here are the top 5 festive things to do in NYC for 2021.
1. Check Out Bryant Park's Winter Village
Located in Bryant Park, this winter wonderland sits in the heart of the city and offers a variety of fun attractions. You’ll want to check out the ice skating rink. The rink has both figure and hockey skates available for rent. It also offers skate aids to rent for children under 10. Even better – If you have your own skates, you’ll be able to skate for free. The Winter Village also hosts the Holiday Shops, an open-air market similar to a farmer’s market, but instead featuring festive and hand-crafted items. The Winter Village is currently open daily from 11am-8pm on weekdays and 10am-8pm on weekends. The variety of activities make this the perfect option for visitors of all ages – there's bound to be something enjoyable for everyone.
2. Experience The Bronx Zoo Holiday Light Show
Enjoy food, live entertainment, and awe-inspiring light displays with a visit to the Bronx Zoo this holiday season! The Zoo’s long-running holiday light show is back this year and features over 260 animal lanterns in addition to a variety of other lights. And while the light display is more than worth it on its own, it's not all you have to look forward to! This event also includes a variety of live entertainment, including costumed characters, ice carving demonstrations, and stilt walkers. Families with children will also love a ride on the Holiday Train. And finally, to end your night on a delicious note, some festive favorites some such as hot cocoa and smores are also available.
3. Explore Brooklyn Botanic Garden's Lightscape
The holiday season is almost synonymous with light displays, and Lightscape truly takes it to another level. Brooklyn Botanic Garden – beautiful any time of the year – is transformed into a Holiday wonderland in this memorable attraction. You’ll be able to trek the paths of the botanic garden after dark – with trails lit by vibrant and intricate light displays. Some of the most notable features include the Winter Cathedral tunnel and the Field of Light. The attraction runs from November 19th to January 9th. Tickets are currently available to purchase online.
4. Check Out The Light Displays In Dyker Heights
Dyker Heights is one of the most well-loved neighborhoods in New York City for viewing Christmas lights. Head over to Brooklyn to see some truly stunning light displays – some professional quality and costing thousands of dollars. The area with the best lights typically spans from 11th to 13th avenue and from 83rd to 86th street. You can check it out by foot or by car yourself. If you’re wanting a guided experience, there are also a couple of tours that include the Dyker Heights light displays.
5. Go Ice Skating At Central Park
What says winter more than ice skating? You can head over to Central Park to enjoy this fun winter activity with the gorgeous backdrop of the New York skyline. Central Park has two main ice skating rinks, Wollman Rink and Lasker Rink, that are set to open in mid-November. Skate and locker rentals are available at each. The park also has a third option of skating at Conservatory Water, though this option is only available when ice and weather conditions allow.
Read More:
Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2021
A Foodies’ Guide To Visiting New York City
↓ Elevate Your Travel↓
Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!
✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path's latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
S.B.
Sunday 14th of November 2021
I am a fully vaccinated 4th Generation New Yorker who has lived out of state for some years now due to work. Even I am not visiting New York due to the vaccine pass situation there. I don't support it and find it a total hassle. Frankly, it is insulting. Until NYC drops that, I won't even visit my own family in the city. We can meet up in the Catskills or somewhere, but I refuse to set foot in a city requiring vaccination passes. That just puts the focus constantly on COVID and is a buzzkill for relaxation.