Crave The Date’s Festive 5
Five Touristy To-Dos On Your Christmas Vacation
1.) If you haven’t already, you’ve gotta go see The Tree! While Rockefeller Center might be the most highly-trafficked three blocks in all of the US during Christmastime, there’s nothing more festive. So don’t be a Scrooge – go brave the crowds and take a picture by The Tree, just be conscious of your pockets, purses, iPhones, iPods, etc.
2.) [Window] Shop ‘Till You Drop! Not in the holiday spirit this year? Take a stroll up Fifth Avenue – the jaw-dropping window displays (i.e. Saks, Tiffany, Cartier, Bergdorf Goodman) just might bring that warm & fuzzy feeling back to life. Also, you can’t forget about the unbelievable sales that typically happen right after Christmas. You might be able to score some otherwise unaffordable merchandise, so don’t forget to bring your plastic.
3.) Walk in your own Winter Wonderland at Rolf’s Bar & Restaurant. This Gramercy German restaurant is known for getting decked out for the holidays. A true Christmas Spectacular, the display here is over-the-top, you’ve got to see it to believe it. Go check it out, and grab a brew while you’re at it. Rolf’s, 281 Third Ave. at 21st Street, 212-473-8718.
4.) Take in a show! If you’re not in the mood for the Rockettes or a Broadway musical, then why not go see a feel-good flick at your local movie theater? Our suggestion: The Muppet Movie. Not just for kids, this movie is sure to get an “LOL” out of you and remind you of fond childhood memories, where everything was as fresh as the bright blue sky…
5.) Get your skate on (but not while you’re at Rock Center). Feelings of claustrophobia might overcome you while at the Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center during Christmastime. Giving up your first born won’t even get you to the front of the line (though do not try this on your own – as we’ve said before, there are lots of weirdos in NYC!). Save yourself the stress and try one of NYC’s other picturesque ice skating spots. You won’t be able to avoid the crowds entirely, but if you go on off-hours, you just might hit it lucky.
Special Holiday Hours: 8am-midnight (even on Xmas)
Admission: free
Skate Rentals: $14
Lockers & bag check available for a fee
Grab a drink & a bite at Celsius, Bryant Park’s rink side restaurant (glass-enclosed lounge and an outdoor terrace with heat lamps)
Enter through Central Park South (59th Street) & 6th Avenue – Wollman Rink is a two minute walk into Central Park from this entrance
Holiday Hours: 10am-11pm (shortened hours on Xmas Eve, Day, NYE & Day)
Weekday rates: adults $10.75, kids $5.75
Weekend rates: adults $16, kids $6
Skate rentals: $6.75
Extra fees for lock rental & spectators
December 24, 2011




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