10 Things We Love About the Holidays in NYC
The holiday season transforms New York into an iconic winter wonderland unlike any other, from glittering lights that dot the streets to Fifth Avenue window displays decked out in holiday cheer. Here are 10 reasons we always look forward to the holidays in NYC :
1. Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Attracting more than one million people per year, this holiday tradition for more than 80 years keeps on kicking. Travelzoo members can often score deals to see the Rockettes -- check out US edition's latest New York City live event offers!
2. Hotels Rates Drop … Big Time
During the holidays, hotels in New York City are as low as $129 U.S. per night and include exclusive perks only when you book through Travelzoo. 
3. Lighting Christmas Trees
See the tallest Christmas tree in America at Rockefeller Center or head to Washington Square Park for the holiday tree under the iconic arch.
4. Ice skating
Rinks around the city open mid-October. We recommend heading out early for the first skate of the day to avoid the crowds. The Wollman Rink at Central Park is also slightly larger than the ones at Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park but if your heart is set on Rockefeller Center, then you can often find a great deal (where else) at Travelzoo.
5. Shopping the Union Square Holiday Market: Nov. 19 – Dec. 24
Check off everyone on your list. The Union Square Holiday Market has more than 170 vendors, from jewelry and holiday decorations to sweet and savory treats. Pro tip: For a great photo opp (free), head inside and upstairs to Burlington Coat Factory on the park’s south side.
6. Fifth Avenue Holiday Window Displays: Mid-November – Dec. 31
Stroll Fifth Avenue and peruse holiday displays of luxury shops like Bergdorf Goodman, Chanel and Tiffany and Co. Don’t forget to visit the shops further south: Lord & Taylor and Macy’s.
7. Christmas at Rolf’s
This Gramercy Park German bar pulls out all the bells and whistles for Christmas. Make reservations and dine under hundreds of twinkling lights and ornaments.
8. Sledding in Central Park
Enter the park at 72nd Street and Fifth Avenue to get to the steepest slopes in the park: Pilgrim Hill.
9. NY Botanical Garden Train Show
Classic model trains chug along thousands of feet of tracks that weave through replicas of the city’s landmarks. The Holiday Train show held indoors runs from late November into January. Buy timed tickets in advance (weekdays and evenings are least crowded) to avoid arriving to a sold-out show.
10. Visit A Museum ... or two
New York is famous for its world-class museums and art galleries. They're perfect excuses to get out of the cold. You'll be able to take advantage of the smaller winter crowds and can even score a Travelzoo discounts over the holidays at places like the Guggenheim Museum (pictured) and the Museum of Modern Art.