Christmas in New York - Day One: Little Island, The Highline ,Hudson Yards & Bryant Park
When I was planning our Christmas trip to New York, I knew I wanted to spend a few days going into the city to explore some fun holiday activities with the kids. I split our city activities into three days (we only completed two) so we can try to get to everything that was on our “Christmas in New York bucket list.”
Our first stop on day one was to explore Little Island, The Highline, Hudson Yards and then take a subway uptown to the Bryant Park holiday markets
I had never been to Little Island but had heard it was definitely worth exploring. It’s nestled on the waterfront and offers a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city
Seasonal Delights
During the Christmas season, Little Island transforms into a twinkling spectacle. The air is filled with the sounds of carolers, and the pathways are lined with festive décor. The Amph, the central performance space, hosts seasonal events, ranging from live musical performances to holiday-themed theatrical productions. It's the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas while enjoying breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.
The Winter Garden
One of the highlights of Little Island's holiday charm is the Winter Garden. This lush green space is adorned with seasonal blooms and illuminated with fairy lights, creating a serene retreat in the heart of the city. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the Winter Garden, sipping on hot cocoa and reveling in the holiday spirit.
My sister, Lisette, joined us for some city sights.
Lisette, Lucy, Julia, my friend Elia and me.
The High Line: Elevated Elegance with a Touch of Christmas Magic
Elevated Escapade
Our next destination is The High Line – an elevated park built on a historic freight rail line on Manhattan's West Side. As you ascend above the city streets, you'll find yourself immersed in a serene landscape of greenery, art installations, and breathtaking views of the city. During the holiday season, The High Line undergoes a festive transformation, turning into a winter wonderland suspended in the sky.
We were here last year for the girls’ spring break and it was the first time we walked the Highline, although it was much colder.
Artistic Illumination
One of the highlights of The High Line at Christmas is the artistic illumination that adorns the pathway. The park collaborates with local artists to create unique light installations that add a touch of magic to the surroundings. As you stroll along the elevated walkway, you'll be captivated by the interplay of lights, shadows, and the crisp winter air.
Seasonal Markets and Festivities
The High Line isn't just a scenic escape – it's also a hub of holiday activities. Seasonal markets pop up along the pathway, offering an array of handcrafted gifts, local delicacies, and festive treats. Visitors can partake in holiday-themed workshops, from wreath-making to ornament crafting, adding a personalized touch to their Christmas celebrations.
Hudson Yards: Modern Marvels Meet Festive Flair
Sculpting the Skyline
Our Christmas exploration in New York wouldn't be complete without a visit to Hudson Yards – a cutting-edge development that has redefined the city's skyline. This architectural masterpiece seamlessly blends modern design with holiday cheer, creating a dynamic and festive atmosphere that captivates visitors.
Hudson Yards was probably my favorite stop on our “Christmas in the City” day. The lights throughout the mall are breathtaking and there are so many great photo ops. It’s a must-see at Christmastime.
The Vessel's Glow
At the heart of Hudson Yards stands The Vessel, a spiral staircase sculpture that becomes a radiant focal point during the holiday season. Adorned with a brilliant display of lights, The Vessel illuminates the night sky, inviting visitors to ascend its spiral structure and enjoy panoramic views of the city below. The interplay of contemporary design and festive illumination makes for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Shopping Extravaganza
Hudson Yards isn't just a feast for the eyes – it's also a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards feature an array of luxury boutiques and flagship stores, offering the perfect opportunity to find exquisite holiday gifts and seasonal fashion. The retail spaces themselves are adorned with festive décor, creating a shopping experience that is both stylish and spirited. I, of course, was excited to grab a bite at Shake Shack and it didn’t disappoint. We were all in the mood for burgers and had worked up an appetite by this point.
Had to make a quick stop at Shake Shack.
Bryant Park: A Winter Village of Festivities
The Gem of Midtown
As we wrap up our Christmas journey in New York, we find ourselves in the heart of Midtown Manhattan – Bryant Park. This iconic urban oasis transforms into a Winter Village during the holiday season, complete with an ice-skating rink, festive market stalls, and people that are all looking to soak up the holiday spirit.
Skating Under the Skyscrapers
Bryant Park's Winter Village boasts one of the most picturesque ice-skating rinks in the city. Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and twinkling lights, the rink provides a magical setting for both seasoned skaters and novices alike. Skating beneath the winter sky, with the skyline as a backdrop, is a quintessential New York holiday experience. Although we didn’t skate, we enjoyed watching the skaters go by while we sipped on our hot cocoa.
Holiday Market Extravaganza
The Winter Village's holiday market adds an extra layer of charm to Bryant Park. Dozens of boutique-style kiosks offer an array of handmade gifts, artisanal crafts, and delectable treats. From unique jewelry to warm scarves, the market provides an opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local artisans. The scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine wafts through the air, creating a festive ambiance that warms the soul.
The girls loved riding on this cute carousel.
