As the winter chill descends in New York State and the landscape transforms with its white blanket, a different kind of buzz takes over. December is the time for holiday festivities like no other. New York is a great destination for a December vacation, and here are some of the top things to do in New York during that time of the year.
Exploring the State Capitol
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Visit the New York State Capitol Building – Adorned with grand architecture and rich history, the New York State Capitol building is a great place to explore during the holidays. Designated a National Historic Landmark, the building boasts of its grand dome, intricate designs, and fabulous interiors.
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Take a Tour – The advocacy group Friends of the Capitol organizes daily tour sessions in the Capitol, where experienced guides show visitors around the building and its grounds. The tour focuses on the history, architectural features, and restoration efforts of the building.
Experience Holiday Magic in New York City
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Ice-skating at Rockefeller Center – Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, Rockerfeller Center is the premier destination to experience the holiday magic of New York City. The large outdoor ice-skating rink sits below the famous Christmas tree and the Christmas decorations adorning the windows of the lavish stores invites one to enjoy some holiday cheer.
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Shopping at Bryant Park – Amidst the skyscrapers overlooking Manhattan stands the historical and beautiful Bryant Park. Every December, the park is adorned with festive lights and Christmas decorations, while a huge holiday market takes over its grounds. The market showcases unique and quirky gift items, perfect for that holiday shopping spree.
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Catch a Play on Broadway – The Grande Dame of the theatre scene, Broadway boasts of some of the most iconic musicals that span across genres. “The Lion King,” “Billy Elliot,” “Wicked,” and the more recent “Aladdin” are some of the shows which are must-watch during one’s visit during the holiday season.
Heading to the Finger Lakes Region
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Visit Watkins Glen State Park – An adventure-seeker’s paradise, Watkins Glen State Park is one of the most beautiful places in New York. Located in the Finger Lakes region, the park is at its stunning best during winter, with the flowing water and the blanket of snow providing the perfect sights and sounds.
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Explore Corning – An iconic glass-making center, Corning is a great place for experiencing the local charm, especially during the holidays. Outdoor decorations and lights, special holiday sales, and great food options provide plenty of opportunity for visitors to catch up with the unique spirit of Corning.
Holiday in the North Country
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Go Hiking through the Adirondacks – As the snow descends in the Adirondacks, it creates fascinating winter trails that beckon adventurers. Snowy summits and winter foliage provide breathtaking views, while a classic mountain village gives the perfect opportunity to drop by to rest and relax.
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Tour Saranac Lake – A beautiful village, steeped in history and surrounded by the magical Adirondacks, Saranac Lake is New York’s “Winter Wonderland.” Touring around the village and spending time with the locals is an excellent way to experience the winter magic.
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Go Skiiing – A prominent ski destination, Whiteface Mountain ensures that thrill-seekers can get their fill, come December. Ski resorts, snowshoeing trails, and ice-skating rinks provide plenty of opportunities to experience the best of winter sports in New York.
Heading to the Hudson Valley
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Check out Walkway Over the Hudson – Spanning a whopping 212 feet in the sky, the Walkway Over the Hudson is one of the best places to witness sweeping views of the valley below. During winter, the river and grounds along it provide an up-close experience to the sights, sounds, and stories of the area.
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Visit the Vanderbilt Mansion – A magnificent National Historic Site, the Vanderbilt Mansion is a great place to spend a day indulging in history and culture. The exquisite interiors, the historic artifacts, and the beautiful grounds of the mansion provide a peek into an era long gone.
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Take the Yuletide Cruise – Nothing showcases the beauty of the Hudson Valley better than a cruise in December. Visitors can join the “Yuletide Cruise,” an exclusive holiday-themed dinner cruise service which runs along the Hudson. The decor both in and out of the cruise adds to the celebratory feel of the winter season.
Where to Stay in New York
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Stay at the Best Hotels in the City – In a city like New York, the range of accommodation options can cause dizzying confusion. There are some of the best hotels in the city that provide great amenities and secure accommodation, making holidays feel like a dream.
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Visit the Bed & Breakfast Sites – For those wishing to live with the locals and experience the true spirit of New York, then its Bed & Breakfasts are the places to visit. From cozy inns to grand old homes, these places showcase grand hospitality while providing a comfortable stay during the holidays.
December is a beautiful time to explore New York State as it comes alive to welcome visitors. With stunning views and captivating experiences, New York gives every visitor a unique chance to take back memories of a unique and wondrous winter holiday. From exploring some iconic sites through to participating in adventurous activities, this list contains the top things to do in New York State during December. How many adventures will you experience this holiday season?