Last December I had the pleasure of spending 2 weeks in New York. Although I didn’t get a white Christmas, I definitely felt the winter magic in this amazing city! So, here is a MASSIVE post with my trip highlights.
A DAY IN CENTRAL PARK
No trip is complete without at least a full day in Central Park. It’s the best place in the city for its lawns, fountains, picnics, walking paths, and searching for those iconic movie scene locations from all your favourite New York City movies… Here’s a list of spots to spot by for pictures:
- Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
- The top of the Belvedere Castle for panoramic views of the Great Lawn, the Ramble, and Turtle Pond.
- Bow Bridge (only before 9am as it can get very busy later)
- On the Rocks
CLIMBING THE VESSEL
Head on over to Hudson Yard to see this amazing structure by Heatherwick. Although it was pouring that morning, I still had a great time climbing these stairs! Click here for more information.
Tip: Plan ahead and reserve your free tickets online to avoid paying for entry on-site.
SUNSET VIEWS FROM THE CIRCLE LINE AND LANDMARK CRUISE (departing from Pier 83, Midtown)
After climbing the Vessel, walk over to Pier 83 for a river cruise. There’s no better way to see the billion-dollar skyline than from the water. The river cruise starts from the Hudson River, continues out to the Statue of Liberty, goes past Governor’s Island, and also takes you round to the East River. This is a fabulous way to see the unobstructed skyline and catch all the amazing landmarks. Also, don’t worry about which side of the boat to sit on for the best views, the boat will turn around and drop you off where you got on so as long as you are next to a window – you will see everything! Click here for more booking and cruise route information!
Tip 1: Book ahead and arrive about half an hour before departure.
Tip 2: Plan your trip around sunset for the best lighting!
EXPLORING THE FLATIRON DISTRICT
Did you know the Flatiron Building was the world’s tallest building when it was built? Oh, how times have changed! But it’s still a stunning landmark to photograph to this day. Although I wasn’t able to get a photo with the Flatiron Building, it’ll be on my list for when I next visit the big apple! I would also recommend stopping by Eataly for a meal, or having a quick bite to eat at (the original) Shake Shack in Madison Square Garden while you’re here.
HOLIDAY TREATS AT UNION SQUARE CHRISTMAS MARKET
After exploring the Flatiron District, we made our way over to Union Square for a bit of holiday magic! This cute little market had everything you would expect from a Christmas market: the little trinkets, the lights, the toasty snacks, hot chocolate… (need I say more?). While I was spoiling myself with holiday treats, I noticed almost all the booths were by local businesses, which makes the experience even more special!
I would also recommend walking over to Washington Square Park to sit and people-watch by the big arch. This is one the most photogenic places in New York and it has a real New York city vibe.
Tip: Go closer to the Christmas bank holidays to see the gigantic Christmas tree!
MORE CHRISTMAS MAGIC IN MIDTOWN MANHATTAN
Other than spoiling myself with holidays treats at Christmas markets and ice-skating in parks, I was on a mission to find the perfect Christmas displays in Manhattan. Honestly, Midtown didn’t disappoint! To truly appreciate the Christmas magic, visit these spots in the evening when the illuminated displays come to life:
- Christmas tree at the Lotte New York Palace
- Shopfront displays on Fifth Avenue: Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, Henri Bendel, Cartier, Tiffany and Co., and Lord and Taylor
- Giant ornaments at 1251 Avenue of the Americas
- EVERYTHING at the Rockefeller Centre
- Rolf’s Restaurant for a lovely meal!
Tip: Plan a route before you go so you don’t miss any special events and hit all the spots. I was so lucky because I happened to be there when there was a fireworks show at the Rockefeller Centre. I even caught a glimpse of the wonderful Idina Menzel performing!
MORNING IN WEST VILLAGE
West Village is a more laid back neighbourhood, and I fully fell in love with it. Taking a morning stroll here along the tree-lined streets dotted with little cafes was a great way to spend a lazy morning. It almost felt like I was starring in a real-life New York City movie. If you’re a fan of Friends then stop by the Friends apartment! You can still see notes the stars have left on the side of the building.
WALKING THE HIGH LINE
After a morning in West Village, go to the High Line by architect Thomas Heatherwick! If you’re an architecture lover, this one is for you. Its a 1.45-mile-long elevated linear park, built on a former New York Central Railroad spur on the west side of Manhattan. You can walk through gardens, take loads of pictures, and look at art while enjoying a unique perspective of New York City from a little higher up. You can even spot another exciting Heatherwick project on Pier 55, Little Garden, which is currently under construction. Click here for more information on opening hours, artwork is on display, and their green community engagement.
SUNRISE ON BROOKLYN BRIDGE
A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is a must! We went at sunrise to catch the soft morning light and avoid crowds.
Tip 1: Shoot facing Manhattan to included the skyline
Tip 2: Walk further down the bridge and position yourself closer to the pylons to fill the frame
SUNSET WALK IN BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK AND PIERS (from Brooklyn Heights to DUMBO):
DUMBO and the Brooklyn Bridge Park and Piers are lovely places for walks, with so many photo opportunities along the way. Here are some spots you should stop by:
- A little illuminated garden by The River Cafe.
- Jane’s Carousel: a gorgeous and iconic merry-go-round built in 1922 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. The ride is open year-round and will only cost you $2.
- Pebble Beach for bridge and skyline views.
- The lawn outside Time Out Market (would also be great to stop there for a snack!)
- The timber piles with the Manhattan skyline backdrop.
- The iconic Washington Street view (between Plymouth and Water Streets. I didn’t have enough time to stop by this spot during my time in Brooklyn, but I will definitely be looking for it next time I visit New York!
Tip: Go at sunrise – it will get extremely busy with people and cars any later!
At the end of the day, we took the East Ferry from Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 1 back to Manhattan (Wall Street/Pier 11) for only $2.75 each.
VISITING THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART
A trip to New York wouldn’t be right without an afternoon in the MET, and getting pictures taken on the amazing steps. Whether you’re interested in art, history, cultures around the world or if you’re Gossip Girl fan, there will be something special here for you! Click here for admission information to plan your visit.
I would also recommend all architecture lovers to stop by the Guggenheim Museum by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s right across the street!
VISITING THE MUSEUM OF MODERN ART
The MoMA was another art museum I really enjoyed. There’s a wide range of mediums and styles to explore and I would recommend a visit here on a rainy day. Click here for information on the exhibits and admission details to plan your visit.
LEARNING HISTORY AT THE NATIONAL 9/11 MEMORIAL MUSEUM
The National 9/11 Memorial Museum is also great for a rainy day. The World Trade Centre’s twin towers once dominated the Manhattan skyline but were destroyed by suicide-pilots, leaving a tragic loss of life. Two reflecting pools now sit where the towers once stood. I don’t know how to describe exactly how I felt when visiting the remarkably designed museum, it brought a lump to my throat and I learned so much about strength. The square outside is free and open anytime, click here to plan your visit to the museum.
Also stop by the Oculus by architect Santiago Calatrava, It’s just across the street! The white painted building is a great place for outfit or fashion photos.
PASSING THROUGH GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL
Spotted at Grand Central, bags in hand… (you know who it is!)
Grand Central is a tough one to miss because you will probably have to commute through at some point, but it’s such an iconic place and I just can’t leave it out!
Tip: The photo below was taken next to the apple store!
STOPPING BY THE NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY
If liked watching Sex and the City and Breakfast at Tiffany’s… then stop by the New York Public Library and see and see if you can find where they filmed!
Tip 1: Bring a wide angle lens to capture all the architectural elements!
Tip 2: Step out to Bryant Park for ice skating and hot chocolate in the Winter Village.
I hope you enjoyed this one! If you’re planning a trip or a weekend in this amazing city, you can also take a look through my Instagram highlights for more inspiration. What are your favourite things to do in New York? I’d love to know!