The only problem with our famous holiday decorations is that they draw such big crowds of tourists. It's hard to stop to admire the holiday bling without being run over by bargain hunters, tour groups, or a wayward pedicab. If you can't beat them, join them. Don't let the crowds prevent you from getting out to see New York City's holiday sparkle.
1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Holiday Lights
Photo by Pamela Skillings
Rockefeller Center is New York City's most famous and popular destination for holiday decorations. Tens of thousands of people turn out for the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony every year and tens of thousands more stop by Rockefeller Center to shop, skate, or admire the lights during the holiday season.
2. Fifth Avenue Department Stores
Photo by Pamela Skillings
3. Holiday Lights at Grand Central Terminal
Photo courtesy of Grand Central Terminal
4. "Under the Stars" at Time Warner Center
Photo by Bjorg Magnea
Twelve 14-ft stars dazzle from the soaring ceilings of Time Warner Center, lighting up all of Columbus Circle throughout the holiday season. See photos of the holiday dazzle at Time Warner Center.
5. The Bronx Zoo
Photo by Pamela Skillings
6. Bryant Park
Bryant Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. See the decorations, take a free spin around the Bryant Park Citi Pond ice skating rink, or browse for unique gifts at the Holiday Shops at Bryant Park.
7. Origami Holiday Tree and Holiday Dinos at the American Museum of Natural History
Visit the American Museum of Natural History during the holiday season and marvel at the famous Origami Holiday Tree, a New York City tradition for more than 30 years. Volunteers started folding in July to make the 500 origami decorations on display and master folders will be on hand during the holiday season to teach visitors the art of origami.
Also on display at the Museum are two 19-foot Holiday Barosaurs constructed of openwork stainless steel and decorated with pine boughs and lights. Illuminated at night, the dinosaurs greet visitors outside the Museum's main entrance on Central Park West and 79th Street.
