New York City, one of the world’s most iconic destinations, is a place that has captivated the hearts of millions of people. From its towering skyscrapers to its vibrant streets, New York is a city that never sleeps. With its rich history, diverse culture, and endless entertainment options, it’s no wonder that New York is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. But, is December a good time to visit New York? The answer to this question depends on various factors, including your preferences, budget, and what you want to do during your visit.
December is one of the coldest months in New York, with average temperatures ranging from 24°F (-4°C) to 43°F (6°C). While this may not be ideal for everyone, especially those who are not fond of cold weather, it’s also a great time to experience the city’s festive atmosphere. The holiday season in New York is a magical time, with decorations, lights, and festivities that will leave you in awe. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the festive window displays of department stores, New York is a winter wonderland in December.
So, if you’re planning to visit New York in December, here are some things to consider:
Weather and Climate
December is one of the coldest months in New York, with average temperatures ranging from 24°F (-4°C) to 43°F (6°C). The city experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. In December, the average high temperature is around 43°F (6°C), while the average low temperature is around 24°F (-4°C). It’s not uncommon for the temperature to drop below 0°F (-18°C) during this time, especially in the mornings and evenings.
It’s also worth noting that December is one of the snowiest months in New York, with an average of 6.1 inches (15.5 cm) of snowfall. While this may not be ideal for everyone, especially those who are not fond of cold weather, it’s also a great time to experience the city’s winter wonderland.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for the cold weather: (See Also: Best Time to Visit Punta Sal – Perfect Weather Conditions)
- Pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, hats, and scarves.
- Bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella to protect you from the rain and snow.
- Wear comfortable shoes or boots that can handle the cold and wet weather.
- Consider bringing a portable charger to keep your phone or other devices charged.
Winter Activities
While the cold weather may not be ideal for everyone, it’s also a great time to experience the city’s winter activities. Here are some things to do in New York during the winter:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: New York has several ski resorts, including Hunter Mountain, Windham Mountain, and Belleayre Mountain.
- Ice Skating: New York has several outdoor ice skating rinks, including Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and Bryant Park.
- Sledding: New York has several hills where you can go sledding, including Central Park and Prospect Park.
- Winter Hiking: New York has several hiking trails that are perfect for winter hiking, including the Appalachian Trail and the Hudson River Greenway.
Events and Festivals
December is a great time to experience New York’s festive atmosphere, with several events and festivals taking place throughout the city. Here are some of the top events and festivals to check out:
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is a must-see during the holiday season.
- Fifth Avenue Window Displays: The festive window displays of department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tiffany & Co. are a holiday tradition.
- New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker: The New York City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is a holiday classic.
- Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center: Ice skating at Rockefeller Center is a fun and festive activity during the holiday season.
Shopping
December is a great time to do some holiday shopping in New York, with several shopping districts and markets to explore. Here are some of the top shopping destinations to check out:
- Fifth Avenue: Fifth Avenue is one of the most iconic shopping streets in the world, with several high-end department stores and boutiques.
- SoHo: SoHo is a shopping district in Lower Manhattan that’s known for its trendy boutiques and art galleries.
- Brooklyn Flea: The Brooklyn Flea is a weekend market that takes place in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, featuring local vendors and artisans.
- Union Square Holiday Market: The Union Square Holiday Market is a festive market that takes place in Union Square, featuring local vendors and artisans.
Restaurants and Bars
December is a great time to try some of New York’s best restaurants and bars, with several holiday-themed menus and events to check out. Here are some of the top restaurants and bars to try:
- Carbone: Carbone is an upscale Italian-American restaurant in Greenwich Village that’s known for its over-the-top decor and holiday-themed menu.
- The Dead Rabbit: The Dead Rabbit is a cocktail bar in Lower Manhattan that’s known for its creative cocktails and holiday-themed events.
- L’Artusi: L’Artusi is an Italian restaurant in Chelsea that’s known for its creative pasta dishes and holiday-themed menu.
- The NoMad: The NoMad is a restaurant in NoMad that’s known for its upscale American cuisine and holiday-themed events.
Accommodations
December is a great time to stay in New York, with several hotels and accommodations to choose from. Here are some of the top hotels and accommodations to try: (See Also: Best Time to Visit Nazare for Big Waves? Peak Season Insights)
- The Plaza Hotel: The Plaza Hotel is a luxurious hotel in Midtown that’s known for its upscale amenities and holiday-themed events.
- The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park: The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park is a luxurious hotel in Midtown that’s known for its upscale amenities and holiday-themed events.
- The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue: The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue is a luxurious hotel in Midtown that’s known for its upscale amenities and holiday-themed events.
- The Westin New York at Times Square: The Westin New York at Times Square is a hotel in Midtown that’s known for its upscale amenities and holiday-themed events.
Recap
December is a great time to visit New York, with several events and festivals taking place throughout the city. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the festive window displays of department stores, New York is a winter wonderland in December. Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, or exploring the city’s winter activities, December is a great time to experience all that New York has to offer.
FAQs
Is December a good time to visit New York?
Yes, December is a great time to visit New York, with several events and festivals taking place throughout the city. The holiday season is a magical time in New York, with decorations, lights, and festivities that will leave you in awe.
What are some of the top events and festivals in December?
Some of the top events and festivals in December include the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, the Fifth Avenue window displays, the New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker, and ice skating at Rockefeller Center.
What are some of the top shopping destinations in December?
Some of the top shopping destinations in December include Fifth Avenue, SoHo, the Brooklyn Flea, and the Union Square Holiday Market. (See Also: What’s the Best Time to Visit Phuket? Tropical Bliss Awaits –)
What are some of the top restaurants and bars in December?
Some of the top restaurants and bars in December include Carbone, The Dead Rabbit, L’Artusi, and The NoMad.
What are some of the top hotels and accommodations in December?
Some of the top hotels and accommodations in December include The Plaza Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue, and The Westin New York at Times Square.
