New York City, one of the world’s most iconic and vibrant cities, is a destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. With its rich history, diverse culture, and endless entertainment options, it’s no wonder why people from all over the globe flock to the Big Apple. But is December a good time to visit New York City? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of visiting New York City in December, helping you decide whether it’s the right time for your next trip.
The Pros of Visiting New York City in December
While some may think that December is a bad time to visit New York City due to the cold weather, there are many reasons why it can be an excellent time to visit. Here are some of the pros:
Winter Wonderland
December is a magical time in New York City, with the snow-covered streets and buildings creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. The city is transformed into a festive hub, with twinkling lights and decorations adorning the streets, shops, and buildings. It’s a perfect time to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere.
Christmas Markets and Events
New York City is famous for its Christmas markets and events, which take place throughout the city. Some of the most popular ones include the Bryant Park Winter Village, the Union Square Holiday Market, and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. These markets offer a wide range of goods, from handmade crafts to gourmet food, and are a great place to find unique gifts or try some delicious treats.
Ice Skating and Holiday Lights
December is a great time to enjoy ice skating in New York City, with many outdoor rinks opening throughout the city. Some of the most popular ones include the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, the Wollman Rink in Central Park, and the Bryant Park Ice Rink. You can also enjoy the holiday lights and decorations on display throughout the city, including the famous Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center.
Special Events and Shows
December is a great time to catch some of the city’s famous holiday shows and events, including the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, the Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet, and the holiday lights and decorations on display at the New York Botanical Garden. You can also enjoy some of the city’s famous holiday markets, such as the Holiday Shops at Brookfield Place.
Shopping and Sales
December is a great time to shop in New York City, with many retailers offering special sales and discounts. You can find everything from luxury goods to affordable fashion, and enjoy the city’s famous shopping districts, including Fifth Avenue, SoHo, and Greenwich Village.
Table: December Events and Shows in New York City
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Radio City Christmas Spectacular | November 8 – January 5 | Radio City Music Hall |
| Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet | December 14 – 31 | David H. Koch Theater |
| Holiday Lights and Decorations at the New York Botanical Garden | November 22 – January 19 | New York Botanical Garden |
The Cons of Visiting New York City in December
While December can be a great time to visit New York City, there are some downsides to consider. Here are some of the cons:
Cold Weather
December is one of the coldest months in New York City, with average temperatures ranging from 24°F to 43°F (-4°C to 6°C). If you’re not prepared for the cold weather, it can be a challenge to navigate the city. (See Also: Best Time To Visit Edmonton – Unveiled)
Crowds and Long Lines
December is a peak tourist season in New York City, which means that the city can be very crowded. Be prepared for long lines at popular attractions and restaurants, and consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.
Expensive Accommodations
Expensive Accommodations
December is a peak tourist season in New York City, which means that hotel rates can be very high. Be prepared to pay top dollar for accommodations, and consider looking into budget-friendly options or booking well in advance to secure a good rate.
Short Days
December is one of the shortest months in New York City, with the sun setting as early as 4:30 pm. If you’re not used to the short days, it can be challenging to navigate the city and enjoy all that it has to offer.
Weather-Related Disruptions
December can be a snowy and icy month in New York City, which means that there may be weather-related disruptions to public transportation and other services. Be prepared for delays and cancellations, and consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events.
Who Should Visit New York City in December
Despite the cons, December can be a great time to visit New York City for certain types of travelers. Here are some groups that may particularly enjoy visiting the city in December:
Skiers and Snowboarders
If you’re a skier or snowboarder, December is a great time to visit New York City, as it’s close to many world-class ski resorts, including Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain.
Foodies
If you’re a foodie, December is a great time to visit New York City, as it’s a time of year when many of the city’s famous holiday markets and food festivals take place. (See Also: Nainital Tourism Best Time To Visit – Unveiled)
Shoppers
If you’re a shopper, December is a great time to visit New York City, as it’s a time of year when many retailers offer special sales and discounts.
Those Who Enjoy the Holiday Spirit
If you enjoy the holiday spirit, December is a great time to visit New York City, as it’s a time of year when the city is transformed into a festive hub, with twinkling lights and decorations adorning the streets, shops, and buildings.
Who Should Avoid Visiting New York City in December
While December can be a great time to visit New York City for certain types of travelers, there are some groups that may want to avoid visiting the city during this time. Here are some groups that may particularly want to avoid visiting the city in December:
Those Who Are Sensitive to Cold Weather
If you’re sensitive to cold weather, December may not be the best time to visit New York City, as the temperatures can be quite chilly.
Those Who Are Looking for a Relaxing Vacation
If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, December may not be the best time to visit New York City, as the city can be very crowded and noisy during this time.
Those Who Are on a Tight Budget
If you’re on a tight budget, December may not be the best time to visit New York City, as the city can be very expensive during this time, with high hotel rates and expensive tourist attractions.
Recap
In conclusion, December can be a great time to visit New York City for certain types of travelers, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re a skier or snowboarder, foodie, shopper, or someone who enjoys the holiday spirit, December may be a great time to visit the city. However, if you’re sensitive to cold weather, looking for a relaxing vacation, or on a tight budget, you may want to consider visiting the city during a different time of year. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Alishan? Peak Season Guide)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is December a good time to visit New York City?
A: December can be a great time to visit New York City for certain types of travelers, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re a skier or snowboarder, foodie, shopper, or someone who enjoys the holiday spirit, December may be a great time to visit the city.
Q: What are some of the best events and shows to see in December in New York City?
A: Some of the best events and shows to see in December in New York City include the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, the Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet, and the holiday lights and decorations on display at the New York Botanical Garden.
Q: What are some of the best holiday markets to visit in December in New York City?
A: Some of the best holiday markets to visit in December in New York City include the Bryant Park Winter Village, the Union Square Holiday Market, and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market.
Q: What are some of the best places to ice skate in December in New York City?
A: Some of the best places to ice skate in December in New York City include the Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, the Wollman Rink in Central Park, and the Bryant Park Ice Rink.
Q: What are some of the best places to shop in December in New York City?
A: Some of the best places to shop in December in New York City include Fifth Avenue, SoHo, and Greenwich Village, as well as some of the city’s famous holiday markets.