5 Ways to Spend Your Holidays in NYC
New York City is world-renowned for its vibrant energy, diverse culture, and artistic history. There’s always something new to discover in NYC. When you add the events, shows, and destinations of the holiday season to this already iconic city, what’s not to love? Here are five ways to spend your holidays in NYC with Aliz Hotel Times Square as your guide.
HUNT FOR NYC'S BEST HOT CHOCOLATE
When the chilly winter breeze settles over the city, there's no better way to warm up than with a cup of steaming hot chocolate. Forget your usual coffee fix; during the holiday season, it's all about indulging in this comforting drink. Make a day of it and set out on a quest to find the best hot chocolate the city has to offer.
There’s a cup to suit every palate in the Big Apple. Just a 20-minute walk from the hotel, Jacques Torres Chocolate offers a lighter, thinner cocoa, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Peruse their shop and pick out your favorite hot chocolate to take home. From Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Bombs to their spiced “Wicked” hot chocolate, you can bring home a souvenir that will warm you up all winter long.
Likewise, Levain is known for a cup that’s rich and luxurious. It’s made with your milk of choice and the real star of the show, extra dark bittersweet Valrhona chocolate. Be sure to try one of their iconic chocolate chip cookies, too, for an extra dose of sweetness. So, embrace the chilly weather and let your taste buds guide you to the best hot chocolate in the city.
MARVEL AT HOLIDAY WINDOW DISPLAYS
Take a stroll down Fifth Avenue and witness the magic of these spectacular showcases of design. Luxury brands compete for attention with stunning displays that capture the essence of the season and help passersby get in the holiday spirit.
To catch the best displays in the city, we recommend starting your holiday stroll in Central Park on Fifth Avenue and heading toward Herald Square. On this route, you can even catch a glimpse at the Rockefeller Christmas Tree along the way. If you time it just right, you may even catch Saks Fifth Avenue’s annual light show which can usually be seen lighting up the area every 10 minutes from 4:30 p.m. to 11:35 p.m. From Bergdorf Goodman to Bloomingdale's, these window displays are a testament to the creativity and festive spirit that envelops the city during this time of year.
ATTEND THE "JOY OF CHRISTMAS" CONCERT AT ST. JOHN THE DIVINE
Experience the awe-inspiring "Joy of Christmas" concert at St. John the Divine, the largest church in New York City. As you step inside this magnificent cathedral, you'll be surrounded by its Gothic architecture and grandeur, setting the stage for an unforgettable holiday tradition.
Listen to the angelic voices of world-class performers, who will awe you with their renditions of timeless holiday classics. From soaring choral arrangements to soul-stirring solo performances, the concert promises a musical journey that captures the essence of the season.
ENJOY CITY VIEWS FROM THE FERRY
Escape the bustling streets by hopping on the NYC Ferry for just $2.75 per person. This affordable and efficient mode of transportation allows you to relax and capture the beauty of New York City from the serene vantage point of the water. As you glide past iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge, you'll gain a unique perspective of the city that few get to experience. The ferry ride provides a tranquil interlude amidst the holiday hustle and bustle, making it a must-do during your visit.
VISIT THE MALL AT HUDSON YARDS
Hudson Yards is the perfect destination to add to your holiday itinerary. Explore this shopping and dining hub, adorned with over two million sparkling lights that transform the complex into a mesmerizing wonderland. As you stroll through the illuminated scene, you'll find an array of high-end shops and restaurants, making it the stop for some gift shopping or retail therapy before you head back to your accommodations at Aliz Hotel.
New York City during the holidays is a memorable experience that you won't want to miss. When you book a stylish and modern room at Aliz Hotel, your proximity to the bright lights of Times Square is like something out of a dream, which is an even more magical destination at this special time of year. Book your holiday stay directly through our website and you'll be rewarded with up to 20% off plus a $25 credit for the lobby bar or breakfast, a welcome cocktail, in-room bottled water, and Citi Bike passes. Plan your sophisticated stay at Aliz Hotel and make this holiday season unforgettable in the heart of New York City.