Things to Keep in Mind when Visiting Climbing Gyms in NYC

• The climbing scene will continue to change. We’ll revisit and continually update this post, but I have yet to see the gym scene change as drastically as it has in NY.
• Corporate vs. Independent Gyms – If they hire a new setter, the setting can vary and is usually more drastic at smaller, independent gyms vs. corporate ones.
• Setting – The setting includes how fun the climbs are and the variety of holds. Typically, when they invest more in the variety of holds, they’re also investing in better setters. Each gym has a different philosophy, and it all depends on what you are personally looking for. I’ve noticed my outdoor friends like gyms with lots of ‘tensiony’ moves that train them for the outdoors, but many of our indoor-only climbing friends are looking for something entirely different (i.e., comp-style). Gym climbing has evolved and has become its own sport.
• Grading – We’re primarily looking at interesting movement and fun setting over how they grade their problems. Some climbers prefer a grade range, while others prefer them broken up. Some gyms are stiffer than others, and some grades are all over the place, which we make a note of. What’s most important is that you have fun.
• Community – This is always hard to compare on one-off visits. We got some insight from friends, but instead of doing a rating on community, we included any notes on whether a gym was beginner friendly or more catered towards advanced climbers.

The Best Rock Climbing Gyms in New York City

Most climbers at gyms fall in the beginner or intermediate category. If you’re climbing in the advanced to the pro range, we assume you don’t need to google gyms, and already have a network of climbing friends telling you where to climb (but let us know if we’re wrong, and you happen to be reading this!).

These are the average of our ratings.

1. Brooklyn Boulders Queensbridge – Our Old Home Gym

23-10 41st Ave, Queens, NY 11101, map

Setting: 3/5
Facility: 3/5 (25,000 sq ft)
Rates: $39 Day Pass | Memberships Starting at $149/month
Types of Climbing: Bouldering, Lead, Top Rope (TR)
Busiest Times: Weekdays after work
Training Boards: Training Board, Campus Board

We had to start our list with our former home gym in NYC. Unfortunately, all our friends tell us it’s not the gym it used to be.

When Brooklyn Boulders first opened in 2009, it was the largest climbing gym in NYC and the only one in Brooklyn. They used to be a fun gym and nice workspace with a lot of comp-style setting mixed in. We’d often see Ashima sweeping at the comps.

Since then, they’ve sold three gyms, and Gowanus was one of them. The only location left is Queensbridge, which the climbers from Gowanus called the yuppy gym. All our friends who used to climb at the BKB gyms have left and told us the setting has gone downhill because the other gyms poached the better setters.

Even before we left, the AC and heat were constantly breaking, and the downstairs area was often stuffy. It was also very crowded during peak hours. Our friend who visited both the BKBs said if you’re looking for harder climbs, he couldn’t find anything V9 or above at the gym.

More: 15 Clever Rock Climbing Hacks, Tips, Tricks, and Proper Etiquette

2. Vital Climbing Gym Brooklyn – Best Facilities and 24 Hr Access

221 N 14th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249, map

Setting: 4/5
Facility: 5/5
Rates: $38 Day Pass | Memberships Starting at $130/month
Setting Routine: Sets Monday through Thursday. A team of 7 setters with two core setters.
Types of Climbing: Bouldering
Busiest Times: Weekdays after 4:30 PM, Weekends after 10:30 AM
Training Boards: Tension Board, Spray Wall, Adjustable Kilter Board, Campus Board, Tread Wall
Other Locations: Upper Eastside + West Harlem

We were most excited to check out Vital on our recent visit because of the rooftop city views, and they have everything you could ask for in a gym. It’s one of the best climbing gyms in New York, if not the best. The rooftop isn’t always open, but we lucked out with the weather. The rest of the gym is massive, with the most variety of holds and many different wall features and angles.

In addition, they have a huge yoga studio, cycling, aerial silks classes, tons of workout equipment, and more. It’s hard to beat.

It’s the most beginner-friendly gym, whereas MetroRock and GP81 might feel more intimidating if you’re starting out.

Note: The rooftop doesn’t get reset as often as the rest of the gym, it’s also open based on the weather.

More: 15 Games and Exercises to Improve Rock Climbing

3. Central Rock – In the City + Petite-Friendly

21 West End Ave, New York, NY 10069, map

Setting: 4/5
Facility: 3/5 (10,000 sq ft, watch the gym tour)
Rates: $35 Day Pass | Memberships Starting at $140/month
Setting Routine: 3-4 days out of the week on one set
Types of Climbing: Mostly bouldering, there are ten anchors for Top Rope
Busiest Times: Weekdays after work, Weekends before 4 PM
Training Boards: Tension Board, Campus Board

Overall, this is a solid gym. There are some straightforward climbs and some trickier ones. The gym is on the smaller side but packs in a good range of setting. I may be partial because Ady is a petite setter and instructor here, and it’s hard to find gyms that employ a diverse setting staff in a world of mostly tall, white male setters (which is most ideal if you’re also a tall, white man).

Cons – It’s pricier for a smaller facility, and it gets very crowded during peak hours. It also takes a 10-15 min walk from the nearest subway station.

Central Rock has multiple locations in CT, NY, MA, RI, but currently, only one in the city. A Chelsea location is in the works though!

Note: They have community chalk stations around the gym which is something we rarely see.

4. Movement LIC (Formerly The Cliffs at LIC) – Best Sport Climbing

11-11 44th Dr, Queens, NY 11101, map

Setting: 3.5/5
Facility: 3/5
Rates: $35 Day Pass | Memberships Starting at $135/month
Types of Climbing: Bouldering, Lead, TR
Busiest Times: Weekdays after work
Training Boards: Spray Wall, Campus Board
Other Locations: Harlem + Gowanus + DUMBO

We haven’t visited since we moved away, but this is still one of the best gyms in NYC if you want to lead or top rope. They have a massive lead-climbing cave! From what we remember, the bouldering wasn’t all that special, but the ropes were a lot of fun. Our friend who climbs here says the ropes get a 4/5, but the bouldering gets a 2/5.

More: We Found the Best Climbing Chalk Bag + Chalk Bucket

5. MetroRock Bushwick – To Practice Your Top Outs

321 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237, map

Setting: 3/5
Facility: 4/5
Rates: $32 Day Pass | Memberships Starting at $105/month
Setting Routine: Set 4 days a week (Typically 2 days bouldering and 2 days ropes)
Types of Climbing: Bouldering, Lead, Top Rope
Square Footage of Climbing Walls: 23,000+ sq ft
Number of Problems Up: ~90 Boulder Programs, ~80 Rope Climbs
Busiest Times: Weekdays after work

We’ve only visited MetroRock once while living in New York. The unique feature of this gym is that there are top-out problems. Otherwise, our impression of the setting wasn’t too memorable other than it being stiffer (along with GP81) than any other gyms in the area. No major complaints with the setting, but nothing stood out either. If you’ve been lately, let us know how it is now!

They have other locations in MA and VT.

6. Method Climbing Gym – For Comp Style Setting

1423 Clinton St, Hoboken, NJ 07030, map

Setting: 5/5
Facility: 5/5
Rates: $23 Day Pass | Memberships Starting at $80/month
Setting Routine: Set 3 times a week (M/W/T). Boulders are Set on a 4 Week Turnaround. As needed on ropes (10-12 Week Turnaround)
Types of Climbing: Mostly Bouldering, Some Top Rope
Square Footage of the Facilities: 20,000 sq ft (not including cafe)
Square Footage of Climbing Walls: 8,000+ sq ft bouldering, 4,000 sq ft rope climbing
Number of Problems Up: ~130-150 Boulder Problems (unless there is a comp/clinic/camp), 45 Routes
Busiest Times: Weekdays after work
Training Boards: Tension Board, Moon Board, Spray Wall, Campus Board

When talking to our friends and setters in the area, their favorite gym is Method. Though it’s not in the city, it’s worth making the trek to climb here. Everyone says the setting here is as good as it gets and by far the most creative and fun if you like comp-style problems. All the problems are quality, even down to the V0s and V1s, often an afterthought for setters. The facilities are clean, modern, and it’s well-ventilated.

The gym was started by the Chi’s, a family of kids who compete at the national level. We used to see them crush at the NYC comps. We didn’t make it to Jersey on our last visit, but this will be a top priority next time!

More: 10 Rock Climbing Tips for Beginners

7. GP81 – For the Strong CLimbers

379 Jefferson St, Brooklyn, NY 11237, map

Setting: 4/5
Facility: 3/5
Rates: $30 Day Pass | Memberships Starting at $128/month
Setting Routine: 6 week turn around
Types of Climbing: Bouldering
Square Footage of the Facilities: 6,500 sq ft
Square Footage of Climbing Walls: 2,000+ sq ft
Number of Problems Up: +/- 130
Busiest Times: Weekdays after work
Training Boards: Moon Board, Decoy Board, Campus Board, + 15, 30, 45, and 60-degree walls

GP81 closed at the end of June 2023 but recently reopened in a new location. They had the reputation of being where the strong climbers go to train and climb hard. Even the main bouldering walls were flat at various angles, and it’s one of few gyms with double-digit climbs. Our friend, Alex, told us he couldn’t find anything over a V8 at the other gyms. If you’re serious about climbing and want to find other climbers just as obsessed as you are, this is where you go. Now that we climb outside, we see the appeal of training gyms like this.

It used to be very crowded, but many people moved over to the new Cliffs Gowanus and MetroRock. The photo below is from the old location.

Cons: If you’re a beginner, I wouldn’t recommend this gym. It’s stiffer and may be intimidating. Also, it’s a smaller space.

More: 17 Practical Gifts for Rock Climbers They’ll Love and Use

Any other rock climbing gyms in New York City that we missed? What are the things you look for in a gym?

How many of these have you been to? Do you use Instagram to plan your trips?

TLDR

Location – New York City (NYC) is located in the southeastern part of New York State. It sits at the mouth of the Hudson River, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. The city has five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island.

Where to Eat (Our Faves) – Lucali, Alimama, Somtum Der, Sunny and Annie’s, Eileen’s Special Cheesecake, Doughnut Plant, Totto Ramen, Masa, Pure Thai Cookhouse, Xi’an Famous Foods, Buvette

Ultimate NYC Food Bucket List (99 Places to Eat in NYC)

On our first foodcation, we had a very ambitious list we wanted to get through in 5 days. We returned home many pounds heavier, which I think we can say was a success. On the other hand, we lost our DSLR with most our NYC photos (it got lifted by a lyft driver). RIP to the original photos and places we won’t return to, but I’m glad I happened to take some on my phone to share.

Brooklyn

1. Aska (Williamsburg, , Scandinavian) – Michelin 2 Star 2022, Bon Appetit Top 50 Best New Restaurants 2017
2.  Bien Cuit (Cobble Hill/Boerum Hill + Midtown East, , Bakery/French) – Zachary Golper at the Brooklyn location was a James Beard Outstanding Baker Nominee 2017.
3.  Kitsby (Williamsburg, Desserts & Tea, ) – Cute spot for an afternoon tea set.
4.  Di Fara Pizza (Midwood, Pizza, ) – a 52-year-old institution with pizza legend Dom DeMarco, mentioned by many friends and is also recommended by Timeout and Thrillist.
5.  Frankies 457 Spuntino (Carroll Gardens, , Bar/Italian) – Homey setting, handmade pastas. Named as a neighborhood Italian staple by Eater.
6.  Hart’s Restaurant (Clinton Hill/Bed-Stuy, New American, ) – Bon Appetit’s Best #5 New Restaurants 2017
7.  L’industrie Pizzeria (Williamsburg, , Pizza) – on the yelp100 list in 2017.
8.  Lilia (Williamsburg North, , Italian/Cocktails) – Missy Robbins was a JBF Best Chef NYC Nominee 2017, Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants. Try the burrata sandwich
9.  Lucali (Carroll Gardens, , Pizza) – The best pizza we’ve had in town. Had to wait outside for hours in the cold to get in but it was worth it.
10.  Maison Premiere (Williamsburg South, , Seafood/Bar) – JBF Outstanding Bar Program 2016
11.  Mile End Delicatessen (Boerum Hill + Various, , Sandwiches) – On the Michelin Guide. The Smoked Meat sandwich is one of NY’s best sandwiches according to CNN, and the Fried Green Tomato is one of Eater’s 15 Best NY Sandwiches. Try the smoked meat sandwich, the fried green tomato sandwich, or the Reuben.
12.  St Anselm (Williamsburg North, , New American/Wine Bar/Steakhouse) – On eater’s essential NY restaurants for Fall 2017. Order the NY Strip or ax handle rib-eye.
13.  L&B Spumoni Gardens (Gravesend, , Pizza/Italian) – On the Thrillist and timeout’s NYC bucket list. Try the Sicilian square pizza and the rainbow spumoni for dessert.
14.  La Vara (Cobble Hill, , Spanish, ) – Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants. The Molletes sandwich is one of Eater’s 15 best NY sandwiches.
15.  Olmsted (Prospect Heights, , New American) – James Beard Best New Restaurant Nominee 2017, Bon Appetit Best New Restaurants 2017, Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants, on the Michelin Guide – Try the crab rangoon, carrot crepe, and watermelon sushi.
16.  Peter Luger (Williamsburg, , Steak) – It’s an NY namesake, and you should try it at least once. A lot of people say it’s the best steak in the city others think it’s a waste of money. A group of us went for my birthday and tried just about everything. The burger was better than the steak, but you can only get it at lunch. Bacon was really thick like ham, and we like ours crispy. Everyone raves about the creamed spinach, but I’ve never been a fan, and this one did not change my mind.
17.  Roberta’s Pizza (Bushwick + Midtown East, , Pizza/Italian) – Haven’t heard of another pizza joint in NYC mentioned more than Roberta’s. We ordered the Margherita pizza and romaine salad. It was good, but I personally wouldn’t go out of the way for it since there’s great pizza in the city too. It’s also been mentioned on businessinsider, buzzfeed, thrillist, timeout, Eater’s Essential 38 Restaurants to eat in America in 2016, and eater’s essential NY restaurants in Fall of 2017, and on the Michelin guide.
18.  Traif (Williamsburg, , New American/Tapas)

See More: 21 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting NYC

Chinatown

19.  Alimama (, Desserts) – Mochi donuts and the best cream puffs we’ve had. On our recent NYC trip, this was the most memorable thing we ate.
20.  Joe’s Shanghai (, Seafood / Noodles) – Known for their soup dumplings
21. Keki Modern Cakes (Chinatown, , Desserts) – These fluffy and jiggly cheesecakes are so good! We’ve only had the Ube one and it’s very light with a hint of cheesecake.
22.  Shanghai 21 (, Chinese) – Shanghai-style soup dumplings, pan-fried dumplings, and more. The crab and pork soup dumplings are my favorite.
23.  Taiwan Pork Chop House (, Taiwanese) – the food is so cheap here! Oddly enough, the popcorn chicken and chicken over rice were much better than the pork. Also, it’s on the famous Doyers st, so don’t forget to stop for some photos.

See More: 27+ Most Instagrammable Places in NYC

East Village

24.  Hanoi House (Alphabet City, , Vietnamese) – one of Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants. They have a great beef pho.
25.  Hearth (East Village, , New American/Italian/Breakfast/Brunch) – Marco Canora won the James Beard Best Award for Best Chef in NYC 2017
26. LoveMama (East Village, , Thai/Malaysian/Vietnamese) – Popular local spot.
27.  Luke’s Lobster (East Village + Multiple Locations, , Seafood) – They get daily shipments from Maine. The Lobster Roll is one of CNN best NY sandwiches and the Lobster Grilled Cheese Sandwich is one of Eater’s 15 Best NY Sandwiches. I wasn’t the biggest fan of it of the seasoning, but the lobster itself was good.
28.  Momofuku Noodle Bar (, Ramen/New American) – I always hear mixed reviews about this, and while I didn’t love the ramen, the other dishes like their chilled spicy noodles were good. Could I make them better at home? Probably. Awards: JBF Outstanding Restaurant Nominee 2017, one of Eater’s 38 Essential Restaurants in America (2016) and NYC (Fall 2017), Michelin guide, timeout.
29.  CheLi (East Village, , Chinese) – Puer tea soaked rice with sea urchin. Talk about indulgence! Featured on Eater’s 30 Restaurants That Define the East Village.
30.  Somtum Der (Alphabet City, , Thai) – found on the Michelin guide. Normally, we like trying new spots, but everything we order here has been so good that we kept coming back once a week to try new things on the menu.
31.  Sunny & Annie’s Deli (, Sandwiches) – Try the pho #1 sandwich here. It’s the strangest thing how a sandwich can satisfy my craving for a bowl of noodle soup, but it does. The first few bites were so confusing, but by the end, I wanted another. I ended up being so addicted to these that a friend of mine vacuum sealed a bunch and sent them to me.

See More: 17 Best Desserts in NYC + Ones You Should Skip

Flatiron

32. Cosme (Mexican, ) – Daniela Soto-Innes was JBF Rising Star Chef of the Year in 2016, #40 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants (2017), Business Insider’s #9 Best Restaurant in America (2017), one of Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants.
33.  Eataly (Italian/Grocery, ) – There are multiple food stalls. You should try the nutella crepe bar, pasta at La Pizza and La Pasta, the roast beef sandwich at La Rosticceria. You can also make a reservation at the rooftop restaurant and microbrewery La Birreria.
34.  Eleven Madison Park (New American/French, ) – Since we visited they changed their menu to be completely plant-based. We haven’t decided if that’s worth another visit or not although we’ve had a friend go who said it was still a great experience. Other Press: #1 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants (2017), Business Insider’s #2 Best Restaurant in America (2017), yelp100 (2014, 2016). Note: since our visit, they now only serve vegetarian dishes.
35.  Gramercy Tavern (New American, ) – Michelin 1 Star 2022, Michael Anthony won the JBF Outstanding Chef Award in 2015, Business Insider’s #16 Best Restaurant in America (2017), yelp100 (2014, 2016), one of Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants.
36.  Upland (New American, ) – Chic brasserie with Cali-style culinary ideas.

See More: The Best Things to Do in Central Park

Greenwich Village

37.  Carbone (Italian, ) – Michelin 1 Star 2020, sometimes 2-month wait for reservations.
38.  Joe’s Pizza (Multiple Locations, Pizza, ) – We found that some locations were better than others. It’s great grab and go pizza.
39.  Babbo (Italian, ) – Business Insider’s #39 Best Restaurant in America (2017).
40.  Willow (, Vegan, New American) – Vegan bistro serving up plant-based American comfort food. Try their vegan mac and cheese.

See More: The Ultimate NYC Bucket List / 101 Things to Do in NYC

Little Italy + Nolita

41.  Eileen’s Special Cheesecake (Nolita, Cheesecake, ) – so fluffy and delicious. My fave is the plain, and Jacob loved the marbled one.
42.  Estela (Nolita/NoHo, New American/Brunch, ) – Ignacio Mattos was a JBF Best Chef NYC Nominee 2017, Michelin 1 star 2022.
43.  Nyona (Little Italy + others had bad reviews, Asian Fusion, ) – on the Michelin guide. The food we tried was just okay, but I couldn’t get over how affordable it was. Maybe we need to go back and try some more dishes
44. Rubirosa (Pizza, ) – People love this spot but we thought it was just okay
45.  Taiyaki NYC (Little Italy, Desserts/Ice Cream, ) – those popular fish cake ice creams on ig.

See More: 9 Amazing Things to Do in Rockefeller Center

Lower East Side (LES)

46.  Clinton Street Baking Company (Bakeries / Breakfast, ) –  Popular spot with long waits. It was good, but I wouldn’t wait long for it.
47.  Doughnut Plant (Multiple Locations, Donuts, ) – Don’t want to overhype it, but these are my favorite doughnuts on the east coast. The creme brulee doughnut is their top seller, but I loved the coconut creme best. Even if you don’t like coconut, this might convert you.
48.  Sam’s Fried Ice Cream(Desserts/Ice Cream, ) – Don’t forget to try the fried Oreos.
49.  Katz’s Delicatessen (LES, Deli/Sandwiches, ) – We still haven’t tried it because I’m intimidated by the lines, but we’ll eventually get around to it. It is one of Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants, and also recommended by cnn, thrillist, timeout, Michelin guide. There are only a few places left in NYC you can get a traditional smoky pastrami sandwich. The wait is horrendous, but go and grab a ticket, since it’s an experience in and of itself. Fun Fact – they serve 10k pounds of pastrami, 5k pounds of corned beef, 2k pounds of salami, and 12k hot dogs each week
50.  Russ & Daughters (Also LES2, Bagels/Smokehouse/Delis/Kosher, ) – You have to go to the deli and not the cafe. It’s on thrillist and timeout‘s NYC bucket list, and on the Michelin guide. Get the bagel with the city’s best lox or get the lox alone according to CNN, and the old pickled herring.
51.  Soft Swerve (Ice Cream, ) – popular ice cream spot on ig. Loved their matcha, but the ube is too pretty not to try.
52.  Spaghetti Incident (Italian, ) – Homey, cash-only Italian pasta dishes. Known for their Sicilian-style rice balls.
53.  Spicy Village (Chinese, ) – so cheap and so good! Order one of the hand-pulled noodles. We got the spicy beef dry noodles. one of Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants.
54.  Wildair (LES, New American, ) – Brought to you by the restauranteurs from Contra, is #8 on Bon Appetit’s Best New Restaurants (2016) and is one of Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants. It’s great for small plates and natural wines.
55.  Ye’s Apothecary (Speakeasies, Szechuan, ) – Speakeasy serving tapas style food in an intimate space with classic Asian decor.

See More: 21 Best Places to Visit in Upstate NY

Midtown East

56. Ess-a-Bagel (Midtown East + Stuyvesant Town, Bagels, ) – Everyone says you have not had a real bagel until you try the ones in NYC. I’ve had two friends recommend Ess-A-Bagel, but other people say most bagel spots in NYC will have a bagel that surpasses any other bagel you’ve had. These were pretty damn good.
57.  Nishida Sho-ten (Midtown East, Ramen, ) – our friend’s favorite ramen spot in the city. We liked the black kakuni over the white one.
58.  Sushi Yasuda (Midtown East, Sushi, ) – Michelin 1 Star 2022
59.  Valerie (Midtown East, New American, Cocktail Bar, ) – Elevated cocktails.

See More: 11 National Parks in New York City

Midtown West

60.  Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare (Hell’s Kitchen, Japanese, ) –  Our second favorite prefix meal in the city. Michelin 3 Star 2022, #82 on the World’s Best Restaurants, Business Insider’s #48 Best Restaurant in America (2017)
61.  E.A.K. RAMEN and IZAkAYA by Machida Shoten (Midtown West, Ramen, )
62.  The Halal Guys (Multiple Locations, Middle Eastern/Food Stand, ) – I think it’s overhyped for what it is. Everyone claims that the best Halal Guys is still the one on 53rd and 6th. It was a great stop after drinks and a solid meal on the cheap (P.S. prices went up again though). The one right next to our apartment in LIC is pretty comparable sans the drunk crowd. Some carts have a sign for a free drink with your meal in tiny print, which they won’t give you unless you specifically ask for it. On yelp 100 for 2016. They’ve opened up locations in other cities, and so far the ones we’ve tried have been terrible.
63.  Gabriel Kreuther (Midtown West, French, ) – Michelin 2 Star 2022, Business Insider’s #26 Best Restaurant in America in 2017.
64.  Kwik Meal Cart (Indian/Middle Eastern, ) – this actually tasted way fresher and better than halal guys.
65.  Le Bernardin (Theater District, , French) – Michelin 3 Star 2022, #17 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2017, Business Insider’s #3 Best Restaurant in America (2017), yelp100 (2014, 2016). It was just okay – enjoyed the other Michelin 3 star restaurants more.
66.  Masa (Hell’s Kitchen, , Sushi) – The best meal we’ve had in NYC and we had high expectations. It’s the most expensive meal we’ve ever paid for. I have to drag Jacob to prix fixe places and he almost always complains when the bill comes, but this one he thoroughly enjoyed. We even got to meet Chef Masa! P.S. No photos are allowed except the one at the. end with Chef Masa. Press & Awards: Michelin 3 Star 2022, Business Insider’s #17 Best Restaurant in America (2017).
67.  The Modern (Midtown West, , New American) – Michelin 2 Star 2022, Business Insider’s #14 Best Restaurant in America in 2017
68.  Oceana (Theater District, Seafood, ) – Michelin 1 Star 2014.
69.  Per Se (Hell’s Kitchen, , French) – I’m a huge fan of Chef Keller’s restaurants. We went for my birthday and they added some nice personal touches. Nothing to complain about the food, but the service was weird that day, a surprise us for a 3 Michelin star place. Per Se is on every list imaginable: Michelin 3 Stars 2022, World’s Best Restaurants, Business Insider’s Best Restaurants in America, and Yelp 100 (2014, 2016).
70.  Pure Thai Cookhouse (Theater District, Thai, ) – This is the one spot we always recommend to friends in town since it’s in Midtown and convenient to where most visitors like to stay. We usually never order pad thai, but we were told it was exceptional here. They were right! It was our second fave thing we tried, and our absolute fave was the crab and pork dry noodles.
71.  Sullivan Street Bakery (Also Chelsea, Bakery, ) – Jim Lahey won the JBF Outstanding Baker  Award (2015), and it’s also one of Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants.

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Queens (QNS)

72.  The Alcove (Woodside, Gastropub, ) – On Yelp 100 (2018). How do they have 5 stars?
73.  Blend (LIC, Latin American, ) – Pan-Latin dishes. Try their empanada sampler paired with their classic mojito.
74.  Casa Enrique (Long Island City (LIC), Mexican, ) – The only 1 Michelin Star in our neighborhood for 2022.
75.  Cafe Henri (LIC, French, ) – Great for brunch in the area if you can’t be bothered to go into the city.
76.  Chip NYC (Astoria, Bakery, ) – popular cookie place that’s similar to Levain as far as how dense the cookie is.
77.  Hahm Ji Bach (Flushing, Korean, ) – the best Korean we’ve had in NYC (not saying too much. I thought NYC’s Korean food was supposed to be as good as LA but hasn’t been as good as I had hoped) and you have to trek far to get it. We didn’t try the samgyupsal but the galbijjim was good.
78.  Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao (DT Flushing, Chinese, ) – Soup dumplings.
79.  Sal, Kris, & Charlie’s Deli (Astoria, Deli/Sandwiches, ) – On the yelp 100 (2014, 2015, 2016, 2018). It’s my fave sandwich spot in NYC. The Soppressata on that sesame bread is so delicious.
80.  Xi’an Famous Foods (Multiple Locations, Chinese,) – The original one was in the Golden Mall in Flushing but eventually closed because they outgrew it. Now they’re everywhere. You can watch them hand pull the noodles. I liked the dry noodles over the soupy ones and the burgers weren’t that good, but the Liang pi cold skin noodles and spicy cumin lamb noodles were delicious. Not a fan of the pork burger.

See More: Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in NYC

Upper East Side (UES)

81.  Daniel (UES, French, ) – Ghaya Oliveira – Michelin 2 Star 2022, JBF Outstanding Pastry Chef 2017, Business Insider’s #8 Best Restaurant in America in 2017, and yelp100 for 2014 and 2016.
82.  Ladurée Madison (Bakery, ) – Pick up some iconic macrons.
83. Uva (Italian, ) – Cute Italian spot

West Village

84.  Buvette (West Village, French, ) – Jody Williams was a JBF Best Chef NYC Nominee in 2017. Buvette is a cute French cafe that serves an amazing brunch with fresh ingredients. I ordered fresh squeezed orange juice, scones, and the special – tartinette with zucchini and goat cheese. Jacob ordered the croissants and prosciutto with eggs and toast. The croissants were so flaky and yummy. I loved the croissants over the scones, but the creme fraiche was amazing that came with the scones.
85.  Faicco’s Italian Specialties (West Village, Italian Sandwiches, ) – get the famous and massive Italian sub. Just the meat alone had to be stacked a couple inches tall. It’s a good one to split with a friend.
86.  Jack’s Wife Freda (SoHo + West Village, Mediterranean, ) – go for a boozy brunch, and try the prego roll is one of eaterNY’s 15 Best Sandwiches.
87.  John’s of Bleecker Street (West Village, Pizza, ) – historic pizza joint with delicious pizza, but you can’t order them by the slice. So far it’s my favorite sit down pizza spot.
88.  Magnolia Bakery (West Village + Various, Desserts/Bakery, ) – the other desserts weren’t great, but their banana pudding is so bomb.
89.  Olio e Piu (West Village, Italian, ) – a local favorite with pizza and pasta.
90.  Sushi Nakazawa (Japanese, ) – Michelin 1 star 2022. We’ve heard a lot of good things about this spot but haven’t had a chance to check it out yet.

See More: 25 Fun Things to Do Indoors in NYC for Rainy and Cold Days

Miscellaneous

91.  Bar Jamon (Gramercy, Spanish/Tapas, ) – Great spot to hang out and have appetizers and wine. Get the Chorizo with Pickled Peppers.
92.  The Dead Rabbit (Financial District, Cocktails, ) – JBF Outstanding Bar Program Nominee 2017 and best bar in the world by world’s 50 best bars. “Cocktail menu looks more like a graphic novel than a bar menu” – Business Insider. They have 145 different Irish whiskeys and other unique cocktails.
93.  Dominique Ansel Bakery (South Village, Bakeries/Desserts, ) – The spot where the famous cronut was invented, but now there’s no line. We tried the DKA and cookie shots. They’re also famous for the frozen s’more, magic souffle, waffle affogato, and DDQ.
94.  Jungsik (TriBeCa, Seafood/Korean, ) – Michelin 2 Star in 2018.
95.  Pig and Khao (LES, Filipino/Thai, )
96.  Le Coucou (Soho, French, ) – James Beard Best New Restaurant 2017, Business Insider’s #28 Best Restaurant in America in 2017 , Bon Appetit Best New Restaurants in 2017, America’s 38 Essential Restaurants according to Eater in 2017, and of course, and one of Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants. (Reopens Sept 2021)
97. Levain Bakery (Also UWS 2 + Harlem, Bakery, ) – everyone raves about the cookies here. One is good enough to share with 2-3 people. It’s so big and dense, and the texture is in between a scone and a cookie. We tried all the flavors, and the oatmeal raisin and chocolate peanut butter were our favorites.
98.  Jean-Georges (UWS, French/New American, ) – We went for their lunch tasting menu, which was a nice way to sample their food. Michelin 2 Star 2018 2018, Business Insider’s #13 Best Restaurant in America in 2017.
99.  Los Tacos No 1 (Meatpacking District/Chelsea + Midtown West, , Tacos) – if you can’t make it out to the west coast and need a taco fix, this is probably the best in NYC we’ve tried so far and it’s inside Chelsea Market. They are on the yelp 100 (2015, 2016, 2018), and one of Eater’s 38 Essential NY Restaurants.

See More: 11 Top Free Things to Do in NYC + More

Have we missed any on our list of best places to eat in NYC? How many of these have you been to and were any of these unsatisfactory?

Current Pop Ups in NYC

All Day All Night

99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014, map

When: Through July 6, 2025
Admission: $30

…engages sound and the complexities of communication in its various modes. Using musical notation, infographics, and language—both in her native American Sign Language (ASL) and written English—she has produced drawings, videos, sculptures, and installations that often explore non-auditory, political dimensions of sound. In many works, Kim draws directly on the spatial dynamism of ASL, translating it into graphic form. By emphasizing images, the body, and physical space, she upends the societal assumption that spoken languages are superior to those that are signed.

Telos Tales

540 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001, map

When: Through August 15, 2025
Admission: FREE

Kwade is known internationally for sculptures, large-scale public installations, films, photographs, and works on paper that engage poetically and critically with scientific and philosophical concepts. Through a distinctive vocabulary encompassing reflection, repetition, and the manipulation of everyday objects and natural materials, the artist raises questions about structures and systems that govern and shape our daily lives. In her contemplative works, which dismantle boundaries of perception, she challenges commonly accepted ideas and beliefs while proposing new modes of seeing and understanding reality.

Carnival

18 Wooster St, New York, NY 10013, map

When: Through June 28, 2025
Admission: FREE

Artists have long been inspired by the themes of the carnival and the circus. They often identify with the craft, the courage, and the sometimes marginal existence of circus and carnival performers. The carnival is a unique social space where attitudes and behaviors that might be unacceptable in “polite society” are allowed to thrive. Artists occupy a similar marginal space, separate from social conventions.

Cadence

11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, map

When: Through June 8, 2025
Admission: $30

…presents a new commission by the artist: an all-encompassing environment of tapestry, sculpture, sound, and text that explores the turbulent rhythms of nature and society.  Suspended along the highest wall of the Atrium, the large-scale tapestry features a kaleidoscopic range of natural and synthetic fibers created by the artist using innovative digital weaving techniques at the TextielLab in Tilburg, the Netherlands. Sculptures composed of dyed ropes, interwoven with hand-blown glass and ceramic forms, hang floor-to-ceiling alongside ceramic tablets imprinted with the artist’s poems. These diverse elements are brought together within an immersive sound work based on the voice and breathwork of the artist. 

Mean Girls Experience

TBA

When: TBA
Admission: $35 (get tickets)

Prepare to experience the phenomenon as we make Fetch happen! It’s time to embrace the drama and immerse yourself in the grool-est experience of the year. Sign up for the waitlist to enjoy early access to reservations before they open to the general public!

Each reservation comes with your choice of entree and side item, a 90-minute table reservation, access to all photo ops, and a Candy Cane Gram.

The Bean

56 Leonard St, 10013, map

When: Ongoing
Admission: FREE

NYC’s own version of The Bean. Rather than free-standing, like the one in Chicago, this one looks like it’s wedged underneath the building.

The Friends Experience

130 East 23rd St, map

When: Ongoing
Admission: $45

The first flagship location celebrating the iconic TV show opens tomorrow! With two floors of interactive experiences, you can step inside the world of FRIENDS. Pose on the iconic orange couch, explore newly added original props and costumes from the show like Chandler’s bunny suit, sit in Monica & Rachel’s living room or poke Ugly Naked Guy. There’s even a Central Perk onsite.

Museum of IceCream

558 Broadway, map

When: Thursday to Sunday
Admission: $39

We’re so excited to welcome you to our first Flagship in NYC. MOIC NYC features our most imaginative, multi-sensory installations that bring to life your most delightful dreams: savor the sweetest treats on a floating table, ride our out-of-this-world pink “Celestial Subway,” slide down an epic three-story slide, and follow the sound of a buzz that will lead you to a giant “Queen Bee hive.” Taste our new signature ice cream flavors and ice cream treats along the way, before taking a dive into the largest Sprinkle Pool yet!

Sloomoo Institute

475 Broadway, New York, NY 10013, map

When: Every Weekend 10am – 5pm
Admission: $39

A sensory playground centered around slime, Sloomoo Institute is an artistic universe made to intrigue, delight, and evoke your inner child. Slime inspires wonder and joy, regardless of age. More than a childhood memory or a satisfying social media trend, slime is artful, oozy fun. Even more, it is known to support stress relief as much as it does your imagination.

Jump for Joy: Bouncy Castle of Breasts

233 5th Ave, 10016, map

When: Ongoing
Admission: $3.50 in addition to museum admission

A bouncy castle made up of giant inflatable breasts makes for fun photos and video (adults only). We weren’t that impressed with the museum itself and opted not to pay the additional $3.50 for the photo, but plenty of people were taking advantage of it. The photo they promote uses studio lights, so you won’t get the same look.

Have you visited any of these pop up shops? Do you have something similar in your hometown?

9 Wonderful Places to GO Ice Skating in NYC

1. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, Midtown West

New York, NY 10018, map

Open: Through March 2, 2025
Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM
Price: Free Admission 
Skate Rental: $18-55 
Zamboni Schedule: 15-minute Zamboni breaks as needed

This is our favorite area when it comes to the holidays because you get a beautiful tree, a Christmas Market, and ice skating. Plus, this is the only free rink in the city. This year, they also have curling and igloos. After you’re done, be sure to stop by the New York Public Library too. It’s right next to Bryant Park and you can see it all decked out for the holidays.

Since there is so much to do here, it definitely gets busy. If you can’t make it right when it opens, consider Premium Skating to avoid the lines. We went on a weekday morning and there were about 50 people in the regular line, but it gets even longer in the afternoons. They also include skate rental and bag check.

Local Tip: Try not to bring your bags, it cost $5-15 to check bags. There are small lockers you can use free of charge if you bring a lock, which fits a pair of shoes and small bag.

See More: 11 Magical Ways to Spend Christmas in NYC

2. Wollman Rink in Central Park

830 5th Ave, 10065, map

Open: October 26, 2024 – March 15, 2025
Hours: M-Tu 10am – 2:30pm, W-Th 10am – 9pm, F-Sa 10am – 10pm, Su 10am – 9pm
Price: $15-38 for adults, $10 for children 11 and under
Skate Rental: $12
Zamboni Schedule: Zamboni breaks vary

This massive 30,800 square foot rink draws major crowds. When we visited, we arrived just before it opened and there was already a line. Within an hour, there were buses of school kids visiting and the rink was getting packed. Regardless, having the park in the foreground and city in the background is special and unique to this location.

Local Tip: You do have to pay a spectator fee even if you aren’t skating, but there are free viewing areas from above outside of the rink.

See More: Best Things to Do in Central Park NYC

3. The Rink at Rockefeller Center, Midtown

600 5th Ave, 10020, map

Open: Through March 31, 2025
Hours: Daily 9 AM – Midnight
Price: $21-205
Skate Rental: $12
Zamboni Schedule: 30-minute Zamboni breaks every 90 minutes

This is the most famous ice skating rink in the world. It’s been featured in different shows and movies, and most people will recognize its iconic place at a glance. We always remember the SNL closing credits where the cast skates here after the show.

General admission is available on a first-come, first-served basis. During the holidays, it gets extremely busy and will sell out since they only allow 150 skaters on the ice at a time. If you want a guaranteed slot, consider reserving a VIP package, which includes skate rentals, refreshments, and access to their VIP Igloo. We got to enjoy some hot chocolate, and they let you onto the ice before anyone else.

Local Tip: To avoid the crowds, visit after mid-January or October to early November.

See More: 9 Amazing Things to do in Rockefeller Center

4. Lasker Pool and Ice Rink at Central Park (Harlem Meer Center)

110 Lenox Ave, 10065, map

CLOSED UNTIL 2024 (The site says it will open this year, but it looks like it’s still closed for renovations)

Open: N/A
Hours: N/A
Price: $9 for adults, $5 for kids, $5 for spectators
Skate Rental: $8
Zamboni Schedule: Zamboni breaks vary

These two small oval rinks aren’t the most impressive but a good place to head if you want to avoid the massive crowds at Wollman. They also dedicate one to hockey and one for skaters.

5. Riverbank State Park Ice Skating Rink, Harlem

679 Riverside Dr, 10031, map

Open: November through March (weather permitting)
Hours: Varies, check site
Price: $5 adults, $3 children
Skate Rental: $6
Zamboni Schedule: Zamboni breaks vary

The indoor ice skating rink at Riverbank State Park is one of uptown’s only rinks. During the summers, it turns into a roller skating rink, but in the winter, it’s home to an ice hockey league, figure skating club, and regular open skating sessions.

6. The Rink at Brookfield Place, Battery Park

230 Vesey St, 10281, map

Open: November to February
Hours: Varies, check site
Price: $15-17
Skate Rental: $5-7
Zamboni Schedule: Zamboni breaks vary

This rink hosts a lot of shows for Ice Skating fans, including Olympic skaters. They also open to the public, and have different group and private skating lessons. Check their site for more information.

Local Tip: Arrive 20-30 min prior to your scheduled public session time to avoid lines.

7. Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Pier 17, Lower Manhattan

89 South St, 10038, map

Open: November 8 to December 31, 2024
Hours: M-Th 3-11 PM, F 1-11 PM, Sat-Sun 10 AM – 11 PM
Price: Starts at $15 (includes one choice of hot beverage)

They didn’t bring back the ice rink this year, but we’ll leave this on this post in case they do in the future. It’s still a fun Christmas-themed event to check out with dining and entertainment for all ages.

8. Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers, Chelsea

61 Chelsea Piers, 10011, map

Open: Year Round
Hours: Varies, check site
Price: $30
Skate Rental: $10 ($5 for helmets)
Zamboni Schedule: Zamboni breaks vary

This rink doesn’t have any of the same NYC magic, but it’s consistent. If you just want to skate, the weather isn’t working out, or you’re trying to wrangle a big group of people, this is a good spot to go.

9. City Ice Pavilion, Long Island City, Queens

47-32 32nd Pl, Long Island City, NY 11101, map

Open: Year Round
Hours: Varies, check site
Price: $25
Skate Rental: $10 ($5 for helmets)
Zamboni Schedule: Zamboni breaks vary

This rink doesn’t have any of the same NYC magic, but it’s consistent. If you just want to skate, the weather isn’t working out, or you’re trying to wrangle a big group of people, this is a good spot to go.

Have you been ice skating in NYC? What is your favorite winter activity?

Have you ever spent Christmas in NYC. Before we moved here, it was a long time bucket list item of mine.

Musicals, Plays, and Concerts

1. Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes →

Radio City Music Hall, 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020, map

Dates: Nov 8, 2024 to Jan 5, 2025
Length: 90 minutes
Purchase Tickets

The Radio City Rockettes have been a part of NYC since 1932. Every year, their Christmas Spectacular is one of the most popular shows and attractions in the city. Set in the iconic Radio City Music Hall, watch them sing and dance in perfect synchronization.

See More: 10+ Amazing Christmas Markets in NYC to Visit

2. A Christmas Carol the Musical

The Players Theatre, 115 MacDougal Street, New York, NY 10012, map

Dates: December 1-30, 2024
Length: 60 minutes
Purchase Tickets

Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale about the joy of community triumphing over selfishness, presented in this fresh musical adaptation by Sgouros & Bell. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his emotional journey as he is visited by four forewarning ghosts. Will Scrooge catch the holiday spirit and save himself in the process? Find out by joining us for this special holiday show with a story so warm it will melt the cold heart of even the grumpiest Scrooge! Now in its 16th smash year, featuring updated, British pantomime-inspired scenic design, this holiday event is not to be missed!

3. Mariah Carey: Mariah Carey’s Christmas Time →

UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Belmont Park, NY 11003, map

Dates: December 15, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Mariah Carey’s Christmas Time is a 2024 holiday tour that will celebrate the 30th anniversary of her album Merry Christmas and the single “All I Want for Christmas Is You”. The tour will f

4. Elf the Musical →

MSG, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001, map

Dates: November 9, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Purchase Tickets

Elf the Musical is a holiday-themed musical by Chad Beguelin, Matthew Sklar, Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan based on the hit 2003 comedy of the same name starring Will Ferrell.

Featuring original musical numbers like “World’s Greatest Dad,” “Nobody Cares About Santa” and “I’ll Believe in You,” Elf tells the story of Buddy, a human who accidentally crawled into Santa’s sack as a baby and was adopted by the elf community at the North Pole. Upon finding out his true parentage, Buddy embarks on a quest to find his birth father in New York City and get him off the naughty list for not believing in Santa.

The musical originally opened on Broadway for the 2010–2011 Christmas season and played again during the 2012–2013 holidays. The latest revival is set to open in November 2024 for a limited holiday engagement at the Marquis Theatre.

5. Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve →

Prudential Center, 25 Lafayette St, Newark, NJ 07102, map

Dates: December 20
Purchase Tickets

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is hitting the road once again in 2024, bringing their electrifying holiday rock opera to audiences across North America. To mark the 20th anniversary of their fourth studio album, The Lost Christmas Eve, the progressive metal group will perform 109 shows throughout November and December. Join them for a festive celebration that spans over two decades of Christmas magic! Along with The Lost Christmas Eve, fans can expect some of the band’s greatest hits, making it clear why audiences keep coming back year after year.

6. Annie →

The Theater at MSG, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001, map

Dates: December 4, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Purchase Tickets

Look Who’s Back! With Whoopi Goldberg as Miss Hannigan! Ever since her first introduction to America in a comic strip by Harold Gray, Annie has captivated audiences with wit, pluck and eternal optimism. When she finally got her first musical in 1977, her place in our hearts was cemented. Full of modern classics such as the soaring ‘Tomorrow’ and the toiling ‘Hard Knock Life’, Annie is the first word in family entertainment. Don’t wait to in love with this spunky orphan all over again as she and her rag tag group of pals take to the stage in New York this holiday season!

7. The MET Opera: The Magic Flute →

The Metropolitan Opera, 30 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, map

Dates: December 12, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Length: 102 minutes
Purchase Tickets

Tony-winner and Oscar-nominee Julie Taymor brings this innovative and magical recreation of Mozart’s The Magic Flute to life – complete with dancing bears and giant flamingos! The production is sung in English and shortened to just 100 minutes to form an abridged version perfect for families and a much loved Metropolitan Opera tradition.

8. Elf in Concert →

David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, map

Dates: December 19-22, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Join your local orchestra for this glorious live-to-film concert of the beloved Christmas movie, bringing to life Buddy’s story in a presentation that’ll fill the whole family with holiday cheer!

9. New York Philharmonic – Holiday Brass →

David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, map

Dates: December 14-15, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Get into the holiday swing of things with the New York Philharmonic’s Brass and Percussion sections, a holiday tradition that began back in 1995! Together they’ll perform a delightfully festive two-hour program that’ll leave you humming Christmas carols well into the new year. This family-friendly concert is sure to put a jingle in your holiday step.

10. Jingle Ball →

MSG, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001, map

Dates: December 13, 2024
Purchase Tickets

It’s back! The biggest touring concert of the year has returned once again, stuffed with more pop talent than you can shake a sprig of holly at. Featuring appearances from Katy Perry, Tate McRae, Teddy Swims, The Kid Laroi and many, many more, this year’s iHeartRadio Jingle Ball looks set to be the best ever!

11. Charlie Brown Christmas →

Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center, 46 Washington Street, Carteret, NJ 07008, map

Dates: December 13, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Charlie and the gang are here to show you the true meaning of Christmas in this stage adaptation of the classic TV Special. Debuting in 2013, this theatrical production faithfully recreates the atmosphere of the comic strips and features the jazzy score from the TV show as well as a group of Christmas sing-a-longs at the end. A wonderful way to introduce younger children to the Peanuts gang, and to explore what Christmas is all about Christmas, beyond just the presents!

12. Pentatonix: Hallelujah! It’s a Christmas Tour →

MSG, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001, map

Dates: November 26, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Ring in the holiday season with three-time Grammy winners Pentatonix! The four-piece who found success through NBC’s The Sing-Off, have been at the forefront of the recent a capella revival. With record-breaking albums behind them, the kings and queen of acapella jingle across the country on their ‘Hallelujah! It’s a Christmas Tour!’.

13. Brett Eldredge →

Beacon Theater, 2124 Broadway, New York, NY 10023, map

Dates: December 12-14, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Multi-platinum-selling Country singer-songwriter Brett Eldredge is hitting the road once more this holiday season, bringing his GLOW: Welcome to the Family Tour to you! Named for his 2016 Christmas album, they’ll be festive fancies aplenty, alongside hits from 2021’s record – Mr. Christmas! There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit!

14. Fairytale of New York →

Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N Van Brunt St, Englewood, NJ 07631, map

Dates: November 30, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Fairytale of New York will take to the North American road in 2024 offering another opportunity to indulge in an all-out, all-Irish Christmas extravaganza! Expect to hear some of the season’s best-loved songs, including of course, the iconic Fairy Tale of New York, alongside some of the Emerald Isle’s biggest hits, such as Galway Girl, The Irish Rover, Wagon Wheel, Danny Boy, Dirty Old Town and many more.

Delivered with maximum joy in an all-singing all-laughing performance, Fairytale of New York captures the magic of a true Irish Christmas and will have you tapping your toes from the very first minute!

15. A Holiday Doo-Wop →

Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N Van Brunt St, Englewood, NJ 07631, map

Dates: November 9, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Take a musical trip down memory line and get into the holiday swing of things at the same time with the annual Holiday Doo-Wop Spectacular! Hosted by Brooklyn’s own WCBS 101.FM DJ Joe Causi and the frontman of Staten Island favorites The Elegants Vito Picone, this blue-eyed soul-filled evening is the perfect gift for those seeking to relive the rich vocal harmonies and vintage glamour of the Doo-Wop era of the 50s and 60s.

16. A Christmas Carol →

Mccarter Theatre Center, 91 University Pl, Princeton, NJ 08540, map

Dates: December 10-29, 2024
Purchase Tickets

An integral part of McCarter’s theater season every year, A Christmas Carol is the definitive holiday show for all the family. Based on the book by Charles Dickens, this celebration of humanity and openheartedness follows the story of Ebeneezer Scrooge, a cranky, penny-pinching businessman who’s taught the true meaning of Christmas by three spirits – the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future – who visit him on Christmas Eve.

Adapted and directed by Lauren Keating, McCarter’s A Christmas Carol is a re-imagined production, featuring exciting stage and costume design inspired by a deep dive into the source material. It will also feature members of the local community, acting alongside the professional cast, really giving the show an authentic feel.

17. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas →

Paper Mill Playhouse, 22 Brookside Dr, Millburn, NJ 07041, map

Dates: November 27 – December 28, 2024
Purchase Tickets

A stage adaptation of the classic film, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas tells the story of two showbiz buddies, formerly old war comrades, who are tasked with staging a winter pageant in a picturesque but struggling Vermont inn owned by their old commanding officer – and find their perfect matches in the bargain. Will they be able to pull off the ultimate Christmas miracle and save the show? Well yeah, but in this case the fun is in following them on their marvellous, adventure-filled journey!

Dance & Misc

18. New York City Ballet: George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker →

David H. Koch Theater, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, map

Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Length: 120 minutes
Purchase Tickets

This is one the most magical performances of the classic there is. 90 dancers, 62 musicians, 32 stagehands, and 50 students from the School of American Ballet bring this story to life. There’s even an onstage blizzard and a Christmas tree that grows from 12 to 40 feet.

19. Grand Kyiv Ballet: The Nutcracker →

Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N Van Brunt St, Englewood, NJ 07631, map

Dates: December 23, 2024
Purchase Tickets

The extremely talented dancers of Ukraine’s Grand Kyiv Ballet are back on the stage in North America, performing Tchaikovsky’s must-see holiday classic The Nutcracker! Originally written by E.T.A. Hoffmann, Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece score to the world-famous ballet received its debut over 130 years ago, in 1892. A truly timeless work, an evening spent at a performance of this enchanting show is the perfect way to welcome in Christmas with the whole family!

20. The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays →

Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N Van Brunt St, Englewood, NJ 07631, map

Dates: November 17, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Christmas is truly the most magical time of the year, and the supernaturally gifted performers of The Illusionists are taking to the road once more this holiday season to prove just that! The Box Office record-breaking outfit of magicians presents a special family-friendly show packed to the rafters with mind-bending illusions, stunning feats of close-up magic and jaw-dropping escapes.

21. Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet →

United Palace, 4140 Broadway, New York, NY 10033, map

Dates: December 14-17, 2023
Purchase Tickets

Featuring spectacular sets and beautifully costumed dancers, the Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet is an annual treat for the whole family. Whimsical and imaginative storytelling blends with the richness of classical dance, dazzling costumes, soaring birds, giant puppets and a grand stage design to make this particular Nutcracker a unique holiday treat not to be missed!

22. New York Theatre Ballet: Keith Michael’s The Nutcracker

Florence Gould Hall, 55 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022, map

Dates: December 21-22, 2024
Length: 60 minutes
Purchase Tickets

Usher in the holiday spirit this December with New York Theatre Ballet’s beloved Once Upon a Ballet series. Perfect for audiences aged 3 and up, this one-hour program brings to life the timeless tale of The Nutcracker, featuring delightful choreography by Keith Michael. Don’t miss this magical and festive experience that will captivate audiences of all ages.

23. Company XIV: Nutcracker Rouge

Théâtre XIV, 383 Troutman St, Brooklyn, NY 11237, map

Dates: November 8,2024 – March 8, 2024
Length: 150 minutes
Purchase Tickets

Leave the kids at home if you’re headed to see this risqué version of the classic tale. The erotic reimagining of the story uses dance, circus performers, singers, and partial nudity to spice things up.

24. Cirque Dreams Holidaze

Paramount Theatre, 1300 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, map

Dates: December 6, 2024
Length: 2 hours 20 minutes, one intermission
Purchase Tickets

A specially themed holiday show, Holidaze sees various Christmas ornaments magicked to life as the seasoned troupe of 30 performers from over 12 different countries combine their talents into 20 acts, transforming themselves into costumed characters and perform astonishing feats that celebrate the holiday season with spectacle, imagination and whimsical joy.

25. New Jersey Ballet: The Nutcracker

New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St, Newark, NJ 07102, map

Dates: December 1, 2024
Purchase Tickets

Now for five decades, New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker has been a cherished holiday tradition for many generations of families in NJ.

Have you seen any of the Christmas shows in NYC?

1. Bryant Park’s Winter Village

40th to 42nd Street between 5th and 6th Avenue, map

Dates: Shops Open until January 5, 2025 / Skate Rink Open until March 2, 2025
Hours: Daily: 8 AM – 10 PM / Select Weekend and Holiday Hours: 8 AM – Midnight

This is one of the most centrally located holiday markets and our favorite one to hangout if we had to pick one of the markets. There are over 100 stalls selling clothes, hats, mittens, jewelry, local foods, and more. It has the best ambiance, and people watching. While you’re there, you can also watch ice-skaters or get on the ice yourself.

Local Tip: The ice skating rink is free if you have your own skates.

See More: How to Survive Winter in New York

2. Union Square Holiday Market

201 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10003, map

Dates: November 14 to December 24, 2024 (closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Eve)
Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM Weekdays, 10 AM – 8 PM Saturdays and Sundays

This is our favorite market to shop at. It’s set up in a large semi-circle and there are over 100 vendors with gifts, jewelry, crafts, and sweet and savory treats.

Local Tip: This is the market where we found our Glühwein last year.

See More: 11 Magical Ways to Spend Christmas in NYC

3. Grand Central Holiday Fair

89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, map

Dates: November 11 to December 24, 2024 (Closed Thanksgiving)
Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM Monday to Saturday, 11 AM – 6 PM Sundays, 10 AM – 6 PM Christmas Eve

If you’re looking for a holiday market and want to avoid the cold, head to Grand Central. It’s small, but indoor is hard to beat. This indoor market has over stalls selling art, clothes, bags, toys, and more. While you’re there, you can also stop by the food court and try some of the most popular food in the city. 

Local Tip: Do yourself a favor and try the Coconut Creme at Doughnut Plant. It’s our favorite!

See More: 27+ Most Instagrammable Places in NYC

4. Columbus Circle Holiday Market

Columbus Circle, 59th Street and Central Park West, map

Dates: December 3-31, 2024
Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM Monday to Saturday, 11 AM – 7 PM Sundays, Closes at 4 PM on Christmas Eve and Closed on Christmas Day

This is the smallest market out of the main ones, with over 60 vendors, but it’s a great location if you plan on spending time in Central Park. Shop the goods, pick up a warm drink, then head over for some ice skating at Wollman Rink.

See More: Best Things to do in Central Park

More Holiday Markets to Check Out

5. Astoria Market

Dates: December 8-15, 2024
Address: 29-19 24th Ave, Astoria, NY 11102, map

If the holidays are more about food to you, then stop by the Astoria Market. You’ll still find some shopping opportunities, but you might get too distracted by all the delicious-smelling goodies. 

6. Bust Magazine Craftacular and Food Fair Holiday

Dates: TBA 2024
Address: Industry City, Factory Floor, 242 37th Street, Brooklyn

Stop by this two-day holiday event in Greenpoint to check out over 200 vendors specializing in handmade, vintage, and craft items. There are also plenty of sweet and savory options to keep your belly full. 

7. Crafts at St. John’s the Divine Cathedral

Dates: December 6-8, 2024 (12 PM – 7 PM)
Address: 1047 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025, map

We missed this three-day arts and crafts fair last year and hope to stop by this year. It’s held inside one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country.

8. Grand Holiday Bazaar

Dates: Every Sunday from Nov 24 to Dec 22, 2024
Address: 100 W 77th St, New York, NY 10024, map

The Grand Bazaar is the largest weekly market in NYC, and 100% of its profits go towards four public schools in the neighborhood. The vendors are all local and handpicked by the bazaar and sell food, vintage items, custom jewelry, antiques, and so much more. Although the bazaar is around all year, for one month, it transforms into one of the many New York City Christmas markets. Vendors sell everything from apple cider, donuts, ornaments, and unique gifts.

9. Holiday Handmade Cavalcade

Dates: TBA 2024
Address: 75 9th Ave New York, NY 10011, map & Brooklyn Historical Society: 128 Pierrepont St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, map

NY Handmade Collective showcases local makers at local pop-up markets. They will be at various locals that you can check out here.

10. St. Luke’s Christmas Fair

Dates: December 14, 2025 10 AM – 3 PM
Address: 487 Hudson Street New York, NY 10014, map

Every year they run a fair to support the school’s scholarship fund. 

11. Renegade Craft Fair

Dates: November 14-15, 2024 (11 AM – 5 PM)
Address: 125 W. 18th St. New York, NY 10011, map

This is the world’s largest exhibition of independent crafts. There are over 150 vendors and they visit different cities throughout the year. 

12. Artists and Fleas at Chelsea Market

Dates: Year-Round
Hours: Thursday to Monday 11 am – 7 pm
Address: 88 10th Ave (at 15th St)

Other Markets That Haven’t Returned

Deck the Stalls Holiday Market at Pier 1
Flushing Town Hall Holiday Market

Have you been to any New York Holiday Markets? If so, where?

1. Doughnut Plant

Multiple Locations, map

We love our doughnuts, so if anyone asks us about the best dessert in NYC, we always mention Doughnut Plant. All their doughnuts are good, but the Coconut Creme and Brooklyn Blackout are our favorites. Dare I say it’s my favorite doughnut in the US? We’ve been to a LOT, and it’s been a toss-up between the Coconut Creme here and the Strawberry Donut at Donut Man in California.

2. Eileen’s Special Cheesecake, Nolita

17 Cleveland Pl, 10012, map

This is our favorite cheesecake in New York. Not only are there a ton of different options, but they’ve found the perfect blend of fluffy and dense. Jacob’s favorite is the chocolate marble. The salted caramel, cookies and cream, and strawberry shortcake are also scrumptious.

If you don’t want to venture out, they also deliver. Just give them a call or visit their website to see what areas are available for delivery.

See More: Best Cheescakes in NYC Video

3. Boqueria

Multiple Locations, map

I’ll start off by saying that I am not a fan of s’mores. Never have, and probably never will be, with one exception the Churro S’mores from Boqueria. The chewy warm churro is everything that the s’more has been missing. The chewy texture perfectly compliments the classic s’more filling.

You should also try something else from their churro-filled dessert menu. The classic churros with chocolate are exactly how they do it in Spain, and the churros stuffed with Nutella, and churro ice cream sandwich are a must-try. Unlike most places on this list, they have a full menu of tapas to balance out the sweet with the salty making it one of the best dessert restaurants NYC has to offer.

4. Bibble & Sip, Theater District

253 W 51st St, 10019, map + Multiple Locations

How cute are the Totoro macarons? We visited Bibble and Sip a few years ago when we were visiting and didn’t care much for it. But I had a change of heart after a recent visit where I ate a Totoro and tried the cream puffs again.

See More: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Broadway Musicals and Shows

5. Breads Bakery

Multiple Locations, map

We picked up a Chocolate Babka to take home after stopping by to try their cheesecake for our video. It was definitely worth it. Popping a slice of the babka in the microwave for a few seconds made it extra yummy.

7. Alimama, Chinatown

89A Bayard St, 10013, map

We visited Alimama when we lived in NYC, and while we tried the mochi donuts, we completely missed the cream puffs, During our recent trip, we went back because we needed to try them. We’re not huge cream puff fans but these were so good that they were the most memorable thing we ate on our trip.

See our reel here.

8. Keki Modern Cakes, Midtown East

315 5th Ave, 10016, map

These bouncy and fluffy cheesecakes are just as fun as they are to jiggle as they are to eat. We loved watching them package the cakes in the window, and if you’re shooting photos and video, they know how to shake it just the right way to get maximum jiggle. Just remember that as time passes, it will jiggle less.

We tried the ube cheesecake and absolutely inhaled it. It doesn’t really taste like cheesecake since it’s so light but you get a hint of the cheesecake flavor at the end. We liked it so much we brought one home with us.

See our reel here.

See More: 21 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting NYC

9. Chip City, Asotira QNS

Multiple Locations, map

It’s hard to say if the cookies at Chip NYC or Levain Bakery are better. The cookies at both are really dense and the texture feels like a hybrid of a cookie and a scone. After trying a few, we loved the regular chocolate chip the best, but they also have more creative concoctions like butterscotch toffee, apple pie, and blueberry cheesecake.

10. Dominique Ansel Bakery, SOHO

189 Spring St, 10012, map

We’ve tried their Cronut (one of the most popular NYC dessert trends), DKA, and cookie shots. The cronut makes food history, so it’s worth trying it once, and the original is still better than the dozens I’ve tried elsewhere. I wouldn’t wait hours in line, but if you’re in Soho, drop in and let us know what you think of all of Dominique Ansel’s creations.

The good news is they no longer have ridiculous lines. We were able to order some at noon, but it depends on how busy it gets. Go earlier if you want to make sure you get them. Also, the milk will leak out of the bottom if you don’t take your cookie shot fast.

See More: 11 Top Free Things to Do in NYC + More

11. Lady M Cake Boutique

Multiple Locations, map

If you’re looking for beautifully crafted cakes then head to Lady M. Everything we tried was pretty good. They are best known for their Green Tea Mille Crepe, which they ran out of while we were there, but we got to try the Chocolate Mille Crepe instead.

Local Tip: If you visit the shop near Bryant Park and the wait is long for a table, grab it to go and sit at table in the park.

See More: Best Things to Do in Central Park NYC

12. Magnolia Bakery

Multiple Locations, map

We tried some of the cakes and didn’t love them, but the Banana Bread Pudding from Magnolia Bakery is something else. It’s so good, and with so many locations throughout the city, it’s easy to pick up to take home or back to your hotel making is one of the best dessert places in Manhattan. They serve them in convenient cups too so it’s easy to eat wherever you are and we can’t resist dropping in if they’re open.

13. Mah-ze-dahr Bakery, Battery Park

225 Liberty St, 10281, map

This bakery / pastry shop has earned a name for itself among the locals. It made our list of best cheesecakes, but there is so much more we have to try. Our friend who lives in the neighborhood goes daily and told us it’s easier to point out ones to skip than which ones to get, since they’re practically all good. Everyone seems to have their favorite item, so ask one of the locals when you visit. Next on our list is the Brioche Braid.

We visited the Greenwich location which has since closed, but the Battery Park one should be just as good.

See More: 25 Most Instagrammable Places in NYC

14. Spot Dessert Bar

Multiple Locations, map

Spot Dessert Bar NYC creates fun and creative desserts, like the Harvest, where you water your plant before eating it. Everyone also raves about the Matcha Molten Lava Cake, which was fine, but we actually liked the Sesame Cookies more when we visited the East Village location.

15. Soft Swerve, LES

B, 85 Allen St, 10002, map + Multiple Locations

They have flavors that rotate, but they are best known for their Ube Ice Cream. The first time we visited, they had an amazing black sesame flavor as well.

See More: Pros and Cons of Living in New York

16. Taiyaki, Little Italy

119 Baxter St, 10013, map

You’ve probably seen these fish cones on Instagram. They stack them high with soft serve flavors, likes matcha and black sesame, making it a great photo op before you dive in.

Local Tip: They also serve Souffle Pancakes now but only on Saturdays and Sundays for the first three hours. Unfortunately, the timing didn’t work out for us during our last visit but we definitely want to try it next time!

17. Two Little Red Hens

1641 2nd Ave, 10028, map

Temporarily Closed – moving to a new location! It’s been a few years since any updates but the site is still up.

This was our favorite cheesecake until it got bumped to #2 by Eileen’s. It’s still worth the visit if you’re in the UES and don’t want to make it all the way downtown. We forgot to take pictures, but it’s in our best cheesecake in NYC video, if you want to see it.

We did try some of the other items like the red velvet cupcakes, but the cheesecake has been the only thing we’ll order again.

What’s on your NYC food bucket list? Any famous New York desserts or secret ones we left out?