Living in Bergen County allows many NVD students to enjoy holiday activities in New York City. From skating to shopping, there are endless opportunities to make memories with family and friends during the holiday season.
Senior Natalie Khawaja describes her ideal trip to the city, starting at Bryant Park.
“My dream itinerary for holiday fun in NYC would probably start with a walk through Bryant Park for snacks and gifts, then go ice skating, and end the day at the Rockefeller Center tree and nearby window displays,” Khawaja said.
She explains that there is more to the city than sightseeing, however. She continues by sharing her favorite restaurant, which has become increasingly popular over the last few years.
“Din Tai Fung is a great holiday spot for food because the Midtown location pairs the dinner-theater environment with a big, lively space that feels special and crowd-pleasing,” Khawaja said. “It can get pretty busy during the holiday season, so it’s important to get reservations.”
She also suggests a cafe to stop by for anyone who may be craving a sweet treat.
“Bibble & Sip is such a cozy spot in the city that feels like the holidays, and is perfect for a small pastry or dessert,” Khawaja said.
Another senior, Hannah Lee, also includes Bryant Park as a classic spot for a New York City trip, speaking highly of the Winter Village.
“My dream itinerary would definitely include a trip to Bryant Park’s Winter Village or ice skating somewhere,” Lee said.
While Lee doesn’t shop at Saks Fifth Avenue, she adores the light shows because they can be a wonderful, free experience for anyone.
“I love going to Saks Fifth next to Rockefeller! They always have very pretty Christmas-light shows,” Lee said.
Moving away from more traditional tourist attractions, Lee also enjoys exploring areas outside of Manhattan.
“My favorite place to sightsee is Dumbo or the Brooklyn Bridge. I find that it’s a lot quieter in these areas while still having lots of good thrift stores, food, and pretty decorations,” Lee said.
Another frequent NYC visitor, NVD senior Lila Cervino, has similar plans in store for her next trip.
“My dream itinerary would be going shopping around Soho in the morning and then head over to Bryant Park and explore the winter village and go ice skating, and then go visit the tree at Rockefeller center,” Cervino said.
Cervino also loves stopping by cafes and shared a few of her recommendations.
“Blank Street is my favorite place to get an iced coffee or matcha in the city, and they just came out with new holiday themed drinks that look really good,” she said.
While Cervino enjoys going to the city with her friends, she especially recalls fond memories she’s made with her family.
“One of my favorite activities is visiting FAO Schwarz for fun with my family and looking at all the cute toy displays, and especially visiting the Jellycat Cafe in the store,” Cervino said. “Another one is visiting the Radio City Rockettes because my family and I have been doing that every year since I was little, so it is quality family time that I look forward to and a great show overall.”
As Cervino and other students have expressed, the city brings endless activities to enjoy with loved ones, especially during the holiday season.
“Overall, I think that spending time in NYC can be extremely fun and fulfilling as long as you’re going to the right places at the right times!” Lee said.
