By Audrey Lee
Holiday break is here and the kids are home from school with loads of energy to burn. The excitement of the upcoming holidays is a magical time to visit New York City, as so many cultures and traditions in one area make it the perfect place to visit and experience unique attractions on almost every block. Plan your family’s holiday getaway to these whimsical locations in the Big Apple this month.
Book your reservations as soon as you can to visit Santaland at Macy’s Herald Square on West 34th Street. This annual event draws in thousands of visitors so reserving a time slot to enjoy all of the holiday cheer on the eighth floor is crucial. Kids and adults will be blown away with the winter wonderland they walk into. Live “elves” walk around and interact with children as they gaze at the train display and animatronic toys and walk through the enchanted forest lit up with twinkling lights. Santaland will leave your kids booming with holiday cheer, but not until they meet with Santa. Attending Santaland is free but requires a reservation. Professional photos with Santa are available for purchase.
Gingerbread Lane, New York Hall of Science
Breaking its own record year after year, Gingerbread Lane at the New York Hall of Science is a massive, edible village that takes an entire year to build. The village is handcrafted by chef Jon Lovitch. He designs, bakes, builds and decorates each structure using gingerbread, royal icing and candy. The whole family can enjoy looking at houses, police stations, shops, firehouses and other buildings cleverly crafted with candy. Gingerbread Lane is sure to spark creativity within your family to have your own gingerbread house competition once you return home. Admission to this attraction is free with your ticket to the museum; $16 per adult and $13 per child.
Immerse your family in the holiday village during Winterfest at the Brooklyn Museum. Perfect for all ages, Winterfest has something for everyone. Find your way through the Enchanted Tree Maze, enter into a giant snow globe, enjoy live music, take photos with Santa and Mrs. Clause and experience an interactive history lesson on chocolate. Adults can enjoy an interactive wine tasting or try a variety of beers at the beer garden. Admission prices vary by time of day and date. Winterfest is open until Dec. 31.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
May 2, 20245 Montana National Park Vacations to Experience This Summer
Home to some of the country’s most beautiful national parks, Montana beckons family travelers this summer with some thrilling and fun adventures and experiences. Whether it’s taking an RV to Yellowstone and Glacier National Park or embarking on adventures in Big Sky, here’s five national park vacations to consider in Montana this summer.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Slideshow
May 2, 20246 European Castles for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through these European castles with us.
Destinations
May 2, 20245 Beachfront Resorts for Summer Vacation
Plan summer family travel to one of these beachfront resorts around the world.
Sponsored Content
Travel Tips to Help Protect Your Health and Your Trip
Five Tips to Help Minimize Potential Travel Problems
Destinations / North America
May 1, 2024Music Jams Await the Whole Family in Cajun Country, Louisiana
It’s always time for music in Louisiana’s Cajun Country and, in May, the place to be for family travelers is St. Landry’s Parish. Celebrate Mothers’ Day in Opelousas at Tucka James Music Fest, May 10–11, where 16 artists perform over two days. Friday is Country Takeover and Saturday stars the King of Swing, Tucka James.
ShareThis