Family-Friendly Holiday Spots NYC

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.

Macy’s Santaland

Book your reservations as soon as you can to visit Santaland at Macy’s Herald Square on West 34^th 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.

Winterfest, Brooklyn Museum

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.