There are so many Christmas trees in New York that you didn’t even know about! Everyone has heard about the Rockefeller tree, but did you know there is a beautiful tree on Wall Street? Or that there is a tree decorated with origami animals and shapes in the American Museum of Natural History? Since you now know, it’s time to visit. Make it a day and take in eight fabulous trees throughout NYC from Central Park to Wall Street.

THE FIRST

NYC Christmas Tree Tour: Below is a list of eight Christmas trees throughout New York City that are worth visiting during this holiday season. If you are up for the adventure, visit all eight (be sure to wear comfortable shoes!). If not, pick and choose based on your schedule and interests.

American Museum of Natural History, 79th and Central Park West: Origami tree to the theme of “Wicked, Wild, and Wonderful.” Wine (ask for it in a to-go coffee cup) and other items are available for purchase inside the museum around the corner from the tree. Tickets are required, but you only need to make a donation of any amount you choose. Go to the ticket counters and not the kiosks.
The Met, 82nd and 5th: Tree with an 18th century Neapolitan nativity scene. Tickets are required again, same deal as before.
Lincoln Square (Dante Park), 63rd and Broadway: 25 foot Norway Spruce
The Plaza, 56th and 5th Ave: Ornaments compliments of Saks 5th Avenue. Time to stop at The Plaza Food Hall. See below.
Rockefeller Center, 49th and 5th Ave: 12 ton Norway spruce that is 76 feet tall, about 75 years old, and hails from Connecticut.
Bryant Park, 41st and 6th: 50 foot Norway spruce. Time to stop at Celsius. See below.
Washington Square Park, 7th and 5th: 45 foot, Vermont raised tree
New York Stock Exchange, Wall Street and Nassau Street: 62 foot high, 37 foot wide Blue Spruce, hails from Bury, Quebec.

THE SECOND

The Plaza Food Hall: According to their website, The Plaza Food Hall was established as a place, “where locals, tourists, and hotel guests alike could meet, dine, and shop in a space akin to European food halls not typically found in the United States.” With the option of full service dine in or communal-style grab and go, this meal can be as formal or informal as you want. Wine can be purchased by the bottle and the food options include everything from your standard meat and cheese platter to fro-yo. The NY Magazine profile recommends, “prime-rib sliders or fresh oysters, chermoula-marinated grilled shrimp or grilled branzino, red-velvet Curly Cakes cupcakes.” Stop in for a quick bite before or after visiting the hotel in the iconic Plaza Hotel.

THE THIRD

Celsius: Celsius is a temporary 7,000 square foot restaurant, bar, and event space with amazing Bryant Park views that include the tree and ice-skating rink. It is open from November 5, 2013 - March 2, 2014 and its drink menu is truly winter inspired and extremely delicious. Pop in before or after viewing the Bryant Park Christmas tree to warm up and imbibe. Try the Irish Winter, Jameson irish whiskey, Kahlua, freshly brewed coffee and whipped cream, or the Winter Fizz, Abolut vodka, infused pama liquer, fresh lemon juice, topped with prosecco. They also have a great food menu. Avoid the lines and head to the bar seating area where you can order drinks and food without the wait.

Shout out to my new friend Giff who put this tour together which provided for a very fun day exploring NYC and getting to know new friends. Hope you have as much fun as we did! See the map of this date here. Enjoy!