New York City at Christmastime
Holiday Getaway to the Big Apple
Overview
Whether you’ve fallen in love with New York City from afar or surrendered your heart to it on many visits, a visit at Christmastime is second to none! There’s something new to see on nearly every block, especially during the holidays.
December ranks as Manhattan’s most popular month for visitors, and this trip is the perfect kindling to ignite your holiday spirit. The city is decorated to the max! Department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s and Bergdorf Goodman all adorn their windows with marvelous, greatly anticipated displays—and there’s Rockefeller Center’s larger than life Christmas tree, decorated with over five miles of lights towering over the plaza. See two memorable shows—the dazzling Radio City Rockettes Christmas pageant and the twirling sugar plum fairies at The Nutcracker ballet. Shopping ranges from high style on Madison Avenue to lively, local holiday fairs boasting a wide variety of unique gifts and handmade treasures, also ideal for finding a variety of festive foods to enjoy.
Some free time on your own allows that extra time for independent exploration! Broadway shows, ice-skating at Rockefeller Center—the possibilities are endless. Grab your favorite friends and family members and sign up before there’s no more room at the inn!
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
- Stay at the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square
- See the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
- Festive Cocoa & Carols cruise around Manhattan
- Experience a magical performance of The Nutcracker ballet
- Visit Christmas Markets in the city
- See famous Christmas displays and Holiday lights
- Time at leisure for individual pursuits
- Private Ground Zero 9/11 Museum Option
PACKAGE INCLUDES
- Roundtrip commercial air from Indianapolis to New York City
- Escorted
- 3 nights accommodations
- Breakfast daily
- 1 dinner
- Sightseeing and admissions per itinerary
- Ground transportation
- Hotel baggage handling
NOTE:
This itinerary includes activities where moderate walking, possibly on uneven terrain, is required. Some of the most unique sightseeing can be restrictive to motorcoaches, especially in busy cities and/or historic areas.
OPTIONAL EXCURSION: Please notify us at the time of trip registration if you would like to book the optional 9/11 Memorial Museum excursion.
Itinerary
Sun, Dec 7: Fly to New York City, New York. Transfer to Manhattan and jump right into the seasonal sights and sounds with a visit to the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair! Get started on your holiday shopping list at over seventy vendor stalls offering a wonderful array of gift options. Nearby Bryant Park Holiday Market is also easily accessible from the terminal and is one of the prettiest outdoor markets in the city. Unique one-of-a-kind items, decorative crafts, and the aroma of delicious food choices await! Enjoy your time at leisure before continuing with your local guide to see more of the city’s seasonal displays before checking in to the New York Marriott Marquis located in Times Square. Popular attractions, famed Restaurant Row, shops, and Broadway theatres are just outside the hotel’s front door with the evening free to do as you please.
Mon, Dec 8: Following an included breakfast at the hotel, head to Chelsea Village Market and peel back the layers of this food lover’s mecca where local artisans and chefs showcase their culinary talents. As you stroll through the vibrant aisles, take in the rich tapestry of the city’s culinary history and choose from several options for lunch on your own. Next, step onboard a festive Cocoa & Carols sightseeing cruise! Sit back and enjoy the views of Manhattan from the water, take in the sounds of Christmas cheer created by the talented band on board singing your favorite Christmas classics! Savor a hot cocoa—spiked if you like, and scrumptious cookies as you enjoy the scenery and entertainment. Return to the hotel following the cruise. Tonight, enjoy an evening out on your own or take a walk with the local guide to see nearby holiday lights. (Meals: Breakfast)
Tue, Dec 9: The morning and afternoon are yours to take a bite of the Big Apple as you wish or experience a piece of our nation’s history with a private Ground Zero and 9/11 tour of that fateful day! There are countless things to do around the city whether this is your first visit or your hundredth. Christmas markets are ripe for shopping and department store windows are elaborately decorated making it a truly extraordinary time of year to visit one of the world’s most majestic and iconic cities. Return to the hotel and freshen up for an evening out—dinner at a local restaurant and a magical performance of The Nutcracker. First performed in New York City in 1952, this immensely popular and magical ballet provides an unforgettable spark to the holiday spirit for all who see it. (B,D)
Wed, Dec 10: Check out of the hotel and head to iconic Radio City Musical Hall to see the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, and this year they are celebrating their 100th Anniversary! Nothing compares to these high-stepping phenoms—a holiday tradition in New York City since 1933! The dazzling talent will amaze you, and you’re guaranteed a visit from jolly old Saint Nick. Following the show, find a special spot for lunch on your own, skate around Rockefeller Center, or visit a Fifth Avenue department store before transferring to the airport for your flight home. (B)
Hotel
New York Marriott Marquis, Times Square. Conveniently located in the heart of the theatre district and Times Square, surrounded by attractions, entertainment, shops, and restaurants. Highlights: high-speed Internet access (fees apply) • four restaurants, including The View Restaurant, the only revolving rooftop restaurant in NYC • fitness center.
Pricing
- Package with Air
- Double P/P – $2,999
- Triple P/P – $2,789
- Single – $3,699
- Land Only
- Double P/P – $2,689
- Triple P/P – $2,479
- Single – $3,489
*Subject to change due to fuel surcharge
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