Experiencing New York City’s Hidden Gems in December: Non-Touristy Activities

For the past three months, I have been studying for my licensing exams, a decidedly non-touristy activity. But there's so much more to explore in New York City beyond the obvious attractions. The city is vast and diverse, with five boroughs to discover. Here are some non-touristy activities to enjoy in December:

Avoid Manhattan Below 59th Street: Exploring the Boroughs

If you want to stay away from the tourist traps, I highly recommend exploring the boroughs. The area below 59th Street in Manhattan is heavily saturated with visitors, while the rest of the city offers a wealth of unique experiences.

Jackson Heights, Queens: A place rich in cultural diversity with vibrant street food, lively markets, and local restaurants. It's a great spot for a casual stroll and a taste of local life. Sunset Park, Brooklyn: Known for its strong Italian and Dominican community, Sunset Park offers a slice of New York City that isn't as commercialized. Visit the borough's many delis, bakeries, and local shops. Arthur Avenue, Bronx: Recognized as the oldest Italian-American commercial district in the United States, Arthur Avenue is a haven for traditional Italian cuisine and culture. Don't miss the famous bialys and garlic knots!

Immerse Yourself in the Drag Culture

Celebrate the vibrant and vibrant world of drag culture, which offers a comedic and visually stunning experience. Check out events in areas like Jackson Heights, where venues showcase the art of drag.

While Lucky Cheng’s may have closed, there are still plenty of drag shows throughout the year, catering to fans of all walks of life. Attending a drag performance can be a memorable and entertaining experience, full of laughter and excitement.

Holiday Activities Without the Crowds

Instead of rushing through the typical tourist activities, here are some enjoyable and less crowded activities to experience in December:

World’s Largest Department Store – 5 AM Visit: Macy’s is open 24 hours during the holiday season. Starting your morning at the iconic store not only gets you shopping in the quiet hours but also gives you a front-row view of the store's Christmas displays. It's a quintessentially New York experience, just without the throngs of visitors.

Irish Pub Scavenger Hunt: If you enjoy drinking and exploring, an Irish pub crawl around Midtown could be a perfect activity. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and unique drinks that each pub offers. For a true holiday delight, end the night at Macy’s and watch the city come alive with the holiday lights.

Window Display Stroll: Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the enchanting holiday window displays at department stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and others. These stores showcase stunning and intricate designs that capture the true spirit of Christmas.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: Take a closer look at the world-renowned Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. Unlike the crowds of the viewing area, you can find a quieter spot to admire its beauty.

Radiocity Christmas Spectacular: Enjoy the traditional holiday show featuring the talented Rockettes, but go during off-peak times to avoid the crowds and enjoy the performance in a more relaxing setting.

The Nutcracker: Head to Lincoln Center or other theaters to watch a performance of the classic ballet. Go early in the evening to secure seats and avoid the rush.

Ice Skating: Rent skates and enjoy the peaceful ice skating rink at Central Park. It’s a serene alternative to crowded skating rinks elsewhere in the city.

Bryant Park Christmas Village: Stroll through the charming Christmas Village in Bryant Park, complete with festive decorations, carolers, and the traditional camel. It's a cozy and peaceful environment to experience the holiday spirit.

Embrace the Local Christmas Experience

As a New Yorker, I can attest to the best holiday activities to enjoy:

Holiday Lights and Decorations: Wander through neighborhoods like the Upper West Side, where the streets are lit up with twinkling lights and festive decorations. It’s a delightful way to harness the true essence of the holidays.

Local Holiday Markets: Visit smaller, more intimate holiday markets in places like Green Sense or Arthur Avenue, where you can find unique local crafts and artisanal products.

Winter Festivals: Discover local winter festivals like the Brooklyn Flea Winter Festival or the OnestateParams Christmas Market to experience unique entertainment and local flavors.

By exploring the boroughs, interacting with vibrant communities, and enjoying unique holiday activities, you can truly uncover the essence of New York City in December. Whether your preference is cozy music halls, cozy pubs, or cozy holiday lights, the city has something for everyone to celebrate the season in a special and memorable way. So, embrace the non-touristical side of the city, and you'll be rewarded with a rich and authentic experience.