christmas in nyc: lower Manhattan

If you've been following along since the beginning, you know how much I love Chicago in December. While Chicago has it's own holiday magic, nothing beats NYC from Thanksgiving to New Years. I've been spending holiday weekends in New York for years now, but there was something extra magical about 2020, the first year I was an actual NYCer, and then the following two years when I had time to explore with less crowds. I wasn't able to see the Rockettes or The Nutcracker yet, but there are so many magical holiday moments in NYC, I'll be finding new adventures for years to come.

Best holiday magic in NYC #1: The Oculus & Financial District

I surfaced from the underground train at The Oculus/World Trade Center and was ready to experience the winter wonderland at The Westfield Mall. The snowmen in winter hats are just too cute.

On my way to Wall Street, I headed towards Zuccotti Park and enjoyed the twinkling lights and evergreen trees. A perfect stop for a hot chocolate & some food cart snacks.

Next, I made my way to Trinity Church & the famous old church cemetery. The church is decorated beautifully for the holidays and you can see the grave of Alexander Hamilton!

I followed the alley across from Trinity Church and finally made my way to the New York Stock Exchange Building. Famous Christmas décor includes the beautiful tree, an abundance of wreaths, and the famous Fearless Girl statue.

The last stop in FiDi is the cutest little street in Lower Manhattan, Stone Street. The European style street has a handful of bars & restaurants, but the draw to the street are the picturesque dinning igloos set up to resemble snow globes. I've never been inside, but you can reserve one with friends and enjoy cocktails with your own Christmas tree.

Heading towards the East River, it was time for my second neighborhood on the Holiday tour of Lower Manhattan, The Seaport District.

Best holiday magic in NYC #2: The Seaport District

Explorers can admire a Christmas tree alongside an old lighthouse, visit the Seaport Museum, and shop at all the beautiful retail spaces along the cobble stone streets of the Seaport. My favorite shop is McNally Jackson book store and in the warmer months, I also really enjoy Big Gay Ice Cream.

Cross the road and have lunch in the Tin Building by Jean Georges. This grocery store/food hall combo is filled with delicious things to eat and drink and the atmosphere is magical. If you're lucky, there will be carolers outside to serenade you :)