How to Make the Most of a New York City Break

When my husband and I started planning our trip to New York for our 40th birthdays, the challenge was clear, how could we do it on a shoestring budget and still make it unforgettable?

Christmas in New York

New York truly knows how to do Christmas. From the towering Rockefeller Tree to the dazzling Rockettes at Radio City, the city feels like a holiday movie come to life. Wander through Central Park and spot Home Alone film locations, or take a horse and carriage ride beneath twinkling lights, it’s pure magic. Everywhere you look, shop windows glow with Christmas trees, lights sparkle on every corner, and Saks on Fifth Avenue gleams like a giant wrapped present. Nowhere captures the festive spirit quite like New York, where everything feels bigger, brighter, and ten times more magical. It’s the ultimate winter city break, and a bucket‑list experience everyone should enjoy at least once.

For us, there was never any doubt, it had to be Christmas in New York. We visited at the end of November for five incredible days and packed in as much as we possibly could. With thousands of steps walked each day, I left feeling completely satisfied that we’d experienced everything on our festive wish list.

Flights

With budget airlines like Norse now flying to New York you can grab yourself very reasonably priced flights. We booked ours early as we wanted to make the trip as budget friendly as possible.

We are planning to return next Dec with our 4 children and I’ll begin looking into flights during the January sales. 

Virgin and BA offer flights using Points, we collect with Virgin using Tescos reward partner points. Our weekly food shop and petrol, as well as mobile phone contracts quickly accumulate thousands of points, which we then use to bag a reward seat saving us hundreds of pounds with 6 of us to pay for.

Accommodation

There is no getting away from this cost, IT IS NOT CHEAP.

Book well in advance, We stayed in the financial district, not far from the Staten Island Ferry the first time that we visited, I felt that being able to leave the craziness behind and head away towards the water would be a good idea, it was a very reasonably priced hotel, plus very clean and comfortable.

Take a look here

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When we return next year I have booked a hotel closer to Central Park, Time square and the Rockerfeller Tree as we want to be closer to everything, not dragging four kids miles and miles over 2 days.

Take a look at where we’ve booked, it is the most cost effective option for a large family in central NewYork. It sleeps 6 of us in a 1 bedroom suite.

Top attractions

For those planning a City break to New York, the City Pass is one of the top ways to experience the famous sights and save money. It bundles entry to five of the best attractions, including the 

Empire State Building, the American Museum of Natural History, and your choice of three more from options like Top of The Rock, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a ferry to the Statue of Liberty, Intrepid Museum, Guggenheim, or a sightseeing cruise. 

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If you’re eager to tick off the highlights efficiently, it’s a great option, with bookings streamlined and flexible use over up to nine days.

Travelling on a tighter budget or with less time? Book attractions individually. 

Top of The Rock is superb for seeing the Empire State Building and the stunning cityscape from Rockefeller Center, and many find that one observation deck is enough to get the thrill. 

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If you want to experience both views then the Empire state building is worth a visit.

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The World Trade Center district is deeply moving, wandering the Ground Zero memorials is completely free, and there’s an option to pay for museum entry if you want a deeper insight.

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Hop on the Staten Island Ferry for free and sail past the Statue of Liberty for those iconic skyline photos, no ticket needed for the journey, making it one of the best value experiences in NYC. 

You can get off and wander around Empire outlets to do some shopping or just do a round trip.

If you want to go onto the statue it can be included in the city pass.

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Guggenheim museum if you like art, it is a very cool building you can include in city pass.

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Or visit the spectacular Arte Museum An Immersive Media Art Exhibition

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Must-See and Do

Walk the High Line, a unique elevated park weaving through the west side above the city streets, perfect for a scenic stroll leading to Chelsea Market’s food and shopping stalls. 

Walk halfway across Brooklyn Bridge, Queen’s classic photo spot, then explore Brooklyn for dining, markets, and the River Cafe.

Wander Central Park, spot filming locations like “Home Alone” and “Elf,” and pay respects at the Strawberry Fields tribute to John Lennon. Or Take a horse and carriage ride

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Visit Times Square at dusk for electrifying lights and energy, with yellow taxis wizzing past, horns blaring and brights lights, it will take your senses to a whole new level.

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Broadway shows are a must, plan ahead to book tickets, or try your luck at the box office for bargains. See what’s on

Explore Grand Central Terminal for beautiful architecture and grab a bite at Pershing Square nearby, they did a great breakfast!.

Walk wherever possible to really absorb the city’s spirit, it’s free and there’s something iconic around every corner.

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For TV and Movie Fans

Friends apartment tour, visit the exterior or book a tour for even more TV trivia.

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Look out for walking history tours, and food-focused explorations, themed walks are a great way to discover hidden gems in the city. 

Like these

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Food & Local Favourites

Grab breakfast like a real New Yorker: bagels (try Liberty’s or any classic spot), or stop by an American diner near Times Square for pancakes or eggs.

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Thames Street’s River Cafe under Brooklyn Bridge is legendary for its Manhattan views.

Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a Broadway-lover’s dream, with singing waiters and classic American fare, visit at non-peak times to avoid the queue.

Treat yourself to Serendipity 3’s famous frozen hot chocolate if you’re in for a sweet treat.

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Final Word

New York is busy, bustling, enigmatic, crazy and breathtaking, it’ll leave you feeling exhilarated and exhausted. But one things for sure, you’ll want to return!

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