Family Travel to NYC for Thanksgiving: A Perfect Holiday Adventure

New York City is the ultimate Thanksgiving destination, offering iconic experiences like the Macy’s Parade, the Rockettes, and festive holiday cheer. Here's a curated itinerary to make the most of your family getaway!

Start your stay at The Beekman Hotel, a Signature property that perfectly combines history and luxury. Opened in 1883, The Beekman is a beautifully restored landmark, with Art Deco décor and a stunning nine-story atrium. It’s like stepping back in time, yet it offers family-friendly amenities and exceptional service, making it the ideal home base for your NYC adventure.

No Thanksgiving visit to NYC is complete without experiencing the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Grab a spot along Central Park West to see the iconic balloons, marching bands, and festive performances. The excitement and grandeur are unforgettable! With expert planning, your hotel can be steps away from the excitement, adding to the ease and fun of this quintessential NYC experience.

After the parade, head to Radio City Music Hall for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, featuring the world-famous Rockettes. Their high-kicking precision is a must-see for the whole family. 

Enjoy a leisurely buggy ride through Central Park, taking in the fall foliage and iconic landmarks like Bow Bridge. A first-timer must-do! End the day with a Thanksgiving dinner at Tavern on the Green, a Central Park institution, where you can indulge in a traditional holiday feast. Arranging for the carriage driver to drop you in front of the restaurant is the cherry on top of this quintessential NYC experience! 

For breathtaking views, visit the Empire State Building with VIP passes for a hassle-free experience. The observation deck offers panoramic views of NYC’s skyline, from Central Park to the Statue of Liberty. And if you’re feeling a bit run down from all that sightseeing, enjoy a coffee or cocktail at the 3-story Starbucks Reserve located inside the Empire State Building!

A Broadway experience is a must, so take a Behind the Scenes Broadway Tour for an insider look at the magic of New York's theater scene. Follow it up with a show like The Lion King or Aladdin, where stunning visuals and memorable music create a family-friendly experience you’ll cherish.

For food lovers, a food tour through Chinatown and Little Italy offers a delightful mix of flavors—from dim sum and dumplings in Chinatown to fresh pasta and cannoli in Little Italy. It’s a delicious way to explore these vibrant neighborhoods. Don’t forget to stop in Ferrara Bakery and Café, a historic spot in Little Italy since 1892!

Before you depart, grab a slice of classic New York pizza at John’s of Times Square—the perfect end to your NYC adventure.

Thanksgiving in NYC offers the perfect blend of history, entertainment, and family fun. With this well-planned itinerary, you’ll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!

Erin
Travel Central Advisor
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