There’s no place like home for the holidays, but NYC comes close

I’ve been a lot of places over the years, but New York still is the only spot my vagabond shoes were longing to stay. (Truly. I even wrote a book about it.) Though I’ll take it rain or shine, the holidays are a truly special time to explore the city. Here are some of our favorites :

Elf on Broadway

Staying true enough to the movie to allow even younger kids to follow, Elf entertains in a 2hr production filled with bright colors and festive songs, narrated by none other than Santa “Norm” himself. Kids will feel inspired by the talent of Buddy’s young half brother and several fun numbers in the second half will keep them on the ‘nice’ list throughout the night.

Although it is nothing more than you might hear on prime time TV these days, it should be mentioned that an occasional surprising and unfortunate turn of phrase might prove startling to parents of Elmo and Dora watchers.

Imaginocean

The talented John Tartaglia (of Johnny and the Sprites, Avenue Q, Shrek, Elmo’s Right Hand fame) offers a black lit marine life puppet Off-Broadway musical that keeps everyone in the holiday spirit by following the traditional show with an inclusive sing-along carol segment, complete with a wintry surprise at the end. This intimate theatre guarantees close seating and the interactive glow-in-the-dark special effects and will have little ones wide-eyed and ohhhh-ing.

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker

The quintessential Christmas ballet experience is gorgeous and striking and magical and wondrous and dramatic and thrilling and perhaps a touch long for the youngest of travelers (and perhaps a bit pricey for their parents).

Children under five are not admitted, though Post-Nutcracker (2hrs with 20 min. intermission), there are several “Ballets for Young People” suitable for four and up during the year through the New York City Ballet.

The Nutcracker

Fortunately, the New York Theatre Ballet has adapted the famed holiday ballet with a perfect length show, tailored to the preschool set in the high action, but lavish, hour long performance which smoothly hits all the highlights of the full version to the point that one mom, who had been brought to the New York City Ballet as an annual tradition throughout her childhood, couldn’t place which dances might have been cut short or missing.

Though the theatre is more manageable in size, ticket prices are the same across the board, so call early for best seating. **These shortened but luxe performances of kid-friendly ballets continue all year in the Once Upon a Ballet series and are on my list for a great introduction to the art.

The Rink at Rockefeller Center

Though under “The Tree” is the spot everyone talks about ice skating, the crowds, time limits and cost might not make for the best experience, particularly when the little ones in tow are not experienced. A family of four is looking at over $60 for an hour and half session, before rentals (at $9 each).

Citi Pond at Bryant Park

Another option in Midtown, which is free if you have your own skates ($13 for rentals, walk-in lessons available), is Bryant Park. With tons of tables around, piped-in holiday music, Top Chef judge Tom Colicchio’s ‘wichcraft for hot drinks and snacks, and a wealth of little kiosks in a holiday shopping village, plenty of good cheer can be had (with enough cash left over to hit Le Carrousel for a $2 ride – parents holding kids free). Check schedule for special events offering free rentals, bag check and hot cocoa.

Wollman Rink at Central Park

Though slightly off the beaten path, the gorgeous backdrop of the city beyond the edge of Central Park make Wollman Rink a favorite. The large rink, picturesque setting and fees of roughly half of Rockefeller’s add up to a great family time. (And you can wave hi to Alex, Gloria and Melvin on your way to FAO Schwartz to dance on the “Big” Piano!) (Um. Not really. They are just animated characters.)

**I know the hotels can be pricey — but there are deals to be had, even at the holidays. Using a bit of creativity, I found this one – The Sheraton Lincoln Harbor just 5 minutes by enclosed heated ferry (Yay, boat ride!) from Midtown with spacious accommodations and rates starting at $106 a night, even valid Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

December 17th, 2010 | by Sascha Zuger 7 comments