Decorating a tree is not just a tradition for the individual American, but also for America as a nation. On Dec 3, Al Roker hosted the 76th annual lighting of the tree at Rockefeller Center.
For many, the lighting of this tree is a sign that the Christmas season has officially begun.
Just the thought of Christmas gives us a warm, happy feeling and evokes thoughts of stockings hanging on the mantel and cherished memories with loved ones. But there is one Christmas dream of mine that has yet to come true.
The dream: spending Christmas in New York City.
Over the years I have visited the Big Apple several times, but it's been far too long since my last visit. Now, more than ever, I have been daydreaming about my ideal Christmas in New York City.
Here are my must see and do items for the ultimate Christmas vacation to the city:
In the past I have been to New York in the summer, because of this I have never witnessed the perfection that is Rockefeller Center during the Christmas Season. Needless to say ice skating at Rockefeller Center is on the top of my to do list! Since its opening in 1936, this skating rink has become one of the most popular attractions in the city. I've also been told that when visiting during the holiday season you should hit the rink early morning to beat the crowds.After a few laps around the rink, why not explore Rockefeller Center a little more. I've heard that the "Top of the Rock" observation deck has better views of the city than the Empire State Building. You even get a great view of central park, which you can't see from the Empire State building. After checking out the website I decided the combo "Rock Pass" would be perfect for me and my husband. Not only do you get the pass to the observation deck but also admission the NBC studio tour and the Radio City Music Hall's Stage Door tour. All for $46!
Now, time for some food! I've got three restaurants on my must visit list for this trip. First, a romantic dinner with my hubby at the New York
institution Tavern on the Green. Whether or not you think of the Tavern as a tourist trap, there's no denying it is a beautiful site to see. With elegant, ornate walls its a "whimsical, magical" place according to the owner Jeniffer LeRoy. Personally, I believe it is a worthwhile experience. Be sure to check out their special menu's for Christmas and New Year's eve. Second, Serendipity. This little coffee house turned chic restaurant has had my heart for many years. Not only was it Andy Warhol's favorite spot, it was also featured in a 2001 film entitled Serendipity, and let's not forget the amazing entrees and desserts! My taste buds water at the thought of the succulent "Strawberry Fields Sundae." Following my sweet tooth to Time Square to get my cheesecake fix, we'll end up at 
Junior's most Fabulous Cheesecake and Desserts. A few months ago Junior's was featured on a Food Network show and I have been dreaming if devils food cheesecake every night since. Yes, I have a dessert addiction.Having saved the best for last, I only have two more places on my must see list for this trip-- the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art. With my sweet tooth satisfied I need to see some exceptional art before leaving New York. In my art history classes many pieces I have studied are exhibited regularly at these museums. I find studying art fascinating, but nothing compares to viewing the works first-hand. It is an incomparable experience that is simply captivating. Luckily, my husband has a passion for art, almost as much as me. Taking guided tours can be a good experience, but often I like to tour the museum on my own. I like for my first round through a museum to focus on quiet contemplation of each work of art. For those of you who don't know much about art I would recommend looking into the tours and audio programs.
So far, these are my must see and do activities for my Christmas vacation. Time will only tell what other exciting adventures will be added to the list before we leave for New York City!
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