Many of us spend our lives dreaming of a festive trip to New York City. It’s been featured in that many festive films that it feels like a tradition that we have never been a part of. You might long to ice skate or see the tree in Rockefeller Center, shop at open-air holiday markets, take in the Christmas lights and storefront displays. You might have always wanted to see festive parades or complete your Christmas shopping on Fifth Avenue. New York Christmas is filled with excitement, fun and color. But, if there is one thing that has put many of us off, it is the cost.
A trip to New York City can be expensive at any time of the year. But, it’s more so over the holidays. A visit to New York during the festive season can be exceptionally costly. For many, this kind of cost is out of the question at an already expensive time of the year. But, if you are desperate for a trip to NYC this Christmas or next, here are some of the ways that you can save some cash.
Avoid Key Dates
The most expensive times to visit are often the most popular. The easiest way to save money is to avoid key dates like Christmas Eve and New Year. The good news is, the festive season in New York is in full swing from late November, so if you can wait until next year, book early and visit before it gets too costly.
Plan Your Itinerary
Look at some key destinations online before you go. Booking flights and accommodation online is a great idea. But you can also save money by planning your trip and booking attractions and visits before you travel. Look at what to do in SoHo in New York and other areas. Explore special offers with City Passes and travel passes, which can allow you to see more for less money and book whatever you can. This will also allow you to make more of your time if you are only staying for a day or two.
Take a Walking Tour
Walking tours are a fantastic way to get your bearings, find your way around and see as many sites as you can as cheaply as possible. Bus tours can be great too.
Enjoy Street Food
For many of us, food is a big part of our vacations. But, eating out every day of your stay can be very expensive, and is often where most of our spending money goes. But, food in New York is a little different. You can get a real taste for the city buying hot dogs and other treats from street food vendors. A taste of New York certainly doesn’t have to break the bank.
Stay Out of Town
When you are planning how you want to spend your trip, try to get an idea of where things are. If you are on a short stay, you won’t want to waste time traveling. But, staying a little outside the main areas can be well worth it, especially if you buy a travel pass.
Delight in the Atmosphere
The best thing about a New York Christmas isn’t the shopping or the expensive days out. It’s the atmosphere. The excitement. The love and joy. You can enjoy all of this by merely walking around and breathing it in. You don’t need to spend a penny.
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