I promise you – there are lots of magical places in New York City around the holidays that aren’t within walking distance of Times Square.  We spent the weekend checking out a few that had been recommended by a few friends and I’m so happy we did because they have become two of my favorite holiday activities.

First, we traveled to the Bronx to the New York Botanical Gardens.  We are members here and have enjoyed the beautiful grounds throughout this last year, but this was my favorite visit.  If you already have spring fever, click here or here for other seasons at the garden.  During the months of November and December, they build a miniature New York City out of different plant materials and run trains through it.  It is absolutely incredible.  I’m going to post a few pictures, but they really don’t do it justice.  My advice is to get your tickets in advance and try for the first slot of the day if you don’t like lots of people.

It is definitely something worth checking out.  Once you are ready for more holiday fun, get yourself out after dark to see Christmas lights.  We have a favorite from last year in Queens.  It’s one of the champions of the Great Light Fight.  We returned again to check it out.  There were even more people there this year on a Monday night than there were last year on Christmas Eve, but it’s amazing to see.

After visiting this house in Queens, it’s about a 30 minute drive to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn.  We headed there and refueled with some pizza from Tony’s Pizzeria.  There are blocks and blocks of great light displays and beautiful homes.  It was 50 degrees out and an absolutely perfect night to be out getting some fresh air.

Celebrating Christmas in New York City is absolutely incredible.  I’m so excited that we made it to these places this year and hope that this will continue to be a tradition for us.