From the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree flanked by its stunning ice rink, to some of the best Christmas markets in the country, to the Radio City Rockettes…nothing quite rings in the Holidays like a visit to New York City during December. Unpack and stay for four nights at the iconic Hotel Beacon, located in Manhattan’s trendy Central Park West, as you share the joyous sights and sounds of New York City at Christmastime with your fellow travelers.
DAY 1—WELCOME TO NEW YORK CITY!
With included transfers provided from New York City’s La Guardia Airport, our time together begins at the Hotel Beacon, a haven of comfort amid the bustling excitement of New York City during the Christmas season. Feel just like a local on an optional short walk with your Discoveries Director. We’ll explore our surrounding residential neighborhood conveniently located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Afterwards, enjoy the included evening welcome dinner. D
DAY 2—ROCKEFELLER PLAZA/ROCKETTES/CHRISTMAS MARKET
Start the morning with a satisfying breakfast before we are whisked away to enjoy one of the city’s top seasonal attractions—a walk through tinselfilled Rockefeller Plaza. Get an up-close view of the beautiful decorations and sparkling lights that adorn what has become a world-wide symbol of the holidays, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. From there, we head down the block to see the magical Christmas Spectacular by the Radio City Rockettes. Experience wonder like never before with NYC’s favorite holiday tradition featuring sensational dance numbers, dazzling special effects, and even Santa Claus himself! After, we’ll walk over to Ellen’s Stardust Restaurant, home of the world-famous singing waitresses, for one of New York’s favorite lunches. Next, we visit the Bryant Park Christmas Market. This European inspired open-air market features artisans from around the world. Tonight, you’re free to explore the neighborhood’s restaurants or perhaps take in a show next door at the Beacon Theatre (2023 schedule pending). B, L
DAY 3—RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL/MANHATTAN CRUISE/STATUE OF LIBERTY
No visit to New York at Christmas time would be complete without a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. First built in 1879, the Manhattan landmark is renowned for its soaring spires, colossal organ, and exemplary rose window. Then, enjoy guided tour of the legendary Radio City Music Hall. Get an inside look of this famed theater and meet a Rockette! In the afternoon, check off many of the city’s iconic sights as we completely circumnavigate the island of Manhattan on a river cruise with an included lunch. Pass under 20 bridges and gaze at over 130 landmarks such as One World Trade Center, the growing Brooklyn waterfront, legendary Yankee Stadium, beautiful Gracie Mansion, the stately George Washington Bridge, and of course, an up close look at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Tonight, enjoy free time on your own to perhaps take in a concert at Lincoln Center (taxi or Uber required), or stroll through the Upper West Side enjoying Christmas light displays. B, L
DAY 4—WORLD TRADE CENTER MEMORIAL/BROADWAY!
Today our moving visit to the World Trade Center site starts at St. Paul’s Chapel and continues to the powerfully moving waterfall set in the footprint of both towers. Later, visit the recently opened World Trade Center Memorial Museum. This Memorial Museum tells the story of 9/11 through media, personal narratives, and a riveting collection of monumental and authentic artifacts from the fateful day. When the sun goes down, we savor an included dinner before capping off the evening at Broadway. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of entertainment as you watch a Broadway show featuring some of the most talented performers in the world. B, D
DAY 5—FAREWELL
After breakfast, for those who wish, enjoy a local church service of your choosing (taxi or Uber may be required), and depart at leisure. Included transfers are available from the Hotel Beacon back to New York’s La Guardia Airport. Seeing New York City decked out in the greens and reds of Christmas time will no doubt give a whole new meaning to your holiday season…one you will soon never forget. B
Quality Accommodations
Nights 1-4: Hotel Beacon, New York
Dates:
Dec 4-8, 2024
Price Per Person:
Double $2,847
Single $3,695
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Call for pricing
Depart/Return:
Hotel Beacon, Manhattan's Upper West Side (transfer included from New York’s LaGuardia Airport)
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Schedule your flight into New York (LaGuardia Airport – LGA) to arrive before 3:00 p.m. on Day 1.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home any time after 10:30 a.m. on Day 5. (Note, this allows travelers to enjoy breakfast before they leave. Travelers can depart earlier, but may not be able to take part in breakfast.)
Airport Transportation
We ask that you utilize Uber, Lyft or a taxi to the Hotel Beacon. Keep your receipts, and email or mail them to us following your tour, and we will reimburse you for your transfer expenses up to $100 per person.
Walking Distance
Moderate to extensive walking and stair climbing is required to fully enjoy this tour. Please keep in mind that New York in busy during this season, and sidewalks will be congested. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
High of 44°, low of 31°
Time Zone
Eastern
Hotel Amenities
All rooms feature a fully-equipped kitchenette, marble bathroom with hair dryer, an iron and board, electronic safe, Keurig coffee maker, complimentary high-speed Internet, and The New York Times newspaper. The hotel features a bar, business center (24/7), and fitness center (24/7).
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
