As Thanksgiving approaches, what better way to celebrate than with a bus trip from Washington, DC, to New York City? From scenic stops and festive events to hidden gems that showcase the beauty of the East Coast in fall, this guide from BestBus covers must-see spots and experiences for your bus trip to New York City this Thanksgiving.
The World-Famous Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
No New York City Thanksgiving experience is complete without seeing the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Watch the enormous character balloons floating through Manhattan's streets, with characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants and Pikachu. The parade's atmosphere sets the perfect tone for your holiday celebration, with marching bands, massive floats, and performances making for an unforgettable start to your Thanksgiving Day.
Seasonal Shopping Adventures
Make the most of your holiday shopping with visits to some of New York City’s most iconic retail destinations. The historic Macy's Herald Square flagship store offers an unparalleled shopping experience, with exclusive holiday deals and decorations throughout its multiple floors. For a more artisanal experience, go to the Union Square Holiday Market, where you can wander through several stalls of artisanal gifts, handcrafted items, and seasonal treats that you won't find anywhere else.
Enchanting Holiday Displays
Take a stroll down Fifth Avenue to experience the city's best holiday window displays. Begin at the Tiffany Snowflake at 57th Street, then make your way past the elaborate windows of Bergdorf Goodman. The journey continues with Saint Patrick's Cathedral's Christmas display and Saks Fifth Avenue's light show. Each store competes to create the most spectacular holiday scenes and makes window shopping an attraction in itself!
Winter Market Magic
Bryant Park's Winter Village has an enchanting holiday atmosphere with over 180 boutique shops and kiosks. Enjoy free ice skating on the 17,000-square-foot rink, then warm up with a beverage at The Lodge while taking in the ambiance. The market's combination of shopping, dining, and entertainment makes it a perfect destination for both day and evening visits.
Indoor Foodie Adventures
When you need a break from the cold, head to Chelsea Market, a food lover's paradise located in a historic building. This indoor market offers everything from artisanal coffee to fresh seafood and international cuisine. Sample Thanksgiving-inspired treats from various vendors or pick up culinary gifts for the foodies in your life.
Sweet Holiday Traditions
Thanksgiving in New York City is incomplete without indulging in seasonal desserts. Make a stop at Petee's Pie Company for their renowned pumpkin pie which is made with locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss Magnolia Bakery's holiday offerings, including their famous banana pudding and seasonal specialties like spiced pumpkin treats and apple pies.
Ice Skating and Holiday Magic
Create picture-perfect memories at the Rockefeller Center ice rink, which is surrounded by the Beaux-Arts architecture of Midtown Manhattan. Even if the official tree lighting happens after Thanksgiving, the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree provides an amazing backdrop for photos. Complete your visit with a stop at Van Leeuwen for innovative ice cream flavors that complement your skating adventure.
Dining in Style
Start your Thanksgiving Day right with breakfast at one of the city's several well-known restaurants. Many of them offer special holiday menus that combine Thanksgiving favorites with innovative twists. Whether you're looking for a casual brunch or an elegant meal, New York City’s restaurant scene has something for every taste and budget.
Where to Warm Up Between Adventures
New York's November weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to know where you can go to escape the cold. Here are a few places:
- The New York Public Library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building on 42nd Street is a great place to visit with its stunning architecture and free exhibitions.
- The David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center is another excellent rest stop. It has free WiFi, public restrooms, and occasional live performances.
- There are countless coffee shops to visit in New York City if you love coffee, including the historic Café Reggio in Greenwich Village or one of the many specialty coffee shops in SoHo.
- Many museums, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA, are open during the holiday weekend (though closed on Thanksgiving Day itself).
Tips for Navigating New York City During Thanksgiving Weekend
The key to enjoying your holiday is understanding how to get around the city during one of its busiest weekends. Below are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Look Up the Holiday Subway Schedule: The subway system runs on a holiday schedule on Thanksgiving Day, with some route modifications around the parade area. Download the MTA app before your trip for live updates.
- Arrive Early at the Parade: For parade viewing, arrive at your chosen spot by 6:00 AM – the earlier, the better. Popular viewing areas include Central Park West between 75th and 60th Streets and 6th Avenue between 59th and 38th Streets. After the parade, many tourists clear out of Midtown which makes it a great time to explore other neighborhoods.
- Purchase a MetroCard: Consider purchasing a MetroCard for unlimited rides during your stay, as taxis and rideshares usually face heavy traffic and surge pricing during the holiday weekend.
Book Your Bus Trip from Washington, DC, to New York City with BestBus!
Are you ready to experience this Thanksgiving in New York City? Trust BestBus for the ultimate transportation! Our comfortable coaches provide convenient and reliable transportation from Washington, DC, to New York City, with multiple departure times to suit your schedule. Skip the holiday traffic and parking hassles and instead, relax and enjoy your trip to New York.
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