When the turkey has been eaten and the last piece of pie has been fought over, what is there to do on Thanksgiving in New York? Plenty, as it turns out. We’ve got the scoop on what to do on Thanksgiving post-feasting, below.
Radio City Rockettes
The rest of us may be chowing down on turkey on Thanksgiving Day, but The Rockettes are still Rockette-ing--and several times, too. Seeing them is a great way to kick off (ha ha) the holiday season—there is almost nothing quite as festive. All dancing, all singing and plenty of special effects, this is the show that will charm your whole family. (Even cynical teens have been known to crack a smile or two.) It’s what to do on Thanksgiving! (And also check out the Rockefeller Tree lighting at Rockefeller Center with the New York Pass!
Holiday Markets
When the turkey has been eaten, it’s time to start holiday shopping! Or at least browsing. This is a good day to head to one of the holiday markets that spring up across the city. Especially if you’re traveling, a great one to check out is the Grand Central Terminal holiday market. (You can get something both coming and going!) This market focuses on American made products; it’s the place to get toys, accessories, and home goods—plus it’s indoors. While you’re there, don’t forget to gaze at the glorious station interior—an added plus.
Central Park Zoo
If it’s a nice day, a brisk walk in Central Park with the zoo as your destination should be high on your list. The small zoo is the perfect size to see in an afternoon or morning. At 6.5 acres, it encompasses four different sections—Polar (including penguins, always a favorite); Tropics (the rainforest area) the Central Garden (Sea lions) and Temperate (Red Pandas!). If you’ve got wee ones with you, don’t forget the Children’s Zoo. And make sure to watch at least one animal feeding—you can’t go wrong with the sea lions.
Staten Island Ferry
Looking for something that won’t set you back money-wise on Thanksgiving? How does free sound? The Staten Island Ferry is one of the last vestiges of a ferry system that predates most bridges in the city—and it’s free. Seventy thousand people a day (not including weekends) take the ferry--and you can join the masses. You’ll get a fun (if cold) ride, a great view of the city and the harbor, and a chance to burn off some of those pie and stuffing calories.
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Photo Courtesy Trevor Gherardi[/caption]
Empire State Building
While many tourist attractions close down on major holidays, The Empire State Building, the art deco masterpiece that dates back to 1931, isn’t one of them. (It’s actually open every day of the year.) You can choose from a variety of packages (and makes sure to go only if the weather is good and there's no fog--you want those stellar views.) If you were wondering, the building is 1454 feet tall. Make sure to check out the Observation Deck, and see everything that’s offered at the Visitor’s Center.
Want the scoop on the Rockettes’ holiday show? Check this out!