There’s something magical about New York City during the holiday season, and this year, I had the pleasure of experiencing it with my daughter and sister. Our mission was clear: to see the iconic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. This has been a dream of mine since childhood, and finally, it was time to make it a reality.
We hopped on a nonstop flight from Dallas to LaGuardia Airport, excited for the adventure ahead. Although I’m not particularly fond of the cold weather (being a true Texan), I knew it would be worth it. Typically, I prefer renting a car to explore at my own pace, but New York City demands a different approach. With my previous NYC experience, I took on the role of subway guide for my daughter and sister.
On the big day of visiting Rockefeller Center, the scene wasn’t quite as I’d envisioned—massive crowds filled the area. Despite the hustle and bustle, seeing the towering Christmas tree in person was still a wonderful experience. The festive atmosphere and sparkling lights made it all worthwhile.
Our trip also included a visit to the World Trade Memorial site. No matter how many times I go, it always brings tears to my eyes. It’s a place of deep reflection and remembrance. After paying our respects, we indulged in some shopping at the Oculus, marveling at its stunning architecture.
We couldn’t miss the chance to see the Statue of Liberty, so we hopped on the Staten Island Ferry for way to enjoy the unique sight. Walking the Brooklyn Bridge was another highlight, offering spectacular views of the city skyline. And no trip to Brooklyn is complete without indulging in some delicious soul food, which warmed us up nicely on a chilly day.
Although the trip was a bit different from what I had envisioned, it was still a win. Spending quality time with my sister and daughter in such an incredible city was priceless. I can’t wait to return to NYC, hopefully when the weather is warmer, and create even more unforgettable memories.
New York City never disappoints, and our girls’ trip was filled with laughter, exploration, and a shared dream come true. If you’ve never experienced the Big Apple during the holidays, I highly recommend it—crowds, cold weather and all.