Our Kids Wanted a Home Alone Christmas So We Drove to New York
A Nativity scene from the Christmas show during our December 2023 New York trip. Photo supplied by the author.
Our kids had already been to New York. Then we watched the Home Alone movies, and they wanted to go back. This time, for Christmas.
So we returned December 22 to 25, 2023, for three nights and two wishes: a little Home Alone magic and the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes.
The part to plan carefully is everything between those big moments: getting there, resting and keeping the pace comfortable.
Book the Christmas Spectacular first, then build around that showtime. Add the Rockefeller Center tree, an optional toy-store stop and warm breaks. If grandparents are joining, let their comfortable walking distance and the youngest child’s rest schedule set the pace. One main outing a day is a useful starting point.
A four-day Christmas plan
Our stay was December 22–25, 2023. Use the suggested order below for a similar trip, moving the show to match your tickets and checking holiday opening hours.
December 22 Arrive and settle in
Check in, unpack and have dinner near the hotel. Give everyone time to rest before the holiday outings.
December 23 The show and the tree
Make Radio City Music Hall the main outing. Add a brief Rockefeller Center tree visit if everyone feels up to it.
December 24 Toys and a slow lunch
Consider FAO Schwarz at Rockefeller Center, followed by a seated lunch. Check Christmas Eve hours and leave the afternoon flexible.
December 25 Christmas and home
Enjoy breakfast together, then leave time for checkout and the journey home.
Flying instead? JFK, LaGuardia and Newark Liberty are airport options. Plan the Manhattan transfer alongside the flight.
Where we stayed
We drove and used the garage at 51 West 56th Street. Our first night was at a Conrad hotel, followed by two nights at The St. Regis New York.
For your own trip, consider one hotel to simplify packing and rest breaks. Before booking, ask about the room, entrance and bathroom features your family needs.
What Most Families Miss
An indoor show still needs a little planning. The Christmas Spectacular currently runs 90 minutes without an intermission. Plan a restroom stop beforehand and check accessible seating, entrances and stroller arrangements when booking. Show FAQ
Holiday hours can shape your day. Check FAO Schwarz’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Day hours before planning a visit. Store hours
Considering a special meal at Peak? Use its official website to check current reservation timing and window-table terms.
Goldie’s Table What to Bring
Start with warm layers and comfortable shoes. Add only the extras your family will use.
|
Bring |
Why it helps |
Learn more |
|---|---|---|
|
Apple AirTag and holder |
Helps locate bags through Find My. Check phone compatibility and choose a secure holder. Use it for belongings. |
|
|
UPPAbaby G-LUXE stroller |
A rest option for a young child. Check the manufacturer’s age, weight and folding guidance. |
|
|
LILLEbaby Complete All Seasons carrier |
An option for outings where a stroller is awkward. Check fit and the instructions for your baby. |
|
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Huggies diapers and wipes |
Keep familiar supplies and spare clothes within reach during outings. |
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USB-A to USB-C cable |
Check that your cable fits both your phone and the car’s charging port. |
Bottom Line
Our return to New York began with a Christmas wish from the kids. Choose the experience that matters to your family, build in time to rest, and leave room to enjoy the city together.
Disclaimer: GoldieCircle may recommend third-party products and services based on internal evaluation. Such recommendations do not constitute a warranty or guarantee of performance, suitability, or lifespan. All products and services are subject to their respective providers’ terms and conditions. GoldieCircle assumes no liability for any claims or damages arising from the use of any recommended product or service.
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