Everything in Manhattan takes much more time than expected. That is why when I plan a day trip I try not to go to more than one location or area. I tried once doing a boat tour and also Top of the Rock with some visitors and we felt like we were spending most the day getting from one place to the other or waiting. My strategy now is that I try to stick to one very localized area and do a few things there and plan another day for a different area if need be.
I really liked The Rockefeller Center and Plaza as a way of spending a fun day in Manhattan. For an amazing view of Manhattan, Top of the Rock is the place to go. You can see the Empire State Building and the Freedom Tower (which you do not see if you are on top of those buildings). The open balcony on the top makes the experience all the more incredible.
The ice rink, turned outdoor restaurant in the summer is just outside the Rockefeller Center. Even just watching the skaters is enjoyable if you do not get to actually try it.
The Channel Gardens, with its many benches, across from the ice rink is a beautiful place to sit. If you turn to face the rink there is a lovely view of the Rockefeller Center Building. Even in the winter you can see the boxed gardens with benches must be nice in the summer. In December the area is decorated for the holidays with a huge tree displayed by the ice rink.
There are stores lining the two sides of the garden. We enjoyed walking into the Lego store and seeing the amazing creations on display. Kate Spade had a stunning display window with skyscrapers made of shoe boxes (and shoes they sell which are made to look like Taxi Cabs were lined up on the bottom). Right across the entrance to the Garden across 5th Avenue is the huge Saks Fifth Avenue Store.
All along the Rockefeller Center and in the building are many popular store for shopping or browsing.
FAO Schwarz toy store and the American Girl Doll Place are two favorites with children and they are both located just there by the Rockefeller Center.
Posted: December 5, 2019
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