A few years ago when Rick and I moved to the Upper East Side we started the tradition of running to see the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Plaza on Christmas morning. There’s no doubt in my mind that NYC is one of the most festive places to live during the holiday season. Dodging the holiday crowds can actually be part of the fun and most definitely offers up a good opportunity to practice patience.
Seeing all the sites one by one can take way too much time!
The best way for a runner to take in the lights is with a festive holiday light run. The route below will take you on a 6.6 mile run through the city and offers views of some of the city’s best lights and trees.
Sites You’ll See on This Route Include:
- Washington Square Park’s Christmas Tree under the big arch
- Madison Square Park’s holiday tree
- The tree at Lincoln Center
- The Shops at Columbus Circle – Time Warner Center’s holiday lights
- Rockefeller Center’s Christmas Tree
- Radio City Music Hall
- Winter Village at Bryant Park – your route ends here so be sure to pick up some hot cocoa!
Click this link to send the route to your phone, then use the MapMyRun App to follow the route.
I am very interested in this! But is it so crowded around there that you can’t actually run?
It’s only crowded in mid-town!
What a great idea, I love this! I will be back in the city for Christmas and family isn’t around so just might have to do this!