I can still remember my first Thanksgiving in New York.
It was about a month after I’d moved to the city, and because I was living on the Upper West Side, the parade route was mere blocks away.
Naturally, I decided I couldn’t miss my first opportunity to see the parade live.
And even more exciting, I found out the night before the parade, you can see the balloons being blown up!
My friends and I were so excited getting to see everything.
It was such a great bonding moment for all of us, since we’d all moved to New York for school and were still getting to know each other.
The next morning we got up early and found a space along Central Park West to watch the iconic Thanksgiving Parade go by.
Since then, I’ve spent my fair share of Thanksgivings in the city, celebrating everywhere from
There’s no wrong way to celebrate an NYC Thanksgiving but just in case you’re unsure of what to do, or where to go, here’s all my tips a New Yorker.
Skip Ahead
History of Thanksgiving in New York City
Origin of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Everyone’s heard of the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, but not many people actually know the history of the parade.
Like did you know, it began as the Macy’s Christmas Parade in 1924 and originally featured animals from the Central Park Zoo?
That first year, over 250,000 people attended the parade, which continued every year until World War II, when the demand for rubber and helium led to the parade’s temporary suspension.
In 1945, the parade resumed, and two years later, the film Miracle on 34th Street, made the Macy’s Parade a household name after featuring footage of the parade.
The next year, they broadcast the parade on national television for the first time.
These days, the parade is as popular as ever, featuring musical performances, celebrity cameos, and tons of iconic floats all designed by Macy’s staff.
Thanksgiving Day Festivities
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Highlights
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the centerpiece of NYC’s Thanksgiving festivities, and a traditional TV event that tons of American households watch as they prepare their holiday feasts.
This grand parade features enormous balloons, intricately designed floats, and a host of live performances, attracting lots of tourists each year.
You’ll see lots of characters from pop culture, including classics like Snoopy, who’s been towering above the streets since 1968, Spiderman, and of course Minnie Mouse.
The parade traditionally starts on the Upper West Side and concludes in Midtown, bringing joy to thousands of onlookers.
This year is the largest lineup yet, with 33 floats, 15 heritage and novelty balloons, over 700 clowns, 11 marching bands, 10 performances featuring some of Broadway and music’s biggest stars.
Start Time: The parade will air on NBC and Peacock from 8:30 AM to noon.
Location: It starts at 77th St and Central Park West and heads down to 34th Street to Macy’s Herald Square.
Highlights: Character balloons, performances in the plaza, including ones by Idina Menzel, Charli D’Amelio, Lea Salonga, The Temptations, and Jimmy Fallon and The Roots, plus the traditional grand finale featuring Santa Claus.
Other Cultural Events and Shows
Aside from the parade, you can dive into all the world-class culture NYC offers.
While you’re in town, catch a Broadway or comedy show, hit up a museum, see the iconic Radio City Rockettes, or head to the holiday markets.
Fair warning, you’ll want to book as many events as possible ahead of time, as schedules and availability tend to be limited over the holiday season.
Dining in NYC on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Dinner Favorites
When it comes to dining out in New York on Thanksgiving, you might find limited options if you don’t plan ahead.
Lucky for you, I’ve got the rundown on some amazing spots to celebrate this year.
If you’re on the Upper East Side, don’t miss one of the places I used to love going as a neighborhood local.
Sojourn is offering a fantastic pre-fixe for $75 that includes their Blueberry ricotta cheesecake, which is one of my favorite desserts in the city.
Or hit chic up neighborhood favorite Hoexters for a $120 menu ($60 for children).
You’ll dine on salad or butternut squash soup, followed by platters of turkey, prime rib, ham, and sides, wrapping up your celebration with apple crumble and pumpkin tart.
For something high-end on the Upper West Side, head to Bar Boulud, just across from Lincoln Center.
Some dishes you can look forward to include turkey with chestnut stuffing, wild mushroom fettuccine, salmon, and a burger with Angus beef, pork belly, and tomato compote raclette.
Just make your reservation as soon as possible to guarantee a table.
Or head further uptown to The Ellington for mouth watering options like butternut squash bisque, turkey with buttermilk, mashed potatoes, seared salmon with vegetable risotto, or wild mushroom ravioli with truffles.
And they’ve got Pumpkin cheesecake with cinnamon whipped cream and hazelnut gelato on the line-up as well.
Hanging out near Times Square?
Check out Avra, one of midtown’s favorite Greek restaurants.
You can pick between the regular Greek menu, or their $75 special, which includes butternut squash soup or salad, a roast turkey plate with stuffing, potatoes, and string beans; and pecan or pumpkin pie.
Craving some Italian?
Head to Sempre Oggi in midtown east for an $85 three course extravaganza.
Their chestnut pappardelle with turkey leg ragu, escarole and fennel salad, or squash soup.
With main options including porchetta and almond-crusted halibut besides roasted turkey breast. Warm apple crostata and pumpkin cheesecake with rum caramel make a festive finish.
Another Italian spot you’ll want to check out is Isabelle’s Osteria near Union Square.
With bottles of American wine half price every Thanksgiving, and an amazing $85 prix-fixe.
The menu features dishes like burrata with fig and pomegranate, lobster bisque, tuna tartare, and cauliflower with meyer lemon and shishitos.
As well as a classic roasted turkey with sides, entrees include filet mignon, risotto with butternut squash and stracciatella, roasted salmon with lentils and sofrito, mushroom lasagna, and chicken Milanese.
If you find yourself downtown, head to Delmonico’s for a taste of their $145, three-course meal, complete with turkey and a classic spread, as well as steakhouse sides and their best cuts of meat.
Plus, since this place has been open since 1837, you can say you celebrated Thanksgiving at a New York institution.
And let’s not forget about the classic New York diner experiance.
Brooklyn Diner is a midtown classic open 24/7 and serving up a dinner that includes brioche stuffing, noodle kugel, roasted brussels sprouts, cranberry chutney, and giblet gravy, complete with your choice of apple or pumpkin pie.
Desserts and Homemade Pies
One of my favorite things about the holidays is all the delicious desserts.
So it’s lucky that NYC is one of the best cities in the US for people with a sweet tooth.
If you’re looking to indulge, these are the spots not to miss while you’re in town.
First on the list is a classic for a reason. It’s Magnolia Bakery.
If you’ve never been, basically they’re famous for their cupcakes. However, the banana pudding is what all the locals still go there for.
Milk Bar is another popular stop. It’s famous for their delicious and unique Birthday Cake and Birthday Cake truffles. But my favorite thing is their ice cream and Crack Pie.
Speaking of ice cream, don’t miss my go-to spot Van Leeuwen. I’m especially into their Earl Grey and Honeycomb flavors.
Looking for classic pie, head to Bubby’s in Tribeca to pick up a pie.
You can order a double-crust apple pie; sour cherry, apple whiskey crumble, pumpkin, sour cherry, and pecan maple amongst other options for $50 each.
Shopping and Entertainment
Black Friday and Holiday Shopping
Black Friday marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season, and honestly isn’t for the faint of heart.
Major retailers offer substantial discounts, making it the perfect time for you to snag gifts at lower prices as long as you can handle all the massive crowds.
While you’re shopping, don’t forget to visit the holiday window displays at iconic stores like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s; they’re both mesmerizing and free to enjoy.
Wake up early to take advantage of the best deals, as the city buzzes with shoppers hunting for bargains.
Local’s Tip: I always visit the holiday windows after 10pm when the streets quiet down. It makes looking at the displays much more enjoyable because you won’t have people pushing past you or rushing you.
Festive Holiday Markets
Visiting the holiday markets in NYC is one of my favorite holiday traditions with friends.
You’ll find everything from handcrafted gifts to savor festive treats.
There’s lots to choose from, but whatever you do, don’t miss Bryant Park’s Christmas Market, which is my all-time favorite to stroll around with Max Brenner’s iconic hot chocolate (the booth is in the section closest to the library)
Thanksgiving Parade Details
Parade Route and Viewing Spots
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade starts on the Upper West Side at 77th Street and Central Park West.
From there, the parade travels down to 34th Street to Macy’s Herald Square.
You can find viewing spots along most of the 2.5-mile parade route.
Just note that the bleachers are all invite only, as is the square in front of Macy’s where most performances take place.
For an unobstructed view, arrive a few hours early to claim your spot.
Popular Viewing Areas:
- Central Park West: Early birds get magnificent views
- Columbus Circle: Views from the corner
- Sixth Avenue: Wider spots between 59th and 38th Streets
Seeing the Floats Being Blown Up
The night before the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, is my favorite part of the holiday in NYC.
It’s because one of the most exciting pre-parade events takes place: the inflation of the giant balloons.
When I was living in New York, my friends and I would meet up every year to have a drink, then go check out the balloons before a late feast.
I can still remember how in awe I was the first time I went.
It was such a unique behind-the-scenes look at how the parade comes to life.
The event is free and open to the public, usually starting around 3 pm the day before Thanksgiving, and continuing until about 10 pm.
When planning your visit, aim to arrive early, as it gets very crowded later into the evening as the balloons grow.
Where: The Natural Museum of History in the Upper West Side, 79th Street and Columbus Avenue. Viewing around Columbus Avenue, 77th Street, Central Park South and 81st Streets.
You’ll also want to be prepared for security checkpoints and potential bag checks.
They set up the inflation area as a one-way viewing route, so you can walk around and see different balloons at various stages of inflation.
Visitor Information and Tips
Accommodation and Travel Advice
Securing a place to stay in Manhattan is ideal, since it keeps you central to the Thanksgiving festivities.
But it’s also easy enough to commute in from Brooklyn, Long Island City, Jersey City, or Queens.
Depending on what part of town you end up in, there are options ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury accommodations.
The most important thing is to book early to avoid high prices and limited availability.
These are the main points you’ll want to consider when choosing where to stay in the city:
Public Transport: Using the subway is truly the easiest way to navigate the city during the holidays. Taxis and ride-shares are available but can be pricey, and complicated with road closures and traffic.
Hotels: Look for accommodations near the Thanksgiving Day Parade route for a peaceful morning heading to claim your viewing spot.
Weather and Packing Suggestions
Late November in NYC brings cold temperatures, wind, and possible rain most years.
Your winter packing list should include:
- Clothing: Warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Accessories: Gloves, scarf, umbrella, and a hat.
Oh, and don’t forget a camera to capture holiday magic around the city, especially all the iconic parade floats.
For a full guide on what to wear in NYC this winter, head to my full packing guide here.
FAQ’s
What are the best places to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner in NYC?
You have a wide selection of restaurants for Thanksgiving dinner in New York City, ranging from classic American diners to upscale eateries.
Many establishments offer special holiday menus for a traditional feast.
However, it’s important to try to make a reservation ahead of time when possible, since places due book up quickly.
How can one attend the NYC Thanksgiving Day Parade?
To attend the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, plan to arrive early for a suitable spot.
Public viewing areas are open to all, but they can get crowded quickly.
When I went to the parade, I got to the parade route about two and half hours beforehand to get a spot up front.
What are some affordable options for Thanksgiving dining in NYC?
For budget-friendly Thanksgiving meals, consider cozy bistros and diners, family-run spots, or even well-known fast-food joints that often serve holiday specials.
What tourist activities are available in New York City during Thanksgiving?
Besides seeing the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, you can also check out some of the cities iconic parks, shopping centers, and even some Broadway shows.
Are New York City’s attractions and services operational on Thanksgiving Day?
A fair amount of the city’s attractions remain open on Thanksgiving Day, although hours due tend to vary.
Some businesses close to give employees time with family, so always double check the hours of operation before heading anywhere.
If you’re planning on seeing a Broadway show, check the schedule early. A lot of shows and performers have special schedules that week to accommodate performing in the Thanksgiving Day Parade.
And if possible, always make a dining reservation ahead of time.
You’ll also find that public transport operates on a holiday schedule, so leave extra time to get to your destination.
Final Advice
Writing this as Thanksgiving approaches makes me miss celebrating in the city so much.
I hope when you visit you find New York over the holidays as magical and fun as I have over the years.
Let me know in the comments below which part of Thanksgiving is your favorite!
Leave a Comment