As the crisp chill of autumn settles over Manhattan, savvy travelers start planning ahead for shopping in New York before the December rush. From Fifth Avenue flagships to charming holiday markets, the city transforms into a shopper’s paradise long before Santa’s sleigh makes an appearance.
Whether you’re chasing Black Friday deals, indulging in Christmas shopping in NYC, or getting a head start on your gift list, there’s no better place to do it than right here.
No list of shopping in New York is complete without Fifth Avenue. Home to world-famous department stores and luxury boutiques, this stretch between 49th and 60th Streets is the heart of NYC’s holiday retail magic. Visit early in the season for glimmering window displays and pre–Black Friday exclusives at iconic spots like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman.
From The Wallace Hotel, it’s just a 20-minute rideshare to Midtown. The area is ideal for soaking in the festive spirit while avoiding the peak crowds that swarm closer to Christmas.
The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park opens in late October, making it one of the first Christmas markets in NYC to kick off the season. More than 170 artisanal vendors offer everything from handmade jewelry and winter accessories to gourmet treats, perfect for gift shopping in NYC.
Located about a 20-minute rideshare from The Wallace, Bryant Park is also home to one of the city’s most picturesque skating rinks. Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to browse the stalls in peace before the holiday crowds arrive.
A longtime favorite among locals, the Union Square Holiday Market offers a more bohemian take on Christmas shopping in NYC. Open from mid-November through Christmas Eve, this open-air bazaar is brimming with handmade crafts, candles, ornaments, and culinary delights from small-batch makers.
From The Wallace, it’s a 30-minute rideshare downtown. Arrive early for the best selection of artisanal goods before the crowds descend for the world-famous Black Friday shopping in New York.
For a holiday market even closer to “home,” head to the Columbus Circle Holiday Market, located at the entrance to Central Park at 59th Street and Central Park West. A pleasant 25-minute walk from The Wallace, this market features handcrafted art, luxury leather goods, and gourmet snacks in one of the city’s most scenic settings.
This is an especially great option for early Christmas shopping in NYC if you prefer a relaxed pace experience while shopping in New York. If you love exploring Central Park, don’t miss our feature on some of the best evening walks on the Upper West Side.
When it comes to boutique and designer gift shopping in NYC, few neighborhoods beat SoHo. The cobblestone streets are lined with high-end brands, pop-up concept shops, and independent designers; it’s the perfect blend of classic and contemporary.
Just a 20-minute subway ride, you can plan to spend the day wandering through Mercer Street, Prince Street, and Broadway. Many stores offer early-season sales that rival the Black Friday deals in NYC, giving you a head start on your holiday list.
If your focus is Black Friday shopping in New York, you’re in luck since many of the city’s biggest retailers start offering discounts days (or even weeks) in advance. Macy’s Herald Square, Bloomingdale’s, and Nordstrom often release early access deals online and in-store, making it possible to grab limited-time offers before the crowds.
To make the most of your Black Friday deals in NYC, start early in the morning, map out your target stores, and pack light or plan to drop your haul back at The Wallace for a midday break before continuing your spree.
After a day of holiday shopping, unwind in comfort at The Wallace Hotel, just minutes from Central Park and some of the city’s best boutiques. With elegant accommodations and a peaceful setting on the Upper West Side, The Wallace offers the perfect retreat after an exciting day spent discovering the best of New York’s holiday shopping scene.
Book your stay today to beat the holiday rush!