Perhaps no U.S. city is as associated with Christmas as New York City. Think of the Christmas movies set in the city, not to mention Rockefeller Center with its enormous Christmas tree and skating rink.

Take a walk through the bustling city to gaze at the Christmas window displays at Macy's and Saks Fifth Avenue. Since you're already out shopping, what Christmas visit to New York is complete without a stop at the huge kids toy stores FAO Schwarz and Toys R Us in Times Square?

The Big Apple will be bustling with Christmas hotel specials to accommodate the holiday shows, shopping and tourism that goes along with the season, so be sure to make your reservations early.

Of course the fun doesn't stop once Christmas is over. If you've ever found yourself glued to the TV as the ball drops in Times Square, you know that New York City does up New Year's Eve right. Maybe this is the year to take in the festivities in person?