New York City is an extraordinary place mainly because someone did the math and came up with a rough estimate that it would take you over 10,000 days to eat three meals a day at three different establishments until you finish all of them in NYC. Talk about incredible! You can drink some beer with schnitzel then walk over one block for some salsa lessons, take the train one stop to a sushi making class, and finally cross the street for a night cap with some live jazz. You almost don’t need a passport! More importantly, there are many super cheap things to in and around the big apple (contrary to popular belief). What better time to do them if not during the holidays: the best time of the year in New York City.

1. Christmas Spectacular

Just in time for the holidays, make sure to buy a ticket or two to the most popular show in NYC during the holidays: Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes.  For many local and visiting families, the show is a holiday tradition and it is worth watching at least once in a lifetime!

2. Make Sushi

I can’t think of many things that are more romantic than making sushi with your significant other (ok, maybe I can, but this is definitely top 10). If you are not into the whole romance thing, for under $50 you can make your own California Roll alongside a professional Sushi chef and perhaps some new friends!

3. Ice Palace

One of the most unique experiences I know is the Minus 5 Ice experience. Minus 5 is an ice bar, literally. It is a palace made out of ice which is illuminated by colorful LED’s and makes you feel like you are in a different universe! For just $25, you can snatch admission tickets for two – for drinks and more, well, you’re on your own.

4. Get a Massage

It’s the holidays, you deserve a massage. In reality, the prices of massages have always blown me off my feet – I can’t believe people pay hundreds of dollars for massages so when I saw this deal for a 60 minute massage at less than $50, I had to include it in this post. In fact, I will get it myself. 

5. Take Foot Selfies

Last year I found out that dangling your feet out of a helicopter over NYC and other big cities is actually a thing. Naturally, I wanted to try it out and it was so worth it. Although the booking price is not exactly “super cheap”, FlyNYON offers fantastic last minute deals (as low as $100) as well as numerous free giveaways on their Instagram! Whether you are a native New Yorker or just visiting, an open door helicopter ride will be a truly unforgettable that will leave you with incredible images of New York City.