Want to check out some fantastic New York City light displays without the holiday hordes? Follow this 7 part series of seasonal itineraries for outstanding alternatives to Rockefeller Center.

WINTER VILLAGE AT BRYANT PARK

Probably the most touristy destination of this series, Bryant Park is nevertheless a pretty impressive winter wonderland. The tree is magnificent and the many pop-up shops within the annual outdoor Winter Village make fine stops for shopping and snacks.

The big draw here is the free ice skating on an impressive rink positioned just in front of the tree. Lines are long, so if you don't feel like waiting, a FastPass, purchased online for $25 and on site for $28, will get you to the front of the cue and includes skates and bag check. The FastPass is totally worth it if your don't have your own skates, since skate rentals will run you $15.

If you want a sit-down dining experience, check out Celsius, the seasonal, glass enclosed restaurant overlooking the rink and tree. There, you have a choice of dining inside on the second floor or outside on the front terrace, where the seats come with powerful space heaters. Tables are for diners only and while the food is pricey and of passable quality, the view is pretty great. Drinks without dinner can be had at the bar.

Total Cost: About $60 per person for ice skating with a FastPass + dinner and drinks at Celsius. Tax and tip included

Best Nights to Go: Weeknights to avoid the larger crowds.

Nearby: For a more sophisticated supper, head to Gabriel Kreuther's eponymous restaurant, located just across 42nd Street. While the fancy main dining room features a fine dining prix-fixe menu, the lounge offers more affordable fare that's just as tasty, served in a far more relaxed atmosphere.

Check out other installments of this holiday series here.