Manhattan has been glittering all year round. From hotels, shops, restaurants, the One World Trade and other skyscrapers, the big apple doesn't seem to run out of lights and this holiday season, it sparkles even more with new attractions.

This year's holiday celebration kicked off with the longest standing holiday tradition, the holiday parade where dozens of floats and local Manhattan celebrities pass by in downtown Manhattan and Aggieville.

Seaglass Carousel

Located in Battery Park at the tip of Lower Manhattan, this carousel is unlike any merry-go-round you've ever ridden. What you'll get is glowing, pastel seats that are shaped like seashells that spin and weave while a dreamlike soundtrack plays.

Pier A

Dating back to 1886, this place now houses several dining options, with lovely views of the water on one side and on the other side, the skyscraper canyons of the financial highlighted by the One World Trade.

World Financial Center/Brookfied Place/Winter Garden

West the One World Trade on the Hudson River offers a place for shipping, dining out, and a respite from the hustle and bustle of the streets outside. The financial center houses upscale retailers.

Outside Brookfield on the waterfront are also various activities, currently, the have a free interactive exhibit called the Museum of Feelings, where according to its website, you 'turn your emotions into art'

ONE WORLD TRADE

Another must when visiting the big apple is the 9/11 Memorial park adjacent to the One World Trade. Other options for visitors include the 9/11 museum and the tower observatory.

But even if you're just admiring the sparkling, soaring skyscraper from a distance, it's worth remembering how the area has been transformed in 14 years from the smoking wreckage of the destroyed twin towers to a vibrant, beautiful neighbourhood that lights up the tip of Manhattan.