New York City may just replace the North Pole when asked, "where do the best gifts come from?" A favorite of many Christmas movies, New York features amazing malls and department stores that delight shoppers not only with their amazing holiday deals, but also with the beautiful lights and décor the shopfronts feature during the Holidays.
Travel Channel names Macy's on 34th Street, Lord and Taylor, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Barneys New York as some of its most famous shopping destinations turned tourist attractions. Macy's window display is said to change yearly, based on the store's annual theme. Although travelers will have to come with their wallets full, merely seeing the store displays is a great way to kickoff holiday shopping. (READ: New York, The Setting For "Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them")
For more serious bargain hunters, Metro names Woodbury Common Premium Outlets an outdoor outlet store mall that sells all the goods from the high-end department stores at low, marked-down prices. This outlet mall is huge, so travelers should make a list of what stores to check out before visiting. Stores such as Levi's, Kate Spade and Coach are found here and offer really great bargain prices for these designer brands. (READ: The Cheapest Winter Vacation Destinations)
Following the European tradition of Christmas markets, New York City has started putting up pop-up shops such as the Grand Central Holiday Fair, Union Square Holiday Market and Bryant Park Winter Village. Featuring more unique gifts, these holiday markets feature goods such as handmade candles, custom-made jewelry, luxury textiles and leathers, unusual toys for children, and artisanal foods. (READ: New York's Best Hidden Museums and Galleries)
Lastly, check out The Mills at Jersey Gardens, perfect for last-minute shopping before boarding the plane. Located in New Jersey, a 15-minute shuttle takes shoppers directly from the mall to Newark, and features more mid-range brands such as Forever 21 and Converse.
