Smart people know to keep out of Manhattan Christmas through New Years. It’s a zoo. Smart NYers avoid midtown during the same time or make sure they travel by train. A good guide book will warn about the Christmas season.
And try London if you think New York City tourist “traps” are expensive!
I seldom go north of the flatiron neighborhood any time of year. I work around there. :-)
Maybe...but virtually all the national museums in London are free. Plus, the tube is relatively cheap and gets you where you want to go quickly. We did some walking tours and took the Black Bus with the funniest emcee you'll ever meet. We skipped fancy restaurants.