Diana Denza

The most important visitor of the Christmas season has arrived and magically, he seems to be everywhere. And why not? New York City has been Saint Nicholas's home away from home even before the editors of the New York Sun confirmed that, "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus," in 1897. We've rounded up a bunch of local spots where you can catch Claus, so you can skip that trip to the North Pole. ABC Carpet & HomeSat Nov 26--Sun Dec 18: Sat 10am--3pm; Sat 11am--3pm. 888 Broadway between 18th and 19th Sts (212-473-3000, abcsanta.wordpress.com). Free. Sporting a real beard and belly, this Santa has graced the design store's quirky Christmas cove for almost two decades. All tots who make it onto his nice list (i.e., everyone) receive handmade candy. Insider tip: The lighting here can be dim, so make sure your camera's flash is on. Beastly Breakfast with Santa at the State Island ZooSat Dec 17 8:30--10:30am. Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broadway between Clove Rd and Forest Ave, Staten Island (718-442-3100, statenislandzoo.org). $24. Pose for a complimentary photo with Santa and fill up on breakfast foods before embarking on a guided tour of the grounds. Preregistration required. Bloomingdale's, 59th StreetFri Nov 25--Fri Dec 23: Mon--Fri 10am--6pm; Sat, Sun 10am--6pm (Fri Dec 23 10am--noon). 1000 Third Ave between 59th and 60th Sts (212-705-2000, bloomingdales.com). Free; photo packages $20--$45.Macy's doesn't have a lock on Santa—he'll be stationed at Bloomingdale's eighth-floor Santa