New York is one of the most iconic Christmas destinations in the world, and every year when the holiday season hits, I have this moment where I’m like… wow, I really get to live here. Walking down Fifth Avenue feels magical, the Rockefeller tree is genuinely gigantic in person, restaurants go completely over the top with their decorations, and the Christmas markets at Bryant Park and Union Square make me want to grab a hot chocolate and wander for hours. And listen, I am 100% a summer girl, but New York during Christmas has my whole heart.
In this guide, I’m sharing all the must-see festive places and activities you absolutely cannot miss if you’re coming to New York at Christmas.
Because I live here, I end up hosting friends and family all the time, and I always take them to my favorite spots. I wrote an extensive article with over 40 things to do in NYC, including restaurants to dine at, main attractions, and more local + unique activities.
📍 If you’re planning your NYC trip, bookmark this list + check out the tours I linked throughout.
DISCLOSURE: When you make a purchase through the links on any of our articles, it helps keep our site running at no additional cost to you. We really appreciate your support!
Quick Picks for New York During Christmas
- See the Rockefeller tree
- Go ice skating in Central Park or Bryant Park
- Head to Brooklyn to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights
- Go see the Rockettes at Radio City
Practical Tips for Visiting NYC in the Winter
If it’s your first time in New York City, here are a few practical tips that’ll make your experience seamless.
Weather & What to Wear
- It gets cold: Expect temps between 25–45°F (−3 to 7°C).
- Prioritize layers: thermal tops, sweaters, scarves, beanies.
- Bring waterproof boots: if you’re picturing snow-covered streets like what you see in the movies, I am sorry to burst your bubble, but in NYC, snow turns into dirty black slushy.
Planning Ahead
- Visit during the week if possible: Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and because the holidays are high season, expect crowds.
- Plan wisely: Go early/late for Rockefeller and Fifth Ave (again, there are lots of crowds).
- Book in advance: Shows and tours sell out quickly.
- Make restaurant reservations: if there’s a specific restaurant you’d like to try, make a reservation beforehand.
- Budget: NYC is one of the most expensive cities in the US, so basic items like coffee or food might be a bit more expensive, especially in tourist areas. However, there are many affordable restaurants.
- Shop for souvenirs in Chinatown: all the souvenir shops in Midtown and along 5th avenue tend to double to price, so head to Chinatown to purchase them at a reasonable price.
Transportation & Safety
- Subway is the fastest: NYC is very congested, so Uber and taxis can take longer and be more expensive than taking the subway. Prices might also surge during December.
- Subway safety: I have lived in Manhattan for over 4 years and have never had a scary experience in the subway. That being said, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night.
- Avoid being on your phone and wearing headphones the whole ride.
- If you see someone who might be mentally unstable, keep your distance and don’t make eye contact.
- Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas: although I have never been pickpocketed or met someone who has been, you should always be aware of your belongings, especially around Times Square.
- You’ll walk a lot: Even though it is cold, the best way to see a city like NYC is by walking. It is normal to average 20,000 steps a day, so bring comfy shoes.
My Favorite Travel Essentials
Where to Stay in NYC During the Holidays
When visiting New York, most people choose to stay in Manhattan because that is where the action is. And most of Manhattan is pretty safe, except for Harlem and certain areas in Chinatown. So, there are many neighborhoods you can stay in; it all depends on the budget and also on the vibe. Here are the ones I recommend for first-timers.
Midtown
I might be biased because I actually live here. Midtown in Manhattan is very central to all the tourist attractions. That being said, it can be a bit pricy to stay here, especially during the holidays.
Why stay here:
- Walk to the Rockefeller tree, Fifth Ave windows, Bryant Park, and Central Park.
- Great for travelers on a tight itinerary.
Bryant Park and Times Square
Also very central and in the middle of the action. The only con is that it can get noisy at night, but it’s perfect if you’re expecting to experience the city that never sleeps.
Why stay here:
- Within walking distance of major tourist attractions.
- Amazing for people who love being in the middle of the festive energy.
Brooklyn (Williamsburg or Dumbo)
Although it is a little further away, what Brooklyn lacks in proximity, it makes up for in affordability. It is also very trendy, safe, and you can get to Manhattan easily by subway.
Why stay here:
- Great skyline views.
- Easy subway access.
- Hotels are more affordable.
NYC Hotels I Recommend
These are the hotels that my family and I have stayed in when in New York, and we always recommend them to people visiting.
- Park Central Hotel: Located in Midtown, this hotel is within 10 minutes of Central Park and also close to Times Square and most major tourist attractions.
- The Jewel Hotel: Right off 5th Avenue, this hotel is perfect for you if you’re looking for amazing service and affordability. They’re also pet-friendly, and my sister and her husband stay here when traveling with their dog.
- Arthouse Hotel: This hotel is located on the Upper West Side, but it is still super central. Perfect for those who would like more of a local experience. What I loved the most about this hotel was the ambiance; it is exactly what comes to mind when you picture New York in winter. They also have a pianist in the lobby. Had such a great experience here.
- NoMo Soho: This hotel is located right in the heart of Soho, making it perfect for those seeking a local experience. You’ll be close to NYU, Wall Street, and all the shops in Soho. They have floor-to-ceiling windows, and I remember my room had such an amazing view of Manhattan.
21 Classic NYC Holiday Experiences You Can’t Miss
There are certain holiday moments in New York that you just have to experience at least once, the kind of things that make you stop, look around, and think, “Okay, this is why everyone romanticizes Christmas in this city.”
See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
If it’s your first time in NYC for the holidays, you totally have to see the Rockefeller tree. It’s gigantic, it’s dramatic, it’s chaotic, and it’s basically the definition of Christmas in New York. Go either early morning or late at night to avoid peak crowds.
It’s super interesting how they put it together, as it is so big, they built scaffolding around it to be able to decorate it. And if you’re lucky, you’ll get to be there on the day it’s lit.
Watch the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Every 10 minutes, Saks transforms into a full-blown LED performance. It lasts around 5 minutes and is absolutely worth stopping for when you’re already strolling down Fifth Ave. The lights sync with the music, and the whole street literally stops to watch.
Walk Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Window Displays
One of my favorite things to do, because of how intricate the window displays are. Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, and Bloomingdale’s all compete for the most over-the-top windows. Did you know that these department stores start planning their Christmas decorations a full year ahead?
Wander Through Bryant Park’s Holiday Market
There are around 200 vendors in this Christmas market, and here you’ll find handmade ornaments, candles, cozy winter treats, and artisan gifts. It’s always crowded, but it is worth it to at least see a few stalls. Grab hot chocolate from Max Brenner while you’re there.
Visit Radio City Music Hall for the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
@ssofiasolis a must if you’re in nyc during the holidays 🥹🎄✨ #radiocitymusichall #rockettes100 #nyclife #nycchristmas ♬ It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Andy Williams
To be fully honest, I did not know the Rockettes were a thing until this year. So, of course, I had to go see one of their shows with my sister, and we loved it! This year also happens to be their 100th anniversar,y so it felt extra special.
Even if you aren’t a fan of theater or musicals, the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular is iconic. High kicks, sparkly costumes, and really good effects. Some parts are mostly for kids, but we appreciated the dancing, and it was perfect to get us in the holiday mood.
🎟️ Shows sell out fast, so grab your tickets to see the Rockettes!
Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Christmas Tree
The Met puts up a beautiful, traditional Neapolitan Baroque crèche tree that feels like stepping into a European holiday moment.
Go Ice Skating
Ice skating is a must-do winter activity, and there a quite a few places to do it around New York. Whether you want the classic holiday moment at the Rockefeller Center or something more low-key like ice skating under the Brooklyn Bridge, below are the best spots to skate.
Bryant Park Winter Village Rink
The Bryant Park Winter Village rink is hands-down the best ice skating spot in NYC during the holidays. Admission is free (which is rare for NYC), and you just pay for skate rentals. Plus, the rink is bigger than Rockefeller, and the views of the surrounding buildings make it feel straight out of a movie. You can also snack your way through the food stalls afterward.
👉 Make sure to book a timeslot in advance through their website.
Wollman Rink in Central Park
If you want an old-school winter vibe surrounded by trees and skyline views, the Wollman Rink at Central Park is for you. It’s spacious, scenic, and feels more local than Rockefeller. Go early if you want calm, go at sunset if you want dreamy golden light.
👉 The price depends on the season, and it tends to be from $16 to $45. You’ll want to book online.
Rockefeller Center Rink
The most iconic rink in New York. Yes, it’s small, and yes, it’s crowded. But if it’s your first holiday trip to NYC, skating here could be a core memory. Tickets do tend to sell out, and prices skyrocket depending on the timeslot, so book in advance!
👉 Grab your tickets here.
Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park
This one is unique as you’re skating with the Brooklyn Bridge right above you and the Manhattan skyline right in front of you. It’s a great option for people staying in Brooklyn or for anyone who wants something more photogenic and less touristy.
👉 Book your tickets here.
Explore the Union Square Holiday Market
Although a bit smaller than Bryant Park’s market, you should stop by for some snacks. If you’re shopping for unique gifts, this is where you go.
Walk Through Central Park in Winter
If it snows, Central Park turns into a winter wonderland. Even without snow, the bare trees, quiet paths, and skyline views feel cozy.
Go to Sinatra Saturdays at The Carnegie Club
If you want one of those “only in New York” holiday nights, go to Sinatra Saturdays at The Carnegie Club. It’s this old-school, elegant lounge where a live singer performs all the classics. It’s not technically a holiday show, but something about listening to Sinatra in the winter hits different. If you want a cozy, romantic night out that feels very local and very New York, this is it.
Their shows sell out super quickly, so make sure to make a reservation on their website, and if you don’t get one right away, just join the waitlist. My sister did that and got into the show.
Sip Hot Chocolate at Famous NYC Shops
NYC is elite when it comes to hot chocolate, and there are so many shops. A lot of them are going viral on social media, which is resulting in extremely long lines. The other day, I walked past “Dominique Ansel” and saw a huge line going around the corner. While that hot chocolate must be amazing, not sure it is worth spending over half an hour outside waiting in the cold. So here are some options:
- L.A. Burdick
- Glace
- No Chewing Allowed (Bryant Park)
- Dominique Ansel
- Serendipity
- Jacques Torres
- Max Brenner
Visit Hudson Yards & The Shops (The Glow Winter Lights)
The Christmas light installation at Hudson Yards is perfect if you want to take a break from all the walking. Explore the mall and then head out to see the Vessel.
Recommended for you: 43 Incredible Things To Do In New York City From a Local
Take a Cruise or Skyline Boat Tour
If you want skyline views without freezing your face off, choose a boat tour. It’s such a relaxing break from the crowds, and some of them offer a romantic dinner while cruising along the East River.
Experience the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights (Brooklyn)
@adventuressashley dyker heights christmas lights 2024 are lit ✨check out my @Thatch "Dyker Heights Brooklyn Holiday Lights Walking Tour Guide” (🔗 in bio) to plan your visit!! #dykerheightschristmaslights #nycholidayguide ♬ It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Andy Williams
This is the most insane holiday neighborhood in NYC. The houses go all out. You can go on your own or take a guided tour.
If you’re going on your own, below are the streets you’ll want to see. Just a heads up that it can take around one hour to get there by taking the subway.
You’ll want to be there from 6 pm to 8 pm, as the lights get turned off at 9 pm, which is reasonable, as I can’t even imagine how expensive their electricity bill is.
You’ll want to start at 83rd St and walk up to 86th.
🎟️ If you’d rather avoid the hassle of figuring out what subways to take, you can book a tour here.
Browse the Columbus Circle Holiday Market
This market is smaller and calmer than the others, and it’s right by Central Park. It’s perfect if you want a holiday moment without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.
See the Holiday Decor in The Oculus
The Oculus turns into a bright, modern holiday installation that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding architecture. Plus, it’s a warm indoor break if you’ve been outside all day.
Take Festive Photos at the Seaport District
The Seaport district is one of my favorite places in the city because of its cobblestone streets and the amazing views you get of the East River and Brooklyn.
Pier 17 decorates beautifully for winter: cozy cabins, igloos, light installations, and waterfront views. Grab a warm drink and stroll the boardwalk.
See the Holiday Decor at Brookfield Place
Giant illuminated trees, waterfront views, art installations, and pop-ups. It’s a calm alternative to the madness of Midtown.
Watch The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center
@carissa.june my ultimate fav christmas activity 🩷 #nutcracker #nutcrackerseason #nutcrackerballet #nycballet ♬ The Nutcracker, Op. 71, Act 2: No. 14a, Pas de deux. Andante maestoso – Sir Simon Rattle & Berliner Philharmoniker
A classic NYC holiday moment. Lincoln Center’s fountain, winter outfits, and the stunning theater make this such a beautiful experience.
Grab Dinner at Cozy Restaurants
There are so many restaurants in New York that go over the top with the holiday decorations. Below are some of my favorites, I totally recommend checking out. However, make sure to make a reservation in advance.
Visit Rolf’s German Restaurant
One of the most famous Christmas-themed restaurants in NYC. It’s extremely popular, so make a reservation or go super early.
If you’re not a fan of German food, I still recommend going, grabbing a drink and a snack, and appreciating the holiday decor.
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
I’ve been here so many times, and I love that they go all out with decor for Halloween and Christmas. The food is good, and the cocktails are fun and creative. This spot is perfect for taking photos and enjoying the ambiance.
Papillon
Papillon is right in Midtown, so it’s perfect if you’re already checking out the Rockefeller tree or strolling around Fifth Avenue. The holiday décor is honestly so over-the-top in the best way, and the atmosphere feels fun and lively without being chaotic.
Visit Holiday Themed Bars
If you love holiday drinks, themed cocktails, or just vibing somewhere that looks like Santa decorated it himself, NYC does not disappoint. These bars go all in.
Miracle on 9th Street
The OG Christmas pop-up bar. Expect kitschy décor, whimsical themed cocktails, and major holiday spirit. It’s crowded, but the energy is really fun.
Sippin’ Santa
Think Christmas… but make it beachy. This pop-up mixes classic holiday décor with tiki-style cocktails. It’s playful and super different from the usual NYC holiday vibe.
Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde takes “holiday decorating” as a personal challenge. Every inch of this bar is covered in ornaments, garlands, lights, and Victorian-inspired holiday pieces. The cocktails are great, and the atmosphere is unreal.
Other Things to Do in New York
Even though this list is all about holiday activities, there are so many iconic New York experiences that are worth adding to your itinerary, no matter when you visit. If you have extra time or just want a break from the Christmas crowds, here are other classic NYC things to do that always deliver.
And if you want an even bigger list, I put together a full guide with 45 things to do in New York that you can check out for more ideas.
- Visit Grand Central
- See the NYC Skyline from the Summit One Vanderbilt building
- Explore the New York Public Library
- Walk over the Brooklyn Bridge during sunset
- Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- Grab dim sum at Jin Fong in Chinatown (my favorite spot)
- Take a cruise to see the Statue of Liberty
New York during the holidays has this way of making everything feel a little more magical. Even after living here, I still catch myself stopping to take it all in. I hope this guide helps you experience the city the way I share it with my friends and family every year. Bundle up, explore, try something festive, and let yourself fall into New York during Christmas.
