There’s a moment every December when the city shifts. The lights go up on Fifth Avenue, the air smells like roasted chestnuts and cold pavement, and suddenly even the most jaded New Yorkers are walking a little slower to take it all in. I’ve spent every Christmas in this city since I moved here, and it still gets me every single year. Here’s everything worth knowing about celebrating Christmas in NYC.
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Celebrating Christmas in New York City
(Click Here for the Table of Contents)
Visiting NYC for Christmas (Table of Contents)
- Celebrating Christmas in New York City
- Ice Skating at Wollman Rink
- Admire the Window Displays on 5th Avenue
- See the Epic Rockefeller Christmas Tree
- Catch the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show
- Visit the Holiday Market at Bryant Park
- Enjoy a Meal at a Decked Out Restaurant
- Catch the Holiday Nostalgia Train
- Visit Macy’s at Herald Square
- Enjoy The Nutcracker Ballet
- Visit the Union Square Holiday Market
- Catch the Christmas Concert at St. John the Divine
- Imbibe at the Best Bar in the World
- See the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular Show
- See the Holidays Decorations in the West Village
- Enjoy a Classic Harbor Line Holiday Cruise
- Explore Central Park
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market
- Try Some Frozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity
- Visiting New York City for Christmas with Kids
- Holiday Decorations at Hudson Yards
- Bronx Zoo Light Show
- Peter & the Wolf at the Guggenheim
- The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden
- #1. Rolf’s for a Christmas Meal
- #2. New Years Eve at Times Square
- #3. Seeing the Rockefeller Tree on the Weekends
- #4. The Grand Central Holiday Market
- #5. Carriage Ride in Central Park
- Quick Word on Visiting NYC During the Holidays
- List of Things to Do During Christmas in New York City (Post Summary)
- New York City Christmas Itinerary Planning Map
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Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The 10 Best Neighborhoods for First Timers & 3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Ice Skating at Wollman Rink
New York City transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays. Of the dozen ice skating rinks open for the season, there’s one you can’t afford to miss. the Wollman Rink in Central Park.
Found in the southern end of the park, the stunning Manhattan skyline serves as a breathtaking backdrop while classic Christmas tunes serenade chipper ice skaters. The entire experience is enchanting, which is why I consider it one of the best things to do in New York City at Christmas.
Local’s Recommendation.Ice skating at Wollman Rink is high on everyone’s New York City Christmas Bucket List. I suggest visiting during a weekday and arriving early to avoid mind-boggling crowds.
Details.Open late October through early April, tickets can be purchased in advance online or in person (cash-only). Admission. Adults— $37 | Children (12 and under)— $10 | Skate rentals— $11.
Admire the Window Displays on 5th Avenue
Christmas in New York isn’t just a holiday. it’s a season-long love letter from the city to everyone walking its streets.
Every December the luxury department stores along Fifth Avenue unveil impressive window displays and turn the popular shopping corridor into a runway of holiday spirit. Meticulously crafted, the displays take up to a year to design (Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue have the prettiest displays in my opinion).
Themes vary by year, but they’re always festive and tailored around winter wonderland vibes. Drawing millions of visitors during the holidays, this undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do in New York City at Christmas, so brace for crowds.
You Might Enjoy Reading. 10 Wonderful Window Displays in New York City (Local’s Guide)
See the Epic Rockefeller Christmas Tree
A tradition dating back to 1933, the magnificent Rockefeller Christmas Tree soars to heights of 75 feet and gets adorned with more than five miles of lights. Crowned with a breathtaking 9-foot Swarovski star composed of three million crystals, the tree’s lighting ceremony heralds the start of the Christmas season in New York City.
My advice is to visit as early as possible (like first thing in the morning) because the crowds get very intense at this popular New York City holiday attraction. But not without reason, seeing this masterpiece firsthand is an unforgettable experience!
You may enjoy reading. Visiting the Rockefeller Center at Christmas (10 Things to Do)
Catch the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show
Local tip. The most magical Christmas experiences in NYC are often the least expensive. walking the holiday windows at dusk, seeing the Rockefeller tree, catching free caroling at Washington Square, or riding the Holiday Nostalgia subway train. Budget for hot chocolate, not admission tickets.
Of all the impressive lights you’re bound to see while celebrating the holidays in New York City, nothing tops the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show. The elaborate display and synchronized lights play in tandem with classic Christmas music, dazzling children and adults alike.
Details. The light show starts at 5pm and runs in 10-minute intervals until 11pm. Each show lasts 3 minutes (featuring 2-4 popular Christmas songs), followed by a five minute break.
I remember the first time I visited. something genuinely special about Catch the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show. It’s one of those places in 29 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025 that I find myself recommending over and over again, not because it’s the most obvious choice. If you’re visiting 29 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025 for the first time, put this near the top of your list.))
Visit the Holiday Market at Bryant Park
One of my personal favorite things to do in New York City at Christmas is explore the holiday market at Bryant Park. A popular destination year-round, there’s something truly special about the holiday season when the park transforms into a European-inspired holiday market with more than 100 vendors.
You’ll find fun Christmas decorations, handmade crafts, unique jewelry and lots of good food. Grab a hot chocolate from No Chewing Allowed (my favorite hot chocolate in the city) as you make your way around the liveliest Christmas market in New York City.
The best part? The 17,000-square-foot skating rink, which is free to use but skate rentals run $20-$36 per person.
Oh! And word to the wise, make sure to pop into the New York Public Library to see the stunning Christmas tree! Here’s a photo of the 2024 tree, if you’d like to see.
Enjoy a Meal at a Decked Out Restaurant
You can’t visit NYC during the holidays without popping into a Christmas-decorated restaurant at least once. Of all the fun restaurants on offer, two stick out.
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment.An ornate Victorian-era restaurant completely decked out in true New York holiday spirit. Think shiny garlands, life-sized nutcrackers and an obnoxious number of decorated trees.
Oscar Wilde offers a great balance between vibe and quality. The lavish holiday decor creates a unique over-the-top festive ambiance. The food isn’t bad either. You’ll find an extensive collection of whiskeys and craft cocktails, perfect for slowing down the busy holiday season in NYC.
Local’s Advice. Most decorated restaurants are tourist traps, here’s a roundup of the best Christmas-themed restaurants in NYC (based on first hand experience).
Catch the Holiday Nostalgia Train
I’ll never forget the first time I saw a vintage 1930 train pull up in front of me while I awaited the subway. I mean, hopping aboard a vintage train wasn’t on my bingo card when I popped into the subway!
Turns out I was privy to one of the most whimsical holiday traditions in NYC, a ride on the Holiday Nostalgia Train.
During select weekends in December, the MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) partners with the New York Transit Museum to offer New Yorkers a chance to travel back in time by running vintage trains on the F line.
My favorite thing about this unique New York City Christmas experience is that it doesn’t cost anything more than standard subway fare. Helpful details and more information can be found here.
Visit Macy’s at Herald Square
Macy’s at Herald Square is famous for hosting the popular Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The 2.5 million square foot store transforms into a dizzying Christmas wonderland. The stunning window displays alone (a tradition dating back to 1889), draw more than 15,000 visitors an hour during peak times.
Decked to the nines, pop in to see all 11 floors decorated in different holiday themes. In my opinion, visiting Macy’s at Herald Square is non-negotiable for anyone keen on seeing iconic Christmas attractions in New York City.
Enjoy The Nutcracker Ballet
Experiencing George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is a timeless NYC holiday tradition many locals consider sacred. The enchanting production brings Tchaikovsky’s classic score to life with stunning choreography, lavish sets and elaborate costumes.
I must admit, prior to attending, I wasn’t sure I would enjoy the performance enough to justify the steep price tag (tickets clock in at $200 per person!). However, when my mom visited during my first Christmas in New York City, I knew we had to go.
The two hour performance blew me away, it was worth every penny! I enjoyed it so much, it became an annual tradition for my husband me (and now with a baby on the way, we’re excited to add a plus one to the mix).
Local’s Advice. The Nutcracker is the most popular Christmas show in NYC, so tickets sell out quickly. Prioritize this if your budget allows because it’s an unforgettable addition to your New York City Christmas itinerary, the performance is magical.
Visit the Union Square Holiday Market
The smell of roasting nuts and hot apple cider wafts through the air as eager crowds elbow their way from one cozy stall to the next. No proper New York City Christmas Bucket List is complete without a visit to the Union Square Holiday Market.
Hosting 150 vendors, this the largest holiday market in NYC so it can get overwhelming if you show up without a game plan! Try to avoid the busiest times, which are weekends and weekdays after 5pm. But any way you slice it, if you’re looking for a true New York City Christmas experience then you simply can’t miss it. Plus, it’s a great spot to pick up some souvenirs.
Catch the Christmas Concert at St. John the Divine
Founded in 1892, St. John the Divine is the fifth largest church in the world. The monolithic structure’s soaring ceilings and stunning stained glass windows play host to the most beautiful Christmas concert in NYC, called “Joy of Christmas”.
I’ve been here in every season. My favorite? Fall, when the light hits just right.
The orchestra and choir envelop concert goers with Christmas carols sung in symphonic splendor. The two hour performance takes place once a year (typically mid-December), so tickets are pretty hard to score.
However, if you’re lucky enough to get admitted, you’ll be in for one of the best Christmas experiences in New York City. If interested, keep an eye on the official website for tickets.
Imbibe at the Best Bar in the World
Caffe Dante dates back to 1915, when the bar served as a neighborhood haunt before slowly fading into oblivion. In 2015, two clever Australians decided to breathe new life into the historic institution and the end result was striking.
Within four years of re-opening, Dante was named the best bar in the world. The menu is well picked with small fare, but it’s the expertly-crafted cocktails that draw the local crowd. Scoring reservations won’t be an easy feat, but the effort is worthwhile.
Enjoying proper martinis while decompressing from the city’s hectic pace is one of the most romantic things to do in New York City during the holidays.
Better still, pop in for the daily happy hour (from 3-5pm) when generously-poured martinis go for $10 at Dante West Village (on Hudson Street) and negronis clock in at $10 at Dante NYC (on MacDougal Street).
See the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular Show
The talented Rockettes have been performing at Radio City Music Hall since 1930. It’s hard to think of a more famous holiday tradition in New York City at this point. Expert choreography coupled with wildly talented dancers performing gravity-defying kicks, the 90-minute performance is guaranteed to impress even the staunchest critic.
I highly recommend catching the performance if you’re visiting New York City during the holidays with kids. I took my 4-year-old niece to see the show last year and she raves about it to this day.
See the Holidays Decorations in the West Village
Sometimes you need a break from mind-boggling crowds and bright lights. When that feeling strikes, I suggest making a beeline for the West Village.
In my opinion, the West Village is the most charming neighborhood in the Big Apple. It’s a joy to explore year-round, but nothing tops the holidays when the lavish brownstones don their most festive Christmas decor.
Better still, there’s a ton of endearing corner cafes to grab warm drinks while soaking in the holiday spirit. Admire the brownstones, pop into local shops, peak at elaborate window displays or wander the pretty streets aimlessly. If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in New York City during Christmas, this gets my vote.
Enjoy a Classic Harbor Line Holiday Cruise
What better way to soak in the holiday spirit than aboard a 1920s yacht gliding past Manhattan’s most famous skyscrapers? You’ll be cozily tucked inside a heated observatory decked out with holiday decor and Christmas music. Beer, wine, Champagne and hot beverages are available for sale as well.
From the street, it looks unassuming, but inside something genuinely special about Enjoy a Classic Harbor Line Holiday Cruise. It’s one of those places in 29 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025 that I find myself recommending over and over again, not because it’s the most obvious choice. But because it delivers an experience that stays with you. The kind of place where you look up from whatever you’re doing and think, ‘I’m really glad I came here.’ Give yourself enough time to explore without rushing. the best details reveal themselves slowly. If you’re visiting 29 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025 for the first time, put this near the top of your list.))
Explore Central Park
It seldom snows during Christmas in New York City, but if you notice snow in the forecast, make Central Park your top priority. Central Park is downright magical during the first snowfall of the year.
If you’re solo, pop in some headphones and let the Christmas music roll while you stroll meandering paths, it’s a very peaceful experience. If you’d like to go the extra mile, make reservations at the beautifully-decorated Tavern on the Green for lunch or dinner (the food is surprisingly good considering the prime location!).
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Nestled at the southwest entrance of Central Park, wandering through the Columbus Circle Holiday Market feels like stepping foot in a Hallmark movie. The open-air market offers tons of handcrafted goods, from jewelry and artwork to gourmet holiday treats and delicious hot chocolate. It’s a great spot to stock up on souvenirs!
From the street, it looks unassuming, but inside the care that goes into every dish at Columbus Circle Holiday Market. The menu reads like a love letter to the region’s ingredients, and the execution lives up to the promise. The atmosphere strikes that rare balance between polished and welcoming, the kind of place where you could bring a date or your parents and both would feel right.
Try Some Frozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity
There’s no shortage of great holiday treats to enjoy while visiting New York City for Christmas. One of my personal favorites is the Frrrozen Hot Chocolate (not a typo) from Serendipity.
Dating back to 1954, this famous establishment was a frequent hangout for celebrities like Andy Warhol, Marilyn Monroe and Joan Rivers. Heck, Jackie Kennedy once tried to buy the trademarked frozen hot chocolate recipe for a party at the White House.
Some locals would call this a tourist attraction, but I still enjoy it enough to recommend it to my own family and friends. Between you and me, it doesn’t feel like Christmas in New York without one of these treats, indulge away!
Visiting New York City for Christmas with Kids
Holiday Decorations at Hudson Yards
Hudson Yards is a shopping mall adjacent to the infamous Vessel, a honeycomb structure now closed to the public. Home to high-end shops and restaurants, the mall is worth a detour at Christmas because it’s decked out with over two million Christmas lights. It’s one of my favorite things to do in New York City during the holidays with kids!
The atmosphere here is hard to describe but impossible to forget. something genuinely special about Holiday Decorations at Hudson Yards. It’s one of those places in 29 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025 that I find myself recommending over and over again, not because it’s the most obvious choice. But because it delivers an experience that stays with you. The kind of place where you look up from whatever you’re doing and think, ‘I’m really glad I came here.’ Give yourself enough time to explore without rushing. the best details reveal themselves slowly. If you’re visiting 29 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025 for the first time, put this near the top of your list.))
Bronx Zoo Light Show
During the holidays, the Bronx Zoo transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland with bright lights and fantastic illuminated animal displays. Pick up some hot chocolate or s’mores before embarking on this epic adventure. Good to know. At 265 acres, the Bronx Zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the country, reason alone to visit!
Even on a quiet afternoon, something genuinely special about Bronx Zoo Light Show. It’s one of those places in 29 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025 that I find myself recommending over and over again, not because it’s the most obvious choice. But because it delivers an experience that stays with you. The kind of place where you look up from whatever you’re doing and think, ‘I’m really glad I came here.’ Give yourself enough time to explore without rushing. the best details reveal themselves slowly. If you’re visiting 29 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025 for the first time, put this near the top of your list.))
Peter & the Wolf at the Guggenheim
An annual tradition for many NYC families, watch Isaac Mizrahi narrate and direct the beloved children’s classic Peter & the Wolf at the Guggenheim Museum. The cast dons Mizrahi’s costumes while Carnegie Hall’s ensemble brings to life the 30-minute story of a young boy living in the Russian wilderness.
It’s the perfect way to spend Christmas in New York City with kids! Purchase tickets as soon as they go on sale because the limited event is known to sell out.
The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden
The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden is a classic NYC Christmas activity for families. Kids and adults alike are enthralled by the monolithic display of trains running through famous NYC skyscrapers. Don’t have kids? Visit during adult-only bar nights for an experience you soon won’t forget.
I remember the first time I visited. how the landscape shifts as you move through The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden. There’s a quality of light here that photographs never quite capture. you have to be standing in it to understand. I’d suggest giving yourself at least a couple of hours, more if you’re the type who likes to sit with a view and let it sink in. Wear layers, bring water, and resist the urge to check your phone. The best moments here happen when you’re fully present. Early mornings are magical if you can manage it, and you’ll have far fewer people to share the trail with.
Visiting New York City at Christmas? A Few Things to Avoid
#1. Rolf’s for a Christmas Meal
Okay, I can already envision the hate mail getting stamped, but hear me out. Experiencing the jaw-dropping decor at Rolf’s is considered a must-do New York City Christmas experience for first time visitors, but I think you can skip it without feeling guilty.
I visited last year and felt completely ripped off. Don’t get me wrong, this restaurant has some of the best Christmas decorations in New York City, but the food is way too expensive and below average at best.
Plus the wait to get inside is obnoxiously long because they don’t take reservations. I can think of so many other things I would rather do during Christmas in NYC than spend up to 2 hours waiting for mediocre food.So yeah, consider this an easy thing to avoid while visiting New York City during Christmas.
#2. New Years Eve at Times Square
Listen, I grew up watching the ball drop at Time Square like everyone else. But I’ll tell you something all locals know. Celebrating New Years Eve in Times Square is like getting front row seats to hell.
First, the crowds absolutely suck the joy out of the event. Participants get gated into the main area and bathrooms are non-existent, so much so that some people wear adult diapers to the event. Hard pass.
Second, the frigid temperatures and duration of the event make it unbearable. You’ll be standing for hours in the cold and crowded streets. It’s simply not worth it, just watch the event from the comfort of your warm home. You won’t be missing much.
#3. Seeing the Rockefeller Tree on the Weekends
Seeing the massive Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is a must-do during Christmas in New York City, make no mistake about it. But I strongly recommend you avoid visiting during weekends. It’s estimated that 750,000 people visit the tree each day during the weekends.
I made the mistake of visiting during the weekends and found myself corralled (by police officers and barricades) in a massive crowd of people. I instantly regretted my decision to visit because the entire experience made me feel claustrophobic, and I’m not even claustrophobic to begin with!
#4. The Grand Central Holiday Market
My friend suggested I visit the Grand Central Holiday Market last Christmas and I’m sorry to report I found it disappointing. To me, the market was full of overpriced vendors and felt like a tourist trap. With so many great holiday markets to choose one, I don’t recommend making a detour for this one.
The only perk to the Grand Central Holiday Market is that it’s indoors, which makes it a great escape from the cold. But apart from that, it’s an easy pass in my book.
#5. Carriage Ride in Central Park
The way Central Park horses are treated is questionable at best, which is why I don’t recommend taking a carriage ride through Central Park while visiting New York City for Christmas. Take a lovely stroll through the park or hop aboard a city bike instead.
What keeps me coming back is how the landscape shifts as you move through #5. Carriage Ride in Central Park. There’s a quality of light here that photographs never quite capture. you have to be standing in it to understand. I’d suggest giving yourself at least a couple of hours, more if you’re the type who likes to sit with a view and let it sink in. Wear layers, bring water, and resist the urge to check your phone. The best moments here happen when you’re fully present. Early mornings are magical if you can manage it, and you’ll have far fewer people to share the trail with.
Quick Word on Visiting NYC During the Holidays
There’s no sense in sugarcoating it, NYC gets cold in December. Average daily temperatures hover around 44°F but the windchill makes it feel so much colder. I’m typically bundled up in three layers (long sleeve shirt, sweater and coat).
Make sure to pack a warm down coat, high-quality gloves, cashmere hat and comfortable walking shoes. Also, these bad boys don’t hurt (I never leave the house without them during the holiday season in New York).
Snow isn’t guaranteed during Christmas, but it’s not unheard of either. I’ve lived in New York City five years and have only experience a white Christmas once. As long as you adequately prepare for large crowds and cold weather, you’re bound to have a good time in NYC during the holidays.
Quick Summary
At a glance. 28 hand-picked recommendations for things to do in 29 FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025. Ideal for. first-time visitors and returning travelers who want to go deeper. Current as of 2026.)
List of Things to Do During Christmas in New York City (Post Summary)
- Ice skating at Wollman Rink
- Bryant Park Winter Village & Ice Skating
- Walk down 5th Avenue
- Bronx Zoo Light Show
- See the Rockefeller Tree
- Saks Fifth Avenue Lightshow
- Union Square Holiday Market
- See the Nutcracker
- The Christmas Spectacular Show at Radio City Music Hall
- Frozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market
- Central Park in the Snow
- Classic Harbor Line Holiday Cruise
- The Holiday Nostalgia Train
- Stroll the West Village in the snow
- Shine Bright at Hudson Yards
- Peter & the Wolf at Guggenheim
- The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden
- Macy’s Santaland
- Take in the city views from the ferry
- Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
- Christmas Concert at St. John the Divine
New York City Christmas Itinerary Planning Map
Based on our experience as NYC locals, Visiting NYC for Christmas (Table of Contents) tops our list for Things to Do for Christmas in NYC. See our full ranked list above for all 20 recommendations.
Every spot on this list was personally visited and reviewed by our team of NYC locals. We evaluate based on quality, atmosphere, and value.
And there you have it, my personal list of the best things to do in NYC during the holidays. Feel free to ask questions and/or leave a comment below, it’s always nice to hear from you!
If You Liked This. You might also enjoy my guide to 15+ EPIC Things to Do in New York in December. it’s one of my most popular posts and pairs perfectly with this one.
Planning your NYC trip? You can also sign up for my newsletter for weekly NYC insider tips.
Have you been? What’s your favorite Christmas activity in NYC? The holiday season here is truly something else. Share your must-do tradition!
You May Also Enjoy
For more on free during christmas, see our guide to 20 Best Free Things to Do in New York City During Christmas.
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- 10 Festive Things to Do at Rockefeller Center During Christmas
- 15 Festive New York City Christmas Activities for Kids (2025)
Final Thoughts
That wraps up our guide to FESTIVE Things to Do for Christmas in NYC (2025 Guide). Have a favorite spot we missed?
This is simply an incredible list! I am planning a trip with my mom, grandma and my sisters for my mom’s birthday on 12/9 and she’s wanted to see NYC at Christmastime her whole life. This is EXACTLY what I was looking for!
You’re so kind! Thank you for taking the time to let me know you found the list helpful, we love sharing NYC with everyone! Cheers to you and your mom and sisters, hope you all enjoy NYC!
I’ve visited NYC for NYE once a few years ago and come confirm that the I will probably never do it again from the streets. There were good moments, but we were in one spot for 6 hours. The cold was COLDING! (lol) ? I couldn’t feel my feet until we got back to the hotel we stayed at in Manhattan. ? There was a banner blocking the ball, so we didn’t get to see it actually drop in person. Soooo yeah, NYE outside in NYC, a huge no-go! Lol!
Nevertheless, thank you Ma’am, for this list! I will be visiting NYC soon during the holiday season. This is needed for my visit.
Lol, colding works for me! Thanks for adding your experience, I think other readers will find it helpful! 🙂
Hi we are coming to New York for first time for Xmas with 16 and 14 year old . Staying in Westin Times Square ? Any ideas and advice on what to do and where to do ?
Hey Kam, almost all of the things mentioned on this list would be great with a 16 & 15 year old (apart from the bars mentioned!).
THANK YOU This is just the kind of local holiday excitement I’m looking for! I’m planning a day trip with two friends a few days after Christmas. After thoroughly bundling up, do any ideas come to mind for escaping the cold? I expect we’ll be outside most of the day and will look to shops and restaurants for help warming up periodically.
Hi HC! So glad you found this guide useful! I think that if you dress adequately for the cold, you’ll be completely fine! Apart from that, I recommend taking frequent breaks by popping into cafes and restaurants that pique your interest. No need to rush the experience, sometimes it’s the sporadic, slow days that end up being the most enjoyable.
There are plenty of (indoor) things to do during this time of year! Check out some of our other guides like: Christmas restaurant, Things to do in winter and Things to do on a rainy day. We also have guides that are neighborhood specific for coffee shops & cafes you can warm up at and rest your legs. Cheers!
This is such a great list of do’s and do nots! As a first time visitor – keen on seeing NYC, and getting the “Christmas vibe” without the huge crowds – is it a good idea to visit in November rather, or is it too early for the Christmas spirit?
Hey there! Glad you found the list helpful, visiting in November is not a bad idea, but you will miss the Rockefeller Christmas tree (it doesn’t go up until the last week of November). Visiting the first week of December might be a good Plan B, but it’s still very busy at that time. At the end of the day, if you can brace for crowds and the cold, you’ll end up having a wonderful time in NYC during the holidays!
This was so helpful! We are planning a trip this Christmas!
Thank you Lindsay, I’m glad you found it helpful! Hope you enjoy your time in NYC. 🙂
These tips are amazing!
I will be visiting NYC for the first time this year between Christmas and New Years Eve.
I am travelling with my husband and 2 daughters of 16 years.
Before reading your tips I was planning to stay at Times Square aiming to find a hotel with a rooftop (we are not the type of people to be stuck in crowds of people) which would allow us to see the New Years Eve festivities.
Taking into consideration your insights it could be much more wise to stay at Upper West Side.
If I do that would I still get a feeling of what are the New Years Eve festivities in NYC?
Hi Cidalia, if your goal is to see the Times Square ball drop and events you won’t get any of that in the Upper West Side. I would suggest finding a hotel with views of the ball drop if that’s your priority. On the other hand the Upper West Side provides a more-quiet place to stay but you can still feel the holiday spirit, and Times Square is a short-subway ride away!
Suggest some hotels please ball drop view
That sounds like such a great trip! I hope this helps with your planning. You’re going to love it!
Please suggest more restaurants to try and a complete 7 day itinerary Christmas in newyork will be so helpful
Hi Sowmya, feel free to check out the 4-day Christmas itinerary I’m offering this year. The itinerary took several weeks to create (and five years of experience), it has restaurant recommendations as well. You might find it helpful, cheers!
Wanting to experience NYC at Christmas so badly but can only go the week of thanksgiving, really the couple days before thanksgiving. I know the tree won’t be lit but will the stores be decorated at this time? Thank you!
Hi Charlene,
Great question! Yes, many of the stores will have their Christmas displays in full effect by then. However, many of thee famous displays on 5th avenue typically go up right around Thanksgiving – usually the week before so I’d say it’s safe to say you’ll see your fair share! Let me know if that’s helpful and if you have any other questions 🙂
Best,
Antonina
Trying to make reservations for restaurants you listed for Christmas, but everything is full! Any other suggestions? Thanks so much!
Hey Erin, sorry to hear everything is booked out already! Christmas is such a busy time in the city, reservations seem to get booked up by November 1. Depending on the area you’re interested in, I suggest checking out New York Spork for restaurant recommendations and filtering by neighborhood, I’ll link it for you here: https://newyorkspork.com/category/neighborhoods/manhattan/
Cheers!
Antonina
Hi! A friend and I are planning to visit January 3-7. We were able to get tickets to the Nutcracker and the Rockettes. I was curious as to how long the window displays, light shows, and holiday markets are up or if we should expect to miss them. Thanks so much!
Hi Sarah Kate, the window displays should still be up the first week of January, as will the holiday market at Bryant Park. I’m not sure about the light shows, but most places keep decorations the first week of January. I hope you enjoy your time in NYC during Christmas, it’s so fun!
There’s truly nothing like Christmas in New York City! Your post captures the magic perfectly, from the sparkling lights to the holiday markets. I’ve been spending so much time indoors so a festive stroll through NYC’s holiday streets sounds like the perfect way to enjoy the season. Thanks, Antonina!
Hi Shelby, it really is magical, enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!
Thanks for sharing this!
My pleasure!
Hi! Thank you SO much for these great recs! I am visiting NYC from Dec. 27-30, with my best friend and our daughters (ages 9 and 13). Do you think that the crowds will still be crazy? We want to get the Christmas spirit and explore the city on foot. What’s the best time to see the window displays and tree? Thanks!
Hi Eva, that sounds like a wonderful trip! I think the crowds will still be nuts that week (especially since so many folks celebrate New Years Eve in NYC as well), but as long as you brace for the crowds you’ll be totally fine!
If you’d like to see the window displays without the crowds, go first thing in the morning. Same with the Rockefeller Tree. However, the magic happens after dark, in my opinion the Rockefeller Tree is worth the mind-numbing crowds but totally up to you!
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions, cheers!
Hi Antonina,
I followed your list to plan my Christmas trip to NYC last year and it was PERFECT! I can’t thank you enough for your recommendations and for taking the time to write this guide. My sister is visiting NYC this year and I recommended your website because we had such a good time. Thank you so much!
Kelly
Kelly, your comment made my day. Thank you so much for recommending my website to your sister, I am touched!
Hi Antonina,
Great article. I am visiting with my wife and would be grateful if you could give us a few dinner & drink spot recommendations in Manhattan.
Best Regards,
Liviu Muresan
Hi Liviu, absolutely! I write about my favorite restaurants and bars in NYC on New York Spork, I’ll link it here: https://newyorkspork.com/category/neighborhoods/manhattan. The website categorizes recommendations by neighborhood, I hope you find it helpful!
Hi Antonina. Really enjoying your blog. We are coming from Scotland to New York and will be there for NYE and New Year’s Day . We’re staying in east village . We wondered if you could recommend anywhere for New Year’s Eve to grab a drink without paying a $200 fee and any restaurant in area open on New Year’s Day. Thank you! We love New York 😘
Hi Jacqueline, I LOVE Scotland! My husband and I have been twice and are in love with the natural beauty and wonderful people. I wrote about my favorite cocktail bars in the East Village, I’ll link it here: https://newyorkspork.com/best-east-village-bars/. Call around and see if any of them will take reservations that night, hopefully so!
Enjoy your time in NYC, cheers!
Antonina
Thank you so much and delighted you love Scotland! Im an Edinburgh girl but live in a really old house in Falkland – home of outlander!!
Im taking my wife to new york to celebrate her 65th BD (december 9 to 12, 2024). I have tickets to see the Rockettes for one night and the play “Our Town” for another night. We have been to New York before but always in the summer time, and used the Hop on hop off buses to get around. .What are your thoughts regarding the hop-on hop-off buses during the winter months, is it worth the money. I also see that there is various christmas night lights tours also being offered, have you any experience on these tours. Appreciate any feedback.
Thanks
JC
Hi Joe, your upcoming trip sounds so exciting! I can’t vouch for the hop-on hop-off buses because I haven’t personally used them. I will say though, they’re almost always full in the winter. I just think the subway is a great way to get around. Likewise, I haven’t done any Christmas lights tours, but I think that’d be fun! It would be a great way to cover a ton of ground in limited time. Shoot me the top two tours you’re considering and I’ll do some more research/make a recommendation.
Wishing your wife a great birthday, cheers!
Hi
Any great pizza spots near the theater district where you can sit down and eat? I read thru a lot of your recommendations a month ago and thought I saw some but now can’t find them. Love your lists! Thank you!
Hi Carolyn,
For sit-down pizza restaurants near Times Square, I’d suggest: John’s Pizzeria of Times Square and Don Antonio. Cheers!
hi. I just bought your guide through ETSY.
imwe are celebrating my daughter’s sweet 16 and are visiting on December 12, 13, 14, and 15. since we are there for Friday through Monday, how do you think I should schedule my days based on the guide to maximize the most of it since the weekend seems to be a busier time for most of the activities.
Hi Magda, thanks so much for grabbing the guide and happy sweet 16 to your daughter, what a fun way to celebrate!
Since you’ll be here Friday through Monday, I’d recommend front-loading some of the “big ticket” holiday sights (Rockefeller Tree, 5th Avenue windows, Bryant Park Winter Village, Central Park skating) on Friday and Monday. Those are busiest on weekends, so you’ll have more breathing room if you do them on the weekdays.
Saturday and Sunday are perfect for experiences that can handle the crowds better, like exploring SoHo and the West Village, walking the Brooklyn Bridge into DUMBO, or catching a Christmas show in the evening (the Nutcracker, Rockettes, or a Broadway performance). If you’re interested in the holiday cruise, I’d book that for Saturday evening – it’s festive, special for a birthday, and doesn’t feel overwhelming even when it’s busy.
Think of it this way:
Friday (arrival/easing in): West Village brunch → Chelsea Market/High Line → Hudson Yards lights → Macy’s windows → Christmas-themed dinner.
Saturday (weekend energy): Brooklyn Bridge/DUMBO → 9/11 Memorial → holiday cruise.
Sunday (big shopping + show day): SoHo shopping → Rubirosa pizza → Katz Deli → Christmas performance.
Monday (less crowded): Central Park skate + walk → 5th Ave windows → Rockefeller Tree → Bryant Park Market → Summit One Vanderbilt for a big finale.
That way, you get the best balance – avoiding the worst of the weekend lines, while still soaking in the holiday buzz when it adds to the atmosphere.
Hope that helps and don’t hesitate to reach out with more questions etc.