Pro tip. most people rush through here. Take your time. It’s worth it.
What I wrote thereFold it away
A cherished holiday tradition dating back to 1862, the entire 8th floor of Macy’s at Herald Square is transformed into a mesmerizing winter wonderland, giving families a chance to wander through whimsical winter villages and meet Santa in person (for free)
Santaland kicks off the day after Thanksgiving and runs until Christmas Eve, experiencing the event is a must for anyone visiting New York City with kids. Read. Complete Guide to Macy’s Santaland in NYC (Tips for Keeping Your Sanity).
Good to know Attracting 170,000 visitors a year, Santaland is one of the most popular free activities in NYC for kids, so make reservations in advance.
- Costfree
- From my guide, published July 2025.

