The New York Stock Exchange.

A stark composition to the gray-washed buildings that define the Financial District, the dazzling Christmas decorations at the New York Stock Exchange are a sight for soar eyes. The stunning tree soars to heights of 60 feet, which makes it one of the tallest Christmas trees in New York City, reason alone to visit.

If you can brave the crowds, consider attending the tree lighting festival. A tradition dating back to 1923, it’s the oldest tree lighting festival in NYC. Soak up the holiday spirit with warm hot chocolate while the kids take photos of costumed performers and write letters to Santa.

New York City is synonymous with financial power and the iconic New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) deserves most of the credit. A symbol of capitalism, the historic edifice, completed in 1903, houses the world’s largest stock exchange (the listed companies have a combined value of over $30 trillion!).

The trading floor influences economies around the world, but it’s no longer open to the public (after the 9/11 terrorist attacks). But honestly, even just seeing the building from the outside is worth visiting the Financial District.

Who would have guessed that the New York Stock Exchange would make our list of NYC Christmas photo spots, alas, here we are! Now I know what you’re thinking, isn’t Wall Street gray, dull, and everything you want to avoid when taking photos?

While technically yes all of that is true, the New York Stock Exchange hosts one of the best Christmas trees in NYC, making the usually gray financial distract burst with color. Full of colorful lights and bright baubles, the NYSE holds its own when searching for the best NYC Christmas photo spots.

Standing as a symbol for capitalism (the principle our country was built upon), the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is one of the most important buildings in New York City. This historic edifice, completed in 1903, houses the world’s largest stock exchange (the listed companies have a combined value of over $30 trillion!).

The trading floor influences economies around the world, but it’s no longer open to the public (after the 9/11 terrorist attacks). Regardless, even seeing the building from the outside is worth the trek. A masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, the building features a grand façade with six Corinthian columns.

A testament to New York City’s central role in global finance, the NYSE is an iconic New York City building that can’t be missed. Try visiting at 9:30am or 4pm to hear the famous ringing of the bell (signifying the start and end of the day’s trading).