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The Best of New York · Seasonal · Christmas

The best Christmas things to do in New York City with kids

Updated September 2026. 12 places.

Visiting New York City during the holidays with kids will leave you with a lifetime of cherished memories. But let’s get real, adequate planning is crucial because it’s no easy feat!

The expense, noise and crowds can turn the most beloved holidays tradition into a qualifier for Dante’s Inferno if you don’t know which landmines to avoid. That’s where I come in.

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best Christmas things to do in New York City with kids, 2026

  1. Dyker HeightsStreet · Dyker HeightsWhen it comes to the best Christmas decorations in New York City, Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood takes the cake.
  2. FAO SchwarzStore · Midtown ManhattanAnyone visiting New York City during the holidays with kids should make this famous shop a priority.
  3. Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic GardenEvent · BrooklynThe Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the best Christmas experiences in New York City for kids, my five-year-old niece has a blast every time.
  4. Macy’s SantalandEvent · Midtown ManhattanPro tip. most people rush through here. Take your time. It’s worth it.
  5. SerendipityRestaurant · Midtown Manhattan
  6. Bronx Zoo Holiday Light ShowEvent · BronxThe interactive displays and animated light shows guarantee a great night, which is why many locals consider this one of the best Christmas activities in New York City for kids.
  7. Ice Skating Rinks (various)Rink · New York CityI always recommend adding an ice skating rink to the itinerary when visiting New York City during Christmas with kids.
  8. New York Botanical GardenPark · BronxBilled as New York City’s largest outdoor holiday light experience, you’ll be privy to synchronized light shows and festive art installations throughout the evening.
  9. North Pole ExpressEvent · Midtown Manhattan
  10. Nutcracker Ballet (New York City Ballet)Theater · Lincoln CenterI consider The Nutcracker a must-see holiday performance while visiting New York City during Christmas with kids.
  11. Radio City Rockettes Christmas SpectacularTheater · Midtown ManhattanI highly recommend catching the performance if you’re visiting New York City during the holidays with kids.
  12. Saks Fifth Avenue Light ShowEvent · Midtown Manhattan

On the map

Where they are

6 neighborhoods, Midtown Manhattan and Bronx most of all.

Midtown Manhattan

Bronx

Brooklyn

Dyker Heights

Lincoln Center

New York City

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 15 Festive New York City Christmas Activities for Kids.