Visiting NYC at Christmas With Kids, How to Plan the Trip.

It’s iconic for a reason! Chaotic but absolutely worth it if you go in with realistic expectations, seeing the Rockefeller Tree in person is a must while visiting New York during the holidays. We’ve done early mornings and late nights to avoid the worst of it, and even then, it’s still a bit of a circus.

Parent tip The tree is typically lit daily from 5 a.m. to midnight—and yes, it really is over 75 feet tall. It requires more than 50,000 LED lights, and every year it’s topped with a Swarovski star that weighs over 900 pounds.

Ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park is a quintessential NYC holiday experience for kids. Set against the backdrop of midtown skyscrapers, this activity feels like a scene from a movie. We love walking by even if we’re not skating because it’s such a picture-perfect holiday moment.

Parent tip Wollman Rink is generally less crowded on weekday mornings. They have skate aids for little ones, but bring gloves (for everyone) and snacks because everything onsite is pricey.

Holiday markets in NYC are more than just shopping—they’re full-on festive experiences. Kids love the twinkling lights, music, and oversized treats, while parents can sneak in a little last-minute gifting (or just people-watch with a hot cider in hand).

There are several markets to choose from, Union Square, Columbus Circle and Bryant Park. I prefer the market at Bryant Park because it has an ice skating rink and carousel onsite!

Parent tip As with most holiday experiences, go early in the day to avoid the rush, especially at Union Square and Bryant Park. Also, not all hot chocolates are created equal—my favorite spot is No Chewing Allowed (they have an outpost at every holiday market in NYC).

Bonus Points Swing by the New York Public Library while visiting Bryant Park to admire the breathtaking Christmas tree!

The window displays along Fifth Avenue are the holiday tradition I most look forward to! The bold and colorful over-the-top themes vary by year, with the only constant being their ability to impress and inspire kids and adults alike. My daughter loves the lights and motion, Bergdorf Goodman has the best displays of all.

Parent tip Don’t worry if your stroller barely fits on the sidewalk—it’s part of the experience. Saks often has a light show on the building’s facade, which plays every 10 minutes and is 100% worth a detour. For extra fun, ask your kids to pick their favorite window and explain why—it buys you at least 15 minutes of entertainment.

If you’re visiting New York City during the holidays with kids, chances are you might want to pick up a souvenir and there’s no better place than FAO Schwarz, the oldest toy store in the country (founded in 1862). This endearing toy store is a holiday rite of passage for kids in NYC.

The iconic toy store near Rockefeller Center is home to the famous floor piano (the one from Big), life-sized stuffed animals, and over-the-top holiday displays that feel like a mini theme park. We love taking our nieces here during Christmas to pick out one special toy.

The Christmas Spectacular is a fast-paced, 90-minute show featuring high kicks, dazzling costumes, toy soldiers, Santa, and a living Nativity. The Rockettes perform with laser-sharp precision, and Radio City Music Hall is part of the experience. It’s one of those rare performances that manages to impress both little kids and jaded adults.

Parent tip Matinees are your best bet, and booster seats are available at the venue (though they run out fast). There are no bad seats at Radio City, but sitting near the aisle makes for an easy exit if needed.

The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is a must-see holiday event for families, featuring over 25 model trains zipping through nearly 200 miniature replicas of iconic New York landmarks, all crafted from natural materials like bark and leaves. Between the intricate displays and the enchanting movement of the trains, it’s fun for the whole family.

Parent tip Strollers are not permitted inside the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory where the show is held, so be prepared to use the designated stroller parking area. Additionally, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended, as this popular event often sells out.

​The Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights is a festive evening event where the zoo is transformed with 260 illuminated animal lanterns representing 70 animal and plant species, animated light shows, and seasonal decorations. Kids can enjoy activities such as ice carving demonstrations, illuminated performers, and the Holiday Train ride while parents sip spiked nog. ​

Parent tip Strollers are permitted, but some indoor areas may require stroller parking, so be prepared to carry essentials. Tickets must be reserved in advance, and parking can fill up quickly on peak days, so plan to arrive early.

Catching the Nutcracker at the Lincoln Center a cherished holiday tradition that captivates families with an enchanting story and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. The New York City Ballet’s rendition, choreographed by George Balanchine, is particularly renowned for its elaborate stage elements, including a one-ton Christmas tree that grows from 12 to 41 feet during the performance (imagine!).

The show sells out every year so my advice is to buy tickets right after you book your flights. Personally speaking, it’s one of my favorite holiday experiences in New York City with kids in tow.

Parent tip For families with younger children, productions like “My First Nutcracker” by the New York City Children’s Theater offer a more accessible, 50-minute adaptation designed specifically for audiences aged 3 to 8. For first-time attendees, familiarize your kiddos with the story beforehand to enhance their understanding and enjoyment of the show.

​The Holiday Nostalgia Train offers families a unique opportunity to experience New York City’s subway history firsthand. Every Sunday in December, vintage 1930s train cars (complete with rattan seats, paddle ceiling fans, and period advertisements), allowing passengers to travel through time for the price of a standard subway ticket.

Parent tip Strollers can be challenging on these vintage trains due to limited space and the absence of modern accessibility features. It’s advisable to use a lightweight, foldable stroller or a baby carrier to navigate the experience more comfortably. Also, be prepared for intense crowds (the train is usually packed full!).

​Visiting Santaland at Macy’s is not for the faint of heart! This immersive 13,000-square-foot Christmas village is complete with an enchanted forest, twinkling lights, and festive displays, ending with a visit with the big man himself. It’s an unforgettable memory for kids, albeit parents will remember the crowds and time spent waiting for Santa. The timeless photos are worth the hassle though!

Parent tip Reservations are required and can be made online up to five days in advance, opening daily at 6:30 a.m. Even with a reservation, expect wait times of 30 to 90 minutes; arriving during weekday mornings is the move.