I’ve been to NYC about 25 times, and let me tell you—that city comes alive at Christmas time! New York City is magical any time of year, but there’s something truly enchanting about visiting during the holiday season. From dazzling light displays to iconic Christmas traditions, the city transforms into a winter wonderland. If you’re planning a trip to NYC at Christmastime, here are the best things to do to make the most of the season.

Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall

We saw the Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall in January 2025. Let me tell you – it was AMAZING!

Taking my daughter to the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes was unforgettable. From the moment we stepped into Radio City Music Hall, we were transported into a winter wonderland. The lobby was filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and an undeniable buzz of excitement.

The show itself was breathtaking! The Rockettes were mesmerizing. The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and New York at Christmas had us in awe. We loved Santa’s grand entrance and the dazzling projections that made the entire theater feel like a snow globe. It is a show that the whole family will enjoy. The experience is one you’ll never forget.

We also joined the guided tour of Radio City Music Hall and really enjoyed it! See more from our visit to Radio City Music Hall (the tour and the show) HERE.

Rockefeller Center

Festive Activities at Rockefeller Center

If you’re not into ice skating or just want to extend your visit, there’s plenty more to enjoy:

• Ice Skating under the Christmas Tree: Ice skating at The Rink is the ultimate holiday experience!
• Admire the Christmas Tree: Even if you don’t skate, simply standing in front of the tree and soaking in the holiday magic is a must.
• Visit the Saks Fifth Avenue Lights: Just across the street, this dazzling display of lights is a holiday favorite.
• Check Out the Holiday Window Displays: Stroll along Fifth Avenue to see the beautifully decorated store windows at places like Macy’s and Bergdorf Goodman.
• Enjoy a Cozy Meal: Warm up with a hot chocolate or festive treat at a nearby café or restaurant.
• Shop til You Drop: Saks, Anthropology, FAO Schwarz, JellyCat Diner, and many other shopping areas are located near Rockeffeller Center
• Visit the St. Patrick’s Cathedral nearby

Go Ice Skating

There are plenty of places to lace up your skates in NYC, but the most iconic rinks include:

• Wollman Rink in Central Park – Enjoy stunning city skyline views while gliding across the ice.
• Rockefeller Center – Skate under the Christmas tree in this classic holiday setting. I think Rockefeller is prettier at night, but we had Broadway shows every night. We went during the day. It was still fun, and it SNOWED!
• Bryant Park Winter Village – A picturesque and free-admission rink surrounded by charming holiday shops.

Tips for Skating at The Rink at Rockefeller Center

To make the most of your ice skating experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Book in Advance: The rink is incredibly popular, and time slots fill up quickly during the holiday season. Reserve your tickets online to secure your preferred time.
• Go Early or Late: Mornings and late evenings are typically less crowded than peak afternoon hours.
• Dress warmly: While skating will keep you moving, NYC can be quite chilly in December, so wear layers, gloves, and a hat.
• Capture the Moment: Don’t forget to take photos! The rink is a picturesque spot. It is especially lovely at night when the Christmas tree and surrounding buildings are illuminated.

Above Photo: The Rink at Rockefeller Center

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the most awe-inspiring holiday destinations in New York City. The neo-Gothic masterpiece is adorned with twinkling lights and festive wreaths. You can attend Midnight Mass or visit to admire and reflect. If you would like to book a tour, please click HERE.

Walk Through Central Park in the Snow

Central Park becomes a breathtaking winter wonderland after a fresh snowfall. Take a stroll, go sledding, or even enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride for the ultimate holiday experience.

Experience the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

For an over-the-top holiday light experience, head to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. The neighborhood is famous for its extravagantly decorated homes. See houses adorned with thousands of lights, life-size nutcrackers, and even animatronic displays. It’s one of the most festive spots in the city!

Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden

The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) features model trains that weave through a stunning miniature NYC landscape. The display showcases over 190 iconic landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Yankee Stadium. All of the landmarks are intricately crafted from natural materials like bark, leaves, and acorns. Set within the warm, tropical setting of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, this exhibit is a must-visit for families, train enthusiasts, and holiday lovers alike.

WEBSITE

New York Public Library

The Library Gets All Dolled Up for Christmas

 Other traditional Christmas decorations in Astor Hall at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building:

• 22-foot decorated Christmas tree
• A beautiful illuminated copy of the Qur’an that is believed to have been produced in Safavid Iran in the 10th century AH (16th century CE)
• A shining 18th-century brass Hanukkah lamp from Poland, on loan from the Bernard Museum of Judaica, Temple Emanu-El.

The library also features special exhibits during the holiday season (usually from the first of December until the first of January). For example, in 2024, the NYCPL invited visitors to enjoy its display of A Dickens Christmas.

*Pro Tip: The New York City Library is right next to Bryant Park (if you want to plan those two activities around the same time).

Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards in New York City transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland during the holiday season. It is decorated with over 2 million twinkling lights. The lights are draped along The Shops & Restaurants, framing the grand staircases and wrapping around railings and columns.

At the heart of Hudson Yards, the iconic Vessel is illuminated with shimmering lights. It is a stunning backdrop for holiday photos. The Public Square and Gardens also glow with festive decorations. See luminous trees and sparkling ornaments. Nearby, The Edge—NYC’s highest outdoor sky deck—offers a breathtaking view of the city’s holiday lights.

Throughout the holiday season, visitors can enjoy live performances and interactive light displays. Occasional snowfall enhances the enchanting atmosphere.

The development includes luxury residential towers, office buildings, high-end shopping, restaurants, cultural spaces, and public parks. Some of its notable attractions are:

• The Vessel – A striking honeycomb-like structure.
• The Edge – It is one of the highest outdoor sky decks in the Western Hemisphere, offering panoramic views.
• The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards – A high-end shopping mall with brands like Cartier, Dior, and an Equinox fitness club.
• The Shed – This is a cultural arts center that hosts performances, exhibitions, and events.
• High Line Access – The popular elevated park connects to Hudson Yards, making it a scenic entry point.

Hudson Yards WEBSITE

Stroll Down Fifth Avenue for Holiday Window Displays

NYC department stores go all out with elaborate window displays during the holidays. Stroll along Fifth Avenue to admire the festive artistry at stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, Bergdorf Goodman, and Bloomingdale’s.

Macy’s

Louis Vuitton

Above Photo: This is a building! It is UNREAL!

Anthropology

Above Photo: Anthropology Window Display Christmas 2024 – very close to Rockefeller Center. My personal favorite! Making these window displays would be a dream job!

Photo Above: Dior

Grab a Hot Chocolate and/or Coffee

Ralph’s Coffee in New York City is a cozy yet sophisticated café by Ralph Lauren. The decor blends classic American charm with a refined, vintage aesthetic. It is located inside the Polo Ralph Lauren flagship store on Madison Avenue.

Above Photo: Ralph’s Coffee

Get Yourself a Little Sweet Treat

Above Photo: Cheesecake at Junior’s

• Junior’s Cheesecake – New York cheesecake is legendary, and no place does it better than Junior’s.
• Levain Bakery’s Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie – Levain Bakery serves giant, gooey, and perfectly crispy-on-the-outside cookies. They have a cult following for a reason. Their signature Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie is warm, melty, and divine.
• Dominique Ansel’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Shot -They are famous for inventing the cronut and the Chocolate Chip Cookie Shot.
• Lady M’s Mille Crêpes Cake – This French-Japanese hybrid cake is made of 20+ paper-thin crêpes layered with light pastry cream. The signature vanilla is a fan favorite, but matcha and chocolate are equally divine.
• Balthazar’s French Pastries is a famous French bakery that brings Parisian flavors to NYC. Try the pain au chocolat, eclair, or fruit tart.

More NYC Desserts

• Magnolia Bakery’s Banana Pudding– While Magnolia Bakery is famous for its cupcakes, the real star is its banana pudding.
• Taiyaki NYC’s Fish-Shaped Ice Cream Cones – Taiyaki NYC’s soft-serve ice cream is served in warm, fish-shaped Japanese waffle cones and filled with red bean or custard. Flavors like matcha, black sesame, and unicorn swirl make this an Instagram-worthy treat.
• Milk Bar’s Cereal Milk Soft Serve -Created by award-winning pastry chef Christina Tosi, Milk Bar is known for creative and nostalgic desserts.
• Patisserie Chanson’s Dessert Tasting Menu – For a high-end dessert experience, check out Patisserie Chanson’s dessert tasting menu. This six-course, late-night dessert omakase is an elegant, unexpected way to experience sweets in NYC. Think plated pastries, intricate flavor pairings, and a luxurious atmosphere.
• Dough’s Hibiscus Doughnut is known for next-level doughnuts. Their Hibiscus Doughnut is a standout. It is a light, fluffy, oversized treat coated in a tangy-sweet hibiscus glaze.

Christmas-Themed Bars and Restaurants

Frosty’s

Frosty’s is an OVER-THE-TOP pop-up Christmas bar experience. It’s a fun party atmosphere with cocktails, holiday photo experiences, lights, and music. In 2024, it was located at Bacall’s & Blue Midtown.

Get Tickets HERE.

Holiday Meals at Tavern on the Green

For something special, you can visit Tavern on the Green for a Holiday Brunch. See the full Menu and dates, and make Reservations HERE.

Tavern on the Green even offers a wonderful meal for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. See the menu and make reservations HERE.

Tavern on the Green WEBSITE

Afternoon Tea at the Plaza

If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, you might want to consider having Afternoon Tea at the Plaza. The Palm Court is transformed with twinkling lights, lush garlands, grand wreaths, and a towering Christmas tree. This is a perfect spot for photos!

Tea includes finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and exquisite holiday-themed pastries. It is all presented on fine china. FANCY! While you drink your tea, you can listen to soft holiday melodies from a live pianist.

See Menu and Book on the Plaza’s WEBSITE

Pick Out an Ornament at the Harry Potter Store

Harry Potter fans will LOVE the Harry Potter Store in NYC. While there, pick out a special HP ornament or personalized wand! See more from our visit to the Harry Potter Store HERE.

The Harry Potter Store WEBSITE

Watch the Christmas Shows and Concerts

Beyond the Rockettes, NYC offers plenty of holiday entertainment, including:

• The Nutcracker by the New York City Ballet – This is a timeless Christmas classic with stunning choreography at Lincoln Center.
• Carnegie Hall Holiday Concerts – See festive symphonies and choral performances that capture the spirit of the season.
• Handel’s Messiah at Lincoln Center – This is a breathtaking holiday tradition featuring magnificent orchestras and choirs.

Explore the Holiday Markets

New York’s holiday markets are the perfect place to pick up unique gifts and festive treats. Some of the best markets include:

• Bryant Park Winter Village – This European-style park features stalls selling handmade crafts, gifts, and delicious holiday snacks. *** Bryant Park is right next to the New York City Public Library if you want to group those two activities.
• Union Square Holiday Market – This is a vibrant market filled with artisan goods, cozy gifts, and warm drinks.
• Columbus Circle Holiday Market – Set at the edge of Central Park, this market offers gourmet foods and handcrafted items.

Visit Macy’s Santaland

A trip to Macy’s Santaland is a must for families visiting NYC at Christmas. Macy’s is the world’s most famous department store. Meet Santa Claus himself and explore the enchanting holiday displays.

Macy’s Santaland usually begins on Black Friday and ends on Christmas Eve. This event is on the eighth floor of Macy’s in Herald Square, located on 34th Street between 7th Avenue and Broadway.

Take a Holiday Lights Tour

Above Photo: Lights in Dyker Heights Neighborhood

You can see NYC’s most dazzling decorations without walking for miles. Just book a holiday lights tour! Bus and walking tours take you past the city’s most breathtaking displays. These tours include the Rockefeller Center tree, Fifth Avenue lights, and more.

Here are a few tour providers:

• New York City Insider Holiday Lights Tour
• Get Your Guide -There are multiple tours available.
• On Location Tours – This is a holiday lights and movie sites tour.
• NYC Private Holiday Lights Tour – This is a private SUV tour. It gets great reviews and comes highly recommended.
• Christmas Light Private Carriage Ride New York City

Holiday Lights at Bronx Zoo

Things You Can Enjoying at the Bronx Zoo During Holidays:

• Animal lanterns
• See immersive light displays
• Stroll through the zoo’s illuminated pathways
• Enjoy seasonal treats
• Watch ice carving demonstrations
• Experience live performances

Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights Website

The Whole City Gets Dolled Up for Christmas

Photo Above: Empire State Building

Above Photo: See unique Christmas decorations at Tiffany’s store in NYC.

Photo Above: The Edge gets all decked out for Christmas.

Photo Above: Visit the decorated Ghostbusters’ Fire Station at Christmas.

Above Photo: See the Christmas tree at the Lotte New York Palace.

Above Photo: Wall Street

Photos Above: FAO Schwarz at Rockefeller Center is festive at Christmas.

Above Photo: Grand Central Station is lit up in Red and Green Lights at Christmas.

Photo Above: Dior Christmas Display

Christmas in New York City is a bucket-list experience that brings holiday magic to life. There’s no better place to celebrate the season. Enjoy ice skating under twinkling lights, marveling at festive window displays, or seeing a classic holiday show. Bundle up, sip on some hot chocolate, and immerse yourself in the wonder of a New York City Christmas!

What’s your favorite thing to do in NYC at Christmastime? Let me know in the comments!

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