12 Best things to do: Christmas in New York City

Are you planning a trip to NYC and looking for things to do during Christmas in New York City?

Christmas in New York is a truly special time, as the iconic landmarks are beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, grand Christmas trees, and delightful ornaments. Everywhere you look, there’s a bit of holiday magic waiting to be discovered!

Savoring treats from holiday markets, finding the best hot chocolate in town, and indulging in festive delights from the bakeries—this time of year is truly special! Every year, we spend time to exploring these magical places in NYC during Christmas, and we absolutely love it!

In this New York City holiday guide, I have covered all the best things to do during the holiday season, including where to stay, how to get around, and some useful tips.

How to Get to New York City

New York City is served by three major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Each airport provides convenient access to Manhattan and the other boroughs, depending on your point of origin.

If you’re traveling from nearby cities (East Coast) or even from Canada, Amtrak offers train services to Penn Station, while Greyhound and Megabus provide bus services to Port Authority Bus Terminal. Both are located in Midtown Manhattan, giving you quick access to the city’s main attractions.

Getting Around New York City

Subways and buses are the best and most affordable ways to get around New York City. A one-way trip costs about $2.90, regardless of distance traveled. For more details about fares and the 7-day MetroCard pass, you can visit the NY Transit website.

You can purchase a MetroCard at vending machines located in subway stations. Additionally, you can pay by tapping your credit card or using Apple Pay at the entrance.

Aside from subways and buses, you can book a cab using apps like Uber and Lyft, or hail a yellow taxi, which can be comparatively more expensive.

Walking is an excellent way to explore the city at no cost, especially in areas where attractions are close together. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy the holiday season in New York City. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes!

Where to stay in New York City

New York City has accommodation options for every budget. Staying in the right hotel can make your NYC Christmas adventure even more special by putting you close to iconic spots like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Fifth Avenue’s window displays, and Central Park’s winter wonderland.

With that said, during holiday season the hotels can be expensive so book in advance to save some money. Here are some popular neighborhoods:

Midtown Manhattan: This is the perfect location for first-time visitors and those who want to be close to major attractions like Times Square, Broadway, and Rockefeller Center. Hotels here range from luxury stays to more affordable options.

Upper West Side: If you prefer a quieter, more residential atmosphere with easy access to Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History, the Upper West Side is an excellent choice.

SoHo: Known for its boutique shopping and trendy restaurants, SoHo is perfect for those who appreciate a stylish and artistic vibe.

Brooklyn: For a more budget-friendly stay with a local feel, Brooklyn offers great accommodations in areas like Williamsburg and DUMBO, all while remaining close to Manhattan.

Aside from Manhattan & Brooklyn, you can also book hotels in Jersey city (other side of Hudson River) near path stations which connects to downtown to mid-town Manhattan.

Just a tip: It’s always a good idea to read reviews before booking a stay. Also, try to choose your stay within walking distance of a subway station so that you can save money on cabs.

Things to do this holiday season : Christmas in New York City

Whether you’re visiting New York City for the first time or you’re a local looking to embrace the holiday spirit, here’s your friendly guide to all the best things to do this holiday season. Just you know, the list below focuses solely on holiday-related attractions around NYC.

1. Visit the Holiday Markets

Wander through rows of stalls offering artisanal goods, jewelry, and holiday decorations, while sipping on hot chocolate. The Holiday markets are one of the best places to shop for unique gifts and handcrafted items. Plus, if you start to feel hungry while you shop, don’t worry—there are plenty of yummy food stalls waiting for you!

Here are the Christmas markets you should add to you itinerary –

• Union Square Holiday Market
• Columbus Circle Holiday Market
• Holiday Market at Bryant Park
• Grand Central Holiday Fair

Are you visiting ‘SUMMIT One Vanderbilt’ near Grand Central? Book your tickets here!

2. Watch Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall

For a dose of classic holiday entertainment, head to Radio City Music Hall for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the world-famous Rockettes. This annual show features impressive choreography, festive music, and elaborate costumes that will get anyone into the holiday spirit.

3. Dyker Heights holiday lights

The neighborhood of Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations. Homeowners deck their houses in tens of thousands of lights, inflatable Santas, and giant nutcrackers, a local tradition that attracts visitors from all over the world. The best part is you can enjoy it for free!

Good time to visit is after dark, from mid-December to just after Christmas, when the lights are in full splendor. The best streets to see the Christmas lights in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn are 11th to 13th Avenues (also known as Dyker Heights Blvd) from 83rd to 86th St. Some must-see homes include Spata’s and Mangano’s.

The most convenient and budget-friendly way to get from Manhattan to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is by taking the Subway. You can hop on the D train to 79th Street or the R train to 86th Street. Personally, I found the R train to be the best option.

The other choice would be to go for a guided tour which is a convenient way to enjoy the holiday decorations and learn about the tradition..

4. Go for Ice Skating

During holiday season in New York city, you will find many outdoor skating rings around the city. So, plan for Skating while enjoying the picturesque city skyline. Here are the Ice Skating rinks for you to checkout during holiday season –

• The Rink at Rockefeller Center
• Winter Village at Bryant park – This one offers free admission (skate rentals available).
• Wollman rink at Central Park.
• The Rink at Brookfield Place

5. Christmas lights at Hudson Yard

If you love to see glittering Christmas lights and decorations, head to Hudson yard. The hot air balloons decoration inside the Mall at Hudson yards is a popular instagrammable spot you should not miss. Just head to third floor and you find the best photo spot.

Planning t0 visit Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards – Book your tickets here!

6. Take Photo at Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

A visit to the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a quintessential holiday activity. The towering tree, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights, creates a magical backdrop for visitors to enjoy.

If you’re looking for some extra holiday cheer, why not lace up your skates and take a spin on the Rockefeller Center ice skating rink? Skating beneath the dazzling tree, with the city skyline towering above, is a picture-perfect New York Christmas experience. Since it is a very popular time, make sure to book your tickets in advance

Keep in mind, closer to Christmas Rockefeller Center gets very crowded. You will find very difficult to walk or stand near the center.

7. Admire the Macy’s Holiday Window Display

Walking through the Holiday Windows are very popular thing to do during holiday season in New York city. Every year, Macy’s at Herald Square decorates its windows with magical festive animations. They have different theme each year. It is few minutes walk from the famous Empire State Building, which is located one block on 34th Street.

Planning t0 visit Empire state Building – Book your tickets here!

8. Take a walk on 6th Avenue for Christmas decorations

Sixth Avenue, also known as Avenue of the Americas, is decorated with some amazing holiday ornaments along the street. You will find the best spot for the photos here. We absolutely love taking a stroll down this street to see the amazing giant decorations!

If you’re a fan of baked goodies, you definitely have to visit Magnolia Bakery right around the corner—it’s a real treat! And if you’re in the mood for some delicious street food (non-veg), you can’t go wrong with Adel’s Halal cart or The Halal Guys.

9. Stroll through Fifth Avenue Holiday Window display

A stroll down Fifth Avenue during the holiday season is like stepping into a storybook. Luxury retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tiffany & Co. create intricate, awe-inspiring holiday window displays.

Usually, The Saks Light Show is a must-see, with its stunning light display that is perfectly timed to holiday music. Unfortunately, this year (2024) Saks decided not do the light – music show. Such a bummer!

10. Visit all the Christmas Trees around NYC

There are so many big decorated Christmas trees around the city. If you are like us, looking to visit as many of them during this festive season here are few places you must visit –

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
• The Christmas Tree at Bryant Park
• New York Stock Exchange Christmas Tree
• Washington Square Park Christmas Tree
• South Street Seaport Christmas Tree
• Radio City Music Hall (MidTown)
• Avenue of the Americas (Midtown)

11. Stop by Christmas themed Restaurants & Bars

NYC has so many places where you can enjoy Christmas and winter-themed restaurants and bars. You can order holiday-themed drinks like Spiked hot chocolate, Mulled Wine, Egg nog, and more. Here is a list of some restaurants we visited and loved!

• Rolfs – This place is known for its holiday decorations. We recommend to visit only for drinks as we have heard the food is not that great. You don’t need reservations to have a drink a bar – as of now its first come first serve. If you are planning to eat, I would suggest to book a table in advance.
• Loreley Outdoor Beer Garden – I would suggest to book a table in advance.
• Lillie’s Victorian – If you planning to eat, I would suggest to book a table in advance.
• Miracles at 9th Street – I would suggest to book a table in advance
• Santas winter wonderland at Watermark – This is a Christmas-themed pop-up event that opens annually during the holiday season (November to December). A ticket is required for entry here.

12. Take a Holiday cruise

Holiday cruises are such a fun way to celebrate Christmas in New York City! Whether you’re heading there with family or planning a romantic getaway, a cruise is a fantastic choice for your holiday adventure. You’ll find so many activities on board that will make your experience even more special and memorable.

Looking for Walking NYC Food Tour – Book your tour here!

Weather in New York City in December

According to my observations based on past few years, New York City’s average daily temperatures range from around 10°C (50°F) to -1°C (30°F) in December. It means you may need your winter layers and a cup of hot chocolate to enjoy the holiday season.

If you are looking for winter destination in the USA – Read our ALASKA WINTER TRAVEL GUIDE!

Winter essentials you must carry

Apart from the outfit you may have planned for your Christmas in New York Trip, I strongly suggest carrying the winter essentials below as it can get very chilly.

• Beanies or winter hats
• Scarves
• Fleece mittens
• Pair of Wool socks (Keep some extra pairs)
• Winter jackets or Parkas (aka Outer shell Jacket)
• Thermal Base layer shirts or long-johns
• Thermal Base layer pants or long-johns
• Fleece lined leggings
• Hand & Foot warmers
• Winter shoes

Best places to find Hot Chocolate in NYC

We love drinking Hot Chocolate during Holiday Season as the weather is cold and Hot Chocolate keep us warm. Here are some places we would recommend –

• Rubyzaar Baked in Union Square Holiday Market
• S’Mores N’More in Bryant Park Holiday Market
• Glace by Noglu in Upper east side
• Frozen hot chocolate in Serendipity 3 (Times Square)

Tips for Enjoying Christmas in NYC

• Dress warmly: Winter in NYC can be chilly, so make sure to bundle up.
• Plan ahead: Book tickets for popular attractions like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular or ice skating rinks in advance to avoid long lines.
• Visit early: Some attractions, like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, can get crowded. Arrive early in the morning or late at night to avoid the crowds and snap some photos with fewer people around.
• If you don’t like planning, Guided tours of NYC’s best holiday lights are a great way to see everything. Options include bus tours, walking tours, and even boat cruises that pass by the Statue of Liberty with Manhattan’s lights in the background.

FAQs

How many days do you need for Christmas in New York City?

Spending 3 to 4 days in the city is just perfect for soaking up all the holiday fun! You’ll have plenty of time to explore all the Christmas attractions, shop for gifts, and enjoy delicious meals without feeling rushed. Plus, New York City is really easy to get around with its great public transit system and walkable streets, so you’ll be able to see so much in just a day.

When do Christmas decorations start in New York City?

Most holiday-themed attractions during Christmas in New York City begin opening in mid-November, but all the Christmas tree lights are turned on by December 1st.

If you want to experience the full holiday spirit in NYC, I recommend planning your visit anytime in December before Christmas.

Does it snow in New York City at Christmas?

Usually, it does not snow until January in New York City. But, you can always manifest for white Christmas hehe! I know I am. However, it is gonna be very cold so you bring all your layers – Sweater, Jackets, Parkas, Thermals, Hand Gloves and Beanies.

Is it costly to visit New York during Christmas?

Yes! Everything during Christmas in New York City can be expensive especially if you book your hotel and flight closer to Christmas. You can save money by visiting free or low-cost attractions, such as holiday markets and light displays. Additionally, consider purchasing a New York City Pass to save on admission fees for paid attractions, if you are planning to visit.

Final Thoughts

New York City during the holiday season is nothing short of magical. The city comes alive with sparkling lights, bustling holiday markets, and an infectious festive spirit. You really should experience Christmas in New York City at least once! The city is filled with so many fun and festive things to do, and I promise you’ll create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime!

Hope you guys find this Christmas in New York guide helpful. Let us know in the comments if have any questions. Happy to answer! or if you find our blog useful. Happy to know!

You can also follow us on Instagram Or Facebook, where we post all about our recent travels. We also have a YouTube channel where we share our travel experiences.

Pin it or Bookmark this post for your future reference. If you liked our content and want to say thanks, you can buy us a coffee.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays! Enjoy the festivities!

You can PIN this post for future planning 👇🏼