

It’s no secret that New York City is one of the most fascinating and magical places during the Christmas season. From the giant Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center to the festive lights in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood, there are a lot of fun NYC Christmas activities for all to experience!
Ever since I was a baby, my parents would take me to New York City to see the Tree at Rockefeller Center, the Radio City Rockettes and all the enchanting 5th Avenue store windows. Even at a young age, there was always a special feeling that ran through me during Christmas in New York!

From admiring the city skyline and all its lights from across the Hudson River in New Jersey to taking the Ferry, the entire journey into NYC was always so exciting for me during the holiday season.
A lot has changed over the years, and nowadays, there are countless Christmas trees, shows, ice skating rinks, decorations and pop-ups that have emerged throughout the five boroughs. Because of that, doing a NYC Christmas trip should be added to your travel bucket list!

In this article, discover the best activities and things to do in NYC at Christmas.
**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like. During my time exploring the holiday magic in NYC, Sonder hosted me in one of their Battery Park apartments for two nights.
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How to Get Around NYC during Christmastime:

There are countless ways to travel to experience NYC Christmas activities in 2025. Even though the city looks small on a map, it’s HUGE in reality!
In Manhattan alone, there are 262 blocks. Then you have Brooklyn, which is even more extensive and then Queens, which is even larger than that, as well as The Bronx and Staten Island.
The most affordable and convenient way to travel around New York City is to take the New York City Subway, operated by the MTA. Discover how to navigate the NYC Subway! (There is also a city bus that is run by MTA.)
Other ways to get around include taxis or rideshare (Uber or Lyft). You could also take your own vehicle into New York City (or rent a car), but embrace that journey since there is a lot of traffic and parking is expensive.
(It is easier to find free parking outside of Manhattan. Please also note that parking officials do not play around; if you park illegally anywhere in NYC, your vehicle will get towed and the ticket isn’t cheap.)
New York City is a HUGE international hub, so you won’t have trouble finding flights to and from the Big Apple. The three major airports in the New York City area are John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and Laguardia Airport. You can find affordable flights through Skyscanner.
(Click here if you are planning a road trip around the United States and want to rent an RV.)
If you are traveling locally, it is most convenient to take public transportation to see all the Christmas decorations in New York City. The train is one of the most popular ways locals from the Tri-state area travel into NYC for Christmas activities.
The Metro-North (run by MTA), which travels from the Hudson Valley, West Chester and Connecticut, goes into Grand Central Terminal on 42nd Street. NJ Transit, which travels from New Jersey, and the Long Island Railroad, which travels from Long Island (and is also run by the MTA), operate into Penn Station on 34th Street.

For those traveling from Jersey City, Hoboken, Newark or Harrison in New Jersey, take the PATH train (run by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey) from Newark-Penn Station, Harrison Station and Hoboken Station as well as Journal Square, Grove Street, Newport and Exchange Place in Jersey City into World Trade Center, Christopher Street, 9th Street, 14th Street, 23rd Street and 33rd Street in Manhattan.
In addition, for travelers arriving by train from farther destinations and other major cities like Washington D.C., Boston, etc., it’s best to take the Amtrak train into the Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station.
The bus is another way to travel to New York for Christmas. The buses that operate into the Port Authority Bus Terminal on 42nd Street, outside of Times Square, are listed here.
My favorite way to travel to NYC is by taking the ferry! From Weehawken, NJ (Port Imperial), I enjoy sailing with the NY Waterway into either Midtown/West 39th Street or Downtown/Pier 11 Wall Street.
Overall, the NY Waterway also has terminals in Edgewater, Hoboken and Jersey City, NJ as well as Battery Park in Downtown Manhattan. You can access a bus service around Manhattan when you purchase a NY Waterway ticket.
There is also a NYC Ferry that transits between Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and The Bronx, and there’s a separate ferry for Staten Island.
Other ferries that go to and from Manhattan are the Trust for Governors Island (to and from Governors Island), Liberty Landing Ferry (to and from Jersey City), NY Water Taxi (a hop-on-hop-off water taxi), Seastreak (to and from Monmouth County beaches in New Jersey, as well as Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket in Massachusetts), and Statue Cruises (to and from the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum).
When the holiday season is in full swing, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, it’s best to plan ahead. The city boasts heavy tourism from late November through early January, so be prepared for heavy traffic and delays and arrive early for reservations, shows, etc.
Where to Stay during Christmas in New York:

Sonder is one of the best places to stay in New York City to enjoy all the magical Christmas activities and taste what life is like as a New Yorker. During Christmastime 2020, I stayed at a Sonder in Manhattan’s Battery Park area in the Financial District.
Sonder manages short-term rentals around the world. You can choose from a several locations in New York City! Each apartment is cozy, clean and in a safe neighborhood.
Overall, Sonder apartments boast a modern design, contact-free service and check-in as well as exceptional comfort with extra space to live, work and play!

Not only did my Sonder have an awesome pizza sign (there was an iconic Artichoke Basille’s Pizza around the corner), but my apartment also had one bedroom with a comfy, full-sized bed, a flat-screen television, a cozy living room with a sleeper sofa, closet space, a full-size kitchen, dining area and one full bathroom.
The apartment was professionally cleaned when I checked in, and 24/7 support was available. My Sonder building also had a lounge area, rooftop and fitness center.
Since Manhattan hotels are pricier during the festive season, Sonder is a perfect and affordable option.
Best NYC Christmas Activities: How to Spend Christmas in New York

Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Ice Rink:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between West 50th and West 51st Streets
The number one of 50 things to do in NYC in December is to see the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center.
If you’re in NYC during the first week of December 2025, you could catch the annual tree lighting ceremony by NBC with live performances from famous music artists and celebrities. The annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting will occur on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. It’s the best NYC annual holiday tradition!
(Please note that the lighting ceremony attracts large crowds, so it’s best to be prepared and arrive early if you want a good viewing spot.)
The tree will be up from December 3, 2025, through January 11, 2026. Depending on the weather, ice skating will be available from mid-March to early April 2025.
In addition to seeing the most famous NYC Christmas tree surrounded by stunning angels, you could also go ice skating at the iconic Rink at Rockefeller Center. This renowned ice skating rink is also where the Radio City Rockettes perform during the tree lighting.
It’s one of the most memorable NYC Christmas activities in December! Make sure you book tickets in advance to ice skate at Rockefeller Center.

At Rockefeller Center, you can also book Holiday Chalets for a 40-minute cozy experience overlooking the ice rink and Christmas tree. With your Après Skate Chalet ticket, presented by Balsam Hill, you can enjoy two complimentary non-alcoholic drinks per person. (You can also purchase additional food and drinks.)
These wooden chalets can seat up to six people and prices range from $45 to $185 USD.
See the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall:

Location (Midtown) – 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), between West 50th and West 51st Streets
Another one of the top things to do in New York at Christmas is to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. It’s also presented by QVC.
As a former competitive dancer, I always love seeing the Rockettes perform, whether in the Christmas Spectacular show I’ve seen a few times (recently in 2025) or in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which I usually watch from home on Thanksgiving morning.
Seeing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is among the best NYC Christmas traditions and should be on your December bucket list.
Admire the Giant Red Ornaments, Christmas Lights & Candy Canes:

Location (Midtown) – 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), between West 48th to West 50th Streets
While exploring all the holiday magic in Midtown, you must see the giant red ornaments, Christmas lights and candy canes around Rockefeller Center, across from Radio City Music Hall.
These festive decorations are some of the most photographed in the Big Apple. They are fascinating to see in person during Christmas in New York.
Warm Up to Mulled Wine at City Winery Igloos:

Location (Midtown) – Rockefeller Plaza on West 51st Street
One of the best places to relax and warm up at Rockefeller Center is City Winery’s Outdoor Wine Garden and Private Winter Domes (igloos). They overlook the beautiful Christmas tree!
City Vineyard‘s primary location is situated downtown in Tribeca, and there is also a wine bar at Pier 57 in Chelsea. However, every December in NYC, City Winery sets up its holiday wine experience in Midtown. The outdoor wine garden offers first-come, first-serve seating in an open-air space with outdoor heaters.
There are Private Wine Domes that are available to book. They are heated and intimate and must be reserved in advance. At City Winery’s Outdoor Wine Garden and Private Winter Domes, you could enjoy mulled wine and cider as well as hot chocolate, coffee, regular wines from the winery itself and craft beer from Montauk Brewing Company.
Each dome can seat up to eight people and requires a $250 USD minimum spend. You can enjoy the Winter Domes for 90 minutes! Additionally, a $25 USD deposit per guest during the time of booking will be applied towards the $250 minimum spend on the final check.
Cozy Up with a Warm Beverage at Ralph’s Coffee Truck:

Location (Midtown) – Rockefeller Plaza on 5th Avenue
An iconic coffee pop-up stand in Rockefeller Center is Ralph’s Coffee Truck by Ralph Lauren. This photogenic coffee truck is decorated for Christmas. It’s the perfect spot to pick up something warm to fuel you for the day while you take on the best NYC Christmas activities.
You can visit other Ralph’s Coffee locations in the Flatiron District and Upper East Side. If you want to treat yourself to fine dining during your holiday getaway to New York, I recommend getting reservations at The Polo Bar in Midtown.
Enjoy the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between East 49th and East 50th Streets
Every year, Saks Fifth Avenue does a fantastic job decorating its storefront windows with holiday apparel. These windows pay tribute to the talent of those within the fashion industry.
The famous department store does an incredible 10-story light show every year, starting in late November and running through the beginning of January. It’s always fascinating to watch this illuminating show while visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree!
Overall, this fantastic display has a different theme each year. In 2022, it was Elton John-themed, and in 2023, it was a Christian Dior theme.
Tune into the Real Meaning of Christmas at St. Patrick’s Cathedral:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between East 50th and East 51st Streets
For all of us who celebrate, it is essential to remember the true meaning of Christmas. St. Patrick’s Cathedral, located across from Rockefeller Center, is a beautiful neo-Gothic Catholic cathedral.
While exploring and immersing yourself in all the wonderful NYC Christmas activities at Rockefeller Center, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral. During the month of December, the cathedral features beautiful nativity scenes and festive décor. Add the breathtaking mass on Christmas Eve to your bucket list!
Appreciate the Holiday Décor at Lotte New York Palace:

Location (Midtown) – Madison Avenue, between East 50th and East 51st Streets
Not only is Lotte New York Palace one of the most beautiful hotels to stay at during your Christmas trip to NYC, but admiring the stunning Christmas tree in its courtyard should be on your bucket list. In fact, Lotte Palace has one of the best Christmas trees in the city to see.
What is excellent about Lotte New York Palace is that it’s across the street from the back of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s also steps away from Rockefeller Center, the Theater District, Central Park and all other fun NYC Christmas activities Midtown offers.
From December 1 through 24, children can write letters to Santa Claus. Every kid will be given personalized postcards to drop off in the hotel’s iconic North Pole mailbox during check-in. A reply from Santa will appear in your room.
To make your stay even more magical, I recommend booking the Palace Holiday Suite. It is decorated with an enchanting Christmas tree by Balsam Hill and has homemade cookies when you first check in.
Families can also admire a gingerbread mansion in the hotel’s Villard Restaurant. This upscale bistro is a lovely spot to enjoy a holiday meal during your NYC Christmas vacation.
Additionally, you and your loved ones can say hi to Santa every Sunday in December from 9 am to noon and appreciate a St. Patrick’s Cathedral VIP tour. Both guests and non-guests can warm up to holiday cocktails and signature hot chocolate at the hotel’s Winter Bar in the courtyard on Wednesdays through Fridays from 3 pm to 9 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 pm to 7 pm.
View the Magical Window Displays Along 5th Avenue:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue in Midtown, from 34th Street to the Start of Central Park
Fifth Avenue is where all of New York City’s high-end fashion shops and famous department stores are located. It’s similar to Paris’ Champs-Élysées, Los Angeles’ Rodeo Drive, etc.
One of the best things to do in New York City at Christmas is to stroll along 5th Avenue. See the decorative storefront windows beautifully showcasing different fashion items and trends while celebrating the holiday magic.
Other 5th Avenue stores with beautiful Christmas decorations are Bergdorf Goodman, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Tiffany and Co., Coach, Christian Dior and Harry Winston, to name a few.
Experience the Magical Decorations at The Peninsula Hotel’s Lobby:

Location (Midtown) – On the Corner of 5th Avenue and West 55th Street
Staying at The Peninsula Hotel during a New York City Christmas is extra special. The hotel boasts idyllic decorations and offers guests great holiday packages to make a family getaway to the Big Apple special.
Overall, The Peninsula New York is one of the best places to stay in NYC at Christmas! Below are festive experiences you can book at The Peninsula New York:
- Festive Traditional Afternoon Tea: When you stay at The Peninsula Hotel in December, you and your friends and family can enjoy an afternoon holiday tea experience. It costs $185 USD per guest, and $10 will be donated to the New York Children’s Center. You can relish afternoon tea on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3 pm to 5 pm.
- Holiday Afternoon Indulgence: On Saturdays and Sundays from 3 pm to 6 pm during December, you can appreciate a relaxing afternoon sipping The Peninsula Cuvee Deutz Champagne and savoring Petrossian Caviar along with gourmet pastries. This experience costs $365 USD for two guests, and there is a $10 donation per guest to the New York Children’s Center.
- Nights Before Christmas Package: On your holiday getaway, you can make memories during an in-room candy cane scavenger hunt. You and your loved ones will also have the opportunity to decorate gingerbread cookies, enjoy exciting holiday gifts, gain exclusive access to The Peninsula Sweet Shoppe and admire festive decorations.
- Holly Jolly New York Holiday Package: This joyful hotel package includes beautiful Christmas décor in your room, a 5th Avenue windows display tour, VIP access to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and welcome drinks for two at Clement Bar or Pen Top‘s Winter Wonderland.
- Victorian Carolers: Get into the holiday spirit at The Peninsula by listening to the Victorian Carolers who sing in the Grand Lobby Staircase from 4:30 to 6:30 pm through Christmas Day.
- The Rockefeller Center Ultimate Experience: Via The Peninsula Academy, from early December through mid-January, you and your loved ones can enjoy an exclusive front-row view of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, an ice skating session at The Rink and light bites in the Holiday Chalets. This experience is concluded with VIP access to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck.
- Festive Brilliance Walking Tour: Enjoy a unique holiday lights experience with The Peninsula through January 6, 2025. You’ll be accompanied by a private guide and will get to admire all the festive décor in Midtown. The tour will be completed at the glimmering Papillon Bistro & Bar.
- New Year’s Eve Dinner and Rooftop Party: Ring in 2026 with a lavish five-course dinner at Clement, followed by a rooftop party at Pen Top. During this fun event, you and your friends can experience talented live music, a caviar bar and festive vibes.
The Peninsula Hotel also hosts an incredible Thanksgiving Buffet, a Christmas Eve Semi-Buffet and a Christmas Day Feast. This five-star hotel also offers various holiday spa packages.
Transport to the Swiss Alps at Pen Top‘s Winter Wonderland:

Location (Midtown) – Pen Top on the rooftop of The Peninsula Hotel
The Peninsula New York’s Pen Top has its Winter Wonderland during the holiday season. This enchanting rooftop transports hotel guests and visitors to Switzerland’s cozy, snow-capped mountains.
You and your party can book your own private heated igloo with captivating views of New York’s skyscrapers. Winter Wonderland at Pen Top can be enjoyed through March 31, 2025, from Tuesdays through Saturdays from 5 pm to midnight.
Get the Christmas at The Plaza Hotel Experience:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between West 58th and West 59th Streets (at the start of Central Park)
The Plaza Hotel is one of the most renowned hotels in NYC. A few famous movies filmed at The Plaza were Christmas at The Plaza, Home Alone 2, Plaza Suite and Eloise at The Plaza, to name a few.
One of the best NYC Christmas activities to enjoy at The Plaza Hotel is an English high tea experience. From now through January 12, 2025, you can enjoy festive flavors while sipping elegant tea and finger sandwiches in The Plaza’s Palm Court. The entire venue is also decorated beautifully for Christmas. (It’s one of my favorite experiences.)
Book your high tea experience at The Plaza Hotel 30 days before your preferred dining date. Hotel guests can make reservations with the concierge anytime before their check-in date.
Holiday packages offered at The Plaza Hotel are Don’t Stay Home Alone this Holiday Season, which allows your family to experience NYC as Kevin did, and the Suitest Season of All, which lets you enjoy a festive and luxurious suite with stunning floral arrangements.
This iconic 5th Avenue hotel also has a Thanksgiving Buffet and Turkey Special, Christmas Day Afternoon Tea, a Palm Court Christmas Evening Special, Champagne Bar Christmas Offerings and Christmas Day Private Dining.
If you and your friends want to ring in 2025 at The Plaza, you can book the New Year’s Eve Grand Fete at The Palm Court and New Year’s Eve Champagne Prelude.
Below are other special holiday events you won’t want to miss at The Plaza:
- The Plaza’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony (Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 5-7 pm)
- Eloise Tea at The Palm Court (Santa Claus visits on select days.) Click here to discover more about Eloise at The Plaza experiences.
- Tappy Hour (On November 28 and December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 & 22, former Radio City dancer Purdie Baumann performs in the lobby from 4-5 pm, alternating between The Palm Court and The Champagne Bar.)
- Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Go Back in Time in Central Park:

Location (Uptown) – 59th to 110th Streets and Central Park West and 5th Avenue
No matter the time of year you visit New York City’s grandest park, it’s always beautiful! From the spring cherry blossoms, sun-filled summer days, fall foliage and a winter wonderland, there is always something to do in Central Park.
If you visit NYC’s Central Park during Christmas in NYC, I suggest ice skating at Wollman Rink, taking a horse and carriage ride around the park and seeing all the stunning holiday lighting. It’s one of the most memorable NYC Christmas activities!
If you are lucky to be in New York City during a snowstorm, you will automatically be transported into a magical storybook! Discover the most Instagrammable spots in Central Park.
Attend the New York Botanical Garden Train Show:

Location (The Bronx) – 2900 Southern Boulevard
Every year, New York Botanical Gardens in The Bronx (located near Fordham University’s campus) has a dazzling train show and light experience during the holiday season.
The New York Botanical Gardens’ Holiday Train Show is one of the most fascinating train shows in the world. The train display features nearly 200 iconic New York City landmarks.
You can enjoy this famous train show through January 20, 2025. Tickets start at $35 USD for adults and $25 USD for children ages 2-12.
This year, anyone 21 and older can experience Holiday Train Nights on select evenings through January 18, 2025. Formerly known as Glow, visitors can admire colorful lighting in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory between 7 and 10 pm. You can savor snacks, spiked cider cocktails and mocktails while dancing to holiday classics.
Watch the New York City Ballet Perform The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center:
Location (Upper West Side) – Lincoln Center on Columbus Avenue, between West 62nd and West 63rd Streets
Lincoln Center is a leading performance venue in New York City. It’s also home to one of the best Christmas shows in the Big Apple, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, performed by the New York City Ballet.
You can see The Nutcracker anytime from now through January 5, 2025. You will be captivated by the talented dancers, Tchaikovsky’s music, the stunning costumes and the captivating sets.
Stroll Around the Columbus Circle Holiday Market:

Location (Midtown) – Columbus Circle at the Southwest Entrance of Central Park
Known as one of the most elegant and beautiful places for holiday shopping in New York City, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market should be on your list of things to do during your 2025 NYC December trip. Enjoy this festive market outside Central Park through December 31, 2025. It’s presented by Urbanspace.
These holiday markets offer everything from art and jewelry to food and clothing. Some of the top grub and drink items to consume at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market are mulled wine from Casa Toscana, dumplings from Dipping Dumplings and baklava from Turkish Bazaar, to name a few.
Also located in this area are The Shops at Columbus Circle. At this mall, you can shop from stores like Alo, Diptyque, J Crew and Tumi, dine at iconic restaurants like Momofuku Noodle Bar and enjoy seasonal events.
Watch Elf on Broadway:
Location (Midtown) – Marquis Theatre, West 46th Street, between 8th and 7th Avenues
One of my favorite Christmas movies is Elf and I’m excited that Elf The Musical is now on Broadway! It’s playing at the Marquis Theatre through January 4, 2025.
This hilarious and heartwarming story includes Buddy The Elf. He is an orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s sack of toys on Christmas Eve. Buddy is raised by elves in the North Pole until he discovers he is a human being.
Buddy then embarks on a journey to New York City to find his biological father. He helps his dad and the rest of the busy bees of NYC find the true meaning of Christmas.
(Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which plays at the Lyric Theatre, is another excellent Broadway play to see at Christmas in New York.)
Wander Around Bryant Park’s Winter Village:

Location (Midtown) – 6th and 5th Avenues, between 42nd and 40th Streets
Bryant Park is a magical place to relish all the incredible holiday fun in Midtown. Visiting the Bank of America Winter Village should be one of the top NYC Christmas activities and things to add to your bucket list.
Through January 5, 2025, Bryant Park is transformed into an enchanting winter village with a Christmas market featuring festive shops, eateries and more.
You can find stands that sell jewelry, clothing apparel, artwork, candles and trinkets. The food offered at Bryant Park Winter Village includes cheese wheel pasta, Dubai chocolate-covered strawberries, gnocchi, warm chestnuts, hot chocolate, stroopwafels and more.
In addition to the holiday market, you can also admire the beautiful Christmas tree, which has its own lighting ceremony on December 2, 2025; ice skate; enjoy a rinkside open-air, après-skate venue called The Lodge Bar + Food Hall; book a cozy igloo surrounded by the ice rink; experience the Curling Café & Bar, which includes a dedicated curling lane and heated dome; and make holiday memories through a VIP skating experience (Club Santa) with the big man himself.
Stop by The Empire State Building for Christmas Movies and Magic:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between West 34th and West 33rd Streets
The Empire State Building is the most iconic skyscraper in New York City. One of the best NYC Christmas activities during the holiday season is enjoying all the holiday festivities at this famous landmark. During the month of December, experience visits from Santa Claus and sip on Ghiradelli hot cocoa while watching a Christmas movie screening.
Some top holiday movies showcased at The Empire State Building are Elf, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and The Nightmare Before Christmas. Movies are shown on select nights between December 1 and 17, 2025. It costs $135 USD per person and includes access to the 86th and 102nd Floor Observations, The Empire State Building Museum Experience on the 2nd floor and various complimentary snacks.
Santa Claus visits The Empire State Building on 12/5, 12/6, 12/7, 12/12, 12/13, 12/14, 12/19, 12/20 & 12/21, 2025. Tickets start at $79 USD for adults, $73 USD for children and $77 USD for seniors. With a ticket, you’ll also have access to the observation decks and museum.
Even if you don’t visit The Empire State Building to meet Santa or watch a movie, you must stop by the Starbucks Reserve Winter Wonderland. This new, limited-time-only Starbucks Reserve has magical decorations. It also offers an alcoholic twist on the classic hot cocoa, served with Royal Combier.
If you’re hungry, savor delicious tacos from Tacombi or a tasty American meal at STATE Grill and Bar.
Appreciate the Christmas Fun at Macy’s Herald Square:

Location (Midtown) – Herald Square, on the Corner of 34th Street and Broadway
Macy’s Herald Square is the perfect reminder to BELIEVE – in yourself, in miracles and the true meaning of Christmas. A beautiful “Believe” sign lights up on Macy’s building façade on 34th Street. Macy’s also has fascinating holiday window displays like the stores on 5th Avenue.
In addition, Macy’s also has Santaland, where you and your little one can meet Santa Claus through Christmas Eve! It’s one of the most memorable NYC Christmas activities you and your family can experience together. You must book a free reservation to see Santa in Macy’s Herald Square!
This year, walk through Macy’s Holiday Square, presented by Urbanspace. It’s a pop-up holiday market, running through January 3, 2025, featuring New Yorker favorites from Max Brenner to Crumbl.
Become Dazzled at Shine Bright Hudson Yards:

Location (Midtown West) – Between 10th and 12th Avenues, from West 30th to West 34th Streets
One of the best places for holiday cheer and glowing lights is Shine Bright at Hudson Yards. It’s presented by Wells Fargo.
When you visit the Mall at Hudson Yards, you can marvel at over two million gold Christmas lights. Also, enjoy free photo opportunities with Santa, conquer your holiday shopping at big department stores and experience late-night entertainment at Santa’s Secret, a speakeasy room with Christmas cocktails.
You can also admire the dazzling lights outside, in the Backyard at Hudson Yards, and on The Vessel. A giant menorah will also be lit starting on December 15, 2025 to celebrate Hanukkah.
Cozy Up in a Rooftop Igloo at 230 Fifth:

Location (Flatiron) – 5th Avenue, between West 27th and West 26th Streets
One of the best ways to spend time with friends during the winter months is to visit 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar.
You can book an igloo dining experience through a reservation system and the rooftop accepts walk-ins based on availability. (Igloos are shared.) Also, enjoy prix-fixe dinners and engagement proposal packages at this scenic rooftop venue.
At 230 Fifth, sip different types of boozy and non-alcoholic hot chocolate, coffee and ciders. They also have great food items! I loved the salmon and spiked cider, which was served with an apple cider donut. It should be added to your 2025 December NYC Christmas activity list.
Spot the Madison Square Park Holiday Tree:

Location (Flatiron) – Madison Square Park, 5th and Madison Avenues, between East 26th and East 23rd Streets
In December 1912, Madison Square Park hosted the country’s first public Christmas tree lighting. To this day, the tree shines bright among New York City’s lights.
You can watch the Madison Square Park Holiday Tree Lighting on December 9, 2025, from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm. It’s so beautiful! There are giveaways, baked treats and live music performances in partnership with Tin Pan Alley and Sony.
Don’t forget to grab something delicious at the original Shake Shack!
Get a Taste of the Italian Alps at SERRA by Birreria at Eataly:

Location (Flatiron) – 5th Avenue, between West 24th and West 23rd Streets
Eataly is an Italian marketplace comprising restaurants, pizzerias, bakeries, bars, retail stores, markets and a cooking school. You can find Eataly in various cities worldwide. There are three locations in New York City: the Flatiron, the Financial District and SoHo.
The Eataly at the Flatiron location has a seasonal rooftop restaurant and bar called SERRA by Birreria. Meaning “greenhouse” in Italian, SERRA offers a seasonal, rustic menu that reflects the Italian countryside and Alps. The decorations are beautiful for Christmas!
At SERRA, you can enjoy warm Italian cocktails, renowned wines and beer. (They also have mocktails!) It’s a fun spot to add to your Christmas in NYC activities bucket list!
Please note that the seasonal decorations are different each year.
Witness a Victorian Christmas at Lillie’s Victorian Establishment, Oscar Wilde and Papillon Bistro:

Lillie’s Victorian Establishment Location (Union Square) – East 17th Street, between 5th Avenue and Broadway
Oscar Wilde (Flatiron) – West 27th Street, between 6th Avenue and Broadway
Papillon Bistro & Bar (Midtown) – East 54th Street, between 5th and Madison Avenues
Not only will you feel like you went back in time to the late 1800s or early 1900s, but Lillie’s Victorian Establishment has some of the most beautiful decorations in New York City.
There are two Lillie’s Victorian locations – Times Square and Union Square. This American restaurant is one of the most stunning in the city! However, the Union Square location is the place to go for magical holiday decorations. (They are also one of the handful of Halloween restaurants in NYC.)
Oscar Wilde in the Flatiron District is another excellent NYC restaurant with a Victorian vibe. Like Lillie’s, Oscar Wilde has Christmas decorations throughout the restaurant and offers delicious New American food and beverages.
Under the same restaurant group, Papillon Bistro & Bar is another one of the most festive places to take in the best holiday decorations. This bi-level French brasserie is famous for its decorative staircase!
Roam Around the Union Square Holiday Market:

Location (Union Square) – Between East 17th and East 14th Streets
The Union Square Holiday Market is an internationally renowned market selling unique gifts made by local New Yorkers and features award-winning NYC restaurants and retailers. It’s presented by Urbanspace.
Through December 24, 2025, you can stroll around and shop for beautiful trinkets to bring home for the holidays or purchase Christmas gifts for your loved ones. You can also enjoy delicious food and snacks from Birria, which offers Tijuana-style tacos; The Truffleist, for delicious truffle items; and The Boiis Co., serving Filipino mochi baked goods, to name a few.
It’s one of the top 50 things to do in NYC during the holidays, making it one of the best NYC Christmas activities in the Union Square neighborhood.
Travel to the German Christmas Markets without Leaving NYC at Rolf’s:

Location (Gramercy) – 3rd Avenue, between East 22nd and East 21st Streets
Rolf’s German Restaurant is one of the most magical places that cannot be excluded from your NYC Christmas itinerary.
This NYC Christmas classic is decked out in ornaments, Christmas lights, wreaths and dolls year-round! It features both Bavarian and Alsatian dishes. The drink menu includes cozy holiday beverages we all love, such as glühwein (German mulled wine), hot apple cider, spiced eggnog, holiday martinis and more.
I always adore the warmth that Rolf’s offers and I believe anyone traveling to NYC in December should visit this spot. Please note, though, that dining reservations during the holiday season must be reserved in person, and due to its popularity, tables get booked up quickly. However, you can still visit Rolf’s as a walk-in for a drink at the bar.
Catch NYC’s 2nd Longest Running Tree Lighting in Washington Square Park:

Location (Washington Square Park) – Washington Square, outside New York University (NYU)
Right next to the iconic Washington Square Arch is a beautiful Christmas tree that gets lit every year. This year, you can enjoy the tree lighting ceremony on December 13, 2025, from 6 pm to 7 pm.
Washington Square Park is also famous for its Christmas caroling on Christmas Eve. This year, the annual tradition will occur on December 24, 2025, from 5 pm to 6 pm. You can also download a free caroling book on the website!
Have Fun at a Miracle Pop-Up Bar:

Miracle on 9th Street (Drinks Only): The Cabinet (Alphabet City) – East 9th Street, between Avenue B and Avenue C
Miracle on 8th Street (Food and Drinks): Mace (Greenwich Village) – West 8th Street, between 6th Avenue and MacDougal Street
Another among the top 50 NYC Christmas activities to enjoy during the holiday season is the Miracle pop-up bars. Two Miracle locations are in New York City: The Cabinet in Alphabet City and Mace in Greenwich Village, outside of Washington Square Park.
Miracle is a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar that serves festive craft cocktails and tasty food in a magical setting. I’ve been to the Alphabet City Miracle pop-up at The Cabinet a few times and it always gets me into the holiday spirit with its colorful Christmas lights, vintage Santa Clauses, wooden nutcrackers and Hanukkah display.
Please note that you must make a reservation to visit any Miracle location beforehand. It’s essential to keep in mind that the Alphabet City location serves only drinks, while the Greenwich Village Miracle has a full food menu.
There are also a variety of Miracle bars in New Jersey, not far from the city. You can visit Jersey City’s Franklin Social, Nutley’s Cowan’s Public and Verona’s The Parkside Social.
Conquer an Upper East Side Stoop Scavenger Hunt:

Location (Upper East Side) – Anywhere in the East 60s to East 80s Streets
The Upper East Side is home to many of New York City’s wealthiest residents. This area of Manhattan boasts beautiful brownstone buildings that decorate magically for Christmas.
One of the best NYC Christmas activities is to wander through the UES and enjoy a fun scavenger hunt to find the most decorative stoops. My personal favorite is located on East 76th Street and 5th Avenue. (Pictured above.) Below is a list of other festively decorated homes in the Upper East Side.
- East 78th Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues
- The Mark Hotel on East 77th Street, between 5th and Madison Avenues
- East 64th Street, between 5th and Madison Avenues
- East 61st Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues
Make Merry Memories Over a Pink Christmas at Magic Hour Rooftop:

Location (Times Square) – Moxy NYC Times Square, on the Corner of 7th Avenue and West 36th Street
If you love pink, visit Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge at the Moxy Times Square Hotel.
This unique NYC bar always has a themed winter rooftop. The photo above was taken in 2021 when the venue presented a pink après-ski theme.
Not only can you enjoy warm beverages like pink hot cocoa and festive cocktails, but you must make a reservation for brunch to enjoy the carousel seating and all the fun photo spots with The Empire State Building as a backdrop! The bar area accepts walk-ins.
Immerse Yourself in the Fun at Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Watermark:

Location (South Street Seaport) – Pier 15 on South Street
Hang out with Santa Claus at the South Street Seaport along the East River. From November 7 through December 31, 2025, enjoy an enchanting experience at Santa’s Winter Wonderland at the Watermark, presented by Fever. It’s one of the top NYC Christmas activities at the Seaport!
When you purchase a ticket, you will enjoy 90 minutes in illuminated, heated glasshouses. Savor delicious food like lobster mac and cheese, sip festive cocktails and hot cocoa and enjoy sweet treats, including making your own s’mores.
At Santa’s Winter Wonderland at the Watermark, you can also hang out with the big man, enjoy numerous photo opportunities, admire beautiful views of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, ride a mini carousel, experience fake snow (or real snow, depending on the weather) and write a letter to Santa.
You can purchase a general admission ticket or a glasshouse chalet. The latter includes a delicious entrée. It’s one of the most memorable Christmas events in New York for all ages.
Explore the Holiday Magic at the Oculus:

Location (Financial District) – World Trade Center, between Greenwich and Church Streets
One of the leading NYC Christmas activities is embracing the holiday magic and roller skating at The Shops at the Oculus.
Winter Whirl, presented by Fever and Sonic the Hedgehog 3, is a fun indoor activity that will leave you and your friends with lasting memories.
From now through January 5, 2025, roller skate to holiday music in the iconic Oculus. Tickets start at $30 USD for adults and teens 13 years and older and $25 USD for children 12 and under. Children must be eight or older to roller skate and be accompanied by an adult.
This entertaining experience is available Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 pm to 8 pm and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 am to 6 pm. It’s closed on Christmas Day.
Not only are the stores (and market) at the Oculus one of the leading places for holiday shopping, but it’s also near the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, which you must experience during a NYC trip no matter the time of year.
Marvel at the Festive Tree and Décor at the New York Stock Exchange:

Location (Financial District) – Wall Street and Broad Street
Another one of the top 50 things to do in NYC is to see the stunning Christmas tree at the New York Stock Exchange. Not only is the tree beautiful, but so are the decorations on the Stock Exchange building itself.
Every year, the NYSE has its own Christmas tree lighting ceremony. This year, the tree lighting will occur on December 4, 2025, from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. In addition to the lighting, there are phenomenal live performances, snacks and refreshments.
Walk through the Illuminating Zuccotti Park:

Location (Financial District) – Between Church Street and Broadway, along with Cedar and Thames Streets
One of Manhattan’s most beautiful Christmas light displays is in Zuccotti Park in FiDi. If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in NYC this Christmas season, this is the place to go!
Walking through this park will amaze you. It’s also one of the most romantic things to do in NYC, making it the perfect proposal destination.
Sip Festive Tea Around Town:

Location (Midtown) – The bus stop location is at TopView Sightseeing. It’s across from Bryant Park, on the corner of East 42nd Street and 5th Avenue
During the 2025 Christmas season, you can sign up to enjoy an English high tea experience on a beautiful double-decker bus that takes passengers around NYC’s most famous landmarks.
Tea Around Town is one of the best NYC Christmas activities in December. This lovely double-decker bus has a pink interior decorated with garlands, white boas, red berries and faux fur, making it perfect for photo opportunities and afternoons with the girls. It will be decorated for the holidays through January 18, 2026.
When you sign up for premium admission, you’ll enjoy unlimited tea, a complimentary glass of Champagne and three tiers of scones, finger sandwiches and decadent desserts. There is also a serenader for the entire 90 minutes who also offers narration as you make your way around the Chrysler Building, Radio City Music Hall, Central Park and the 5th Avenue holiday displays.
This year, Tea Around Town also includes visiting the New York Botanical Garden for the Holiday Train Show.
There are Tea Around Town bus tours daily. It’s best to book this experience in advance during the holiday season.
Adventure to Dyker Heights for the Best Christmas Lights:

Location (Brooklyn) – Dyker Heights, between 11th to 13th Avenues
A NYC Christmas trip isn’t complete without seeing the best Christmas light displays in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood.
This area pays homage to the most over-the-top Christmas light decorations. You will also witness life-size Santas, nutcrackers, snowmen, Christmas village houses and more.
There will even be Christmas carolers in the neighborhood! Also, some of the homes in Dyker Heights sell hot chocolate and baked goods to tourists.
Visiting Dyker Heights is one of the best things to do in NYC at night. Since this neighborhood of Brooklyn has a large Italian American population, I recommend savoring a delicious meal after seeing the majestic lights. Annabelle’s Pastaria is my favorite dining spot in the area.
Meander Your Way through Grand Central Terminal:

Location (Midtown East) – Park Avenue, between East 42nd to East 45th Streets
Another indoor New York Christmas market is the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair. It runs through Christmas Eve and houses vendors selling curated experiences and unique products.
In addition to the markets, Grand Central Terminal also has shops and incredible dining. Renowned eateries located in Grand Central are Cipriani, Bien Cuit, Magnolia Bakery, Luke’s Lobster, Playa Bowls and more.
Overall, the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair is one of the best places to visit and enjoy amid the NYC holiday commute madness.
Catch the Bronx Zoo Holiday Light Show:
Location (The Bronx) – Bronx Zoo, Southern Boulevard
One of the best NYC Christmas activities for animal lovers is to visit the Bronx Zoo Holiday Light Show, which takes place through January 5, 2025.
During this experience, you can marvel at immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns and dreamy Christmas lights sprinkled throughout the zoo. The lantern displays showcase the wildlife of New York’s ocean waters, wetlands and more.
Tickets start at $41.95 USD for adults and teens 13 years and older, $36.95 USD for seniors 65 and older and $26.95 for children ages three to 12.
While you visit The Bronx Zoo, stop at Arthur Avenue, NYC’s original Little Italy, to shop for Italian specialties for your holiday meal and enjoy one of the best Italian dinners at a local restaurant.
Attend Z100’s Jingle Ball:
Location (Midtown) – Madison Square Garden, Pennsylvania Plaza, between 7th and 8th Avenues and West 31st to West 33rd Streets
It’s no secret that one of the best Christmas events in NYC is Z100’s Jingle Ball, presented by iHeartRadio and Capital One.
New York City’s Jingle Ball will occur on December 12, 2025 at Madison Square Garden. The show will feature Top 100 artists like Ed Sheeran, Jelly Roll, Nelly and Zara Larsson, to name a few. The Jingle Ball sells out every year, so always get your tickets when they are first released to the public.
Every year, Jingle Ball gives back through the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. It’s a non-profit supporting the youth through entertainment and educational-focused initiatives.
Bar Hop Around NYC at the Annual SantaCon:

Location (Throughout Midtown and Downtown Manhattan)
One of the most entertaining NYC Christmas activities for those 21 and older is SantaCon. In this charitable and fun bar crawl, participants dress up as Santa or something festive and visit different bars around Manhattan.
SantaCon 2025 will occur on December 13 from 10 am to 8 pm. You and your friends can follow the crowd to different venues in New York City and have a memorable time!
A ticket to SantaCon goes directly to Santa’s charity drive in the local neighborhoods. The bar route is announced once you purchase a ticket.
Suppose you cannot make the Manhattan SantaCon. In that case, a Hoboken SantaCon in New Jersey will occur a week later. This year, it will also take place on Saturday, December 13, 2025.
Ice Skate on the Hudson at Brookfield Place:

Location (Tribeca) – Off West Side Highway
In addition to Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park and Central Park, ice skating fans can enjoy a wonderful experience along the Hudson River at The Rink at Brookfield Place.
Depending on the weather, the ice rink opens in November and will close sometime in March. It’s the perfect spot to skate with friends and family, book a private lesson, have a birthday party or corporate outing and enjoy a lovely winter’s day.
Warm Up at Westlight in Brooklyn:
Location (Brooklyn) – Williamsburg, North 12th Street, between Wythe Avenue and Berry Street
A fantastic NYC Christmas activity to enjoy in Brooklyn is the Winter Village at Westlight in Williamsburg. This seasonal pop-up on the rooftop of The William Vale has cozy chalets to book with beautiful views of the city skyline.
The Westlight Winter Village will occur through the end of March or early April, weather-dependent. When you reserve a chalet, you can sip on seasonal cocktails and dine on Alpine-style Fondue, small plates and more.
Additionally, The William Vale has a Winter Spa that hotel guests can enjoy. The spa has panoramic barrel saunas and deep-soaking cedar hot tubs. It’s perfect for a couple’s winter getaway to NYC or a solo rejuvenation trip.
Relish a Jolly Time with Friends at Holly Jolly Bar:

Location (East Village) – Saint, 2nd Avenue, between East 9th and St. Marks Place
Located at the Saint, Holly Jolly Bar is a fun place to visit with friends, sip a Christmas-themed cocktail and witness over-the-top décor. It is presented by Bucket Listers.
You must purchase a ticket to visit Holly Jolly Bar. A standing-room ticket costs $15 USD per person and includes a welcome shot. A general admission ticket costs $18 USD per person and includes a welcome cocktail.
This NYC pop-up bar will be around through December 27, 2025. In addition to festive cocktails and mocktails, like The Grinch’s Margarita and Tiramisu Rumtini, there are also holiday-themed bites to purchase.
Captivate over Skyline Views at Somewhere Nowhere:

Location (Flatiron) – West 25th Street, between 7th and 6th Avenues
Another epic NYC Christmas activity is to reserve a cozy teardrop igloo on the rooftop of Somewhere Nowhere. This one-of-a-kind winter experience is perfect for a date night or an evening with the girls through December 28, 2025.
When you reserve a heated igloo, you’ll get a bottle of champagne that you can sip with views of the Empire State Building. Inside these lavish teardrop igloos, you’ll enjoy plush love seats, a built-in fireplace, cozy fur blankets, cocktails and spiced hot cocoa, small bites and even s’mores.
Winter Igloos start at $85 USD per person and each one holds up to a maximum of five guests. On Wednesday evenings, you and your friends can also enjoy the speakeasy at Somewhere Nowhere. It features a live jazz band, swing dancing, aerial performances and more.
Savor a Christmas Dinner at Tavern on the Green:
Location (Upper West Side) – Central Park on West 67th Street
One of the best Christmas Day activities in NYC is to enjoy dinner at Tavern on the Green in Central Park.
The holiday décor and displays at this classic New York City restaurant will amaze you and your family! You can enjoy a 4-course feast featuring Executive Chef Bill Peet‘s dishes for Christmas Day.
Book your reservations a few months in advance if you plan to have Christmas dinner at Tavern on the Green.
Listen to Ghost Stories on a Madame Morbid Tour:

Location (Brooklyn): Williamsburg, Driggs Avenue and North 9th Street
Guess what holiday is spookier than Halloween? That’s right, it’s Christmas! Charles Dickens isn’t the only ghost storyteller of the season.
One of the most unique Christmas activities in NYC is booking a Madame Morbid tour in Brooklyn. Inspired by Dickensian Christmas and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Madame Morbid is a vintage trolley that offers a 90-minute nonstop ghost tour around Brooklyn this holiday season.
During the tour, you will learn about the haunted side of Christmas. You’ll also hear about the true crimes and paranormal activities that have occurred around Brooklyn over the past couple of centuries. There will also be spooky trivia, and passengers can win fun prizes.
Madame Morbid also offers private trolleys for groups of up to 22 people.
Jam Out at Mariah Carey’s Black Irish Holiday Bar:
Location (NoMad): Virgin Hotels NYC, Broadway, between West 30th and West 29th Streets
If you’re a fan of Mariah Carey’s Christmas album, book tickets to her Black Irish Holiday Bar at Virgin Hotels in Midtown. It’s one of the most festive holiday bars in Manhattan.
Presented by Bucket Listers, Mariah Carey’s Black Irish Holiday Bar is a ticketed event. General admission costs start at $22 USD per person and include a Welcome Signature Black Irish Cocktail.
You and your friends can also enjoy brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, starting at $30 USD per person. A brunch ticket includes one complimentary cocktail, but food is an additional purchase.
Black Irish Holiday Bar by Mariah Carey is happening through December 28, 2025. Please note that general admission tickets do not guarantee seating.
Sail Around NYC on a Cocoa and Carols Cruise:

Location (Chelsea): Pier 62 at Chelsea Piers, on West 22nd Street and 12th Avenue
A New York City trip is incomplete without sailing along the East and Hudson Rivers.
One of the best NYC Christmas activities is enjoying a Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise through Classic Harbor Line. This hour-and-a-half cruise sails from Chelsea Piers and is perfect for families, friend groups, couples and co-workers.
As you navigate the Big Apple’s most famous landmarks, you can dance and sing along to festive live musical performances. Additionally, you can warm up to house-made hot cocoa and even get it spike, and indulge in delicious Christmas cookies. (Wine, beer and champagne are also offered on this cruise, along with a cheese plate.)
Some of the top NYC landmarks that will captivate you during an evening on this fun Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise are the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade Center and The Empire State Building.
Enjoy a Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise with Classic Harbor Line through December 31, 2025. Ticket prices start at $108 USD per person. Click here to discover the other memorable holiday cruises to book with Classic Harbor Line.
Spend an Evening at Frosty’s Christmas Bar:

Location (Times Square): Bacall’s, West 44th Street, between 8th and 7th Avenues
If you love visiting over-the-top Christmas venues during the holiday season, you must spend an evening at Frosty’s Christmas Bar. It’s renowned for being the original Christmas holiday pop-up bar and an unforgettable 21-and-over experience.
You can book tickets for Frosty’s from now until December 30, 2025. Prices start at $30.11 USD per person.
While making holiday memories at Frosty’s Christmas Bar, you must also sip their specialty drinks, enjoy the many photo opportunities and speak with Santa and his elves.
Frosty’s New York is Manhattan’s most extensive Christmas bar. It’s three stories and includes multiple bars, a restaurant and a nightclub. In addition to the festive cocktails, you can also purchase small bites.
Discover 101 things to do in NYC!

Here are other Christmas destinations:
Magical December Getaways in the USA
Best Christmas Markets in Bavaria
2 Days in Tallinn, Estonia at Christmas
I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best NYC Christmas activities and decorations for December 2025. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com. Happy Holidays!
Click here to book a cooking class in New York.
Basic Facts of the United States:
Currency: United States Dollar, Capital: Washington D.C., NY State Capital: Albany, Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more. Click here to get insured for your next trip.
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It’s no secret that New York City is one of the most fascinating and magical places during the Christmas season. From the giant Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center to the festive lights in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood, there are a lot of fun NYC Christmas activities for all to experience!
Ever since I was a baby, my parents would take me to New York City to see the Tree at Rockefeller Center, the Radio City Rockettes and all the enchanting 5th Avenue store windows. Even at a young age, there was always a special feeling that ran through me during Christmas in New York!

From admiring the city skyline and all its lights from across the Hudson River in New Jersey to taking the Ferry, the entire journey into NYC was always so exciting for me during the holiday season.
A lot has changed over the years, and nowadays, there are countless Christmas trees, shows, ice skating rinks, decorations and pop-ups that have emerged throughout the five boroughs. Because of that, doing a NYC Christmas trip should be added to your travel bucket list!

In this article, discover the best activities and things to do in NYC at Christmas.
**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like. During my time exploring the holiday magic in NYC, Sonder hosted me in one of their Battery Park apartments for two nights.
Pin the Below Image to Keep Handy

How to Get Around NYC during Christmastime:

There are countless ways to travel to experience NYC Christmas activities in 2025. Even though the city looks small on a map, it’s HUGE in reality!
In Manhattan alone, there are 262 blocks. Then you have Brooklyn, which is even more extensive and then Queens, which is even larger than that, as well as The Bronx and Staten Island.
The most affordable and convenient way to travel around New York City is to take the New York City Subway, operated by the MTA. Discover how to navigate the NYC Subway! (There is also a city bus that is run by MTA.)
Other ways to get around include taxis or rideshare (Uber or Lyft). You could also take your own vehicle into New York City (or rent a car), but embrace that journey since there is a lot of traffic and parking is expensive.
(It is easier to find free parking outside of Manhattan. Please also note that parking officials do not play around; if you park illegally anywhere in NYC, your vehicle will get towed and the ticket isn’t cheap.)
New York City is a HUGE international hub, so you won’t have trouble finding flights to and from the Big Apple. The three major airports in the New York City area are John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and Laguardia Airport. You can find affordable flights through Skyscanner.
(Click here if you are planning a road trip around the United States and want to rent an RV.)
If you are traveling locally, it is most convenient to take public transportation to see all the Christmas decorations in New York City. The train is one of the most popular ways locals from the Tri-state area travel into NYC for Christmas activities.
The Metro-North (run by MTA), which travels from the Hudson Valley, West Chester and Connecticut, goes into Grand Central Terminal on 42nd Street. NJ Transit, which travels from New Jersey, and the Long Island Railroad, which travels from Long Island (and is also run by the MTA), operate into Penn Station on 34th Street.

For those traveling from Jersey City, Hoboken, Newark or Harrison in New Jersey, take the PATH train (run by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey) from Newark-Penn Station, Harrison Station and Hoboken Station as well as Journal Square, Grove Street, Newport and Exchange Place in Jersey City into World Trade Center, Christopher Street, 9th Street, 14th Street, 23rd Street and 33rd Street in Manhattan.
In addition, for travelers arriving by train from farther destinations and other major cities like Washington D.C., Boston, etc., it’s best to take the Amtrak train into the Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station.
The bus is another way to travel to New York for Christmas. The buses that operate into the Port Authority Bus Terminal on 42nd Street, outside of Times Square, are listed here.
My favorite way to travel to NYC is by taking the ferry! From Weehawken, NJ (Port Imperial), I enjoy sailing with the NY Waterway into either Midtown/West 39th Street or Downtown/Pier 11 Wall Street.
Overall, the NY Waterway also has terminals in Edgewater, Hoboken and Jersey City, NJ as well as Battery Park in Downtown Manhattan. You can access a bus service around Manhattan when you purchase a NY Waterway ticket.
There is also a NYC Ferry that transits between Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and The Bronx, and there’s a separate ferry for Staten Island.
Other ferries that go to and from Manhattan are the Trust for Governors Island (to and from Governors Island), Liberty Landing Ferry (to and from Jersey City), NY Water Taxi (a hop-on-hop-off water taxi), Seastreak (to and from Monmouth County beaches in New Jersey, as well as Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket in Massachusetts), and Statue Cruises (to and from the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum).
When the holiday season is in full swing, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, it’s best to plan ahead. The city boasts heavy tourism from late November through early January, so be prepared for heavy traffic and delays and arrive early for reservations, shows, etc.
Where to Stay during Christmas in New York:

Sonder is one of the best places to stay in New York City to enjoy all the magical Christmas activities and taste what life is like as a New Yorker. During Christmastime 2020, I stayed at a Sonder in Manhattan’s Battery Park area in the Financial District.
Sonder manages short-term rentals around the world. You can choose from a several locations in New York City! Each apartment is cozy, clean and in a safe neighborhood.
Overall, Sonder apartments boast a modern design, contact-free service and check-in as well as exceptional comfort with extra space to live, work and play!

Not only did my Sonder have an awesome pizza sign (there was an iconic Artichoke Basille’s Pizza around the corner), but my apartment also had one bedroom with a comfy, full-sized bed, a flat-screen television, a cozy living room with a sleeper sofa, closet space, a full-size kitchen, dining area and one full bathroom.
The apartment was professionally cleaned when I checked in, and 24/7 support was available. My Sonder building also had a lounge area, rooftop and fitness center.
Since Manhattan hotels are pricier during the festive season, Sonder is a perfect and affordable option.
Best NYC Christmas Activities: How to Spend Christmas in New York

Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Ice Rink:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between West 50th and West 51st Streets
The number one of 50 things to do in NYC in December is to see the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center.
If you’re in NYC during the first week of December 2025, you could catch the annual tree lighting ceremony by NBC with live performances from famous music artists and celebrities. The annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting will occur on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. It’s the best NYC annual holiday tradition!
(Please note that the lighting ceremony attracts large crowds, so it’s best to be prepared and arrive early if you want a good viewing spot.)
The tree will be up from December 3, 2025, through January 11, 2026. Depending on the weather, ice skating will be available from mid-March to early April 2025.
In addition to seeing the most famous NYC Christmas tree surrounded by stunning angels, you could also go ice skating at the iconic Rink at Rockefeller Center. This renowned ice skating rink is also where the Radio City Rockettes perform during the tree lighting.
It’s one of the most memorable NYC Christmas activities in December! Make sure you book tickets in advance to ice skate at Rockefeller Center.

At Rockefeller Center, you can also book Holiday Chalets for a 40-minute cozy experience overlooking the ice rink and Christmas tree. With your Après Skate Chalet ticket, presented by Balsam Hill, you can enjoy two complimentary non-alcoholic drinks per person. (You can also purchase additional food and drinks.)
These wooden chalets can seat up to six people and prices range from $45 to $185 USD.
See the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall:

Location (Midtown) – 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), between West 50th and West 51st Streets
Another one of the top things to do in New York at Christmas is to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. It’s also presented by QVC.
As a former competitive dancer, I always love seeing the Rockettes perform, whether in the Christmas Spectacular show I’ve seen a few times (recently in 2025) or in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which I usually watch from home on Thanksgiving morning.
Seeing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is among the best NYC Christmas traditions and should be on your December bucket list.
Admire the Giant Red Ornaments, Christmas Lights & Candy Canes:

Location (Midtown) – 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), between West 48th to West 50th Streets
While exploring all the holiday magic in Midtown, you must see the giant red ornaments, Christmas lights and candy canes around Rockefeller Center, across from Radio City Music Hall.
These festive decorations are some of the most photographed in the Big Apple. They are fascinating to see in person during Christmas in New York.
Warm Up to Mulled Wine at City Winery Igloos:

Location (Midtown) – Rockefeller Plaza on West 51st Street
One of the best places to relax and warm up at Rockefeller Center is City Winery’s Outdoor Wine Garden and Private Winter Domes (igloos). They overlook the beautiful Christmas tree!
City Vineyard‘s primary location is situated downtown in Tribeca, and there is also a wine bar at Pier 57 in Chelsea. However, every December in NYC, City Winery sets up its holiday wine experience in Midtown. The outdoor wine garden offers first-come, first-serve seating in an open-air space with outdoor heaters.
There are Private Wine Domes that are available to book. They are heated and intimate and must be reserved in advance. At City Winery’s Outdoor Wine Garden and Private Winter Domes, you could enjoy mulled wine and cider as well as hot chocolate, coffee, regular wines from the winery itself and craft beer from Montauk Brewing Company.
Each dome can seat up to eight people and requires a $250 USD minimum spend. You can enjoy the Winter Domes for 90 minutes! Additionally, a $25 USD deposit per guest during the time of booking will be applied towards the $250 minimum spend on the final check.
Cozy Up with a Warm Beverage at Ralph’s Coffee Truck:

Location (Midtown) – Rockefeller Plaza on 5th Avenue
An iconic coffee pop-up stand in Rockefeller Center is Ralph’s Coffee Truck by Ralph Lauren. This photogenic coffee truck is decorated for Christmas. It’s the perfect spot to pick up something warm to fuel you for the day while you take on the best NYC Christmas activities.
You can visit other Ralph’s Coffee locations in the Flatiron District and Upper East Side. If you want to treat yourself to fine dining during your holiday getaway to New York, I recommend getting reservations at The Polo Bar in Midtown.
Enjoy the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between East 49th and East 50th Streets
Every year, Saks Fifth Avenue does a fantastic job decorating its storefront windows with holiday apparel. These windows pay tribute to the talent of those within the fashion industry.
The famous department store does an incredible 10-story light show every year, starting in late November and running through the beginning of January. It’s always fascinating to watch this illuminating show while visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree!
Overall, this fantastic display has a different theme each year. In 2022, it was Elton John-themed, and in 2023, it was a Christian Dior theme.
Tune into the Real Meaning of Christmas at St. Patrick’s Cathedral:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between East 50th and East 51st Streets
For all of us who celebrate, it is essential to remember the true meaning of Christmas. St. Patrick’s Cathedral, located across from Rockefeller Center, is a beautiful neo-Gothic Catholic cathedral.
While exploring and immersing yourself in all the wonderful NYC Christmas activities at Rockefeller Center, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral. During the month of December, the cathedral features beautiful nativity scenes and festive décor. Add the breathtaking mass on Christmas Eve to your bucket list!
Appreciate the Holiday Décor at Lotte New York Palace:

Location (Midtown) – Madison Avenue, between East 50th and East 51st Streets
Not only is Lotte New York Palace one of the most beautiful hotels to stay at during your Christmas trip to NYC, but admiring the stunning Christmas tree in its courtyard should be on your bucket list. In fact, Lotte Palace has one of the best Christmas trees in the city to see.
What is excellent about Lotte New York Palace is that it’s across the street from the back of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s also steps away from Rockefeller Center, the Theater District, Central Park and all other fun NYC Christmas activities Midtown offers.
From December 1 through 24, children can write letters to Santa Claus. Every kid will be given personalized postcards to drop off in the hotel’s iconic North Pole mailbox during check-in. A reply from Santa will appear in your room.
To make your stay even more magical, I recommend booking the Palace Holiday Suite. It is decorated with an enchanting Christmas tree by Balsam Hill and has homemade cookies when you first check in.
Families can also admire a gingerbread mansion in the hotel’s Villard Restaurant. This upscale bistro is a lovely spot to enjoy a holiday meal during your NYC Christmas vacation.
Additionally, you and your loved ones can say hi to Santa every Sunday in December from 9 am to noon and appreciate a St. Patrick’s Cathedral VIP tour. Both guests and non-guests can warm up to holiday cocktails and signature hot chocolate at the hotel’s Winter Bar in the courtyard on Wednesdays through Fridays from 3 pm to 9 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 pm to 7 pm.
View the Magical Window Displays Along 5th Avenue:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue in Midtown, from 34th Street to the Start of Central Park
Fifth Avenue is where all of New York City’s high-end fashion shops and famous department stores are located. It’s similar to Paris’ Champs-Élysées, Los Angeles’ Rodeo Drive, etc.
One of the best things to do in New York City at Christmas is to stroll along 5th Avenue. See the decorative storefront windows beautifully showcasing different fashion items and trends while celebrating the holiday magic.
Other 5th Avenue stores with beautiful Christmas decorations are Bergdorf Goodman, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Tiffany and Co., Coach, Christian Dior and Harry Winston, to name a few.
Experience the Magical Decorations at The Peninsula Hotel’s Lobby:

Location (Midtown) – On the Corner of 5th Avenue and West 55th Street
Staying at The Peninsula Hotel during a New York City Christmas is extra special. The hotel boasts idyllic decorations and offers guests great holiday packages to make a family getaway to the Big Apple special.
Overall, The Peninsula New York is one of the best places to stay in NYC at Christmas! Below are festive experiences you can book at The Peninsula New York:
- Festive Traditional Afternoon Tea: When you stay at The Peninsula Hotel in December, you and your friends and family can enjoy an afternoon holiday tea experience. It costs $185 USD per guest, and $10 will be donated to the New York Children’s Center. You can relish afternoon tea on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3 pm to 5 pm.
- Holiday Afternoon Indulgence: On Saturdays and Sundays from 3 pm to 6 pm during December, you can appreciate a relaxing afternoon sipping The Peninsula Cuvee Deutz Champagne and savoring Petrossian Caviar along with gourmet pastries. This experience costs $365 USD for two guests, and there is a $10 donation per guest to the New York Children’s Center.
- Nights Before Christmas Package: On your holiday getaway, you can make memories during an in-room candy cane scavenger hunt. You and your loved ones will also have the opportunity to decorate gingerbread cookies, enjoy exciting holiday gifts, gain exclusive access to The Peninsula Sweet Shoppe and admire festive decorations.
- Holly Jolly New York Holiday Package: This joyful hotel package includes beautiful Christmas décor in your room, a 5th Avenue windows display tour, VIP access to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and welcome drinks for two at Clement Bar or Pen Top‘s Winter Wonderland.
- Victorian Carolers: Get into the holiday spirit at The Peninsula by listening to the Victorian Carolers who sing in the Grand Lobby Staircase from 4:30 to 6:30 pm through Christmas Day.
- The Rockefeller Center Ultimate Experience: Via The Peninsula Academy, from early December through mid-January, you and your loved ones can enjoy an exclusive front-row view of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, an ice skating session at The Rink and light bites in the Holiday Chalets. This experience is concluded with VIP access to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck.
- Festive Brilliance Walking Tour: Enjoy a unique holiday lights experience with The Peninsula through January 6, 2025. You’ll be accompanied by a private guide and will get to admire all the festive décor in Midtown. The tour will be completed at the glimmering Papillon Bistro & Bar.
- New Year’s Eve Dinner and Rooftop Party: Ring in 2026 with a lavish five-course dinner at Clement, followed by a rooftop party at Pen Top. During this fun event, you and your friends can experience talented live music, a caviar bar and festive vibes.
The Peninsula Hotel also hosts an incredible Thanksgiving Buffet, a Christmas Eve Semi-Buffet and a Christmas Day Feast. This five-star hotel also offers various holiday spa packages.
Transport to the Swiss Alps at Pen Top‘s Winter Wonderland:

Location (Midtown) – Pen Top on the rooftop of The Peninsula Hotel
The Peninsula New York’s Pen Top has its Winter Wonderland during the holiday season. This enchanting rooftop transports hotel guests and visitors to Switzerland’s cozy, snow-capped mountains.
You and your party can book your own private heated igloo with captivating views of New York’s skyscrapers. Winter Wonderland at Pen Top can be enjoyed through March 31, 2025, from Tuesdays through Saturdays from 5 pm to midnight.
Get the Christmas at The Plaza Hotel Experience:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between West 58th and West 59th Streets (at the start of Central Park)
The Plaza Hotel is one of the most renowned hotels in NYC. A few famous movies filmed at The Plaza were Christmas at The Plaza, Home Alone 2, Plaza Suite and Eloise at The Plaza, to name a few.
One of the best NYC Christmas activities to enjoy at The Plaza Hotel is an English high tea experience. From now through January 12, 2025, you can enjoy festive flavors while sipping elegant tea and finger sandwiches in The Plaza’s Palm Court. The entire venue is also decorated beautifully for Christmas. (It’s one of my favorite experiences.)
Book your high tea experience at The Plaza Hotel 30 days before your preferred dining date. Hotel guests can make reservations with the concierge anytime before their check-in date.
Holiday packages offered at The Plaza Hotel are Don’t Stay Home Alone this Holiday Season, which allows your family to experience NYC as Kevin did, and the Suitest Season of All, which lets you enjoy a festive and luxurious suite with stunning floral arrangements.
This iconic 5th Avenue hotel also has a Thanksgiving Buffet and Turkey Special, Christmas Day Afternoon Tea, a Palm Court Christmas Evening Special, Champagne Bar Christmas Offerings and Christmas Day Private Dining.
If you and your friends want to ring in 2025 at The Plaza, you can book the New Year’s Eve Grand Fete at The Palm Court and New Year’s Eve Champagne Prelude.
Below are other special holiday events you won’t want to miss at The Plaza:
- The Plaza’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony (Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 5-7 pm)
- Eloise Tea at The Palm Court (Santa Claus visits on select days.) Click here to discover more about Eloise at The Plaza experiences.
- Tappy Hour (On November 28 and December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 & 22, former Radio City dancer Purdie Baumann performs in the lobby from 4-5 pm, alternating between The Palm Court and The Champagne Bar.)
- Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Go Back in Time in Central Park:

Location (Uptown) – 59th to 110th Streets and Central Park West and 5th Avenue
No matter the time of year you visit New York City’s grandest park, it’s always beautiful! From the spring cherry blossoms, sun-filled summer days, fall foliage and a winter wonderland, there is always something to do in Central Park.
If you visit NYC’s Central Park during Christmas in NYC, I suggest ice skating at Wollman Rink, taking a horse and carriage ride around the park and seeing all the stunning holiday lighting. It’s one of the most memorable NYC Christmas activities!
If you are lucky to be in New York City during a snowstorm, you will automatically be transported into a magical storybook! Discover the most Instagrammable spots in Central Park.
Attend the New York Botanical Garden Train Show:

Location (The Bronx) – 2900 Southern Boulevard
Every year, New York Botanical Gardens in The Bronx (located near Fordham University’s campus) has a dazzling train show and light experience during the holiday season.
The New York Botanical Gardens’ Holiday Train Show is one of the most fascinating train shows in the world. The train display features nearly 200 iconic New York City landmarks.
You can enjoy this famous train show through January 20, 2025. Tickets start at $35 USD for adults and $25 USD for children ages 2-12.
This year, anyone 21 and older can experience Holiday Train Nights on select evenings through January 18, 2025. Formerly known as Glow, visitors can admire colorful lighting in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory between 7 and 10 pm. You can savor snacks, spiked cider cocktails and mocktails while dancing to holiday classics.
Watch the New York City Ballet Perform The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center:
Location (Upper West Side) – Lincoln Center on Columbus Avenue, between West 62nd and West 63rd Streets
Lincoln Center is a leading performance venue in New York City. It’s also home to one of the best Christmas shows in the Big Apple, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, performed by the New York City Ballet.
You can see The Nutcracker anytime from now through January 5, 2025. You will be captivated by the talented dancers, Tchaikovsky’s music, the stunning costumes and the captivating sets.
Stroll Around the Columbus Circle Holiday Market:

Location (Midtown) – Columbus Circle at the Southwest Entrance of Central Park
Known as one of the most elegant and beautiful places for holiday shopping in New York City, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market should be on your list of things to do during your 2025 NYC December trip. Enjoy this festive market outside Central Park through December 31, 2025. It’s presented by Urbanspace.
These holiday markets offer everything from art and jewelry to food and clothing. Some of the top grub and drink items to consume at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market are mulled wine from Casa Toscana, dumplings from Dipping Dumplings and baklava from Turkish Bazaar, to name a few.
Also located in this area are The Shops at Columbus Circle. At this mall, you can shop from stores like Alo, Diptyque, J Crew and Tumi, dine at iconic restaurants like Momofuku Noodle Bar and enjoy seasonal events.
Watch Elf on Broadway:
Location (Midtown) – Marquis Theatre, West 46th Street, between 8th and 7th Avenues
One of my favorite Christmas movies is Elf and I’m excited that Elf The Musical is now on Broadway! It’s playing at the Marquis Theatre through January 4, 2025.
This hilarious and heartwarming story includes Buddy The Elf. He is an orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s sack of toys on Christmas Eve. Buddy is raised by elves in the North Pole until he discovers he is a human being.
Buddy then embarks on a journey to New York City to find his biological father. He helps his dad and the rest of the busy bees of NYC find the true meaning of Christmas.
(Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which plays at the Lyric Theatre, is another excellent Broadway play to see at Christmas in New York.)
Wander Around Bryant Park’s Winter Village:

Location (Midtown) – 6th and 5th Avenues, between 42nd and 40th Streets
Bryant Park is a magical place to relish all the incredible holiday fun in Midtown. Visiting the Bank of America Winter Village should be one of the top NYC Christmas activities and things to add to your bucket list.
Through January 5, 2025, Bryant Park is transformed into an enchanting winter village with a Christmas market featuring festive shops, eateries and more.
You can find stands that sell jewelry, clothing apparel, artwork, candles and trinkets. The food offered at Bryant Park Winter Village includes cheese wheel pasta, Dubai chocolate-covered strawberries, gnocchi, warm chestnuts, hot chocolate, stroopwafels and more.
In addition to the holiday market, you can also admire the beautiful Christmas tree, which has its own lighting ceremony on December 2, 2025; ice skate; enjoy a rinkside open-air, après-skate venue called The Lodge Bar + Food Hall; book a cozy igloo surrounded by the ice rink; experience the Curling Café & Bar, which includes a dedicated curling lane and heated dome; and make holiday memories through a VIP skating experience (Club Santa) with the big man himself.
Stop by The Empire State Building for Christmas Movies and Magic:

Location (Midtown) – 5th Avenue, between West 34th and West 33rd Streets
The Empire State Building is the most iconic skyscraper in New York City. One of the best NYC Christmas activities during the holiday season is enjoying all the holiday festivities at this famous landmark. During the month of December, experience visits from Santa Claus and sip on Ghiradelli hot cocoa while watching a Christmas movie screening.
Some top holiday movies showcased at The Empire State Building are Elf, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and The Nightmare Before Christmas. Movies are shown on select nights between December 1 and 17, 2025. It costs $135 USD per person and includes access to the 86th and 102nd Floor Observations, The Empire State Building Museum Experience on the 2nd floor and various complimentary snacks.
Santa Claus visits The Empire State Building on 12/5, 12/6, 12/7, 12/12, 12/13, 12/14, 12/19, 12/20 & 12/21, 2025. Tickets start at $79 USD for adults, $73 USD for children and $77 USD for seniors. With a ticket, you’ll also have access to the observation decks and museum.
Even if you don’t visit The Empire State Building to meet Santa or watch a movie, you must stop by the Starbucks Reserve Winter Wonderland. This new, limited-time-only Starbucks Reserve has magical decorations. It also offers an alcoholic twist on the classic hot cocoa, served with Royal Combier.
If you’re hungry, savor delicious tacos from Tacombi or a tasty American meal at STATE Grill and Bar.
Appreciate the Christmas Fun at Macy’s Herald Square:

Location (Midtown) – Herald Square, on the Corner of 34th Street and Broadway
Macy’s Herald Square is the perfect reminder to BELIEVE – in yourself, in miracles and the true meaning of Christmas. A beautiful “Believe” sign lights up on Macy’s building façade on 34th Street. Macy’s also has fascinating holiday window displays like the stores on 5th Avenue.
In addition, Macy’s also has Santaland, where you and your little one can meet Santa Claus through Christmas Eve! It’s one of the most memorable NYC Christmas activities you and your family can experience together. You must book a free reservation to see Santa in Macy’s Herald Square!
This year, walk through Macy’s Holiday Square, presented by Urbanspace. It’s a pop-up holiday market, running through January 3, 2025, featuring New Yorker favorites from Max Brenner to Crumbl.
Become Dazzled at Shine Bright Hudson Yards:

Location (Midtown West) – Between 10th and 12th Avenues, from West 30th to West 34th Streets
One of the best places for holiday cheer and glowing lights is Shine Bright at Hudson Yards. It’s presented by Wells Fargo.
When you visit the Mall at Hudson Yards, you can marvel at over two million gold Christmas lights. Also, enjoy free photo opportunities with Santa, conquer your holiday shopping at big department stores and experience late-night entertainment at Santa’s Secret, a speakeasy room with Christmas cocktails.
You can also admire the dazzling lights outside, in the Backyard at Hudson Yards, and on The Vessel. A giant menorah will also be lit starting on December 15, 2025 to celebrate Hanukkah.
Cozy Up in a Rooftop Igloo at 230 Fifth:

Location (Flatiron) – 5th Avenue, between West 27th and West 26th Streets
One of the best ways to spend time with friends during the winter months is to visit 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar.
You can book an igloo dining experience through a reservation system and the rooftop accepts walk-ins based on availability. (Igloos are shared.) Also, enjoy prix-fixe dinners and engagement proposal packages at this scenic rooftop venue.
At 230 Fifth, sip different types of boozy and non-alcoholic hot chocolate, coffee and ciders. They also have great food items! I loved the salmon and spiked cider, which was served with an apple cider donut. It should be added to your 2025 December NYC Christmas activity list.
Spot the Madison Square Park Holiday Tree:

Location (Flatiron) – Madison Square Park, 5th and Madison Avenues, between East 26th and East 23rd Streets
In December 1912, Madison Square Park hosted the country’s first public Christmas tree lighting. To this day, the tree shines bright among New York City’s lights.
You can watch the Madison Square Park Holiday Tree Lighting on December 9, 2025, from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm. It’s so beautiful! There are giveaways, baked treats and live music performances in partnership with Tin Pan Alley and Sony.
Don’t forget to grab something delicious at the original Shake Shack!
Get a Taste of the Italian Alps at SERRA by Birreria at Eataly:

Location (Flatiron) – 5th Avenue, between West 24th and West 23rd Streets
Eataly is an Italian marketplace comprising restaurants, pizzerias, bakeries, bars, retail stores, markets and a cooking school. You can find Eataly in various cities worldwide. There are three locations in New York City: the Flatiron, the Financial District and SoHo.
The Eataly at the Flatiron location has a seasonal rooftop restaurant and bar called SERRA by Birreria. Meaning “greenhouse” in Italian, SERRA offers a seasonal, rustic menu that reflects the Italian countryside and Alps. The decorations are beautiful for Christmas!
At SERRA, you can enjoy warm Italian cocktails, renowned wines and beer. (They also have mocktails!) It’s a fun spot to add to your Christmas in NYC activities bucket list!
Please note that the seasonal decorations are different each year.
Witness a Victorian Christmas at Lillie’s Victorian Establishment, Oscar Wilde and Papillon Bistro:

Lillie’s Victorian Establishment Location (Union Square) – East 17th Street, between 5th Avenue and Broadway
Oscar Wilde (Flatiron) – West 27th Street, between 6th Avenue and Broadway
Papillon Bistro & Bar (Midtown) – East 54th Street, between 5th and Madison Avenues
Not only will you feel like you went back in time to the late 1800s or early 1900s, but Lillie’s Victorian Establishment has some of the most beautiful decorations in New York City.
There are two Lillie’s Victorian locations – Times Square and Union Square. This American restaurant is one of the most stunning in the city! However, the Union Square location is the place to go for magical holiday decorations. (They are also one of the handful of Halloween restaurants in NYC.)
Oscar Wilde in the Flatiron District is another excellent NYC restaurant with a Victorian vibe. Like Lillie’s, Oscar Wilde has Christmas decorations throughout the restaurant and offers delicious New American food and beverages.
Under the same restaurant group, Papillon Bistro & Bar is another one of the most festive places to take in the best holiday decorations. This bi-level French brasserie is famous for its decorative staircase!
Roam Around the Union Square Holiday Market:

Location (Union Square) – Between East 17th and East 14th Streets
The Union Square Holiday Market is an internationally renowned market selling unique gifts made by local New Yorkers and features award-winning NYC restaurants and retailers. It’s presented by Urbanspace.
Through December 24, 2025, you can stroll around and shop for beautiful trinkets to bring home for the holidays or purchase Christmas gifts for your loved ones. You can also enjoy delicious food and snacks from Birria, which offers Tijuana-style tacos; The Truffleist, for delicious truffle items; and The Boiis Co., serving Filipino mochi baked goods, to name a few.
It’s one of the top 50 things to do in NYC during the holidays, making it one of the best NYC Christmas activities in the Union Square neighborhood.
Travel to the German Christmas Markets without Leaving NYC at Rolf’s:

Location (Gramercy) – 3rd Avenue, between East 22nd and East 21st Streets
Rolf’s German Restaurant is one of the most magical places that cannot be excluded from your NYC Christmas itinerary.
This NYC Christmas classic is decked out in ornaments, Christmas lights, wreaths and dolls year-round! It features both Bavarian and Alsatian dishes. The drink menu includes cozy holiday beverages we all love, such as glühwein (German mulled wine), hot apple cider, spiced eggnog, holiday martinis and more.
I always adore the warmth that Rolf’s offers and I believe anyone traveling to NYC in December should visit this spot. Please note, though, that dining reservations during the holiday season must be reserved in person, and due to its popularity, tables get booked up quickly. However, you can still visit Rolf’s as a walk-in for a drink at the bar.
Catch NYC’s 2nd Longest Running Tree Lighting in Washington Square Park:

Location (Washington Square Park) – Washington Square, outside New York University (NYU)
Right next to the iconic Washington Square Arch is a beautiful Christmas tree that gets lit every year. This year, you can enjoy the tree lighting ceremony on December 13, 2025, from 6 pm to 7 pm.
Washington Square Park is also famous for its Christmas caroling on Christmas Eve. This year, the annual tradition will occur on December 24, 2025, from 5 pm to 6 pm. You can also download a free caroling book on the website!
Have Fun at a Miracle Pop-Up Bar:

Miracle on 9th Street (Drinks Only): The Cabinet (Alphabet City) – East 9th Street, between Avenue B and Avenue C
Miracle on 8th Street (Food and Drinks): Mace (Greenwich Village) – West 8th Street, between 6th Avenue and MacDougal Street
Another among the top 50 NYC Christmas activities to enjoy during the holiday season is the Miracle pop-up bars. Two Miracle locations are in New York City: The Cabinet in Alphabet City and Mace in Greenwich Village, outside of Washington Square Park.
Miracle is a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar that serves festive craft cocktails and tasty food in a magical setting. I’ve been to the Alphabet City Miracle pop-up at The Cabinet a few times and it always gets me into the holiday spirit with its colorful Christmas lights, vintage Santa Clauses, wooden nutcrackers and Hanukkah display.
Please note that you must make a reservation to visit any Miracle location beforehand. It’s essential to keep in mind that the Alphabet City location serves only drinks, while the Greenwich Village Miracle has a full food menu.
There are also a variety of Miracle bars in New Jersey, not far from the city. You can visit Jersey City’s Franklin Social, Nutley’s Cowan’s Public and Verona’s The Parkside Social.
Conquer an Upper East Side Stoop Scavenger Hunt:

Location (Upper East Side) – Anywhere in the East 60s to East 80s Streets
The Upper East Side is home to many of New York City’s wealthiest residents. This area of Manhattan boasts beautiful brownstone buildings that decorate magically for Christmas.
One of the best NYC Christmas activities is to wander through the UES and enjoy a fun scavenger hunt to find the most decorative stoops. My personal favorite is located on East 76th Street and 5th Avenue. (Pictured above.) Below is a list of other festively decorated homes in the Upper East Side.
- East 78th Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues
- The Mark Hotel on East 77th Street, between 5th and Madison Avenues
- East 64th Street, between 5th and Madison Avenues
- East 61st Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues
Make Merry Memories Over a Pink Christmas at Magic Hour Rooftop:

Location (Times Square) – Moxy NYC Times Square, on the Corner of 7th Avenue and West 36th Street
If you love pink, visit Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge at the Moxy Times Square Hotel.
This unique NYC bar always has a themed winter rooftop. The photo above was taken in 2021 when the venue presented a pink après-ski theme.
Not only can you enjoy warm beverages like pink hot cocoa and festive cocktails, but you must make a reservation for brunch to enjoy the carousel seating and all the fun photo spots with The Empire State Building as a backdrop! The bar area accepts walk-ins.
Immerse Yourself in the Fun at Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Watermark:

Location (South Street Seaport) – Pier 15 on South Street
Hang out with Santa Claus at the South Street Seaport along the East River. From November 7 through December 31, 2025, enjoy an enchanting experience at Santa’s Winter Wonderland at the Watermark, presented by Fever. It’s one of the top NYC Christmas activities at the Seaport!
When you purchase a ticket, you will enjoy 90 minutes in illuminated, heated glasshouses. Savor delicious food like lobster mac and cheese, sip festive cocktails and hot cocoa and enjoy sweet treats, including making your own s’mores.
At Santa’s Winter Wonderland at the Watermark, you can also hang out with the big man, enjoy numerous photo opportunities, admire beautiful views of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, ride a mini carousel, experience fake snow (or real snow, depending on the weather) and write a letter to Santa.
You can purchase a general admission ticket or a glasshouse chalet. The latter includes a delicious entrée. It’s one of the most memorable Christmas events in New York for all ages.
Explore the Holiday Magic at the Oculus:

Location (Financial District) – World Trade Center, between Greenwich and Church Streets
One of the leading NYC Christmas activities is embracing the holiday magic and roller skating at The Shops at the Oculus.
Winter Whirl, presented by Fever and Sonic the Hedgehog 3, is a fun indoor activity that will leave you and your friends with lasting memories.
From now through January 5, 2025, roller skate to holiday music in the iconic Oculus. Tickets start at $30 USD for adults and teens 13 years and older and $25 USD for children 12 and under. Children must be eight or older to roller skate and be accompanied by an adult.
This entertaining experience is available Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 pm to 8 pm and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 am to 6 pm. It’s closed on Christmas Day.
Not only are the stores (and market) at the Oculus one of the leading places for holiday shopping, but it’s also near the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, which you must experience during a NYC trip no matter the time of year.
Marvel at the Festive Tree and Décor at the New York Stock Exchange:

Location (Financial District) – Wall Street and Broad Street
Another one of the top 50 things to do in NYC is to see the stunning Christmas tree at the New York Stock Exchange. Not only is the tree beautiful, but so are the decorations on the Stock Exchange building itself.
Every year, the NYSE has its own Christmas tree lighting ceremony. This year, the tree lighting will occur on December 4, 2025, from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. In addition to the lighting, there are phenomenal live performances, snacks and refreshments.
Walk through the Illuminating Zuccotti Park:

Location (Financial District) – Between Church Street and Broadway, along with Cedar and Thames Streets
One of Manhattan’s most beautiful Christmas light displays is in Zuccotti Park in FiDi. If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in NYC this Christmas season, this is the place to go!
Walking through this park will amaze you. It’s also one of the most romantic things to do in NYC, making it the perfect proposal destination.
Sip Festive Tea Around Town:

Location (Midtown) – The bus stop location is at TopView Sightseeing. It’s across from Bryant Park, on the corner of East 42nd Street and 5th Avenue
During the 2025 Christmas season, you can sign up to enjoy an English high tea experience on a beautiful double-decker bus that takes passengers around NYC’s most famous landmarks.
Tea Around Town is one of the best NYC Christmas activities in December. This lovely double-decker bus has a pink interior decorated with garlands, white boas, red berries and faux fur, making it perfect for photo opportunities and afternoons with the girls. It will be decorated for the holidays through January 18, 2026.
When you sign up for premium admission, you’ll enjoy unlimited tea, a complimentary glass of Champagne and three tiers of scones, finger sandwiches and decadent desserts. There is also a serenader for the entire 90 minutes who also offers narration as you make your way around the Chrysler Building, Radio City Music Hall, Central Park and the 5th Avenue holiday displays.
This year, Tea Around Town also includes visiting the New York Botanical Garden for the Holiday Train Show.
There are Tea Around Town bus tours daily. It’s best to book this experience in advance during the holiday season.
Adventure to Dyker Heights for the Best Christmas Lights:

Location (Brooklyn) – Dyker Heights, between 11th to 13th Avenues
A NYC Christmas trip isn’t complete without seeing the best Christmas light displays in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood.
This area pays homage to the most over-the-top Christmas light decorations. You will also witness life-size Santas, nutcrackers, snowmen, Christmas village houses and more.
There will even be Christmas carolers in the neighborhood! Also, some of the homes in Dyker Heights sell hot chocolate and baked goods to tourists.
Visiting Dyker Heights is one of the best things to do in NYC at night. Since this neighborhood of Brooklyn has a large Italian American population, I recommend savoring a delicious meal after seeing the majestic lights. Annabelle’s Pastaria is my favorite dining spot in the area.
Meander Your Way through Grand Central Terminal:

Location (Midtown East) – Park Avenue, between East 42nd to East 45th Streets
Another indoor New York Christmas market is the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair. It runs through Christmas Eve and houses vendors selling curated experiences and unique products.
In addition to the markets, Grand Central Terminal also has shops and incredible dining. Renowned eateries located in Grand Central are Cipriani, Bien Cuit, Magnolia Bakery, Luke’s Lobster, Playa Bowls and more.
Overall, the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair is one of the best places to visit and enjoy amid the NYC holiday commute madness.
Catch the Bronx Zoo Holiday Light Show:
Location (The Bronx) – Bronx Zoo, Southern Boulevard
One of the best NYC Christmas activities for animal lovers is to visit the Bronx Zoo Holiday Light Show, which takes place through January 5, 2025.
During this experience, you can marvel at immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns and dreamy Christmas lights sprinkled throughout the zoo. The lantern displays showcase the wildlife of New York’s ocean waters, wetlands and more.
Tickets start at $41.95 USD for adults and teens 13 years and older, $36.95 USD for seniors 65 and older and $26.95 for children ages three to 12.
While you visit The Bronx Zoo, stop at Arthur Avenue, NYC’s original Little Italy, to shop for Italian specialties for your holiday meal and enjoy one of the best Italian dinners at a local restaurant.
Attend Z100’s Jingle Ball:
Location (Midtown) – Madison Square Garden, Pennsylvania Plaza, between 7th and 8th Avenues and West 31st to West 33rd Streets
It’s no secret that one of the best Christmas events in NYC is Z100’s Jingle Ball, presented by iHeartRadio and Capital One.
New York City’s Jingle Ball will occur on December 12, 2025 at Madison Square Garden. The show will feature Top 100 artists like Ed Sheeran, Jelly Roll, Nelly and Zara Larsson, to name a few. The Jingle Ball sells out every year, so always get your tickets when they are first released to the public.
Every year, Jingle Ball gives back through the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. It’s a non-profit supporting the youth through entertainment and educational-focused initiatives.
Bar Hop Around NYC at the Annual SantaCon:

Location (Throughout Midtown and Downtown Manhattan)
One of the most entertaining NYC Christmas activities for those 21 and older is SantaCon. In this charitable and fun bar crawl, participants dress up as Santa or something festive and visit different bars around Manhattan.
SantaCon 2025 will occur on December 13 from 10 am to 8 pm. You and your friends can follow the crowd to different venues in New York City and have a memorable time!
A ticket to SantaCon goes directly to Santa’s charity drive in the local neighborhoods. The bar route is announced once you purchase a ticket.
Suppose you cannot make the Manhattan SantaCon. In that case, a Hoboken SantaCon in New Jersey will occur a week later. This year, it will also take place on Saturday, December 13, 2025.
Ice Skate on the Hudson at Brookfield Place:

Location (Tribeca) – Off West Side Highway
In addition to Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park and Central Park, ice skating fans can enjoy a wonderful experience along the Hudson River at The Rink at Brookfield Place.
Depending on the weather, the ice rink opens in November and will close sometime in March. It’s the perfect spot to skate with friends and family, book a private lesson, have a birthday party or corporate outing and enjoy a lovely winter’s day.
Warm Up at Westlight in Brooklyn:
Location (Brooklyn) – Williamsburg, North 12th Street, between Wythe Avenue and Berry Street
A fantastic NYC Christmas activity to enjoy in Brooklyn is the Winter Village at Westlight in Williamsburg. This seasonal pop-up on the rooftop of The William Vale has cozy chalets to book with beautiful views of the city skyline.
The Westlight Winter Village will occur through the end of March or early April, weather-dependent. When you reserve a chalet, you can sip on seasonal cocktails and dine on Alpine-style Fondue, small plates and more.
Additionally, The William Vale has a Winter Spa that hotel guests can enjoy. The spa has panoramic barrel saunas and deep-soaking cedar hot tubs. It’s perfect for a couple’s winter getaway to NYC or a solo rejuvenation trip.
Relish a Jolly Time with Friends at Holly Jolly Bar:

Location (East Village) – Saint, 2nd Avenue, between East 9th and St. Marks Place
Located at the Saint, Holly Jolly Bar is a fun place to visit with friends, sip a Christmas-themed cocktail and witness over-the-top décor. It is presented by Bucket Listers.
You must purchase a ticket to visit Holly Jolly Bar. A standing-room ticket costs $15 USD per person and includes a welcome shot. A general admission ticket costs $18 USD per person and includes a welcome cocktail.
This NYC pop-up bar will be around through December 27, 2025. In addition to festive cocktails and mocktails, like The Grinch’s Margarita and Tiramisu Rumtini, there are also holiday-themed bites to purchase.
Captivate over Skyline Views at Somewhere Nowhere:

Location (Flatiron) – West 25th Street, between 7th and 6th Avenues
Another epic NYC Christmas activity is to reserve a cozy teardrop igloo on the rooftop of Somewhere Nowhere. This one-of-a-kind winter experience is perfect for a date night or an evening with the girls through December 28, 2025.
When you reserve a heated igloo, you’ll get a bottle of champagne that you can sip with views of the Empire State Building. Inside these lavish teardrop igloos, you’ll enjoy plush love seats, a built-in fireplace, cozy fur blankets, cocktails and spiced hot cocoa, small bites and even s’mores.
Winter Igloos start at $85 USD per person and each one holds up to a maximum of five guests. On Wednesday evenings, you and your friends can also enjoy the speakeasy at Somewhere Nowhere. It features a live jazz band, swing dancing, aerial performances and more.
Savor a Christmas Dinner at Tavern on the Green:
Location (Upper West Side) – Central Park on West 67th Street
One of the best Christmas Day activities in NYC is to enjoy dinner at Tavern on the Green in Central Park.
The holiday décor and displays at this classic New York City restaurant will amaze you and your family! You can enjoy a 4-course feast featuring Executive Chef Bill Peet‘s dishes for Christmas Day.
Book your reservations a few months in advance if you plan to have Christmas dinner at Tavern on the Green.
Listen to Ghost Stories on a Madame Morbid Tour:

Location (Brooklyn): Williamsburg, Driggs Avenue and North 9th Street
Guess what holiday is spookier than Halloween? That’s right, it’s Christmas! Charles Dickens isn’t the only ghost storyteller of the season.
One of the most unique Christmas activities in NYC is booking a Madame Morbid tour in Brooklyn. Inspired by Dickensian Christmas and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Madame Morbid is a vintage trolley that offers a 90-minute nonstop ghost tour around Brooklyn this holiday season.
During the tour, you will learn about the haunted side of Christmas. You’ll also hear about the true crimes and paranormal activities that have occurred around Brooklyn over the past couple of centuries. There will also be spooky trivia, and passengers can win fun prizes.
Madame Morbid also offers private trolleys for groups of up to 22 people.
Jam Out at Mariah Carey’s Black Irish Holiday Bar:
Location (NoMad): Virgin Hotels NYC, Broadway, between West 30th and West 29th Streets
If you’re a fan of Mariah Carey’s Christmas album, book tickets to her Black Irish Holiday Bar at Virgin Hotels in Midtown. It’s one of the most festive holiday bars in Manhattan.
Presented by Bucket Listers, Mariah Carey’s Black Irish Holiday Bar is a ticketed event. General admission costs start at $22 USD per person and include a Welcome Signature Black Irish Cocktail.
You and your friends can also enjoy brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, starting at $30 USD per person. A brunch ticket includes one complimentary cocktail, but food is an additional purchase.
Black Irish Holiday Bar by Mariah Carey is happening through December 28, 2025. Please note that general admission tickets do not guarantee seating.
Sail Around NYC on a Cocoa and Carols Cruise:

Location (Chelsea): Pier 62 at Chelsea Piers, on West 22nd Street and 12th Avenue
A New York City trip is incomplete without sailing along the East and Hudson Rivers.
One of the best NYC Christmas activities is enjoying a Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise through Classic Harbor Line. This hour-and-a-half cruise sails from Chelsea Piers and is perfect for families, friend groups, couples and co-workers.
As you navigate the Big Apple’s most famous landmarks, you can dance and sing along to festive live musical performances. Additionally, you can warm up to house-made hot cocoa and even get it spike, and indulge in delicious Christmas cookies. (Wine, beer and champagne are also offered on this cruise, along with a cheese plate.)
Some of the top NYC landmarks that will captivate you during an evening on this fun Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise are the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade Center and The Empire State Building.
Enjoy a Cocoa and Carols Holiday Cruise with Classic Harbor Line through December 31, 2025. Ticket prices start at $108 USD per person. Click here to discover the other memorable holiday cruises to book with Classic Harbor Line.
Spend an Evening at Frosty’s Christmas Bar:

Location (Times Square): Bacall’s, West 44th Street, between 8th and 7th Avenues
If you love visiting over-the-top Christmas venues during the holiday season, you must spend an evening at Frosty’s Christmas Bar. It’s renowned for being the original Christmas holiday pop-up bar and an unforgettable 21-and-over experience.
You can book tickets for Frosty’s from now until December 30, 2025. Prices start at $30.11 USD per person.
While making holiday memories at Frosty’s Christmas Bar, you must also sip their specialty drinks, enjoy the many photo opportunities and speak with Santa and his elves.
Frosty’s New York is Manhattan’s most extensive Christmas bar. It’s three stories and includes multiple bars, a restaurant and a nightclub. In addition to the festive cocktails, you can also purchase small bites.
Discover 101 things to do in NYC!

Here are other Christmas destinations:
Magical December Getaways in the USA
Best Christmas Markets in Bavaria
2 Days in Tallinn, Estonia at Christmas
I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best NYC Christmas activities and decorations for December 2025. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com. Happy Holidays!
Click here to book a cooking class in New York.
Basic Facts of the United States:
Currency: United States Dollar, Capital: Washington D.C., NY State Capital: Albany, Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
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30 Comments
This is one of my favorite blogs of yours ~ maybe because NYC is our home away from home! The most beautiful city -especially around the holidays. So glad I got to spend a few days with you in that lovely apartment in the Business District @Sonder ~ what a great experience being in the heart of downtown NYC. I also loved touring all the famous holiday spots and great restaurants. NYC is the best place to visit during this time of the year. Loved all your stunning photos ~ Brought these iconic places to life ~ Love you, mom xoxo <3
NYC during Christmas must be absolutely magical! The decoration looks so festive and it’s always been my dream to see the huge Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. Hopefully ome day I’ll be able to see it with my own eyes 🙂 Great post!
What a fantastic blog post, Taylor! This was so informative as I plan my little day trip to the city and all of your photos are gorgeous!
A NYC Christmas is my mom’s absolute DREAM. Every year we have tried going there has been one obstacle after another, but there are several things on here I don’t think she had on her radar! LuminoCity Festival especially – she loves lights, so I can’t wait to show her – hopefully next year she can actually make it.
This is such a fun post! I’m sure that touring NYC this year was way different, but also nice to have so much space from all the usual tourist.
Also, your photos are GORGEOUS! I love every single one of your outfits.I love how visiting NYC was a tradition for you growing up for Christmas! I would love to go back next year for a few days! Your pics at Lotte were so cute too. It’s been forever since I stayed there!
Wow so many amazing things to do in New York for Christmas. I hope I can make it there one day. Those winery igloos are such a good idea and I would love to see Frozen on Broadway 🙂
New York is such a great city, and I would absolutely love to visit during the holidays one year. The closest I got was January when some of the activities were still happening and the tree was still up, but being around in December would be magical. Love all the displays you saw and I would really like to see the Christmas markets and drink at the wine igloo
This is so incredible! Your photos are amazing – how festive! I’m so envious there are this many awesome things to do in NYC. I haven’t been since I was a kid – hopefully I can get back during the holidays!! And your outfits are adoooooorable!!!!!!!!
Awesome guide idea! I go every year to NYC for business but I still need to plan a trip around Christmas time – it is so magical! I love your pictures and all the tips. Saving for when I get to visit again, hopefully during Christmas.
I used to live in NYC and even I haven’t done most of these New York Christmas activities. Thanks for all the ideas!
wow the Sonder apartment looks incredible! I’ve always wanted to visit NYC during the holidays so this is a super handy guide!
The Sondor looks amazing! I’ll have to check it out next time. Hoping to check some of these recommendations off my list next year!
NYC during the holidays looks and sounds amazing. Still on my bucket list to visit in December one time.
OMG your blog posts are such a delight to go through. I simply love the pictures you so carefully plan and shoot – they bring about the best of the place and look absolutely spectacular. I just love your blog Taylor 🙂

This is one of my favorite blogs of yours ~ maybe because NYC is our home away from home! The most beautiful city -especially around the holidays. So glad I got to spend a few days with you in that lovely apartment in the Business District @Sonder ~ what a great experience being in the heart of downtown NYC. I also loved touring all the famous holiday spots and great restaurants. NYC is the best place to visit during this time of the year. Loved all your stunning photos ~ Brought these iconic places to life ~ Love you, mom xoxo <3
It really is so magical during this time of the year! We had such a great time. Love you too! <3
NYC during Christmas must be absolutely magical! The decoration looks so festive and it’s always been my dream to see the huge Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. Hopefully ome day I’ll be able to see it with my own eyes 🙂 Great post!
Thank you Alina! I really hope you get to go one day. NYC truly is spectacular during the holiday season! Let me know when you do come here 🙂
What a fantastic blog post, Taylor! This was so informative as I plan my little day trip to the city and all of your photos are gorgeous!
Thank you so much Elena! You’re going to enjoy taking content in the city this year!
A NYC Christmas is my mom’s absolute DREAM. Every year we have tried going there has been one obstacle after another, but there are several things on here I don’t think she had on her radar! LuminoCity Festival especially – she loves lights, so I can’t wait to show her – hopefully next year she can actually make it.
Ah yes, she will definitely LOVE NYC during Christmas time. Definitely try to go next year. 🙂
This is such a fun post! I’m sure that touring NYC this year was way different, but also nice to have so much space from all the usual tourist.
Also, your photos are GORGEOUS! I love every single one of your outfits.
Thank you so much Courtney! Yes, NYC was definitely a different vibe this holiday season, but it was still magical! 🙂
I love how visiting NYC was a tradition for you growing up for Christmas! I would love to go back next year for a few days! Your pics at Lotte were so cute too. It’s been forever since I stayed there!
Yes, it was always such a nice day! We usually go in the night before Christmas Eve. Also, yes, you totally have to come next year! 🙂
Wow so many amazing things to do in New York for Christmas. I hope I can make it there one day. Those winery igloos are such a good idea and I would love to see Frozen on Broadway 🙂
It is seriously so amazing in NYC during Christmas! I love it. 🙂
New York is such a great city, and I would absolutely love to visit during the holidays one year. The closest I got was January when some of the activities were still happening and the tree was still up, but being around in December would be magical. Love all the displays you saw and I would really like to see the Christmas markets and drink at the wine igloo
You totally should come next year. It is so beautiful! Also, it really is nice enjoying NYC in December vs. January. 🙂
This is so incredible! Your photos are amazing – how festive! I’m so envious there are this many awesome things to do in NYC. I haven’t been since I was a kid – hopefully I can get back during the holidays!! And your outfits are adoooooorable!!!!!!!!
Thank you so much Sarah! You should totally go next year! 🙂
Awesome guide idea! I go every year to NYC for business but I still need to plan a trip around Christmas time – it is so magical! I love your pictures and all the tips. Saving for when I get to visit again, hopefully during Christmas.
Thank you so much Paula! You should totally revisit next year. 🙂
I used to live in NYC and even I haven’t done most of these New York Christmas activities. Thanks for all the ideas!
Yes, it is so much fun! I honestly didn’t start exploring all of these spots until the past few years. 🙂
wow the Sonder apartment looks incredible! I’ve always wanted to visit NYC during the holidays so this is a super handy guide!
It really is Helena! You should totally go next year. 🙂
The Sondor looks amazing! I’ll have to check it out next time. Hoping to check some of these recommendations off my list next year!
Yes, I really hope you get to go next year! 🙂
NYC during the holidays looks and sounds amazing. Still on my bucket list to visit in December one time.
It really is Cosette! I loved it during this time of the year! Hope you could go next year. 🙂
OMG your blog posts are such a delight to go through. I simply love the pictures you so carefully plan and shoot – they bring about the best of the place and look absolutely spectacular. I just love your blog Taylor 🙂
Thank you so much, I really appreciate that! 🙂