Christmas in new york city: complete guide to the best things to do
If you’re planning a trip to New York City at Christmas, this is hands down our favorite trip to take in December. Twinkling lights everywhere, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the Rockettes, and Santa Claus at Macy’s. It’s hard not to get into the holiday spirit here.
We have visited NYC five times over the holidays. The first time we visited over New Year’s Eve and the other times we visited during the week of Christmas. After multiple December trips, we’ve put together our favorite things to see and do that truly capture the magic of the season.
This guide includes our favorite things to do in NYC at Christmas, where we stop for food and hot chocolate, and how we walk between the holiday displays. I’m also sharing what I’d book ahead and what I’d skip after doing it ourselves.
When to Visit New York City for Christmas
We’ve visited during Christmas week and over New Year’s Eve, and both were festive and very crowded. The closer to Christmas holiday (school holiday) the busier the city gets. While most holidays markets and ice rinks open in November, if seeing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a priority, you’ll need to visit after Thanksgiving.
GETTING to new york city:
If you’re flying into LaGuardia Airport, pick a seat on the left side of the plane for amazing views when you land
If you are flying into NYC, you have three airport options: JFK Airport, LaGuardia Airport and Newark Airport in New Jersey. I will always check the cost of flights (or award availability) into each airport to compare.
From each airport, you’ll have multiple options for getting into the city (Manhattan) and to your hotel including public buses and taxis. We have taken the AirTrain several times and found it pretty simple to figure out. While it costs more, we always budget for an Uber upon arrival. It’s just easy to use, easy to find and worth it to be dropped off right in front of our hotel.
how to get to new york city (manhattan) from newark airport (ewr):
Take the AirTrain to Newark Liberty International Airport Station, then transfer to an NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station in Manhattan. Newark Penn Station and New York Penn Station are different stops, so double-check before getting off.
If you’re staying near the World Trade Center, you can take NJ Transit to Newark Penn Station and transfer to PATH.
Another option is to take the Newark Express Bus into Manhattan. It can take around an hour and is more expensive that the PATH train.
how to get to new york city (manhattan) from JFK Airport:
Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, where you can connect to the subway or take the Long Island Railroad to Penn Station or Grand Central Madison. Another option is the AirTrain to Howard Beach for the A subway train. I’d check the route to your hotel in Citymapper before deciding.
Stacy’s Tips: When you arrive at JFK, head towards baggage claim. From there you’ll begin to see the signs for the AirTrain. It’s going to feel like you are walking forever but stay with it. You’ll hop on the AirTrain and get off at Jamaica Station. We just tap to pay when we get off. Then follow the signs for the LIRR. You can purchase a ticket at the kiosks, then head down the stairs or elevators to the platform. There are people there that can help if you get confused.
Once on board the train, staff will come and scan your ticket.
how to get to new york city (manhattan) from laguardia airport:
There is no subway or AirTrain that connects directly from the airport into Manhattan. But you can take the free Q70 “LaGuardia Link” bus which runs nonstop to the Jackson Heights Roosevelt Avenue Subway station or take the M60 bus to the subway.
We typically take an Uber (or Lyft which can price out lower many times) but this is the most expensive option. I would avoid a taxi as it will be the most expensive option when you’re stuck in traffic.
Stacy’s Tip: I highly recommend downloading the City Mapper app before you arrive. It’s so easy to use for the NYC subway system. Just put in your location and destination and it tells you exactly how to get there, including walking instructions and if you need to switch trains.
best things to do in new york city during christmas
The Lights at Saks Fifth Avenue
NYC Christmas Window Displays and Our Fifth Avenue Walking Route
We love walking down 5th Avenue to admire all the holiday window displays. I like to start our walk at Saks 5th Avenue and start walking north towards Central Park and The Plaza Hotel. Be on the lookout for decorations on the Cartier Building, the big Louis Vuitton Trunks and Bergdorf-Goodman.
After seeing The Plaza Hotel, walk west along Central Park South to Sixth Avenue, then head south toward Radio City Music Hall for more Christmas decorations. Make sure to stop by the Pulitzer Fountain in front of The Plaza Hotel too. We loved the animated holiday display when we visited.
The Pulitzer Fountain and its animated holiday display
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Ice Skating and the Rockettes
Seeing the Rockefeller Christmas Tree was on my bucket list for so many years and you guys, it did not disappoint. My stomach still does a little flip every time I see it. There’s lots to see in and around Rockefeller Plaza, here are our favorites:
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: For the best views, stand in front of the ice rink where you can see the Saks Fifth Avenue lights on your right and the Christmas tree on your left. There are a series of fountains here called the Channel Gardens that are lined with angel decorations. It is super crowded here, but worth it to work your way in. It’s really quite a sight. Remember to come back here at night too. It’s magical.
Stacy’s Tip: Want to experience your own tree lighting ceremony? The tree is lit every morning at 0600, so head over early and you’ll have your own, almost private tree lighting ceremony.
The Lights at Saks Fifth Avenue: In 2024 the light show was cancelled. While this was so disappointing, it did make a huge difference in the crowds in front of Rockefeller Center. The windows at Saks are still decorated and I think it’s worth going inside!
Rockefeller Ice Rink: Sure, it’s crowded and expensive, but you have to skate on Rockefeller Ice under the Rockefeller Christmas Tree once in your life, don’t you? We found arriving right when the Rink opens to be the best time. We went at 0900 on New Years Day and there were maybe ten people there. Make sure to pack thick socks for this one! You can find out more here!
The Radio City Rockettes: Check tickets for the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes as soon as you know your dates. I think this is a must-see at least once in your life. Shows start November 4, 2026. Tickets are already on sale. Eligible Chase credit or debit cardholders have access to Chase Preferred Seating for select seats and performances subject to availability.
Holiday Chalets at Rockefeller Center: The tiny chalets are set up around Rockefeller ice rink during the holidays. This is definitely a splurge. Your 50-minute reservation can accommodate up to six people and includes a photo and beverages. I’m already seeing some time slots sold out in December. For more information or to make reservations, click here.
The Today Show: We watch the Today Show every morning and it was on our bucket list to see the Today Show team. But both times we have visited, the main crew was already off for the holidays. You can go online and reserve a spot, but I don’t think it’s necessary. We showed up around 0600 and there was already a line. Be warned, they pre-tape a lot of segments for the holidays and if you’re visiting between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, it’s likely the main Today Show hosts will not be there.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck: Even though there are several other observation decks in NYC, this one is our favorite. I recommend booking the time slot for 45 minutes before sunset. This is the most popular time slot and does sell out. Stacy’s Tip: You can line up outside on the side of the building, or head inside and go to the lower-level entrance where there were shorter lines and it’s nice and warm.
FAO Schwarz: Unless you arrive right at opening, be prepared to stand in very long lines in the cold weather. Inside FAO Schwarz is the Jellycat Diner. You have to make a reservation online - and even then, be prepared to stand in a long line. Payton and I did this last year, and it was a fun experience. If you have kids, this is a must do!
Top of the Rock at sunset is worth the crowds!
more sights and Christmas Decorations Near Rockefeller Center
St. Patrick’s Cathedral - on 5th Avenue right next to Saks. Free to enter and look around
The Big Red Ornaments - on Sixth Avenue, across from Radio City Music Hall
The Fox News Christmas Tree - West 48th & 6th Avenue, just down from the big red ornaments in the fountain
The big Nutcracker statues - Outside of the UBS Building on 6th Ave
Magnolia Bakery - near Radio Center Music Hall - best banana pudding ever. Go early, lines usually wrap around the building.
Shopping - You’ll find tons of shopping along Fifth Avenue and crowd favorites FAO Schwarz and Legos are right in Rockefeller Plaza. As you’re walking down 5th Avenue look for: Skims, Cartier, Tiffany’s (you can actually have Breakfast at Tiffany’s!), the famous Louis Vuitton trunks, etc.
The Lotte New York Palace Hotel - right behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Gorgeous Christmas tree, go inside if you’re a Gossip Girl fan
Macy’s Santaland and Christmas Windows at Herald Square
Even though I don’t have little ones anymore, we reserved tickets to see Santa last year. Limited, VIP tickets go on sale October 22, 2026! This is an iconic Christmas activity in New York. And honestly, just seeing the historic Macy’s with the holiday window displays and wooden escalators made me feel very nostalgic about the holidays. Even if seeing Santa isn’t on your list, definitely pop into Macy’s, head to Santaland and take the wooden escalators down and down and down.
I’m completely obsessed with the wooden escalators at Macy’s Department Store in NYC
Central Park in Winter and Ice Skating at Wollman Rink
We love exploring Central Park in the wintertime. You can literally spend a day here. There are fantastic views of the NYC skyline. We ice skated here at Wollman Rink on a previous trip and had a blast. We pre purchased our tickets to avoid standing in two lines when you get there. While it may seem romantic to take a horse carriage ride here, we prefer the more humane pedicab tours. You can prebook these. They take you to all the main sights and will even take your photos along the way! Keep in mind most pedicab tours only hold 2-3 people.
Payton and I booked a pedicab ride with Prince at Go Hybrid NYC and had a great time. You book in advance via his Facebook account. Payment is not required until date of service. He took us by all the big spots and even took our photos throughout the tour. A lot of other tours say that they are “Go Hybrid”, but he is the sole owner so make sure you book direct with him.
We had so much fun ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park
HARRY POTTER STORE in new york city:
OK, maybe this isn’t holiday related, but we think all things Harry Potter are magical. Head inside for a taste of Butterbeer at the bar or pick out a wand at the wand shop. For more information, click here. The Harry Potter Store is just a couple of blocks from the Union Square Holiday Market.
christmas lights at hudson yards and THE VESSEl:
My husband and I decided to go see this on our last night in NYC and I'm so glad we did. The Vessel is supercool to see at night, all the trees are covered in white lights. Head inside Hudson Yards shopping center to see the hot air balloons and hanging lights too. If you’re visiting The Edge rooftop, this is where you’ll go.
christmas MARKETS in new york city:
Winter Village at Bryant Park: Opens October 28th, 2026. This is a magical Christmas Market with tons of shops and food kiosks surrounding a huge ice rink. Admission to the ice rink is free, but skate rentals cost extra. Reserve a skating time online, even if you’re bringing your own skates. We did find this to be very crowded and lines to get food and hot cocoa were pretty long. But it is truly beautiful when the sun goes down. Find out more here.
Union Square Holiday Market: This one was smaller than the one at Bryant Park, but easily manageable and not quite as crowded. Click here for details.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Located on the southwest corner of Central Park, this Christmas Market is a good one to visit after your pedicab tour or ice skating at the Wollman Rink. To get updates on opening days and hours, click here.
The Oculus: Located across from the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and the World Trade Center, we visited a holiday market inside the Oculus and out of the cold. They really transform the lower level of The Oculus. Worth popping in while you’re in the neighborhood.
Warming up with hot cocoa at the Bryant Park Holiday Market
christmas shows in new york city
I love seeing a holiday themed show when we’re in NYC, it just really puts us in a festive mood. Top picks are:
Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Tickets can be pricey, but the cheap seats still have great views. I can’t think of a better way to kick off your holiday trip than to see this show in NYC. We have found that ticket prices are cheaper in November than in December.
Stacy’s Tip: Don’t forget to check your Chase offers as they will oftentimes offer discounts. As always, tickets for midweek will be cheaper than week-end tickets.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: This show is magical and very popular (you can now catch Tom Felton (the actor that played Draco Malfoy) on stage, so book tickets early!
The Nutcracker: We have an annual tradition of seeing this in the city that we live in every year. You don’t have to be a ballet fan to enjoy this. The dancers are incredible, it’s really a must see in my opinion.
festive christmas restaurants in new york city
Lilies Victorian Establishment: Locations in Times Square and Union Square. You can reserve a table online or try a festive Afternoon Tea.
Pete’s Tavern Gramercy: They go absolutely all out for Christmas. Reserve your spot online during the holidays.
Rolf’s in Gramercy: Near Union Square, this restaurant is super popular, and reservations sell out quickly. Reservations accepted by phone call only.
nyc OBSERVATION DECKS for skyline views
There’s just something about seeing the New York City skyline and all the twinkling lights as the sun is setting. Your trip to NYC would not be complete without doing one of these:
Top of the Rock: This is our favorite observation deck. We love having the Empire State Building in our view. You can see the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and you can even see Times Square and the ball!
The Edge: This one is fairly new and located by The Vessel at Hudson Yards. It’s the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. We did this one in 2023. Super cool (but we still like Top of the Rock better). Find out more information here.
One World Observatory: From the top of One World Trade Center, you have 360-degree views of NYC. For ticket info click here.
Summit ONE Vanderbilt: You’ve probably seen photos of this one on Instagram with all the big silver balls. Payton and I did this in 2026. So much fun. This would be my number two option after Top of the Rock. More info here.
Empire State Building: The elevator ride up and museum are very cool. Tickets to this rooftop observatory are included with the CityPass; so, compare prices if this is one your list.
our FAVORITE NYC TREATS and hot chocolate stops
Magnolia Bakery: In front of Radio City Music Hall. Best banana pudding ever
Angelina Paris: With two locations in NYC, you can get a little taste of Paris at our favorite hot cocoa cafe. There’s one across from Bryant Park and one on the Upper East Side. Don’t forget to grab some macarons while you’re here.
Serendipity 3: Get out of the cold and head inside this adorable shop for a Frozen hot chocolate. Reservations required and fill up quickly in December.
Juniors Cheesecake: The tallest, creamiest cheesecake I’ve ever had. They are huge and you can get one to split. Lines can get very long to sit down, we just go up to counter and get some to go.
Levain Cookies: If you’re a cookie lover, take some of these home.
Dominique Ansel: Try the blossoming hot cocoa and the famous cronut.
Laduree - This is our favorite macaron shop in Paris and there’s one in SOHO and on the Upper East Side. Put this on your list for a day you’re visiting Central Park - then head up and get a cappucino at Ralph’s Coffee.
DYKER HEIGHTS christmas lights tour: was it worth it?
This may be an unpopular opinion, but we were very disappointed that we spent money and lost four hours of our time on this tour. If you live in the United States, you will be very underwhelmed. The bus picks you up and takes you to Brooklyn where you get out and walk around a neighborhood decorated for the holidays. On our tour, we saw about three or four houses that really went all out. I expected more for the time and money we spent. For us, it wasn’t worth giving up four hours of our trip. I would skip this one for sure. I think most of the people on our bus tour were disappointed. Sorry, Dyker Heights.
We thought the entire neighborhood would look like this. Nope, just one house.
NYC Skyline at Night: Harbor Lights Cruise or Staten Island Ferry
Instead of doing the Dyker Heights tour above, do this one instead. It’s a cruise around the New York harbor at night to see the skyline lit up. We booked this two years ago. If you want the same effect for less money, just jump on the Staten Island Ferry - it’s completely free. We got on at sunset, so we had great sunset views and night lights on the way back.
Find out how we used points to stay free in New York City for free here.
TIPS for visiting nyc at christmas
Bring Cash: One of my favorite things about NYC during the holidays are the Salvation Army bell ringers. They don’t just stand there and ring the bell, they are usually playing loud music and dancing, so we always head out with some change or dollar bills to fill the kettle. Also, spread the love a little bit to the doormen, porters and housekeepers that work so hard for us.
What to wear in NYC in December: We have visited NYC when it was mild and in the 40’s and 50’s and we have visited when it was freezing in the 20’s. We always bring thick wool socks, a large packet of hand warmers, a scarf (even for men), a ski cap or something to keep your head/ears warm and layers. Lots and lots of layers. You will be walking a lot. We still wear our tennis shoes here and with nice, thick socks, our feet never get cold. If you’re dressed appropriately for the weather, you’ll enjoy your visit so much more.
Souvenirs: We love buying snow globes when we travel and getting one in NYC as a keepsake from your holiday trip is a perfect gift. But, keep in mind that many of these snow globes get confiscated by the TSA because they exceed the 3 oz. liquid rule. So, if you plan to buy one of these, make sure it will fit in your checked bag.
Take the Subway: The NYC subway is very easy to use once you get the hang of it. Use the CityMapper app to help guide you. We found that the worst thing that can happen is we end up one Metro stop further than we started if we get on going the wrong direction.
You can tap to pay for the subway using a contactless credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or an OMNY card. We use Citymapper to help us figure out which train to take.
Make Reservations: If you plan to visit any museum while you are in NYC, make sure that you do your research. Most require a timed entry reservation. Also, when we visited NYC over New Year’s Eve, we purchased the CityPass. But, because this is one of the busiest times of the year, no museum was honoring the skip the line option and we basically waited almost two hours in the freezing cold at every museum. The museums we were able to get in were so crowded that it just wasn’t enjoyable. Now, we come to NYC over the holidays for the festivities and not the sightseeing. Set your expectations for crowds and you won’t be disappointed.
