Spoiler Alert: Christmas in New York City is just as magical as you imagine.
I can tell you from firsthand experience that visiting New York City during Christmas is the most exciting time to explore town.
I means, folks from all over the world flock to NYC during the holidays, there’s nothing like experiencing it for yourself.
After living through 5 years of Christmas in New York City, I’d like to share my personal list of the best things to do in NYC during the holidays to make your trip planning easier. Let’s get to it!
Christmas in New York City (Meet the Author) | Antonina P. moved to New York City 8 years ago from the Pacific Northwest. She doesn’t miss the rain as much as she though she would. You may enjoy reading her most popular post: What to Pack for NYC During the Winter Season, or follow her weekly updates.
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Is visiting NYC during Christmas worthwhile?
Absolutely! Christmas in New York City is such a delight to experience firsthand. It’s truly the most magical time of the year.
There’s so much to see and do during the holiday season, but it’s the Big Apple’s epic skyline that takes everything to the next level. Apart from the cheery buzz of happy chatter and busy feet, people seem nicer, the holiday cheer is abundant and the overall vibe is unmatched.
As long as you adequately prepare for large crowds and cold weather, you’ll have a good time in NYC during the holidays!
Visiting New York City for Christmas
#20. Dine at a decked out restaurant
New York City never does anything halfway, nowhere is this more evident than the spectacular Christmas decor during winter.
Case in point: Lillie’s Victorian Establishment. This easy-going and ornate Victorian-era restaurant is completely decked out in true New York holiday spirit. Think shiny garlands, life-sized nutcrackers and a plethora of decorated Christmas trees.
As for food, expect to find everything from classic pub favorites like cheeseburgers and chicken wings to more refined dishes like ceviche and tartar.
#19. Catch a concert at St. John the Divine
Construction may have started in 1892 but St. John the Divine is still technically an unfinished church. That doesn’t stop it from being the largest church in New York City and the fifth largest church in the world, though!
Most famous for its commandeering size and well-executed Gothic architecture, there’s a reason Columbia students flock to the steps like moths to a flame during the summer season. Simply being in the presence of this church feels important.
The best part? The epic Christmas concert (called “Joy of Christmas”) that takes place during the holiday season in New York City. The concert usually takes place one Friday in mid-December so tickets are hard to come by.
However, if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on them then you will be in for one of the best Christmas experiences in New York City. If you’re interested, keep an eye on their website for tickets.
#18. Take in the City Views from the Ferry
One of my favorite things to do with friends visiting New York City for Christmas is to take them on the NYC Ferry. The NYC Ferry is part of the public transportation network within NYC, so rides are only $4 per person.
Riding the ferry is a great way to rest your legs while soaking up incredible views of NYC at Christmastime. Just keep in mind that this is an official mode of transportation and not really a tourist attraction, so you can’t spend all day on it (believe me, I’ve tried).
#16. Visit The Mall at Hudson Yards
Hudson Yards is a massive mall adjacent to the (now) infamous Vessel. The mall features tons of high-end shops and restaurants, it’s fun to explore anytime of year but Christmas is especially worth a visit because the mall is decked out with over two million Christmas lights!
The holiday celebration at Hudson Yards Mall is called Shine On. It’s a unique light and music installation that spans the holiday season. I think kids would really like this experience, so if you have tots definitely swing by!
#15. Have Drinks at the Best Bar in the World
Caffe Dante dates back to 1915. It served as a staple for the community before slowly fading into oblivion before two Australians decided to breathe new life into the historic institution in 2015.
The result was striking, within a few years of opening, Dante was named the best bar in the world in 2019 and appeared on the list again in 2020.
The menu is well curated with small fare and the drinks are perfectly crafted. The hardest part about this experience is getting reservations because this is one of the most romantic things to do while visiting New York City during the holidays.
Happy Hour: There’s two locations to choose from and both locations have generous happy hour between 3pm and 5pm. Dante West Village offers martinis for $10 and Caffe Dante offers negronis for $10. The price/quality ratio can’t be beat!
#14. Stroll the West Village
The West Village is arguably the most charming neighborhood in New York City. And when you think it can’t possibly get any cuter, just wait until the first snowfall of the season.
There’s a plethora of great cafes in the area so grab a warm drink and take a romantic stroll with your special someone.
Admire the brownstones, pop into a few small shops, spend time appreciating the elaborate window displays and walk the empty streets to your heart’s content.
Further Reading: 22 Exciting Things to Do in the Charming West Village
#13. Catch the Holiday Nostalgia Train
I will never forget the curiosity of seeing a vintage train pull up at a subway station as the doors opened to welcome me in. I mean, a vintage 1930 train was the last thing I was expecting when I jumped into the subway!
Turns out I’m not the only one that was caught off guard! Rather, I was privy to one of the most beloved holiday traditions in NYC — a ride on the Holiday Nostalgia Train!
During weekends in December, the MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) partners with the New York Transit Museum to offer New Yorkers a chance to time travel by running an a vintage eight-car subway train — an experience referred to as the Holiday Nostalgia Ride.
My favorite thing about this NYC Christmas experience is that it doesn’t cost anything more than the standard subway fare.
The Holiday Nostalgia Trail departs from 2nd Avenue subway station on the F line, helpful details and information about the Nostalgia Train rides can be found here.
From the New York Transit Museum website:
The Holiday Nostalgia Train consists of eight cars from the 1930s that ran along lettered lines through the late-1970s. Featuring rattan seats, paddle ceiling fans, incandescent light bulbs, roll signs, and period advertisements, these are the cars that inspired Billy Strayhorn’s “Take the A Train.” Today, they are preserved as part of the New York Transit Museum’s collection.
#12. Hop Aboard the Classic Harbor Line Holiday Cruise
What better way to soak in the holiday spirit than aboard a 1920s-style yacht that takes you past all the major sites in Manhattan?
You’ll be cozily tucked inside a glassed-in heated observatory completely decked out in holiday decor with Christmas music playing in the background.
Beer, wine, Champagne and hot beverages are available for sale on board and you won’t want to partake in this joyful NYC Christmas experience without a hot chocolate in hand.
#11. Explore Central Park in the Snow (Weather Permitting)
Remember how I mentioned that it seldom snows during the holidays in New York City? Well, if you’re one of the lucky few that does get the snow then you’ll want to make a beeline for Central Park.
Central Park is magical anytime of year, but especially so during the first snowfall of the year. It’s hard to describe the emotion of this magical Christmas experience in New York City.
If you’re visiting NYC during Christmas by yourself I suggest popping in your headphones and let the Christmas music roll as you meander through the various paths, it’s a very peaceful and magical experience.
If you’re with a special someone, split the headphones with them as you slowly stroll through Central Park. Can you think of a more romantic way to spend the holidays in New York City?
Also worth mention, if you’ve never visited Tavern on the Green pay it a visit during the holiday season. The interior is decorated in cheery Christmas decor and the expansive menu is full of delicious seasonal fare.
#10. Visit the Columbus Circle Holiday Market
The lively Columbus Circle Holiday Market is located in the southwest entrance of Central Park. Featuring more than 100 holiday booths, this is the place to go to stock up on Christmas gifts from NYC.
The talented vendors sell an array of fun trinkets. Expect to find everything from home-made souvenirs, cute tote bags, creative Christmas ornaments and delicious food.
Local’s Tip: There’s a vendor at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market that sells the BEST nutella-filled churros. Make sure to pick some up while partaking in this lovely NYC Christmas experience!
#9. Try the Frozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity
There’s no shortage of great holiday treats to be had in New York City during the holidays and thankfully calories don’t count on vacation or so I’m told.
One of my personal favorite treats during the Christmas season in New York City is the delectable Frrrozen Hot Chocolate (not a typo) from Serendipity.
This unique NYC holiday experience isn’t a secret by any stretch of the imagination. Heck, at this point it feels rather touristy, but you know what? It’s the best! And it doesn’t feel like Christmas without one of these treats, so go all in!
#8. Catch the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Musical Hall
The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular Show has been performing at Radio City Music Hall since the 1930’s and doesn’t show signs of slowing anytime soon. Ask any local about their favorite things to do in New York City during Christmas with kids and this is bound to come up.
The 90-minute performance is awe-inspiring and guaranteed to impress even the staunchest critic. The choreography is on point and the dancers’ high kicks seem to defy the laws of physics, but hey – you won’t hear me complaining.
Seeing the Rockettes live is a great NYC holiday activity for the whole family but even folks without kids (*raises hand) will enjoy it immensely.
One of my friends was visiting me a few years ago (seems like everyone wants to visit NYC for Christmas – hard to blame them!) and I took her to see the show and she still talks about it to this day!
#7. Enjoy The Nutcracker at the Lincoln Center
If you’re looking for special things to do in New York City at Christmas this one is for you. George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker ballet performance at the Lincoln Center has to be the most iconic NYC holiday experience in the Big Apple.
Most folks grew up watching the Nutcracker on TV, but there’s nothing like seeing a live performance by the talented New York City Ballet. But be forewarned, this is the most popular Christmas show in New York City, so tickets sell out quickly.
I must admit, I wasn’t sure I would enjoy seeing the Nutcracker before my first visit. I’m not a ballet person and with tickets clocking in around $100-200 a piece I wasn’t sure it was worth the expense.
However, when my mom and sister visited be during my first Christmas in New York City, I knew we had to go. The 2-hour performance blew me away, I couldn’t stop talking about it!
The talent these ballerinas have is mind boggling and the show is not something you will forget anytime soon. Plus, the live orchestra playing Tschaikovsky’s music is always a nice touch. 😉
But seriously, if there’s only one thing you add to your NYC Christmas itinerary this should be it.
#6. See the Epic Rockefeller Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is an annual Christmas tradition that dates back to 1933 officially (unofficially, construction workers put up the first tree in 1931). The tree typically gets lit the end of November/early December, you can check exact days here.
A new tree is selected every year with an impressive requirement: the tree must be at least 75 feet tall. Decorated with more than 50,000 lights and topped with a breathtaking (and super bright) Swarovski star, seeing this masterpiece in person is one of the best things to do in NYC at Christmas.
My advice is to visit as early as possible (like first thing in the morning). The crowds are so intense at this popular New York City Christmas attraction and it takes away from the overall experience.
In any case, consider this a non-negotiable NYC Christmas experience!
#5. Visit the Union Square Holiday Market
The smell of roasting nuts and hot apple cider wafts through the air as crowds of eager locals and tourists alike elbow their way from one cozy stall to the next. Personally speaking, a proper New York City Christmas itinerary doesn’t kick off until I find myself bundled up at the Union Square Holiday Market.
As the largest Christmas Market in NYC, the amount of vendors can feel overwhelming! Especially with the massive crowds during peak times (weekends and weekdays after 5pm). However, if you’re looking for a true New York City Christmas experience then you simply can’t skip it.
Warm up with a mulled wine or delicious hot chocolate while you make your way from one stall to the next. This is a great spot to pick up some fun Christmas gifts or NYC souvenirs for your friends and family.
You may enjoy reading: 20 Fool-Proof NYC Souvenirs
#4. Walk down 5th Avenue and admire the (breathtaking) window displays
If you’re visiting New York City during Christmas with the hopes of getting as many magical experiences as possible then you need to know about the famous window displays on Fifth Avenue.
Fifth Avenue is the most popular shopping area in New York City and one of the most popular shopping areas in the world. It’s always chock-full of people, but especially so during Christmas in New York.
This massive shopping district is marked by luxury brands competing for attention by way of stunning window displays. I do not use the term luxury lightly — indeed, Fifth Avenue is often referred to as one of the most expensive shopping districts in the world.
Knowing that window shopping is one of the best things to do in New York City during Christmas, the stores go all out to impress visitors.
But some do it better than others. If you’re short on time, the best window displays can be found at Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, the Empire State Building and Bloomingdales.
#3. Experience the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show
Of all the impressive Christmas lights you’re bound to see while visiting New York City during the holidays, nothing will compare to the spectral display of the Saks 5th Avenue Light Show.
The lights play in tandem with classic Christmas music, dazzling children and adults alike. The experience takes the New York City holiday spirit to a whole new level!
The songs play at regular 10-minute intervals from 5pm to 11pm. Stick around and enjoy a few rounds, but prepare for crazy crowds because this is one of the most popular things to do during Christmas in New York City.
#2. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park & Ice Skating
One of my personal favorite things to do in New York City during Christmas is to visit the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
The park is transformed into a European-style holiday market, equipped with 100 vendors that lining a popular ice skating rink.
The stalls sell fun Christmas decorations, handmade crafts, unique jewelry and — my favorite — food, lots of good food. Grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine as you make your way around the lively market.
The 17,000-square foot ice rink is free to use but ice skate rentals run $20-$36 per person. I highly recommend this unique Christmas experience in New York City, it’s one of my favorite ways to celebrate the holidays in NYC.
Sucker for Christmas trees? Us too. Check out 15 Captivating Christmas Trees in NYC and Where to Find Them!
#1. Go ice skating at the Wollman Rink
Ice skating at Wollman Rink is arguably the most iconic things to do in NYC during Christmas. Located in the southern part of Central Park, the rink is open from late October through early April.
It gets crowded quickly during the Christmas season, especially during weekends. Try to visit during the weekday and arrive early!
Note: Wollman Rink is CASH-ONLY, but there’s an ATM onsite.
Christmas in NYC with Kids
See the spectacular Bronx Zoo Light Show
The Bronx Zoo is a beloved NYC institution any day of the year, but Christmas is exceptionally special. The zoo is converted in a winter wonderland, as bright lights guide a path that meanders through fantastic illuminated animal displays.
Make sure to pick up a hot chocolate or s’mores before embarking on this epic adventure!
What’s more, at 265 acres, the Bronx Zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the country. Reason alone to visit!
Enjoy Peter & the Wolf with Isaac Mizrahi at the Guggenheim
Seeing the live performance of Peter & the Wolf is an annual tradition for many NYC families. The 30-minute show is held at the Guggenheim museum and is narrated by fashion designed Isaac Mizrahi. It’s the perfect way to spend Christmas in New York City with kids!
This is a very popular event in NYC at Christmas, so you’ll want to purchase tickets as soon as they go on sale.
See the Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden
The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden is a classic NYC Christmas activity, especially if you have kids in tow. Kids are enthralled by the trains running through monolithic displays of iconic buildings in NYC.
Don’t have kids? Visit during the adult-only bar nights for an experience you soon won’t forget.
Visiting New York City at Christmas? A Few Things to Avoid
#1. New Years Eve at Times Square
Listen, I grew up watching the ball drop at Time Square like every other American-raised kid. But I’ll let you in on a little secret, being at the event in real life does NOT live up to the hype!
First, the crowds are absolutely insane and sucks the joy out of the event. Participants get locked into the core area until after the event is over and bathrooms are hard to come by, so much so that it’s not unheard of for folks to wear adult diapers.
Second, the frigid temperatures and duration of the event make it unbearable. You’ll be standing for hours in the cold and crowded streets and to me, it’s simply not worth it. Hard pass on this one — watch the event from the comfort of your warm home.
#2. Visiting Rockefeller Center on the weekends
Seeing the massive Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is a must-do during Christmas in New York City, make no mistake about it.
But you must absolutely avoid visiting during weekends like the plague. No seriously, it’s estimated that an average of 750,000 people visit the tree per day during a typical holiday season.
I made the mistake of visiting during the weekends and found myself corralled (by police officers and barricades) in a massive crowd of people. We were slowly moved through to see the tree after approximately 45-minutes.
I instantly regretted my decision to visit during the weekend because the entire experience made me feel claustrophobic — and I’m not even claustrophobic to begin with!
#3. The Grand Central Holiday Market
Some of my friends suggested I visit the Grand Central Holiday Market last Christmas and I’m sorry to report that I found it pretty disappointing.
There wasn’t any strong holiday theme, rather the market was full of overpriced vendors and felt like a tourist trap. With so many great holiday markets in NYC, I don’t recommend this one.
The one perk though is that this holiday market is indoors, which makes it a great escape from the cold, but I probably wouldn’t buy anything from it. Just my two cents!
#4. Carriage Ride in Central Park
The way Central Park horses are treated is questionable at best, which is why I don’t recommend taking a carriage ride through Central Park at Christmas. It’s simply not worth it. Take a lovely stroll through the park or ho paboard a city bike.
#5. Rolf’s for a Christmas Meal in NYC
Okay, I can only envision the hate mail getting stamped, but hear me out. Having a meal at Rolf’s is considered a must-do New York City Christmas tradition for first time visitors, but I think you can pass without guilt.
I visited for the first time last year and felt ripped off more than anything. Don’t get me wrong, this restaurant has some of the best Christmas decorations in New York City, but the food is way too expensive and way too average.
Plus the wait to get in is obnoxiously long because they don’t take reservations. I can think of so many other things I would rather do during Christmas in New York City than spend 1-2 hours waiting for mediocre food.
So yeah, consider this an easy thing to avoid in New York City during Christmas.
Visiting NYC at Christmas (Brace for the Winter Chill)
There’s no sense in sugarcoating it, NYC is COLD during the winter season. Average temperatures in December hover around 44° but the windchill makes it feel so much colder. I’m typically bundled up in three layers (long sleeve shirt, sweater and coat).
Make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, a heavy wool or down coat, high-quality gloves and a reliable hat. Also, these bad boys don’t hurt (I never leave the house without them during the holiday season in New York).
Snow isn’t guaranteed during Christmas in NYC, but it’s not unheard of either. As mentioned, I’ve lived in New York City for the past 5 years and have only had snow on Christmas once.
My friends has lived here for 12 years and theorizes that it snows in NYC during Christmas once every six years or so.
All this to say: Pack for the snow, but don’t expect it. You’ll be set up for success regardless what the forecast throws at you.
Christmas in NYC (Post Summary)
- Ice skating at Wollman Rink
- Bryant Park Winter Village & Ice Skating
- Walk down 5th Avenue
- Bronx Zoo Light Show
- See the Rockefeller Tree
- Saks Fifth Avenue Lightshow
- Union Square Holiday Market
- See the Nutcracker
- The Christmas Spectacular Show at Radio City Music Hall
- Frozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market
- Central Park in the Snow
- Classic Harbor Line Holiday Cruise
- The Holiday Nostalgia Train
- Stroll the West Village in the snow
- Shine Bright at Hudson Yards
- Peter & the Wolf at Guggenheim
- The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden
- Macy’s Santaland
- Take in the city views from the ferry
- Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
- Christmas Concert at St. John the Divine
Quick Note: Is the New York City Pass Worthwhile?
If you’re considering picking up the New York City Pass while visiting NYC during Christmas the info below may prove helpful.
There are currently three New York City Passes to choose from:
- Standard CityPASS ($138 per person) gives you access to six attractions over the span of 9 days
- C3 Pass ($96 per person) which gives you access to three attractions in 9 days
- C-All Pass ($194 per person) grants you access to all 11 of the CityPass attractions
Depending on how long you plan to stay during your first visit to NYC, you may not get the full use out of the standard pass or the C-All pass.
I say this because visiting 6 attractions during Christmastime in NYC may eat up your entire schedule! On the contrary, the New York City C3 Pass is worth considering. Based on my math, I suggest getting the New York City C3 Pass if you plan to visit at least three of the following places: (plus, the ability to skip lines is invaluable!)
- Empire State Building
- Top of the Rock Observation Deck
- The Edge
- Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- American Museum of Natural History
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Museum of Modern Art
- Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
- Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
- Guggenheim Museum
- City Cruises
The 7-day metro card is typically worthwhile
More often than not, the 7-day metro card is worthwhile, especially if you plan to take the subway from the airport. The pass is only $33 (+$1 activation fee) and gives you seven days of unlimited access to the efficient subway system.
If you choose to forgo purchasing the metro card you will be charged $2.75 every time to hop on the subway, which adds up faster than you think. Whenever my friends and family visit me in NYC for Christmas, this is the first thing I recommend they purchase.
Map of things to do in New York City during Christmas
And there you have it, my personal list of the best things to do in NYC during Christmas. Feel free to ask questions and/or leave a comment below, it’s always nice to hear from you!
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Happy Holidays!
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This is simply an incredible list! I am planning a trip with my mom, grandma and my sisters for my mom’s birthday on 12/9 and she’s wanted to see NYC at Christmastime her whole life. This is EXACTLY what I was looking for!
I’ve visited NYC for NYE once a few years ago and come confirm that the I will probably never do it again from the streets. There were good moments, but we were in one spot for 6 hours. The cold was COLDING! (lol) ? I couldn’t feel my feet until we got back to the hotel we stayed at in Manhattan. ? There was a banner blocking the ball, so we didn’t get to see it actually drop in person. Soooo yeah, NYE outside in NYC, a huge no-go! Lol!
Nevertheless, thank you Ma’am, for this list! I will be visiting NYC soon during the holiday season. This is needed for my visit.
Hi we are coming to New York for first time for Xmas with 16 and 14 year old . Staying in Westin Times Square ? Any ideas and advice on what to do and where to do ?
THANK YOU This is just the kind of local holiday excitement I’m looking for! I’m planning a day trip with two friends a few days after Christmas. After thoroughly bundling up, do any ideas come to mind for escaping the cold? I expect we’ll be outside most of the day and will look to shops and restaurants for help warming up periodically.
There are plenty of (indoor) things to do during this time of year! Check out some of our other guides like: Christmas restaurant, Things to do in winter and Things to do on a rainy day. We also have guides that are neighborhood specific for coffee shops & cafes you can warm up at and rest your legs. Cheers!
This is such a great list of do’s and do nots! As a first time visitor – keen on seeing NYC, and getting the “Christmas vibe” without the huge crowds – is it a good idea to visit in November rather, or is it too early for the Christmas spirit?
This was so helpful! We are planning a trip this Christmas!
These tips are amazing!
I will be visiting NYC for the first time this year between Christmas and New Years Eve.
I am travelling with my husband and 2 daughters of 16 years.
Before reading your tips I was planning to stay at Times Square aiming to find a hotel with a rooftop (we are not the type of people to be stuck in crowds of people) which would allow us to see the New Years Eve festivities.
Taking into consideration your insights it could be much more wise to stay at Upper West Side.
If I do that would I still get a feeling of what are the New Years Eve festivities in NYC?
Hi Cidalia, if your goal is to see the Times Square ball drop and events you won’t get any of that in the Upper West Side. I would suggest finding a hotel with views of the ball drop if that’s your priority. On the other hand the Upper West Side provides a more-quiet place to stay but you can still feel the holiday spirit, and Times Square is a short-subway ride away!