A complete guide to what you must see and do during a visit to New York City at Christmas and the holiday season.
Is there anything more iconic than New York City during the holiday season? Visiting New York City with the twinkling holiday lights and spinning around the outdoor ice skating rinks has been on our bucket list for a while now and we are so happy that we got to experience the magic of the city this year.
During our trip to New York City, we stayed at Romer Hell’s Kitchen. We picked this hotel because of its stylish vibes and location which is not far from Rockefeller Center and Central Park.
If you are looking to visit the Statue of Liberty during your trip, click here for a full guide.
Below are some of the top things to see and do during the holidays in New York City.
What to See During the Holidays in New York City
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree at Night
One of the most iconic symbols of the holidays in New York City is the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. You cannot visit the city during the holidays and not visit the gorgeous Christmas tree. Since this is one of the most popular things to see in the city during the holidays there will be crowds, so visit early in the morning before sunrise or late at night during the week.
Tip: The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is traditionally lit the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving.
Ice Skating
Rockefeller Center
One of the most popular and quintessential spots to go ice skating in New York City is at Rockefeller Center. This spot is pricey but it is worth it and is a definite bucket list item. Be sure to book your ice skating time online well in advance of your trip.
Tip: The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is traditionally lit the Wednesday after Thanksgiving; therefore there is no ice skating on the dates around the tree lighting due to setting up/tearing down for the celebration.
Wollman Rink in Central Park
The Wollman Rink in Central Park is famous for being the rink that Harry and Marv come up with their plan to rob the Toy Store in Home Alone 2. This is a less expensive option than Rockefeller Center for ice skating in New York City and offers views of the city and park. Be sure to reserve your tickets ahead of time on their website.
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
The ice skating rink at the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is the largest free ice skating rink in New York City. You can reserve your skate time and rent skates online in advance of your visit. Otherwise, if you have your own skates skating is completely free (you can reserve your free skate tickets one week in advance).
Window Displays
Every year several retail stores in New York City, create holiday window displays with new themes and designs. Below are some of the window displays that are a must-see:
- Bergdorf Goodman – Fifth Ave at 58th St.
- Saks 5th Ave – Fifth Ave at 50th St.
- Macy’s at Herald’s Square – W 34th St at 6th Ave
Take in a Show
One of the most famous shows during the holiday season in New York City is the Christmas Spectacular with the Radio City Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. The show generally runs from the beginning of November to the beginning of January.
Another option is to see the New York City Ballet perform the Nutcracker at Lincoln Center. If you are looking for more options, there is always a huge selection of Broadway plays to choose from, so there is something for everyone.
Christmas Markets
Several places in New York City have Christmas Markets during the holidays. These are the perfect spots to pick up gifts for friends and family. Some of the most popular Christmas Markets are:
- Union Square
- Columbus Circle (Central Park)
- Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Warm Up with Hot Chocolate
If you are looking to warm up with hot chocolate or coffee during the holidays in New York City, there are several popular spots including Glace, which went viral last year for their s’mores hot chocolate. A couple of other spots include Ralph Lauren’s Ralph’s Coffee Truck near Rockefeller Center and Sant Ambroeus which has no milk or water in their hot chocolate.
Another fun holiday splurge is the holiday afternoon tea at The Whitby Hotel.
Holiday Light Tours
Looking for a tour to see all the festive NYC sights at night? There are many tour options including a bus ride that may include Saks Fifth Avenue, Grand Central Terminal, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, Radio City Music Hall, Columbus Circle, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. For more tour ideas, click here.
Looking for more Christmas Lights? The Brooklyn neighborhood residents in Dyker Heights decorate every year with elaborate holiday decorations, music, and tons of lights! The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights are magical and worth a visit if you have time. The lights are traditionally turned on the day after Thanksgiving and tours are also available, click here.
