How To Spend Christmas In New York City [With Pictures!]
If you want to spend Christmas in New York, you’ve come to the right place. I love New York and it’s one of the most magical places to visit during Christmas.
If you’ve never seen New York’s snow-covered streets with Christmas lights and ornaments decorating the city, then you’re missing out!
From Fifth Avenue to Central Park, there are so many beautiful places to visit around New York City, and it’s even more beautiful during Christmas!
In this article, I’m going to share some of my favorite places to visit and things to do during Christmas in New York!
How To Spend Christmas In New York:
- Visit Central Park
- Check Out Bryant Park Christmas Village
- Go Ice Skating At The Rockefeller Center
- Wander Around Little Italy
- Check Out The Lights at Dyker Heights
- See the Tree At The Rockefeller Center At Night
- Explore The Bronx Zoo Winter Wonderland
- See The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
- Check Out The Sixth Avenue Decorations
- Go To The Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular
- Shop At The Union Square Christmas Market
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Photo Credit: @ibrox.7
1. Visit Central Park
Central Park is one of the most iconic locations in New York. It features in so many movies and TV shows based in New York and it really is an oasis in the big city!
During Christmas, you should go for a stroll around Central Park and check out the Holiday Lighting at the Dana Discovery Center. This will really get you in the holiday spirit.
Central Park is a great place to visit during the holidays, there are ice carving demonstrations, carol singing, and if you’re lucky the park could be blanketed in snow!
I recommend this Central Park Walking tour because :
- Highly rated and affordable
- It’s a Small-group tour (maximum 12): Ensures a more personal experience
- Stroll through Central Park in the company of someone who knows it well
- Get insights into local history and culture from your guide
Photo Credit: @yshirakata
2. Check Out Bryant Park Christmas Village
You can do so much at the Bryant Park Christmas Village, there are countless market stalls where you can do some Christmas shopping.
There’s nothing better than wandering around a Christmas market during the holiday season and the Bryant Park Christmas Village is one of the best!
There’s a massive ice rink to skate in, you can even get some food and drinks in a cozy igloo!
I recommend this Christmas Holiday walking tour because:
- You get to see New York’s Christmas sights with a guide
- You can learn about the holiday traditions at St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- You can visit the Rockefeller Christmas tree, Fifth Avenue, and Bryant Park in one tour!
Photo Credit: @mattpugs
3. Go Ice Skating At The Rockefeller Center
The Rockefeller Center really puts on a spectacle for the Christmas season with incredible decorations, lights, and activities!
You can go ice skating in the massive ice rink at the Rockefeller Center.
This ice rink is very popular during Christmas and has a beautiful backdrop of the famous Prometheus statue and the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree!
The Rockefeller Center also has some amazing art and architecture that you should check out.
I recommend this Rockefeller Center Art and Architecture Tour because:
- You get more value out of your visit to Rockefeller Center with a guided tour
- You can see Art Deco features and public artworks
- The tour guide shares insights on the history of the building and its famous owner
- A short tour leaves plenty of time to shop, dine, or further explore
Photo Credit: @su_reyya17
4. Wander Around Little Italy
New York is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions with Italian neighborhoods that produce dishes on par with the pizza and pasta you get in Italy!
Little Italy is a neighborhood of Manhattan with countless Italian restaurants, authentic Italian pizza and pasta, and a great atmosphere.
One of the best ways to experience Little Italy is by doing a food tour to try some of the cuisine!
I recommend this food tour when visiting the area because:
- You get to explore Chinatown and Little Italy on a guided tasting tour
- You get recommendations from your guide
- You can try delicious Italian and Chinese food
Photo Credit: @mingomatic
5. Check Out The Lights at Dyker Heights
If you want to see spectacular lights and Christmas decorations you should visit the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights.
Dyker Heights has some of the most over-the-top Christmas decorations you will find, it really is a spectacle to see!
You will see life-size Santa decorations, sleighs, reindeer and so much more. It’s free to explore the neighborhood and enjoy the decorations.
I recommend this Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour because:
- You get to admire the decorated mansions of Dyker Heights without the hassle of parking
- There are stops at Fulton Ferry Landing and Washington Square offers stunning views of Manhattan
- You can learn about the Chelsea Hotel, the Highline, New York Harbor, and other sites along the route
Photo Credit: @nerizzayturralde
6. See the Tree At The Rockefeller Center At Night
The beautiful decorations at the Rockefeller Center make it a magical place to visit during Christmas.
The Christmas Tree at the Rockefeller Center is put in place in mid-November and the Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place the Wednesday evening following Thanksgiving.
If you miss the Lighting Ceremony you will still be able to go see the spectacular tree any time during December.
If you want to see New York from a different perspective I recommend this NYC Central Park & Rockefeller Center Private Tour because:
- You get to hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride in midtown and uptown Manhattan!
- The tour price is per group of up to four passengers
- You can choose from different departure times to fit your schedule
- You get to enjoy a fully personalized experience with a private tour
Photo Credit: @bronxzoo
7. Explore The Bronx Zoo Winter Wonderland
In the winter evenings, the Bronx Zoo comes alive with immersive light displays, animal-shaped decorations, lanterns, and light shows.
This is a magical place to visit during the Christmas holidays.
I recommend checking out the Bronx Zoo because:
- You can explore this NYC attraction at your leisure to see more than 10,000 animals
- You get a safe, hands-on experience at the children’s petting zoo
- You can ride the Wild Asia Monorail to see the Indian rhino and Malaysian tiger
Photo Credit: @notthekingcharles
8. See The Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Every year, the department store, Saks Fifth Avenue projects a spectacular light show onto the side of the building. They offer a unique experience with a different theme each year.
The thousands of lights sync with music to create an incredible auditory and visual show.
I recommend this Holiday Lights Extravaganza Walking Tour because:
- You get to see so many of the NYC holiday lights around the city
- You get a local tour guide to show you around
- You get inside info on fun facts about the city’s holiday displays
- You hear stories of holiday traditions and take part in singalongs
Photo Credit: @notthekingcharles
9. Check Out The Sixth Avenue Decorations
The Sixth Avenue Christmas decorations are made up of oversized ornaments from large red baubles, giant nutcrackers, a massive toy train, and many others.
They are amazing to see in person, and you get a nice walk around the city to see all of them!
I recommend this New York City Christmas Walking Tour because:
- You get a private tour guide to show you the best locations
- You get to see the massive decorations of Sixth Avenue
- You get to see the massive tree at the ice rink at the Rockefeller Center
- You get insider knowledge from a New York local
Photo Credit: @therockettes
10. Go To The Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular
The Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes is a beautiful Christmas tradition in New York.
The Rockettes perform a dazzling Christmas show that’s suitable for all ages and really gets you in the Christmas spirit!
I recommend this Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes because:
- You get to see the Rockettes’ Christmas show live
- You can enjoy a meal at a Times Square restaurant
- You get to visit the iconic Radio City Music Hall
- It’s a show that the whole family will love
Photo Credit: @unionsquareny
11. Shop At The Union Square Christmas Market
The Union Square Holiday Market is a massive Christmas Market in New York City.
The market has over 100 booths with lots of amazing food, hot drinks, arts and crafts, street performers and so much more!
I recommend this Flatiron and Union Square food tour because:
- You get to visit two of New York City’s most iconic neighborhoods
- Enjoy tastings at popular local eateries
- You get a local guide to show you around
- You get food recommendations from the guide
Photo Credit: @essabagel
Hidden Gems:
Ess-A-Bagel
Go for breakfast Ess-A-Bagel and try their famous New York style bagels with cream cheese.
(P.S. There’s a separate queue for cream cheese bagels so you don’t have to wait too long!)
Photo Credit: @joespizzanyc
Joe’s Pizza
New York Style Pizza is something you can’t miss out on when you visit the Big Apple.
You should head to Joe’s Pizza for lunch and order the famous New York Pizza Slice!
Photo Credit: @sylviasrestaurant
Sylvia’s Harlem Restaurant
Sylvia’s Restaurant in Harlem offers some of the best Southern food in the city.
You can head there for dinner and try Sylvia’s World Famous BBQ Pork Ribs.
Things To Watch Out For When Spending Christmas In New York:
1. Pickpockets In Crowded Areas:
Like most cities, pickpocketing is a common occurrence, especially in crowded areas.
Be aware of your surroundings and belongings when on busy streets and the subway.
2. People Hustling For ‘Tips’:
You will see many people dressed in superhero costumes along the streets of New York.
Be aware that if you take pictures of them or with them they may ask you for payment!
3. Don’t Block The Sidewalk:
New York is a fast-paced city with locals walking to meetings, work, lunch, etc and they get frustrated when their path is blocked.
If you’re stopping on the sidewalk for whatever reason, move to the side so you don’t block the flow of pedestrians.
4. Avoid Tourist Traps:
Entrance fees, food, drinks, and anything you buy close to attractions such as Times Square and The Statue of Liberty are going to be way overpriced compared to other places in the city.
Don’t get caught out!
Photo Credit: @belvederehotelnyc
Where To Stay In New York:
Budget: Belvedere Hotel
This hotel is a great budget option for your trip to New York City. There is a 24-hour front desk, free WiFi, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
It is located in the neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen and within walking distance from popular tourist attractions such as the Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and Madame Tussauds New York.
You can check the latest prices on here.
Photo Credit: @moxywilliamsburg
Mid Range: Moxy Brooklyn Williamsburg
This hotel offers a luxury experience with affordable prices, there are two restaurants, a terrace, a fitness center, free WiFi, and air conditioning, and it’s pet friendly.
It is located in Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, and it’s a short drive from the Brooklyn Bridge, Chinatown, Little Italy, and the Tenement Museum.
You can check the latest prices here.
Photo Credit: @albertoortizrey
Luxury: Mandarin Oriental, New York
This is a 5-star luxury hotel with a 75-foot indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, massage rooms, and panoramic views of Central Park, the Manhattan skyline, and the Hudson River.
The beautiful accommodation is located on the edge of Central Park, and within walking distance of Fifth Avenue, the Museum of Arts and Design, and the Museum of Modern Art.
You can check the latest prices here.
Photo Credit: @bryanconley
Other Places To Visit In New York:
Statue Of Liberty And Ellis Island
A trip to New York is not complete without visiting the Statue of Liberty.
The iconic statue was gifted to the United States by the people of France in the 1880s.
It signifies the US Declaration of Independence and the abolition of slavery and has come to be a signal for freedom.
You can learn about the history of immigrants arriving in the USA, passing through Ellis Island, seeing Lady Liberty, and finally setting foot on US soil to start their new life.
I recommend this Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour because it offers:
- A guided tour that covers both Liberty and Ellis Island
- Round-trip ferry tickets and museum admission included
- History of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from an expert New Yorker
Photo Credit: @dbarrera1975
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Empire State Building
The Empire State Building was once the tallest building in the world, it is now the seventh tallest in New York and 54th tallest in the world.
Even though it lost its place as the tallest it still offers stunning panoramic views of New York City.
You can visit interactive museums and exhibitions within the building, or you can skip straight to the views on the 102nd floor!
I recommend visiting the Empire State Building because:
- You can experience the views from the Empire State Building in the heart of NYC
- You get to see the panoramas and chart the tower’s history via immersive exhibits
- You can get up close and personal with a New York City icon
Photo Credit: @911memorial
9/11 Memorial Museum
At the 9/11 Memorial Museum, you can learn about the 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.
There are interactive displays, exhibits, and information including first-hand accounts of the attack.
I recommend visiting the 9/11 Memorial Museum because:
- You can learn about the terrorist attacks, and explore the museum at your own pace
- You can visit the exhibit honoring those who died in the 2001 attack and the 1993 bombing
- You can check out the exhibit that tells you about 9/11 and analyzes the motives for the attacks
Photo Credit: @kingy27nyc
Top Of The Rock Observation Deck
You can get one of the best views of the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at the Rockefeller Center.
Three different viewing areas offer incredible vistas of the city including Central Park, the Chrysler Building, and the Empire State Building.
I recommend visiting the Top of the Rock Observation Deck because:
- You can take in views of some of New York City’s most popular sights
- You get to explore three indoor and outdoor viewing areas
- You get the best view in all of New York City
FAQs On Christmas In New York:
Is It Worth Visiting New York During Christmas?
YES, it is worth visiting New York during Christmas! It is the most magical time to visit. There are beautiful displays, Christmas markets, decorated streets, and amazing Christmas trees. Wandering the streets with Christmas lights and decorations really gets you in the Christmas spirit. The Christmas season in New York is incredible to see firsthand.
Does It Snow In NYC At Christmas?
Yes, it snows in NYC at Christmas. It snows in New York City at Christmas, on average, once every six years. There have been 25 White Christmases in the last 152 years. The record for snow at Christmas in NYC was a depth of 8 inches of snow recorded in Central Park in 1912.
Is It Expensive To Go To New York At Christmas?
No, NYC is not that expensive around Christmas. Many people go shopping at the beginning of December making this period more expensive than the days around Christmas. You can make your trip more affordable with budget options for food and accommodation, either way, it’s definitely worth visiting New York during Christmas.
How To Dress For New York In December?
If you’re wondering how to dress for New York in December, be sure to pack layers and all the cold weather accessories like a hat, gloves, and a scarf. I would also suggest bringing earmuffs to keep your ears warm as the wind tunnels in the city can make it really cold!
Now you know how to spend your next Christmas in New York. What’s stopping you from booking your trip?
Writing this makes me want to head back to New York right now! The Big Apple is such an incredible city with a wide range of cultures, traditions, and people from all different backgrounds.
The skyscrapers, massive buildings, beautiful parks, and streets make New York one of the most magical places to visit, especially during Christmas.
If Christmas is too far away and you can’t wait to visit the United States, check out the articles below for more amazing places to visit in the US!
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