Planning a NYC Christmas Trip: Itinerary + Travel Tips

Taking a NYC Christmas Trip is the perfect way to usher in the holiday spirit!

Bright lights and festive ornaments decorate the ever-bustling metropolis. An undeniable sense of merriment simmers in the crisp December air.

On our wintertime visit, we were dazzled by the displays and got caught up in the cheerfulness of New York Christmas events.

From the streets to the shops to the ice-skating rinks, we found evidence of the upcoming holiday at every turn.

We had planned just a quick Christmas New York City trip, but we were still intent on experiencing all the classic yuletide attractions.

In our best effort to squeeze it all in, we created a jam-packed itinerary full of holly jolly festiveness. Thanks to our meticulous preparation, we truly experienced the best of the holidays in NYC!

 

Planning a NYC Christmas Trip

Putting together any New York City Itinerary is a huge task; there’s simply so much to see! However, organizing our short winter trip to NYC felt unique.

We arranged our New York Christmas Trip Itinerary to focus solely on twinkling lights, towering trees and atmospheric markets.

Less worried about experiencing major attractions, we wanted our visit to sparkle with Christmas joy.

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New York Christmas Itinerary: 3 Merry Days

Our Itinerary of Christmassy NYC things to do covers three full days of festive fun in the city that doesn’t sleep!

Later in the article, we share travel tips and logistical advice that will help you plan your very best New York Christmas vacation.

For more detailed information, a map and a list of the most magical experiences, be sure to read our article: The Best Things To Do in NYC at Christmas.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our New York Christmas Travel Guide for your visit to the Big Apple!

 

Day 1: New York Holiday Must-See Sights

When you visit NYC during the holidays, we suggest taking in the best sights and experiences in the heart of Manhattan on the first day.

 

Morning: Columbus Circle & Central Park

Start your trip on the southwestern corner of Central Park at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. Peruse the 100+ market chalets for artisan wares and tasty pastries.

Warm up inside The Shops at Columbus Circle and delight at the colorful Holiday Under the Stars decorations.

Wander into Central Park, which is particularly stunning under a blanket of fresh snow. Stroll along The Mall and Literary Walk to Bethesda Terrace and cross over Bow Bridge.

 

Lunch: Tavern on the Green

Feast on a merry and bright lunch – or holiday brunch, if it’s the weekend – at Tavern on the Green. (Just be sure to make reservations well ahead of time, as they do get completely booked!)

The iconic restaurant gets all dressed up for the holidays with an abundance of garland, bows and twinkling lights to create an utterly enchanting atmosphere.

Be sure to stop by the Christmas tree in the courtyard to snap a photo; it’s one of the best Xmas trees in NYC!

 

Afternoon: NYC Ice Skating

Now get ready for an epic experience: Ice skating at Wollman Rink. (Purchase your timeslot in advance so you don’t get stuck standing in line!)

The Central Park ice-skating rink has been a fixture of wintery fun since 1950. It has even been featured in films, like Home Alone 2 and Serendipity.

Just be sure to bundle up for your twirl around the ice, as Wollman (and all the ice-skating rinks in NYC) are outdoors.

 

Mid-Afternoon: 5th Ave Window Displays and Xmas Decor

Spend a few hours appreciating the prime department store displays and bedecked luxury hotels in the vicinity of 5th Avenue.

You’re certain to find some of the best Christmas decorations in New York City! For walking directions to the spots listed below, use this map. 

Peek in the lobby of The Plaza Hotel to see their lavish tree and pause at the Pulitzer Fountain, one of our favorite NYC Xmas decorations.

Contemplate the window scenes at Bergdorf Goodman and then see the cheerful holiday windows at Bloomingdale’s. Continue to The Peninsula Hotel and Cartier to admire their stylish trimmings.

Step inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral; here you will find a beautiful Nativity Scene that includes an unusual character: a dog named Lexington II.

Go to Lotte New York Palace to glimpse their festive fir that is drenched in red and gold before finally making your way to Saks Fifth Avenue.

 

Late Afternoon: Saks and Rockefeller Center

This is a highlight of New York Christmas trips, but you will want to wait until after dark to make your way toward Rockefeller Center. (In December, that’s around 4pm.)

After ogling at the Saks Fifth Avenue window displays, cross the street to Rockefeller Center…and turn around to watch the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show. (The 3 minute projection plays about every 10 minutes on the building’s façade.)

When you’re finished soaking up that merriness, turn around and walk through the horn-blowing Angels toward the famous Rockefeller Tree and Ice Rink.

Squeeze your way to the front of the railing to take in the picture-perfect view of the magnificent spruce, the golden Prometheus and the skaters below.

Circle around the block to see the lights at Radio City Music Hall and the Giant Red Ornaments at Lilholts Pooley Pool.

Complete your loop back toward the Rockefeller Xmas tree and get in line to shop at FAO Schwarz, which is certain to be a fabulously frenzied affair!

 

Dinner: Junior’s Restaurant

For dinner on Day 1 of your Christmas NYC Itinerary, eat at the ever-so-popular Junior’s Restaurant and Bakery.

Spangled for the holidays, they serve up NYC deli classics – like pastrami sandwiches and matzoh ball soup. Of course, you will want to save room for their world-famous cheesecake.

 

Evening: The Rockettes

Catch the evening performance of the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular Show at Radio City Music Hall.

An undeniable NYC Christmas tradition, their choreographed dances and high kicks have been entertaining guests since 1933. Grab your tickets in advance so that you don’t miss out!

For after-show drinks, head to Lillie’s Victorian Establishment. Bedecked in timeless holiday décor, it’s the perfect place to sip winter warmers. (They try to accommodate walk-ins at the bar, but reservations are a better idea).

 

Day 2: Christmas Shopping in NYC

Today you will be on the move from morning until night as you sweep through markets and stores and explore the best New York Christmas attractions in Midtown.

 

Morning: Hudson Yards to Chelsea

Grab breakfast at Liberty Bagels, then embark on a little (or a lot) of NYC Christmastime shopping!

Start at Hudson Yards – one of the best-decorated malls in the city. With more than 2 million white lights, the space exudes a warm, festive glow and their hanging decorations are sublime.

Afterwards, brave the cold at The Vessel and then hop on the High Line for a wintertime walk to the location of your midday meal.

 

Lunch: Chelsea Market

Not specifically a NYC Christmas market, Chelsea Market is still heaps of fun during the holidays. Pick up a few foodie gifts in the exceptionally decorated space before indulging in a delicious lunch.

With a slew of highly-rated international eateries, your choices are seemingly endless – so go with whatever you’re craving!

 

Afternoon: Christmassy New York Corners

Next, wander into Greenwich Village, which can be particularly picturesque during the holidays.

Move on to Washington Square Park to see the Christmas tree under the arch and how it aligns with the Empire State Building up 5th Ave.

Pop into the fantastic Strand Book Store as you make your way north to the open-air Union Square Holiday Market.

Boasting more than 150 vendors selling handmade crafts and artwork, this bazaar brims with yuletide cheer. We loved the amazing food on offer, like Apple Cider Donuts and savory pierogies.

If you are up for a Christmas cocktail (we’re not judging!), go to the legendary Rolf’s Christmas Restaurant.

Although there will likely be a long line and the drinks are crazy (ridiculous) expensive, the over-the-top decorations are mesmerizing.

By late afternoon, aim for the Empire State Building to see the holiday decorations in the lobby, then soar to the top for an epic view (and maybe even a sensational sunset).

 

Evening: Macy’s and Bryant Park

After it gets dark, go to Macy’s at Herald Square to view their epic holiday windows. They are pure magic!

Then, go inside to see the gorgeous displays before heading up to the store’s iconic Santaland! (It’s best to book your timeslot in advance.)

End your day at Bryant Park Winter Village. When you arrive, swing through the European-style Xmas fair (just keep an eye on time, as vendors close shop at 8pm).

Finally, get cozy in the rink-side Lodge Bar and Food Hall. Enjoy an evening of seasonal fare and warm winter drinks as you watch the skaters glide on the ice under the glow of the Christmas tree.

 

Day 3: More NYC Christmas Attractions

On the last day of your NYC Xmas Itinerary, split your time between decked out cultural venues, Lower Manhattan holiday spots and Brooklyn’s most festive areas.

 

Morning: NYC Arts & Culture

NYC museums are year-round attractions, but they are top places to visit for Christmas, too. Plan to spend the morning exploring one or more of these cultural institutions.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art celebrates the season with a brilliant tree and an elaborate Christmas crèche. 

At the Museum of Natural History, the Christmastime highlight is the Origami Tree. Decorated with more than 1,000 ‘ornaments’, it’s truly a sight to behold.

The NY Botanical Gardens in the Bronx hosts a spectacular Holiday Train Show featuring models that travel through a dazzling miniature city made of foliage. 

Alternatively, visit the Grand Central Holiday Fair. The free, indoor event is a great option for a Budget Christmas Trip to NYC (and to warm up!).

 

Lunch: Historic Fraunces Tavern

You will be spending the afternoon in Lower Manhattan, which lacks the fanfare (and crowds) of Midtown but still shimmers with yuletide splendor.  

First though, you need to sustenance – and the long-standing Fraunces Tavern is our top pick. The space is steeped in history, always elegantly decorated for Christmas and the food is delicious!

 

Afternoon: Christmas in Lower Manhattan

After lunch, wander through the Financial District to the much-loved New York Stock Exchange Christmas tree. From the NYSE, choose to walk east or west.

If you go east, continue to Pier 17 to gaze up at the South Street Seaport Christmas Tree on the East River waterfront. Then, walk across the breathtaking Brooklyn Bridge.

If you head west, aim for One World Trade Center (where there is usually a pop-up market) and go inside The Oculus Shopping Mall to see how it is festively decorated.

With ample time, pop over to the Brookfield Place Winter Garden Atrium, where you can snap a selfie with Santa! (Just check times before you go.)

 

Early Evening: Magical NYC Brooklyn Experiences

It’s time to travel to the neighboring borough of Brooklyn to enjoy one of the special NYC Christmas events beyond Manhattan.

After the sun sets, the Brooklyn Botanical Garden hosts Lightscape; a glittering and twinkling winter trail through a forested landscape.

Alternatively (or in addition to), visit the Brooklyn Dyker Heights Holiday Lights. The homeowners in this community truly get into the spirit by illuminating their houses in enthralling displays.

It’s free to discover on your own – or you can join this tour that includes a guide, transportation and fellow revelers!

 

Dinner: New York Miracle Pop Up Bar

For dinner on the last day of your Xmas trip to NYC, eat at the Someday Bar Miracle Pop Up in Brooklyn.

With festive cocktails and kitsch décor, it’s a fabulous way to end your holiday trip in New York City!

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New York Xmas Trips: What To Expect

Now that you know what to see and do in New York City in December, we have a few tips to help ensure your absolute best Xmas in NYC trip!

 

Best Time to Visit New York for Christmas

The top things to do in New York at Christmas will be open the entire month of December. In fact, the best Christmas activities in NYC usually begin the day after Thanksgiving. 

In our opinion, the ideal time to plan a trip to NYC for Christmas is during the first two weeks of the month.

 

New York Tree Lighting Schedule            

Tree lightings are one of the best NYC Christmas events. They happen all over the city on different days – usually in late November or the first few days of December.

They are usually free to attend and are often accompanied by festive food and musical performances. The Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony for 2025 is on December 3rd from 7-10pm.

 

New York City at Christmas on a Budget

New York is an expensive destination; there is no doubt about it. That said, there are many free New York City Christmas events and activities that we included above.

You can plan to visit New York City at Christmas on a budget and still feel the spirit! In fact, some of the very best Christmas events in NYC don’t cost at all.

Exploring on foot to gaze at the brilliant lights and beautiful decorations is absolutely free. Strolling through Christmas markets and decorated malls is gratis, too.

If you are planning a low-cost trip, read our guide to Free Things To Do in NYC and check out these hacks for Ways to Save Money in New York City.

 

Weather in NYC at Christmas

The weather in NYC during Christmastime can be frigid! The average high temperature in the month of December is about 44 degrees Fahrenheit– with lows that often dip below freezing.

Still, there are fantastic things to do in NYC in December outdoors. When you plan your Christmas trip to New York City, just be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes!

 

Crowds during Christmas in NYC

Many visitors flock to New York for Christmas – and locals stick around, too. All of which can make the Christmas sights in NYC feel very crowded.

Naturally, the most popular NY Christmas attractions draw the biggest crowds. If you are planning a Christmas in NY vacation, also pack your patience.

Expect crowds and lines at the most popular spots. Make reservations as early as possible and buy tickets in advance.

You may also avoid the peak crush by planning a weekday visit, rather than experiencing Christmastime in NYC on a weekend.

 

Things To Do in New York on Christmas Day

Our outlined itinerary includes the best things to do in NYC in December. That said, visitors planning what to do on Christmas Day in New York need to consider opening hours.

 

NYC Christmas Day Attractions

We think some of the best NYC holiday activities are outdoors – like strolling through Central Park and seeking out the prime Christmas trees and window displays.

The good news is, those are all things to do in NYC on Christmas Day, too! The rinks are open, as well, so ice skating is a fantastic Christmas Day NYC activity.

Additionally, The Lodge and some shops at the Bryant Park Winter Village will be open for limited hours on December 25 (but the other holiday markets are closed).

Famous observation decks – like the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock – are some of the best things to do on Christmas Day in NYC, too.

 

NYC Restaurants Open on Christmas Day

You can use this list of places that will be open and make reservations for your Christmas Dinner in NYC.

Alternatively, visitors can book a unique dining experience aboard a boat. The Dine and Cruise New York Christmas packages include a 3-course meal for brunch or dinner on Christmas Day – plus live music, fine wine and stunning views. 

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Visiting New York during Christmas

We’ve discussed the basics of how to plan a Christmas NYC trip, but now it’s time to talk logistics.

 

How To Get to NYC

New York City can be reached by plane, train or car – but we don’t recommend driving. Not only is traffic horrendous but parking your car in Manhattan can cost a bundle.

There are three major NYC airports: John F Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA) and Newark Liberty International (EWR).

Find the cheapest fares by starting your search on Skyscanner – but read all our advice for Getting Great Deals on Flights!

 

Best Hotel in NYC for Christmas

Oh my, it’s a real struggle to find a decent and reasonably priced place to stay in New York during Christmastime.

We highly recommend staying in Midtown. Still, choosing between hundreds of properties in a range of price points can feel overwhelming. Not to mention reading dozens of reviews!

When searching for a New York Christmas Hotel, it is probably a good idea to start by asking, What is my budget?

Prices are extraordinary during the holiday season, and the best values get snapped up in a hurry. Try to lock in a place as early as possible using our tips for Booking Hotels. 

 

Christmas in New York at The Plaza

If you want to really splash out, then there is no better place than the famed New York Plaza Hotel.

The crème-de-la-crème of NYC holiday hotels, guests can select luxury Plaza New York Christmas Packages…but expect to pay more than $2500 a night for the experience!

 

W New York Times Square

The central location of the W Times Square can’t be beat. The property also offers loads of amenities (like a fitness center, bathrobes, luggage storage and use of umbrellas). Guests also love the rooms with a view. 

 

Hilton Garden Inn New York Times Square South

We booked at the Hilton Garden Inn NYC Times Square South. For us, it was the best place to stay in NYC at Christmas for a few reasons: Affordability, location, cleanliness.

The rooms were spacious (by NYC standards), the beds were comfortable and it is an easy walk to the top holiday attractions – like Bryant Park, Rockefeller Center, Macy’s and Hudson Yards. 

 

Budget Places to Stay in NYC during Christmas

If you are planning a New York City Christmas trip on a budget, finding an affordable accommodation will likely be your biggest challenge.

Besides booking early, our top tip is to look at hotels outside of Midtown (or outside of Manhattan altogether). Think Queens or Jersey City.

If you find a place within your budget, just make sure you are close to public transportation that will get you into the city cheaply.

The centrally located Nap York Central Park Sleep Station offers pod bunks at affordable prices and gets fairly good reviews.

 

What to Pack for NYC Xmas

What’s left to do before visiting New York around Christmastime? Many travelers least favorite part of traveling, packing!

We have a few specific items for your suitcase (or backpack) when you travel to New York for Christmas. First, start by getting our FREE Checklist!

 

Walking Shoes

While our list of what to see in NYC at Christmas is mostly concentrated in Midtown, it still involves a ton of walking.

Before you travel to NYC for Christmas, make sure you have a comfortable pair of travel shoes. I wear these trainers and Kris prefers trail shoes.

 

Layered Clothing

There are so many things to see in NYC during Christmas that you will likely be on the go from morning until night.

Because the weather can change throughout the day – and you will be indoors and outside – be prepared by wearing tiered outfits.

Packing a Capsule Wardrobe for your trip is one of our top Packing Hacks – as it can seriously cut down on your luggage, too!

 

Day Pack

As you seek out the greatest places to visit in NYC at Christmastime, you will want to do it with a great travel day bag. We use lightweight and functional packs by Osprey.

They are perfect for stowing everything we need for long days of sightseeing – and with zippers, they help to deter pickpockets.

 

Travel Camera 

For our trip to NY at Christmas, we used a DSLR Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens. It’s one of the Best Travel Cameras for the price and comes with heaps of accessories when you buy the kit. 

 

Travel Planner for your Christmas New York Trip

As you prepare for any vacation, staying organized is key. Use our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of all the things to do in NYC for the holidays!

 

Start planning your USA Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

 

 

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