When we decided to take a quick trip to NYC in December, we were on a mission to discover the very best things to do in New York during Christmas.
It was a big endeavor – but we were ready to soak up all the Christmassy vibes. In fact, we feel there’s no better place for holiday merriness in the US than NYC.
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From shopping at bustling markets to ice skating in Central Park to admiring the fabulous window displays, we indulged ourselves in the most festive experiences!
10 Top Things To Do in NYC for Christmas
We have organized our list of the absolute best things to do in NYC at Christmas by category, rather than location.
Later, we provide a helpful map of Christmas attractions in New York City so you can easily plan your route.
For more tips on planning your perfect holiday vacation, use our NYC Christmas Trip Planning Guide, where we share a day-by-day itinerary and tons of useful tips!
#1 See Famous NYC Christmas Trees
Seeing all of the beautifully decorated trees is an absolute must-do in New York at Christmas!
While there is one very famous Christmas tree in NYC, we stumbled onto dozens of decorated evergreens as we explored.
In fact, it would be nearly impossible to take a stroll around Manhattan at Christmastime and not see a tree decorated with twinkling lights and colorful ornaments.
That said, there are a few iconic Xmas trees in NYC that you definitely don’t want to miss!
The Famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree
The world-renowned Rockefeller New York Christmas Tree is astounding! We think it’s even more magnificent in person than in any photo or video. For 2025, it stands at 75 feet and weighs in at 11 tons.
The Norway Spruce is illuminated with more than 50,000 multi-colored lights and is topped with a 90-pound Swarovski star that features more than 3 million crystals.
For the most impressive first view, we believe it’s best to enter Rockefeller Plaza from 5th Avenue.
From this vantage point, you will see the horn-blowing Angels, the tree and the golden statue of Prometheus hovering above the ice-skating rink all at once.
The grandiose tree lighting in Rockefeller Center takes place on the Wednesday after Thanksgiving (December 3rd in 2025). Attending the ceremony is free, but space is limited.
The Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center is lit daily from 5am until midnight (and for 24 hours on Christmas Day).
The Classic Washington Square Park Xmas Tree
We absolutely adore the 45-foot-tall tree that sits under the ornate Washington Square Arch.
From the fountain, the view through the arch encompasses both the dazzling conifer and the Empire State Building. We feel it is one of the best things to see in NYC during Christmas!
The tree lighting in Washington Square Park typically takes place during the first or second week of December and usually includes musical performances.
The tree is lit daily from 4pm to 1am. On Christmas Eve in New York, revelers gather in the square for a carol singalong beginning at 5pm.
New York Stock Exchange Xmas Tree
The NYSE Christmas tree is a New York tradition that has been going strong since 1923.
It stands in front of the New York Stock Exchange building in Experience Square (at the intersection of Wall and Broad Streets).
The event takes place on December 4th in 2025 from 3-7pm and features kid-friendly fun – like sipping hot cocoa and writing letters to Santa.
New York Public Library Christmas Tree
We don’t think Christmas trips to NYC are complete without popping into the NYPL to see their gorgeous decorations and one of the best New York City holiday trees.
The library’s tree stands in Astor Hall within the Stephen A Schwarzman Building, which is located 42nd Street and 5th Avenue.
Additionally, classy garland hangs from the building and the two lions that protect the entrance don festive wreaths.
Furthermore, the library hosts merry events, so be sure to check out their current program during your trip to New York at Christmas.
#2 Twirl around a NYC Ice-Skating Rink
It’s difficult to imagine Christmastime in New York without the quintessential experience of ice skating.
Whether you are actually putting on skates or just watching, we believe spending time at the ice-skating rinks is a must-do!
Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center
The Rink at Rockefeller Center is the most iconic outdoor ice-skating spot in the city. To be honest, it’s our favorite place to watch ice skaters.
Visitors who want to glide across the ice can buy tickets and skate rentals online – but get them in advance, because they do sell out!
Ice Skating in Central Park at Wollman Rink
Located in the southeast corner of Central Park, Wollman Rink sits in the shadow of towering skyscrapers.
The unsurpassed location is undeniably picturesque. Unsurprisingly, skating here is one of the top things to do in New York for Christmas!
Bryant Park Ice Skating
We love the ice rink at the Bryant Park Winter Village. Not only is it an incredibly festive place to go ice skating in Manhattan, but it’s also free!
You still need to reserve a timeslot in advance (and you can rent skates on-site if needed).
#3 Visit Fun NYC Christmas Markets
If you are wondering what to do in NYC at Xmas to get into a festive mood, then route yourself directly to the best Christmas Markets in the city!
Featuring boutique shops selling unique gifts and warm sweet treats, shopping at the holiday markets is one of the best Christmas things to do in New York.
On our trip, we got all the holiday feels while perusing these outstanding marketplaces.
Winter Village at Bryant Park
Ranked as one of the absolute best Christmas markets in NYC, this is a highlight of New York Christmas vacations!
The festive scene features an open-air European-style market, cozy igloos and ice curling and skating.
In the buzzing lodge, merrymakers sip warm wintery drinks and feast on holiday fare in between buying gifts. We happily joined in to momentarily escape the cold!
In 2025, the Winter Village at Bryant Park opened October 24 and the rink and lodge will operate through the beginning of 2026 (but the shops typically close in early January).
Columbus Circle Christmas Market
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is one of our favorite pop-up Christmas shops in NYC.
Located at the southwest entrance to Central Park, local vendors sell handcrafted wares, jewelry and artwork – as well as sweet treats and classic eats.
Columbus Circle Xmas Market dates for this year are December 2nd to December 31st, 2025 (closed Christmas Day).
Union Square Holiday Market Christmas Shops
We nearly didn’t make it to the Union Square Xmas Market – which would have been a huge mistake. Hosting more than 160 vendors, it’s one of the best NYC Xmas markets!
We enjoyed strolling along the festive aisles, while shopping for unique holiday gifts in the cheerful atmosphere.
In 2025, the USQ Holiday Market runs from mid-November until December 24 (closed on Thanksgiving).
Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair
Housed in Vanderbilt Hall, the Grand Central Holiday Market is one of the longest running NY Christmas events for shoppers.
Established in 1993, it features vendors selling locally crafted goods and handmade products. Perhaps best of all, the market is held indoors – so it can be a great escape from wintery weather!
The 2025 dates are from November 10th to December 24th (but it will be closed on Thanksgiving Day).
#4 Gaze at Beautifully Decorated Christmas Windows
There is nothing that adds more splendor to the holiday season than the city’s exceptional department store window displays.
The Christmas stores in New York go all out at the end of the year to create an engaging showcase of products and holiday joy.
Many of the best Christmas windows in NYC are found on 5th Avenue – the most prestigious shopping street.
We loved sauntering along 5th Ave from 59th to 42nd Street while gazing at the phenomenal displays – but it’s not the only place you’ll find them!
Saks Fifth Avenue
The six windows at Saks Fifth Avenue are a magnificent sight – and seeing them is an NYC must-do in December.
Even better is the Saks Fifth Avenue Christmas Light Show, which is set to return this year.
Highly rated as one of the best things to see in New York at Christmas, the performance is projected on the façade of the building every 10 minutes between 5pm and 11:30pm.
Macy’s NYC Christmas Decor
Since 1874, Macy’s has been decorating its exterior for Christmas – and it gets our top vote for Best Holiday Windows in NYC.
The displays at Macy’s at 34th Street and 6th Ave center on a yuletide theme – complete with memorable characters, reindeer, snowmen and of course, Santa!
Bloomingdale’s
The flagship Bloomindale’s store on 59th and Lexington ranks as another one of the top Christmas windows in NYC. Taking on a new theme each year, they are always fascinating to see.
Bergdorf Goodman
The holiday windows at Bergdorf Goodman on 5th Avenue are famous for their artistic design and lavish layout.
Somewhat quirky and perhaps even thought-provoking, they rank as one of the top places to visit in NYC during Christmas (for their imaginative peculiarity if nothing else!).
Cartier at Christmastime
The Cartier NYC Christmas decorations are sophisticated and elegant – and it’s always fun to gander at the sparkling jewels.
What’s most impressive about Cartier during the holidays is that the entire building is wrapped up like a present with a beautiful red bow.
#5 Spend a Day NYC Christmas Shopping
Going shopping in NYC is a fun festive wintertime activity. The stores are stocked with the hottest items for the season and the best places to shop in New York City at Christmas are decked out.
During our holiday trip, we routed our way into the most fantastic places for Christmas shopping in NYC. Even if you don’t buy anything, we recommend stepping inside just to see the decorations!
Macy’s
A supreme place for New York Christmas time shopping, Macy’s on Herald Square far exceeded our expectations.
After viewing the marvelous window displays, we stepped inside for an equally enthralling experience. Lights and garland brighten every aisle – but the true gem is Macy’s Santaland.
Located on the 8th floor, the NYC Santaland Christmas store at Macy’s serves up a dazzling dose of merriment.
You will want to make reservations in advance – especially if you have little ones that want to visit jolly St. Nick!
FAO Schwarz
Perhaps the most famous toy store in the world, shopping at FAO Schwarz at Rockefeller Center is one of the top family things to do in New York at Christmas. Even adults will feel like kids again!
Shoppers may encounter a line to get in, but it usually moves quickly. Once inside, you can take your time as you discover the absolute wonderland of toys.
Shops at Columbus Circle
An excellent destination for visitors planning Christmas shopping trips to New York, Columbus Circle is a top spot for some retail therapy.
Boasting boutique stores, stylish shops and recognizable fashion brands, you can find something for everyone on your Christmas list.
After perusing the goods at the Columbus Circle Outdoor Market, we popped in to marvel at the Holiday Under the Stars display.
The illuminated decorations dangle from the ceiling in the entryway of the Great Room, providing a sensational view of Midtown.
Hudson Yards
The high-end shopping mall at Hudson Yards hosts luxury brands and celebrity chef restaurants. However, what makes going here one of the best NYC Christmas things to do is the gorgeous, glittering lights.
The space is illuminated with an astounding 2 million twinklers, making it one of the best Christmas light displays in New York.
Additionally, the venue hosts events – like the Shine Bright Christmas Light Shows, photos with Santa on his sleigh and fun evening entertainment for all!
Chelsea Market
Widely known as a fun and trendy food hall, Chelsea Market is always a lively place featuring boutique retailers and culinary shops.
During trips to New York for Christmas, we think it is an ideal spot to pick up foodie gifts. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat while basking in the glow of the merry décor.
The Oculus at the World Trade Center
The Westfield Shops at The Oculus in Lower Manhattan are a fantastic place for Christmas presents in NYC. Besides, the modern structure is undeniably cool!
In addition to enjoying the festively decorated space, the Oculus Center hosts an incredibly fun pop-up NYC holiday market!
Best Christmas Stores in NYC
If you are looking for NYC Xmas ornaments or holiday home décor, there are a couple of dedicated spots that you won’t want to miss!
The charming Christmas Cottage Shop is a family-owned business that opened their doors in 1985. They specialize in ornaments, decorations and souvenirs!
Additionally, the flagship Christmas in New York Little Italy store on Mulberry Street is a top destination for visitors on trips to NYC for Christmas.
#6 Enjoy Festive Meals and NYC Holiday Cocktails
Dining in the Big Apple is always an experience – but eating and drinking in a Christmassy establishment that is decorated to the hilt is one of the best holiday things to do in NYC!
We are highlighting a few of the most coveted eateries and bars, so reservations are a must!
Rolf’s
This place is legendary. Regularly touted as one of the best NYC Christmas restaurants, the German restaurant is a complete feast for the senses!
The ceiling drips with decorations and twinkling lights, creating a sublime atmosphere. Rolf’s menu features hearty German classics and yuletide cocktails.
Tavern on the Green
The historic Tavern on the Green in Central Park is often hailed as the Best Christmas Decorated Restaurant in NYC.
We would’ve loved to have had their signature weekend Holiday Brunch, but without prior reservations, we only managed to pursue the winter cocktail menu.
In addition to the interior decor, the landmark establishment displays a beautiful evergreen in their courtyard.
The Plaza Hotel for Afternoon Tea
For an elegant experience, nothing tops Holiday Afternoon Tea at The Plaza. Their Signature Holiday Tea is served in the classy Palm Court for a memorable affair.
Miniature sandwiches, scones, pastries and sweet treats are on offer along with tea and a glass of Champagne.
Best NYC Christmas Bars
From classy to eclectic, we found some of the best places to have a Christmastime drink in New York. Expect excessive decorations (and prices) and fun concoctions at these prime venues.
Snow Globe at Ophelia
Does it get any more Christmassy than sipping cocktails in a rooftop Snow Globe in the Sky? We think not!
Perched atop the Beekman Tower, Ophelia Lounge hosts a Christmas-themed bar that is illuminated with sparkling crystals and falling snowflakes.
Pop Up Christmas Bars at Rockefeller Center
We love these pop-up spots where you can have a drink and enjoy a view of the grandest Xmas tree in NYC. The outdoor bars offer regional wine and craft beer in the heart of the merriment!
Miracle Pop Up NYC Christmas Bars
With elaborate kitschy décor and a fun list of libations, it’s hard not to feel the spirit(s) at the festive Miracle Pop Up Bars. This December, The Cabinet will host the 2025 Miracle on 9th Street event.
Meanwhile, there are two Miracle pop-ups in Brooklyn: Vacations and Someday – while The Last Call in Brooklyn will host the tropical-themed Sipping Santa on Grand Street.
#7 Watch a Classic NYC Christmas Show
Attending Christmas shows in New York is a fabulous way to celebrate! The city hosts an array of themed productions – from classic Christmas Broadway performances to fun Off Broadway parodies.
The Rockettes
The Christmas Spectacular is a holiday tradition that dates to 1933. Today, it still ranks as one of the top things to see in NYC at Christmas!
The Rockettes entertain audiences with high kicks and choregraphed dances in an exhilarating 90-minute performance. There are multiple shows daily, but it’s best to get your tickets in advance.
Holiday Performances
Throughout the month of December, there are several holiday-themed theatrical performances on Broadway.
We think the best NYC Christmas shows are classics – like A Christmas Carol and the New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker.
Additionally, you will find plenty of festive concerts and modern productions. Watching a holiday performance is a coveted experience, so tickets are difficult to come by and carry a hefty price tag.
If nothing is available for your first-choice, consider attending a non-holiday Broadway (or Off Broadway) play during your New York City Christmas vacation.
#8 Seek Out Iconic NYC Xmas Decorations
Seeing the glittering Christmas trees, fascinating window displays and bright lights are a must – but there are more iconic decorations that dot the cityscape.
Seeking these out is one of the fun things to do in NYC during Christmas. Many of these change from year to year, so there is always something new to see!
Red Ornament Manhattan Christmas Decorations
One of the best Christmas displays in NYC, the giant red ornaments sitting in Lilholts Pooley Pool at 49th Street and 6th Avenue are a must see. Plus, they are perfect for photo ops!
Radio City Music Hall
This is one of the best Christmas attractions in New York…and not just for the Rockettes! The classic neon signs become a jolly sight in December when a tall, slender tree stands on the corner between them.
5th Avenue Christmas Decorations
When you stroll down 5th Ave for shopping and the dazzling storefronts, be sure to keep an eye out for the brilliant holiday decorations that line the street.
The Fifth Avenue Association goes all out with oversized presents, toys and even a classic NYC Yellow Taxi Cab!
The Pulitzer Fountain
Sitting in Grand Army Plaza by Central Park, the Pulitzer Fountain is the site of one of the best Christmas decorations in New York.
During our trip, it was transformed into an arctic paradise – complete with dancing polar bears, skating penguins and seals perched on icebergs.
#9 Peek Inside Decorated New York Hotels
Stepping inside the lobbies of the city’s most luxurious hotels is one of our favorite Christmas activities in NYC.
The most beautiful properties are extravagantly decorated for the season – and visitors are welcome to take a peek. In fact, you may even want to stay for a drink!
The Plaza
This is a gorgeous property any time of year – but Christmas at The Plaza New York is breathtaking.
We already mentioned dining here as one of the best holiday experiences – but you don’t need a reservation for an upscale meal to view The Plaza Hotel NYC Christmas tree. Simply step inside and have a look!
The Peninsula
The outside of the NYC Peninsula Hotel features an abundance of decorations, giving visitors an idea of what they will find inside the lobby. The grand stairway is converted into an elaborate ensemble of festiveness!
Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree
One of the city’s most stunning Christmas trees sits in the courtyard of the luxury Lotte New York Palace Hotel.
Stylishly decorated in red and gold, the tree is easily accessible for those who want to get a glimpse.
#10 Sightseeing in NYC at Christmastime
New York City is home to some of the most famous attractions in the world. We never tire of the incredible architecture, amazing institutions and remarkable neighborhoods.
In fact, we believe they are some of the best places to visit in New York during Christmas!
We are highlighting a few must-see spots in Manhattan during Christmas. You can also use our Self-Guided Walk of Midtown and our Free Walk in Lower Manhattan for more!
Empire State Building Christmas Decor
This Art Deco skyscraper is the most famous landmark in NYC – but it is even better during the holidays!
The outside windows are adorned for the festive season, the building glows red and green after dark and the lobby features a beautiful Christmas tree.
Throughout December, the venue plays host to musical performances and special events – and going to the top of the Empire State Building is a must!
St. Patrick’s Cathedral Manger
The historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan is a top attraction in the city.
During the holidays, however, visiting the beautiful manger and nativity scene is one of the best Christmas things to do in NYC.
Be sure to spot the unique addition: a yellow Labrador named Lexington II.
NYC Museums Decorated for the Holidays
The city’s finest cultural institutions get in the holiday spirit, too! At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a 20-foot-tall tree stands above a nativity scene that dates to the 18th-century.
Guests of The Met will find these displays in the Medieval Sculpture Hall in front of another 18th-century artwork: a Choir Screen from the Cathedral of Valladolid.
Visitors to the American Museum of Natural History can see the famed Origami Holiday Tree. The tradition dates to the 1970s and today there are more than 1,000 origami creations.
Greenwich Village Christmas Stroll
We love discovering neighborhoods on foot – and the Village is one of the best districts to explore.
With quaint decorations and festive shops, the curious will certainly sense the spirit of Christmas in Greenwich Village.
Central Park
While ice skating at Wollman Rink is one of the fun things to do in NYC for Christmas, it is not the only reason to go to this famous site during the holidays.
Visit the north end to see the beautiful floating Christmas Trees at Harlem Meer; it’s a Central Park NYC Christmas tradition. Then, especially if there’s been recent snow, explore winter landscapes in the North Woods.
Bethesda Terrace and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir are also beautiful in wintertime – and taking a stroll along The Mall and Literary Walk is a must.
We highlight all of these and so much more on our free Central Park Self-Guided Walking Tour!
More Christmas in New York Things To Do
We’ve shared our ideas about what to do in NYC at Christmas time, focusing on Manhattan. Now here’s a few suggestions for more Christmassy things to do in NYC further afield.
New York Botanical Garden Christmas Event
The NY Botanical Garden Christmas Holiday Train Show is a tradition that has been celebrated for 30 years.
The marvelous model train exhibit features moving replicas that weave through NYC landmarks made of natural materials.
Brooklyn Botanical Garden after Dark
The whimsical Brooklyn Botanic Garden Lightscape event is pure delight! After the sun sets, an illuminated wintery trail meanders through an enchanting forest with art installations and music.
Christmas Lights in Dyker Heights
Looking for the most over-the-top Christmas lights in NYC? Look no further than Dyker Heights!
This neighborhood in Brooklyn is renowned for their extravagant decorations – and they go up the week after Thanksgiving.
Getting to the Dyker Heights New York Christmas lights can be a little challenging. We suggest booking this convenient excursion – it’s regularly ranked as one of the best NYC Christmas tours!
BONUS: Guided Christmas Tours NYC
We prefer to explore on our own, but there are a multitude of festive tours that can enhance your New York Christmas experience!
Walking Christmas Light Tour NYC Midtown
Let a local guide show you the best decorations and must-see places in NYC at Christmastime. On this 2-hour tour, participants are led to the most magical holiday displays.
NYC Christmas Bus Tours
THE RIDE Christmas Edition has long ranked one of the most creative and best New York Christmas tours.
The theater-on-wheels comes complete with entertaining guides as you ride through NYC to see the top Christmas lights. UPDATE: The Ride Holiday Edition is not running in 2025!
Alternatively, see twinkling lights and festive sights from the open, upper deck of the city’s top-rated Night Bus Tour.
Private Tour by Cart or Carriage
A fantastic way to experience the sights of New York and Christmas attractions is on a private tour. Save your feet and relax in a comfortable cart or carriage!
Learn more about this heated e-cart or book your horse-and-carriage ride! Find other fun ways to see the best of NY in Christmas décor on Viator.
New York City Holiday Cruise: Cocoa and Carol Singing
It’s been a while since we’ve taken an NYC cruise, but we’re certain the Christmas edition would be sensational!
Passengers board a decorated ship, sip hot cocoa and sing along with the band to favorite Christmas time tunes. Find out more!
NYC Map of Christmas Attractions
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our map of NYC Christmas sights below.
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!
More New York City Travel Guides
- New York City One-Week Itinerary
- Best NYC Budget Itinerary
- Free Things To Do in New York
- Money-Saving Travel Tips for NYC
- NYC Christmas Trip: Itinerary & Tips
- Keep your NYC Vacation organized with our Printable Travel Planner
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