Your 2025 Guide to the Best Christmas Photo Spots in New York
Christmas time in New York City—there’s really nothing like it.
The air is different, the lights twinkle slightly brighter and everywhere you turn it’s like you’re walking through a scene from a holiday movie.
But if you’re anything like me — you’re not simply there to absorb the atmosphere — you’re there to record it.
For years now, I’ve discovered this city in the holiday season — camera in hand and all — and know just where to get those magical, Insta-friendly shots.
Whether you want the perfect Christmas card photo or just want to make your friends at back home jealous, New York City has some of the best-known holiday backdrops in the world.
And believe me: It is worth the crowds and the cold to get that ultimate shot.
So, here is my ultimate guide for Christmas photo spots in New York 2025, with memories (and Instagram posts) that you will carry for the rest of your life.
1. Rockefeller Center: The Icon of NYC Christmas
If there’s one place that’s Christmas in New York, it’s Rockefeller Center.
The iconic Christmas tree decorated with countless sparkling lights is a major attraction.
But here’s a little insider tip — don’t go for the standard picture taken through the ice-skating rink.
Walk around to various sides and you’ll find less populated spots and unique perspectives of the tree.
My Photo Tip:
Make your way to the Channel Gardens, which connects directly to Rockefeller Plaza.
This location is decorated with the beautiful Christmas lights and angels, which makes the perfect foreground of the gigantic tree behind.
And if you go early morning (sunrise?), you will avoid the heavy crowds, as well as capturing the tree in a soft morning glow.
2. Central Park: Snow-Covered Wonder
After a fresh snowfall, Central Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays.
My favorite spot to take photos is Bow Bridge, which stretches over the lake and provides a lovely viewpoint baked by snow-covered trees and the city skyline.
It’s right out of a postcard.
My Photo Tip:
Hunt for a classic NYC Christmas shot at The Mall in Central Park.
The path, lined with trees, glows under the fairy lights that adorn it — especially after a dusting of new snow, which is beautiful in a way that brings you back to your childhood.
It’s preferable to shoot here late in the day when the sun begins to drop, casting a golden light over the snow.
3. A Festive Fairytale — The Plaza Hotel
Fans of Home Alone 2 will recognize The Plaza Hotel immediately.
This luxury hotel, adorned with lavish holiday decorations, is one of the most Instagrammable places on Christmas in New York.
From the giant Christmas tree in the lobby to the ornate lights outside, everything has a dash of the festive.
My Photo Tip:
The lobby is iconic, but here’s a pro tip—take pictures just before dark, when the hotel lights up, and get some contrast with the warm lights on the cool winter evening.
And fewer people are likely to be around at this time!
4. Pure Christmas Glamour: Fifth Avenue Window Displays
No Christmas visit to New York is complete without marveling at the over-the-top holiday window displays lining Fifth Avenue.
Department stores — Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Macy’s to name a few — spare no expense creating some of the most intricate and fanciful holiday displays you’ll ever see.
My Photo Tip:
You need to go after dark for the best shots.
The window displays are lit up and the ever-twinkling lights of Fifth Avenue give an extra twinkly touch to your snaps.
I prefer shooting with a wide-angle lens here because it captures the entirety of the displays and light throughout the area.
5. Bryant Park Winter Village: Cozy holiday charm
Bryant Park’s Winter Village is a better-kept secret than Rockefeller Center.
With its ice-skating rink, Christmas market and cozy holiday feel, it’s a great place for festive photography.
Perhaps my favorite backdrop here is the ice rink, surrounded by twinkling lights and decorated trees.
And the Empire State Building is visible in the distance, which lends your photos that Old New York vibe.
My Photo Tip:
Bryant Park’s Winter Village is best photographed during the night when the holiday lights are twinkling.
Get a hot chocolate, snuggle up near the rink and catch a few candid of the skaters skating over the ice.
6. Famous Holiday Arch at Washington Square Park.
The Washington Square Park Arch, with its old New York architecture, is all fancied up for the holidays.
A huge Christmas tree stands directly in front of the arch, making for a stunning photo opportunity.
With the Empire State Building peeking out from behind the arch, this is one place you’ll want to be sure you don’t miss.
My Photo Tip:
Come in early morning to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Gentle morning light coming through the archway provides a tranquil, meditative holiday photo.
7. The Rink at Rockefeller Center: An Ice-Skating Classic
There’s a reason skating at Rockefeller Center is on almost every tourist’s Christmas bucket list: It’s iconic!
Whether you’re gliding across the ice or merely taking in the scene, this is one place you’ll want to capture.
My Photo Tip:
If possible, schedule an early morning skate time for less crowding.
Pave your way towards that picture-perfect shot on the ice with the massive Christmas tree behind you.
The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of getting a peaceful photo op.
The Best Places to See Christmas Photos in New York: Conclusion
There’s a reason that New York City is the backdrop of so many holiday movies; it’s just that magical.
Armed with the right timing, a bit of patience, and my tried-and-true photo tips, you’ll leave NYC with a camera roll filled with memories to last a lifetime.
From the twinkling lights of Rockefeller Center to the beautiful, yet peaceful Central Park in winter, there is no shortage of festive photo spots to capture.
So wear your coziest coat, bring your camera, and be ready to snap the magic of Christmas in the city.
