35 EPIC Things to Do at Christmas in NYC
New York City at Christmas is enchanting.
It’s that time of year when the whole city feels like it’s glowing.
I still vividly recall my first Christmas in NYC—the cold winter air, the smell of roasted chestnuts filling the streets, the moment when I stood under the towering Rockefeller Center Christmas tree for the first time.
I felt like I stepped into a holiday film.
The energy is contagious, and this is the best place to get into the holiday spirit.
I wanted to write this guide to share that magic with you, particularly if you’re planning your own Christmas trip to the Big Apple.
With so much holiday excitement going on, it can be hard to know what all you absolutely MUST see (or do!), which is why I’ve compiled this ultimate 35 epic Christmas things to do in NYC.
Whether you are seeking iconic experiences, such as ice skating at Rockefeller Center, or hoping to discover hidden holiday gems, this guide covers it all.
I’ll guide you from witnessing the famous tree to discovering the best holiday markets and hidden gems most tourists overlook.
This guide will help you plan the perfect Christmas itinerary to get the most out of your time in New York City during the holiday season.
1. Check Out the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is an icon for a reason.
This tree has stood as a Christmas icon in New York City since 1931.
Christmas if being underneath its twinkling lights feels like a rite of passage.
The tree is typically lit in early December and remains on view through early January but is best seen early in the morning or late at night to avoid enormous crowds.
Believe me, night time viewing is a whole different experience with city lights providing stunning backdrops.
While you’re visiting, be sure to check out nearby must-see destinations.
Just below the tree is a smaller than you’d expect ice skating rink but skating here is one of those bucket list experiences.
However, if skating is not your thing, the Top of the Rock provides stunning views of the whole city especially during the holidays.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral isn’t far as well and is worth the trip to escape the cold and marvel at its beautiful architecture.
2. Christmas Show at Rockefeller Center Ice Skating
Skating beneath the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a quintessential NYC Christmas activity, and it’s just as enchanting as you’d imagine.
While it can be crowded, there’s something special about gliding on the ice beneath the twinkling tree and the surrounding city bustle.
If you’re planning on skating here, you can reserve tickets online in advance and save time.
Morning sessions tend to be less busy, so if you’re an early morning riser you can skate without a ton of people and enjoy a quieter skate.
The evenings are busier but the fully lit tree and holiday music create magic.
If Rockefeller Center is a bit too chaotic for your taste, there are plenty of other excellent places to skate nearby.
Bryant Park has a bigger rink and is free with your own skates, while Central Park’s Wollman Rink has eye-popping views of the city skyline.
3. Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park Winter Village A dream come true for holiday lovers.
It’s not only about the ice skating (although the rink here is great) — it’s the holiday market that really shines.
Think more than 100 boutique-style stalls selling things like handmade ornaments to artisanal chocolates.
It’s a great place to grab one-of-a-kind gifts for friends and family, and even a few special items for yourself.
The market gets crowded in the afternoon and on weekends, but you’ll find it much more relaxed if you come on a weekday morning.
My favorite vendors sell hand-knit scarves, locally made jewelry, and quirky holiday décor that you will see nowhere else.
The food stalls are also amazing.
You can wander around sipping hot apple cider or munching on a gourmet pretzel, a perfect way to stay warm as you scavenge.
If you like to take photos, this is about the best place in the city to take holiday photos, especially if you can get the ring and the Empire State Building in the background.
4. Watch the Rockettes’ Radio City Christmas Spectacular
A Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an essential part of any holiday trip to New York.
The Rockettes are a New York institution and their holiday show is nothing less than stunning.
Their perfectly synchronized high kicks, each elaborate set; everything about it feels festive.
If you plan to catch the show, I’d suggest purchasing tickets as early as it makes sense to you.
Those right in the front sell out rapidly, but the show is superb even from the back.
There’s just something magical about being at the world-famous Radio City Music Hall during the holidays.
One fun fact: see how many hidden details you can spot in the sets — each year the designers do something to keep an eye out for!
I remember as a little kid seeing the show for the first time, and now it’s still one of my most favorite Christmas traditions.
If you like behind-the-scenes stories, the Rockettes have some amazing history since they’ve been around since 1925!
5. Marvel at Holiday Window Displays on Fifth Avenue
Sixth Avenue’s holiday window displays are world renowned, and for good reason.
The ornate art at stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Macy’s is dazzling, to say the least.
Every year, these department stores pull out all the stops, different holiday themes feel like an art exhibit walk through.
If you don’t want to battle the crowds, it’s advisable to come early morning or late night to enjoy the displays.”
Late nights on Fifth Avenue are magical, trust me, when the streets are bare and all the lights are twinkling.
A lovely route to walk is starting at 59th Street by Central Park and proceeding down Fifth Avenue to Herald Square, where you may complete your window-gazing at Macy’s iconic windows.
6. Visit Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
If you want over-the-top Christmas lights, you must visit Dyker Heights.
This Brooklyn neighborhood is famous for its over-the-top home decorations — giant inflatable Santas, life-sized nutcrackers, thousands of twinkling lights covering every inch of the houses.
Dyker Heights becomes a winter wonderland each December, and it’s totally free to walk around and view the displays.
To reach it, you can hop on the subway to Bay Ridge or 86th Street, but most people opt to book a guided tour so they can learn more about the history behind the decorations and the families that put them up year after year.
If you’d rather see it on your own, go during a weekday evening when there are fewer people, but the lights are still going.
7. Take a Walk Around Central Park on a Snowy Morning
Central Park is gorgeous any time of the year but there is something extra magical about it on a snowy holiday day.
Some of the best places to explore in winter include Bow Bridge, which resembles a postcard when the snow coats its angles.
The Mall, a scenic tree-lined promenade, and Bethesda Terrace, where people routinely pose for holiday photos.
If you’re up for some adventure, strap on your skates and glide around Wollman Rink, with the city skyline behind you.
After your walk, head for hot chocolate at a local café — I suggest visiting the small shops on the Upper West Side for a warm treat.
8. Visit the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show is one of the city’s best-kept holiday secrets.
This exhibition includes model trains that chug through miniature versions of New York City landmarks, all from natural materials like bark, leaves and twigs.
The level of detail is impressive, and children especially enjoy the miniatures for the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and Yankee Stadium.
Tickets sell out quickly, so it’s best to purchase them in advance.
It’s a family-friendly event, and the Botanical Garden also has other holiday-inspired activities for children, such as crafting workshops and seasonal displays.
9. Go Sledding in Central Park
When the snow covers the ground, Central Park is the place to go sledding.
The best hills for sledding are Pilgrim Hill and Cedar Hill, both of whom deliver great runs that range from steep to tame so it doesn’t matter if you’re an adult seeking thrills or a family with young ones in tow, there’s a place for everyone.
Don’t own a sled? No problem — you can rent or buy one at stores nearby.
If you’re in need of warming up after sledding, grab a hot drink or snack from a nearby café, or venture to the Loeb Boathouse for a cozy meal overlooking the park.
10. Explore the Union Square Christmas Market
One of my favorite holiday markets in the city is Union Square’s Christmas Market.
Although smaller than the Winter Village at Bryant Park, it has its own appeal, emphasizing one-of-a-kind, “made-by-hand” gifts crafted by local artists.
You’ll find everything from handmade candles to gorgeous wooden toys, making it the perfect place to buy something as unique as your love.
It’s also home to some of the best food on this list, like gourmet grilled cheese and freshly made apple cider donuts — so don’t skip the opportunity to try them.
For a smaller, less bustling market, Union Square is the one to visit.
11. Hot Chocolate at Serendipity 3
Serendipity 3 is known for its frozen hot chocolate, and although the idea of drinking something frozen in winter might sound odd, it’s one of those New York experiences that you simply must try.
It’s rich, creamy, and topped with whipped cream, basically a dessert in a cup: the frozen hot chocolate.
Serendipity 3 is incredibly popular, and I recommend booking reservations well in advance.
It can be crowded, especially around the holidays, and walk-ins are uncommon.
If hot chocolate doesn’t suit your fancy, the menu also boasts lavish desserts like the “Frrrozen Hot Chocolate Sundae” and monster cakes — making it a great place to treat yourself.
12. Miracle on 9th Street, Rolf’sExplore Holiday Pop-Up Bars
The holiday pop-up bars of New York City take festive decorating to the max, and no round-up of festive activities would be complete without Miracle on 9th Street and Rolf’s.
Miracle is known for its Christmas cocktails served in novelty-shaped glassware — think drinks with names like “Jingle Balls Nog” or “Gingerbread Flip.”
The décor does not disappoint, either, with tinsel from floor to ceiling, twinkling lights and holiday ornaments.
Rolf’s, by contrast, is known for its over-the-top decorations — hundreds of ornaments, lights and garlands crammed into every inch of the place.
Both places become very crowded, so prepare accordingly.
Reservations, generally, are also needed at Miracle, while Rolf’s is best approached early or midday to network around long lines.
13. Go for a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride Through Central Park
During the holidays, a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park is undeniably romantic.
Of course, bundling up in blankets and taking in the snowy scenery is a classic New York experience.
You can either show up at one of the designated pick-up areas around Central Park South or book in advance online to book a carriage ride.
The rides last about 20-25 minutes on average, and you’ll get some of the best views of the park, taking in iconic spots like Bethesda Fountain and Bow Bridge.
14. Do some shopping at the Columbus Circle Holiday Market
If you are in Central park Columbus Circle Holiday Market is just a few steps away which is a great stop for small holiday shopping.
This one is on the smaller side than the others but makes up for the size with deliciousness.
The market has a variety of one-of-a-kind gifts by local crafters, such as handmade jewelry, knit scarves and personalized artwork.
It’s also a good place to pick up some holiday-themed snacks, including gingerbread cookies and hot apple cider.
With the holiday lights of Central Park sparkling in the background, it’s a good way to wrap up your jaunt in the park by picking up a few last-minute gifts.
15. See Santa at Macy’s Santaland
Macy’s Santaland is a delightful experience for families, particularly if you have kids dying to meet Santa.
(There’s an online reservation system that lets you choose a time to arrive; to avoid long lines, it’s important to make a reservation.)
Believe me, this will save you from Queuing hours in peak holiday season.
Once you’re inside, it’s not just a quick Santa photo.
Santaland: A full-scale immersive experience with decorations, toy trains and elves personalizing your visit.
If you’re going with kids, there are other events, too, including a giant “Believe” mailbox where kids can write letters to Santa, so there’s some added holiday magic to the whole experience.
16. Go on a Christmas walking tour
If you’re looking to learn more about the magic of the holiday season in New York City, a Christmas-themed walking tour is a great way to see it all.
Several guided tours that highlight the best holiday sights in the city, include iconic stops like Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and the window displays along Fifth Avenue.
One benefit of going on a guided tour is that the guides tend to provide interesting historical context about the places you see.
And they’ll be able to call your attention to the hidden gems you may not notice on your own, such as off-the-beaten-path holiday displays or unusual traditions.
A walking tour is well worth it for first-timers or history buffs who want to learn about the city’s history.
17. Marvel at the Christmas Tree at Washington Square Park
While the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center gets all the holiday attention, the one at Washington Square Park has a charm all its own.
Situated beneath the famed Washington Arch, this one is more chill and community-oriented than the rush of Midtown.
If you want to take some beautiful holiday photos, visit early in the morning or late in the evening for the best light and the fewest people.
The park itself offers a variety of holiday events throughout the season, including caroling nights and performances by local musicians, making it a lovely place to absorb some holiday cheer.
18. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of New York’s most beautiful landmarks, and it becomes even more special during the holiday season.
The interior is nicely adorned with Christmas trees and poinsettias and a tranquil place to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Even if you’re not religious, going to a holiday service here can be a powerful experience.
The majesty of the architecture and the solemnity of the services lend an extra layer to the holiday spirit.
Stained glass windows and soaring towers of the cathedral make up some of the most beautiful backdrops for holiday-themed photographs.
19. Visit the Gingerbread Houses at Le Parker Meridien
Le Parker Meridien holds an annual gingerbread house competition each year, and these are no cookie-cutter creations.
Professional bakers and chefs produce elaborate, very elaborate gingerbread houses, each with its own theme.
The creativity is amazing, from whimsical fairy tales to modern cityscapes, and you can see these gingerbread houses free in the hotel lobby.
For the least hustle and bustle, go on weekday afternoons.
And since local charities benefit from this event, you can do a little good while enjoying some holiday cheer.
20. Take a Hudson River Cruise Holiday cruise
For a totally different view of New York City at the holidays, think about booking a Christmas-themed cruise on the Hudson River.
Numerous boat tours have special holiday cruises with dinner, live music and spectacular views of the city’s landmarks draped in festive lights.
As you glide past the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan, you will enjoy unique views of the skyline illuminated for the holidays.
Just be sure to dress warmly — the deck can be chilly, even with heaters.
You need to book early if you want a prime spot for dinner and drinks on board.
21. Listen to a Christmas Concert at St. John the Divine
The annual Christmas concert at St. John the Divine, one of the largest cathedrals in the world, promises to be dizzyingly spectacular.
The music at the concert varies from classical holiday music to modern, but it’s always an awe-inspiring experience.
The cathedral’s soaring acoustics energize the music in the most magical way.
Tickets can go fast, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you want good seat.
St. John the Divine has more holiday events throughout the season, too, including light extravaganzas and special services, if you can’t make the concert.
22. Shop the Grand Central Holiday Fair
When the weather outside is frightful, stay inside the Grand Central Holiday Fair.
Centrally located inside the historic Grand Central Terminal, the market is vibrant with local vendors featuring merchandise ranging from jewelry to home décor.
That’s one of the few indoor holiday markets around the city, so it’s a solid go-to for chillier days.
There’s plenty of NYC-themed gifts here too, so it’s a great stop for snagging something interesting to bring out of town friends and family.
And the grand interior of Grand Central, bedecked for the holidays, provides an added layer of charm during your shopping experience.
23. Go Shopping on Fifth Avenue
There’s more to holiday shopping on Fifth Avenue than picking up gifts.
You will also find the famous department stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany’s and Bergdorf Goodman, all decked out in their holiday finery.
Even if you’re only window shopping, with its festive decorations and special deals, the holiday vibe in this stretch of the city can be extra cheerier.
And if you’re not shopping on a budget, never fear — simply window shopping along Fifth Avenue during the holiday season is a treat in and of itself, and you can experience the festive scene with or without making a purchase.
If you’re holiday gift shopping, visit the smaller boutiques and pop-up shops on the avenue.
24. Feast on Holiday Offerings from Dominique Ansel Bakery
If pastries are your jam, then the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Dominique Ansel Bakery.
While the bakery is most famous for its cronuts, they also have unique seasonal treats that come only during the holidays.
The Christmas-themed pastries and their rich hot chocolate All the better reason to indulge your sweet tooth.
To skirt long queues, visit early in the morning — this is a popular spot, especially with tourists.
For a real holiday treat, try pairing one of their seasonal desserts with a warm drink and you’ll be in heaven.
25. The Nutcracker Ballet at Lincoln Center
One of the most classic performances for the holiday season in NYC is The Nutcracker Ballet at Lincoln Center.
Tickets start from inexpensive spots in the upper tiers, and go up to premium positions near the stage, allowing you to arrange attendance based on your best accommodation.
For families, this is an excellent opportunity to expose children to the wonder of live performance, but be sure to buy tickets early — this show goes fast.
But making it even more unique are the costumes, the music, and the feel of Lincoln Center beyond the ballet.
If possible, arrive early to soak in the gorgeous holiday decorations surrounding Lincoln Center before the performance.
26. Holiday Shops at Brookfield Place
Brookfield Place in Battery Park City is where to go if you want a more relaxed, upscale holiday shopping experience.
This shopping center has luxury brands and boutiques, and its holiday decoration is upscale and refined.
Since it’s a bit off the beaten path from other holiday markets, Brookfield Place is usually less crowded, which is perfect if you’re hoping for a more peaceful shopping experience.
Once you’ve walked through the shops, there are plenty of great places to eat and warm up with a drink nearby, such as Le District, a French-inspired marketplace.
Whether you’d prefer to hunt for high-end gifts or just bask in the sparkly atmosphere, Brookfield Place is more subdued in feeling when it comes to the holidays.
27. Take a Self-Guided Tour of the Plaza Hotel’s Christmas Decorations
The Plaza Hotel is always dripping with luxury, but it really comes alive at holiday time.
You need not be a guest to appreciate the hotel’s decorations — simply stroll through the main halls and admire the extravagant holiday trees, wreaths and lights.
The Plaza has the best spots—fancier than kneeling on the tree-lined Avenue of the Americas—for that perfect holiday Instagram.”
The lobby and Palm Court are exquisitely decorated, but the hotel’s interior courtyard is the true gem and feels like a hidden oasis in the city’s core.
For added indulgence, visit The Plaza Food Hall for a holiday nibble or a warming cup of coffee before reentering the city.
28. Attend a Christmas Eve Midnight Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Going to Christmas Eve Midnight Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral is once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience, and if you find yourself in NYC over the holidays, it’s definitely something worth planning for.
To get a seat, you’ll have to be there a few hours early — the cathedral fills very quickly, and the line to enter can be long.
The service itself is stunning, with candlelight, music and the glorious setting of St. Patrick’s soaring Gothic architecture.
Even if you’re not at all religious, the Midnight Mass is a special opportunity to witness the reverence and solemnity of Christmas Eve in one of the world’s most recognizable cathedrals.
29. Go to a New York Philharmonic holiday concert
If you are hoping to work in some high culture this holiday season, spending an evening at a holiday concert by the New York Philharmonic should be on your to-do list.
The Philharmonic’s holiday concerts generally feature classical seasonal fare alongside more modern selections, creating a festive and memorable evening.
Tickets can get expensive, but if you get your tickets early enough they tend to have options for all budgets.
This is a black-tie event, so expect to dress up and have it be a nice night out. The beauty of the Philharmonic Hall and the phenomenal music I know is well worth the price of admission.
30. A Holiday Brunch at Tavern on the Green
One of NYC’s most iconic restaurants, Tavern on the Green is truly a magical place to have a festive brunch during the holidays.
The restaurant is adorned with lights, garlands and holiday décor, creating an atmosphere that’s like stepping into a winter wonderland.
Their holiday menu includes seasonal favorites, and brunch here is an ideal way to escape the holiday hustle and have some quality time with friends or family.
Be sure to reserve your table in advance — Tavern on the Green is extremely popular, particularly during the holidays.
And if you’re very lucky, you can even peek Central Park snow-globe-covered as you eat.
31. Wonder at the New York Stock Exchange Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree at the New York Stock Exchange is one of the city’s most underrated seasonal attractions, housed in the Financial District.
This tree might not steal the same headlines as Rockefeller Center’s tree, but it’s just as gorgeous.
32. Stroll the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for Skyline Views
Brooklyn Heights Promenade For a festive holiday stroll through a peaceful area, head over to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline all decked out for the Christmas season.
It’s a quieter activity, ideal for those looking to escape the bustle of Midtown and have a more subdued holiday moment.
The ideal time to go is late afternoon, when you can watch the sunset over Manhattan and see the city’s lights flicker on as darkness falls.
After your walk, recover with hot chocolate at one of the nearby cafés in Brooklyn Heights.
33. Oculus Holiday Market
The Oculus at the World Trade Center is an architectural showpiece, and for the holidays, it’s turned into a modern, sleek holiday market.
The vendors here sell unique, handmade gifts — a good option if you’re seeking something different than the more traditional holiday markets around the city.
It is a newer market, the crowds tend to be smaller, so it is a really nice place to do holiday shopping in a relaxed manner.”
Spend a few moments appreciating the architecture of the Oculus itself — its airy, futuristic design is a beautiful counterpoint to the festive market underneath.
34. Uncover Secret Christmas Treasures in the West Village
The West Village has quaint, quiet streets, and during the holidays, it’s the place to find hidden Christmas treasures.
You will find beautifully decorated brownstones, secret Christmas trees and cozy cafés on a self-guided walking tour through the Village.
This part of town is so much quieter than the more touristy areas of the city, so you can wander in peace during your holiday stroll.
Pop into one of the many cozy restaurants or coffee shops in the West Village to warm up and enjoy a festive treat as you stroll.
35. The Luminaries: Brookfield Place, 230 Vesey St.
One of NYC’s most unique and often forgotten holiday experiences is the Luminaries at Brookfield Place.
This interactive light display, which is staged underneath a towering glass atrium, boasts hundreds of color-changing lanterns that illuminate to the sounds of holiday music.
The display is particularly magical at night, when the lights glow beautifully beneath a winter sky.
Adding an even more special twist on Luminaries this year is the interactive portion — offerings can be sent through data at a kiosk that gets a bunch of bright lights moving.
Then after gawking at the lights, wash it down with a hot drink, courtesy of one of the nearby cafes or take a stroll through Brookfield Place’s quieter, more upscale stores for a low-key holiday night.
35 EPIC Christmas Things to Do In NYC, Conclusion
If you are looking to make Christmas special, New York City definitely becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season with iconic sights, festive activities and hidden gems among the best places in the world to experience Christmas.
Whether you’re ice skating at Rockefeller Center, shopping at a holiday market or taking a quiet stroll through Central Park, there’s never a shortage of epic things to do.
I hope this guide helps you plan a holiday itinerary and includes the magic and charm that NYC has to offer at Christmas.
