English
English
- Broadway
- Edge NYC
- Empire State Building
- SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
- Statue of Liberty
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- One World Observatory
- American Museum of Natural History
- Top of the Rock
- Intrepid Museum
- Guggenheim Museum
- Rockefeller Center
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Whitney Museum
- New York Aquarium
- Central Park Zoo
- Bronx Zoo
- New York Historical Society
- St. Patrick's Cathedral
Holidays in New York | Tickets & Tours
New York Botanical Garden with timed entry tickets, featuring "Orchid Nights"exhibit
- Discover the iconic 250-acre New York Botanical Garden, home to stunning landscapes, rare plants, and world-class exhibitions.
- Explore Orchid Nights from Feb 17–Apr 21, showcasing vibrant floral sculptures, live music, and curated food in an enchanting setting.
- Visit the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a masterpiece of glass and steel, housing exotic plants and breathtaking seasonal displays.
- Enjoy a narrated tram tour, offering fascinating insights into the garden’s history, highlights, and seasonal attractions.
New York Botanical Garden with timed entry tickets, featuring "Orchid Nights"exhibit
- Discover the iconic 250-acre New York Botanical Garden, home to stunning landscapes, rare plants, and world-class exhibitions.
- Explore Orchid Nights from Feb 17–Apr 21, showcasing vibrant floral sculptures, live music, and curated food in an enchanting setting.
- Visit the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a masterpiece of glass and steel, housing exotic plants and breathtaking seasonal displays.
- Enjoy a narrated tram tour, offering fascinating insights into the garden’s history, highlights, and seasonal attractions.
Inclusions
- Entry to the garden
- The Orchid Show (Feb 17–Apr 21)
- Access to all exhibits including Enid A. Haupt Conservatory
- Narrated Tram Tour
Exclusions
- Parking
- Food or drink
- Carry your ID with you to the botanical garden.
- Most of the garden consists of outdoor spaces so dress according to weather conditions.
- Expect extensive walking. Wear comfortable walking or sports shoes.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
Timeline
Map
Passes by
High Line
One World Observatory
Empire State Building
Ellis Island
Statue of Liberty
South Street Seaport
Brooklyn Bridge
Manhattan Bridge
DUMBO
Chrysler Building
Williamsburg Bridge
12
END POINT
83 North River Piers
- Experience holiday magic on a Santa-approved Sightseeing Cruise from November 29 to January 5, as Circle Line transforms into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, garlands, and seasonal drinks for the whole family.
- Capture stunning holiday views of NYC landmarks, including a photo stop at the Statue of Liberty, all from the comfort of cozy, decorated cabins on this 2-hour guided tour.
- A live guide will share interesting stories as you sail past significant landmarks, and you can use multilingual audio guides in 9 languages through a free downloadable app.
- Customize a festive keepsake at the Santa Hat Station, and indulge in themed signature cocktails like the Kick Line and Rockette-tini, inspired by NYC’s beloved Rockettes.
- Experience holiday magic on a Santa-approved Sightseeing Cruise from November 29 to January 5, as Circle Line transforms into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, garlands, and seasonal drinks for the whole family.
- Capture stunning holiday views of NYC landmarks, including a photo stop at the Statue of Liberty, all from the comfort of cozy, decorated cabins on this 2-hour guided tour.
- A live guide will share interesting stories as you sail past significant landmarks, and you can use multilingual audio guides in 9 languages through a free downloadable app.
- Customize a festive keepsake at the Santa Hat Station, and indulge in themed signature cocktails like the Kick Line and Rockette-tini, inspired by NYC’s beloved Rockettes.
Inclusions
- 2-hr harbor lights cruise
- English-speaking live guide
- Audio commentary in Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Mandarin, Japanese, and Korean
- Onboard Wi-Fi
- Book early for Opening Day (11/29) or Christmas Eve (12/24) to receive a FREE collectible Circle Line Ornament (while supplies last).
- Tip: Arrive early to secure a good seat on the boat’s upper deck for the best photo opportunities.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Enjoy 360-degree views of NYC’s skyline from the 86th-floor observatory, perfect for first-time visitors, families, and NYC lovers.
- Admire the Art Deco design of the restored lobby, a 1930s architectural masterpiece that showcases timeless elegance.
- Spot landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty from this iconic observation deck.
- Explore exhibits on the Empire State Building's history, construction, and pop culture appearances—a treat for movie buffs.
- Love the high and want some more? Upgrade your tickets to include access to the 102nd-floor observatory deck.
- Enjoy 360-degree views of NYC’s skyline from the 86th-floor observatory, perfect for first-time visitors, families, and NYC lovers.
- Admire the Art Deco design of the restored lobby, a 1930s architectural masterpiece that showcases timeless elegance.
- Spot landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty from this iconic observation deck.
- Explore exhibits on the Empire State Building's history, construction, and pop culture appearances—a treat for movie buffs.
- Love the high and want some more? Upgrade your tickets to include access to the 102nd-floor observatory deck.
Inclusions
- Access to the outdoor viewing deck on the 86th floor
- High-power binoculars
- Art Deco lobby access
- Free Wi-Fi
- 15% discount at the Harry Potter Shop, New York (till February 28)
- Indoor viewing deck on the 102nd floor with fewer crowds (based on option selected)
- Tip: Catch a movie-worthy sunset by checking the sunset time in advance and reaching the observation deck at least 30 minutes ahead.
- Tip: Drop by the Empire State Building 2 hours after opening to beat the rush and enjoy a hassle-free visit!
- The building is wheelchair-accessible.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Visit the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere and skip ticket lines.
- Choose your visit time and avoid last-minute stress. This ticket grants you access to a sky-high adventure at Edge NYC at your selected time.
- Head to Edge's sky deck on the 100th floor and enjoy the immersive multimedia experience about the history of Hudson Yards before stepping onto the thrilling glass floor.
- Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City, including iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
- Why wait? Upgrade to the Flex Pass for access anytime, ideal during busy hours, or go for the Express pass to skip all lines. More time marveling, less time waiting.
Visit the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere and skip ticket lines.
- Choose your visit time and avoid last-minute stress. This ticket grants you access to a sky-high adventure at Edge NYC at your selected time.
- Head to Edge's sky deck on the 100th floor and enjoy the immersive multimedia experience about the history of Hudson Yards before stepping onto the thrilling glass floor.
- Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City, including iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
- Why wait? Upgrade to the Flex Pass for access anytime, ideal during busy hours, or go for the Express pass to skip all lines. More time marveling, less time waiting.
Inclusions
- Timed entry to Edge Observation Deck
Access to:
- Indoor observation deck on Level 100
- Outdoor sky deck with angled walls
- Glass Floor, Skyline Steps, and Eastern Point
- Bonus digital souvenir
- 15% discount at the Harry Potter Shop, New York (till February 28)
- Flexible entry (optional)
- Priority access (optional)
- Tip: Head to the top of the skyline steps for the best photo opportunities.
- Prohibited items: Large bags are luggage
- Mobility: Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals are also permitted at Edge.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult during their visit.
- It's advised to dress according to the weather conditions.
- The last elevator ride is 50 minutes before closing.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Get ready to amp up your NYC adventure! Witness the city from the top of the Rockefeller Center, steeped in history since the 1930s.
- Explore the 3 floors of observation decks, including the open-air one on the 70th floor (850 ft), for unbeatable views of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and Lady Liberty.
- Upgrade to the VIP Pass for a guided Top of the Rock tour with expedited entry and security for a seamless experience.
- Enjoy breathtaking views from the Skylift's revolving, open-air glass platform three stories above the 70th floor, and recreate an iconic NYC moment on The Beam, 69 stories up!
- To top all that the Pass also lets you celebrate in style with a complimentary champagne toast at the Weather Room (21+) and enjoy 20% off at the Gift Shop!
- Get ready to amp up your NYC adventure! Witness the city from the top of the Rockefeller Center, steeped in history since the 1930s.
- Explore the 3 floors of observation decks, including the open-air one on the 70th floor (850 ft), for unbeatable views of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and Lady Liberty.
- Upgrade to the VIP Pass for a guided Top of the Rock tour with expedited entry and security for a seamless experience.
- Enjoy breathtaking views from the Skylift's revolving, open-air glass platform three stories above the 70th floor, and recreate an iconic NYC moment on The Beam, 69 stories up!
- To top all that the Pass also lets you celebrate in style with a complimentary champagne toast at the Weather Room (21+) and enjoy 20% off at the Gift Shop!
Inclusions
- Timed entry to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck
- Access to the 67th, 69th, & 70th floors
- VIP Pass (as per option selected)
- Tip: One of the best times to visit Top of the Rock is during the sunset when you can witness the city skyline illuminated by golden hues.
- This venue is wheelchair accessible.
- Printed transcripts and audio headsets are provided to guests.
- Service dogs are allowed in the venue.
- Guests must be 52 inches (~132 cm) or taller to ride alone. If under 52 inches, guests must be a minimum of 42 inches (~107 cm) and be accompanied by an adult.
- The maximum weight limit is 300 lbs. (~136 kg).
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo: The Museum of Broadway + Edge Observation Deck Timed Entry Tickets
from
$73.89
- Two epic experiences, one easy booking! Dive into the glitz and glam of the Museum of Broadway and visit the Edge Observation Deck for stellar skyline views.
- Just a 5-minute drive apart, the Museum of Broadway and Edge Observation Deck combo tickets offer both convenience and savings.
- Take your time! Most visitors do both in one day, but you can select different dates for both with this combo if preferred.
- Take a sneak peek behind the curtain into the making of a Broadway show. See costumes, set recreations, and rare memorabilia from shows like The Phantom of the Opera, Hamilton, and The Lion King.
- Take in a jaw-dropping view of the entire borough of Manhattan and its breathtaking skyline from 1,100 feet up in the air at Edge Observation Deck.
- Two epic experiences, one easy booking! Dive into the glitz and glam of the Museum of Broadway and visit the Edge Observation Deck for stellar skyline views.
- Just a 5-minute drive apart, the Museum of Broadway and Edge Observation Deck combo tickets offer both convenience and savings.
- Take your time! Most visitors do both in one day, but you can select different dates for both with this combo if preferred.
- Take a sneak peek behind the curtain into the making of a Broadway show. See costumes, set recreations, and rare memorabilia from shows like The Phantom of the Opera, Hamilton, and The Lion King.
- Take in a jaw-dropping view of the entire borough of Manhattan and its breathtaking skyline from 1,100 feet up in the air at Edge Observation Deck.
Inclusions
Museum of Broadway
- Entry to the Museum of Broadway
Edge Observation Deck
- Entry to Edge Observatory Deck at the time slot selected
- Access to:
- Bonus digital souvenir
Museum of Broadway
- Tip: Check out the museum store for unique Broadway-themed souvenirs, perfect for theater lovers.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
- Guests aged 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult who is 18 years or older.
Edge Observation Deck
- Tip: Head to the top of the skyline steps for the best photo opportunities.
- Prohibited items: Large bags are luggage
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
- Service animals are also permitted at Edge.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult during their visit.
- It's advised to dress according to the weather conditions.
- The last elevator ride starts 50 minutes before closing time.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Combo: The Museum of Broadway Tickets + Empire State Building Tickets
from
$80.11
- Experience two must-see New York attractions with one ticket – the Museum of Broadway and the Empire State Building. Located in Midtown Manhattan, both spots are just minutes apart.
- You can do both in one day or visit on different days – your choice. Buy the combo ticket to save on individual admission tickets.
- At the Museum of Broadway, walk through the history of theaters. Check out original costumes, set pieces, and items from hit shows like Hamilton, The Lion King, and Phantom of the Opera.
- The Empire State Building takes you up 1,050 feet to see New York from above. From the observation deck, you'll see Central Park, the Hudson River, and the city's famous skyline.
- Experience two must-see New York attractions with one ticket – the Museum of Broadway and the Empire State Building. Located in Midtown Manhattan, both spots are just minutes apart.
- You can do both in one day or visit on different days – your choice. Buy the combo ticket to save on individual admission tickets.
- At the Museum of Broadway, walk through the history of theaters. Check out original costumes, set pieces, and items from hit shows like Hamilton, The Lion King, and Phantom of the Opera.
- The Empire State Building takes you up 1,050 feet to see New York from above. From the observation deck, you'll see Central Park, the Hudson River, and the city's famous skyline.
Inclusions
Museum of Broadway
- Entry to the Museum of Broadway
Empire State Building
- Entry to the Empire State Building
- Classic open-air views of NYC
- Outdoor viewing deck on the 86th floor
- High-power binoculars
- Art Deco lobby access
- Free Wi-Fi
Museum of Broadway
- Tip: Check out the museum store for unique Broadway-themed souvenirs, perfect for theater lovers.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
- Guests aged 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult who is 18 years or older.
Empire State Building
Tip: Plan ahead by checking sunset timings and arrive at the observation deck at least 30 minutes early for a picture-perfect sunset view.
- The building is wheelchair-accessible.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
New York Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: Combo Deals
from $85.50
$81.22
5% off
Save big with this 4-choice combo – Enjoy bus rides + entry to your NYC attraction picks.
- Build your own budget-friendly NYC itinerary – enjoy a Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour and pick one of four top sights to explore at your own pace.
- Ride along one or two routes across New York on this 1-day hop-on hop-off bus tour covering over 20 landmarks with a multilingual audio guide.
- For your second pick, choose the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island combo with entry tickets, a round-trip ferry, and a 12-language audio guide.
- With the 90-minute New York City sightseeing cruise as your third pick, you’ll see iconic landmarks and enjoy English commentary from an onboard guide.
- The view from the Empire State Building can be your fourth pick. Take in the city’s marvelous skyline with high-power binoculars from the 86th floor.
- Picking SUMMIT Experience as your fifth choice? Prepare for a unique, immersive art experience that truly engages your senses.
Save big with this 4-choice combo – Enjoy bus rides + entry to your NYC attraction picks.
- Build your own budget-friendly NYC itinerary – enjoy a Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour and pick one of four top sights to explore at your own pace.
- Ride along one or two routes across New York on this 1-day hop-on hop-off bus tour covering over 20 landmarks with a multilingual audio guide.
- For your second pick, choose the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island combo with entry tickets, a round-trip ferry, and a 12-language audio guide.
- With the 90-minute New York City sightseeing cruise as your third pick, you’ll see iconic landmarks and enjoy English commentary from an onboard guide.
- The view from the Empire State Building can be your fourth pick. Take in the city’s marvelous skyline with high-power binoculars from the 86th floor.
- Picking SUMMIT Experience as your fifth choice? Prepare for a unique, immersive art experience that truly engages your senses.
Inclusions
New York HOHO
- 1 or 2-day unlimited hop-on hop-off pass
- Access to Downtown & Uptown routes (based on option selected)
- Bike rental offer: buy 1 hour, get 2 hours free (based on option selected)
- Free Butterbeer ice cream at the Harry Potter Store (based on option selected)
- VOX self-guided walking tour (based on option selected)
- Audio guide in English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese & Italian
- Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
- Round-trip ferry transfers from Castle Clinton National Monument, Battery Park
- Priority entry at the Screening Facility Queue for the ferry
- Self-guided audio tour of Liberty Island & Ellis Island in English, French, German, Hindi, Arabic, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.
- Access to Liberty Island, Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty Museum, National Immigration Museum at Ellis Island
New York City Sightseeing Cruise
- 90-minute sightseeing cruise
- 10-minute photo opportunity at the Statue of Liberty
- Onboard English-speaking guide
- Onboard photographer
- Snack bar & onboard activities
Empire State Building
- Access to the outdoor viewing deck on the 86th floor
- Access to Art Deco lobby
- High-power binoculars
- Free Wi-Fi
SUMMIT Experience
- Entry to SUMMIT Experience
- Access to all 3 floors and immersive experiences
- Access to Apres eatery & cafe
Exclusions
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
- Access to Ellis Island's Hard Hat Tour
- Access to the State of Liberty Pedestal & Crown
SUMMIT Experience
- Ascent glass elevators (available for purchase on-site)
New York HOHO
Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points.
You can join the tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.
Downtown Route (Red Route)
First bus: 9am from stop #1 (M&M’s World)
Last bus: 5pm from stop #1 (M&M’s World)
Frequency: Every 15 mins
Popular Stops: Brooklyn Bridge, SoHo, Empire State Building & World Trade Center
Uptown Route (Blue Route)
First bus: 10am from stop #14 (Hope Sculpture)
Last bus: 4pm from stop #14 (Hope Sculpture)
Frequency: Every 30 mins
Popular Stops: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Central Park Zoo, Columbus Circle
New York HOHO
- The buses are wheelchair accessible.
- Choose safety and comfort: Visitors with mobility impairments may not be able to access the upper decks.
- Specific details related to the add-ons in your tickets like walking tours and bike rental offers will be shared in the ticket post-booking.
New York City Sightseeing Cruise
- Keep in mind food & beverages are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
Empire State Building
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
SUMMIT Experience
- Keep in mind luggage is not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
New YorkHoliday in New York
Top things to do in New York
%20card%20image.jpg?auto=format&w=360&h=480.59999999999997&q=90&fit=crop&crop=faces)
Top things to do during Christmas in New York
1. Watch the Rockettes in action
Watching the Rockettes perform at Radio City Hall during the Christmas Spectacular has become something of a tradition for New Yorkers. More than 140 performers take the stage annually and come together for a breathtaking performance, so it's a must to add it to your Christmas in NYC itinerary!
Watch the best holiday shows:
Recommended tickets:
- Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
2. Enjoy the glittering Christmas lights
What’s a Christmas without walking in the midst of exquisitely lit-up streets and inflatable Santas and reindeer? The extravagant Christmas lights have gained worldwide popularity, so if you find yourself celebrating Christmas in New York, you simply can’t miss out on these glitzy displays.
Catch the city's finest light displays at:
- Big Bus: New York Holiday Lights Bus Tour
- Dyker Heights Christmas Lights | Find on Maps
- Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show | Find on Maps
- Amaze Light Festival | Find on Maps
Recommended tickets:
- Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
- Big Bus: New York Holiday Lights Bus Tour
3. Stop by the Winter Wonderlands
Not quite feeling the holiday spirit yet? Head to one of these winter wonderlands in New York to experience the joy of the holidays in NYC to the fullest with performances, cocktails, festive grub, and so much more!
The finest winter wonderlands in New York are at:
- New York Botanical Garden
- Bronx Zoo
- The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland | Find on Maps
- Bayville | Find on Maps
Recommended tickets:
- New York Botanical Garden Tickets
- Bronx Zoo Tickets
4. Be amazed at the city's Christmas trees
New York takes immense pride in the magnitude of their world-famous Christmas trees, and it is easy to see why. These giant evergreens are lit up beautifully for Christmas every year, making them a popular spot for tourists and New Yorkers to gather at.
The most majestic Christmas trees in NYC are at:
- Rockefeller Center
- The Museum of Modern Art
- Lincoln Center | Find on Maps
- Washington Square Park | Find on Maps
Recommended tickets:
- Rockefeller Center Guided Tour
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Tickets
5. Take a dinner cruise
Celebrate Christmas in style with a dinner cruise, where you’ll enjoy gourmet dining against the backdrop of New York's stunning skyline. These winter-themed cruises are decked out with festive holiday decor and offer up-close views of iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Empire State Building, all illuminated for the season. Enjoy a memorable evening with two to three hours of dining, live entertainment, and incredible city views.
Recommended tickets:
- New York City Luxury Dinner Harbor Cruise
- New York City Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise
- Circle Line: Harbor Lights Cruise
6. Take in panoramic views of the busting city
Soak in the pretty Christmas lights from a height atop an observation deck in the city. New York has quite a few top-notch observation decks, with stunning views of the city and a host of immersive exhibits. During Christmas, many of these decks will provide Christmas-themed photo-ops to help capture your magical experience.
Observation decks to visit during Christmas:
Recommended tickets:
- Empire State Building: General Admission Tickets
- Top of the Rock Observation Deck Tickets
- Edge Observation Deck Tickets: Timed Entry
- SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Tickets
7. Make your way to popular attractions
It’s tempting to go off the beaten path and explore unique experiences during Christmas in NYC, but don’t miss out on the glory of the popular ones! The advent of Christmas has these landmarks shining in a whole new festive light all through December, and you can’t miss out on these sights!
Experience NYC's most popular attractions at:
Recommended tickets:
- Empire State Building: General Admission Tickets
- Rockefeller Center Guided Tour
- Official St. Patrick's Cathedral Tour
8. Participate in NYC's holiday traditions
New Yorkers love their everyday customs, and Christmastime is no exception to this fact. By partaking in age-old traditions that New Yorkers cannot envision Christmas without, you can really soak up the abundant and unique festive cheer of the city. After all, when in Rome!
Some of New York's age-old Christmas traditions are:
- Heading to Central Park
- Watching the Rockefeller Center tree lighting ceremony
- Watching the Holiday Train show at the New York Botanical Garden
- Sipping on festive cocktails at the Miracle pop-up bar
9. Curl, skate, and sled
New York tends to get incredibly chilly around Christmas, which is why almost all of the city’s residents head to their nearest snow-covered location to participate in some icy fun to keep themselves warm. There are multiple spots in the city where you can partake in activities like curling, sledding, ice skating - you name it!
Best spots for some icy fun are at:
- Bryant Park | Find on Maps
- Wollman Rink | Find on Maps
- Rockefeller Center Ice Rink
- M Social Hotel | Find on Maps
10. Partake in retail therapy at Christmas Markets
The holiday markets in New York City are bound to get you in the Christmas spirit like nothing else. Expect to see hundreds of stalls, all selling unique Yuletide goodies. You can find everything at these festive markets - from artisanal delicacies, vintage bits and bobs, and crafts to Christmas ornaments.
Shop at the exciting holiday markets located at:
- Winter Village | Find on Maps
- Union Square Holiday Market | Find on Maps
- Grand Holiday Bazaar | Find on Maps
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market | Find on Maps
11. Gaze in awe at window displays
Most department stores in New York will put up a (usually themed) window display depicting the joys of Christmastime, and these displays are absolutely delightful. All throughout the month of December, most NYC dwellers make their way to these stores just to catch a glimpse of these gorgeous and thoughtful displays.
New York's most spectacular Christmas window displays:
- Cartier | Find on Maps
- Bergdorf Goodman | Find on Maps
- Bloomingdale’s | Find on Maps
- Saks Fifth Avenue | Find on Maps
12. Head to Macy's
Heading to Macy’s during Thanksgiving and Christmas is another one of those traditions that makes you feel like a real New Yorker. With impressive window displays, a wholesome and inclusive visit with Santa, and holiday gift shops galore, there’s no wonder Macy’s gets as busy as it does during Christmas.
Start your shopping spree here
13. Have a meet-and-greet with Santa
An indispensable (and perhaps the most-awaited) part of the Christmas season is the man himself - Santa Claus. Meeting the iconic Father Christmas is bound to be an unforgettable experience for the young ones. And if you want to witness another whacky NYC tradition unfold, don’t forget to attend Santacon - a convention where every attendee dresses as Santa Claus.
All about Santacon
14. Listen to some live tunes
If singing along to some good old holiday music or immersing yourself in elegant, jazzy tunes for the evening is more your thing, then head to a Christmas show anytime during December in NYC. There’s truly nothing that is bound to get you in the festive spirit better than those nostalgic melodies.
Catch these musical masterpieces at:
- The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts | Find on Maps
- Elf: The Musical at Marquis Theater | Find on Maps
- The Notebook at Gerald Schoenfeld Theater | Find on Maps
- A Sherlock Carol at New World Stages | Find on Maps
15. Feast to your heart's content
Because after all, what’s a festive celebration without gorging on large amounts of delicious grub? Luckily, spending your Christmas in NYC opens you up to a variety of culinary options, ranging from tried-and-tested pop-up bars to luxury fine dining experiences.
Head to these restaurants for the best festive grub:
- One if by Land, Two if by Sea | Find on Maps
- Kimika | Find on Maps
- Rolo’s | Find on Maps
- Little Prince | Find on Maps
Your perfect Christmas itinerary
Day 1: Iconic landmarks and holiday highlights
Morning:
- Breakfast: Start your day with some warm waffles and coffee at Le Pain Quotidien or Central Park Boathouse, to fuel your festive NYC adventure.
- Central Park: Take a stroll through the park and stop by the Delacorte Clock to listen to its cheerful holiday tunes. If you’re feeling adventurous, go on a horse-drawn carriage ride while you’re there.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Savor a delightful meal at Café Sabarsky, known for its European-style menu and cozy holiday vibes.
- Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes: Watch this New York City Christmas staple that features more than 140 performers and a live orchestra.
Evening:
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: Make your way to the famous Rockefeller Center to admire the dazzling Christmas tree and holiday decorations.
- Dinner: End your day on a dinner cruise along the Hudson River to see the beautiful city lights from the water while indulging in a delicious meal.
Day 2: Christmas magic and gorgeous views
Morning:
- Breakfast: Pick up a bagel and coffee at Liberty Bagels 5th Ave and get ready for your Christmas morning stroll in one of the most famous NYC neighborhoods.
- Fifth Avenue: Walk along Fifth Avenue and see the impressive Christmas window displays in stores like Bloomingdale’s and Cartier.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: From bao buns to tacos, take a pick of your favorite delicacies at Vanderbilt Market - Bars & Eateries.
- Observation Deck Visit: After lunch, head to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt for a panoramic view of New York City dressed in holiday lights and if you’re lucky, even snow!
Evening:
- Dinner: Feast on classic American fare at Parker & Quinn with cheese burgers and margherita pizzas.
- Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: End your Christmas adventure with a guided tour of Dyker Heights, famous for its extravagant holiday displays.
Frequently asked questions about celebrating Christmas in New York
Is Christmas a good time to visit New York?
Absolutely! Christmas is one of the best times of the year to visit New York. In addition to the Big Apple’s already magical aura, you’re bound to find holiday-special things to do during Christmas in NYC at every corner you turn.
What are some things to do in NYC on Christmas eve?
You’re going to be spoilt for choices with how many things to do during Christmas in NYC there are. You can catch a holiday-special Broadway show, go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, or join carolers under the Washington Square Arch. For something special, join a Christmas Eve dinner cruise or catch the sunset at the Empire State Building.
What is the weather like at Christmas in New York?
Christmas in NYC is typically cold, around 30 to 40°F (-1 to 4°C). Pack a heavy coat, scarf, and gloves—especially if you plan to spend time at outdoor attractions like Rockefeller Center and Fifth Avenue lights.
Is New York crowded at Christmas?
Yes, the holiday season is one of the busiest times in New York, especially around popular sites like Rockefeller Center and Fifth Avenue. To experience the magic without the peak crowds, visit major attractions early in the morning or later in the evening.
What’s open in New York on Christmas?
What is the most popular Christmas market in New York?
The Bryant Park Winter Village is New York’s most popular Christmas market. From October to early January, this market offers holiday gifts, artisan crafts, delicious treats, and a free ice rink. Union Square and Columbus Circle also host great holiday markets, perfect for picking up unique gifts.
Are restaurants open on Christmas in New York?
Many popular restaurants like Red Rooster and Le Jardinier are open on Christmas day, and they even offer special festive menus for you to peruse!
What are the best places to stay in New York on Christmas?
New York’s hotels ace the festive décor game every year by decking themselves up with Christmassy décor. The best hotels in New York to really feel the Christmas spirit are the Ritz Carlton, Lotte New York Palace, The Plaza and Mandarin Oriental.
What should I eat in New York on Christmas?
With New York’s food being an amalgam of every culture imaginable, Christmas is no exception. Most people in New York prefer dining out on Christmas day, indulging in the Italian-American tradition of the Feast of Seven Fishes or eating Chinese food.
What are the best restaurants for Christmas in New York?
The best restaurants in New York for Christmas grub are Kimika, Rolo’s, Fogo de Chao, and COTE Korean Steakhouse.
Where can I see the Christmas lights in New York?
For unforgettable Christmas lights, head to Rockefeller Center, the Saks Fifth Avenue light show, and Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, where entire homes are decked out in extravagant displays. Washington Square Park and Central Park also feature charming seasonal lights, ideal for an evening stroll.
What are some Christmas traditions in New York?
New York is known for holiday traditions like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting, and elaborate window displays along Fifth Avenue. You can also enjoy ice skating at iconic rinks, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, and caroling at Washington Square Park.
When does Christmas in NYC start?
NYC starts celebrating early! Bryant Park Winter Village kicks off October 25, followed by Union Square and Columbus Circle markets in mid-November. Macy’s Christmas Windows light up on November 14, and the Rockefeller Tree lighting on December 4 signals the full start of the season.