Ten Unmissable Things to do in New York at Christmas

Nothing beats New York City at Christmas. I’ve been mega-lucky to have visited the city that never sleeps during the festive period a few times now. I truly loved every minute and found it so magical. As my favourite city in the world, there is an extra layer of magic at Christmas time. From the Rockefeller Tree to iconic ice rinks and, of course, the Rockettes, this is my list of the ten things you should not miss when you are visiting New York at Christmas.

Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree

I don’t think there is anything more iconic than the Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree. It’s got to be the number 1 sight to see in NYC over Christmas. Each year, a massive tree is drafted in and donated by a family, which the tree will be lit on the Wednesday after Thanksgiving. I was really lucky to be able to go to the tree lighting ceremony in 2022 – you can read all about it in this blog post, where I share my top tips for getting FREE tickets. We were standing right at the front, and it certainly was one to tick off the bucket list.

Not only is the tree mesmerising to look at, but there is also the Rockefeller ice skating rink. Whether you stop by during the day for photos or visit at night when the lights truly sparkle, it’s guaranteed to put you in the festive spirit. It is a super touristy spot, so it usually is absolute chaos around this area, but it’s so worth it.

Top Tip: A great time to view the Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree is when it is lit each morning at 5am.

Christmas Spectacular Starring The Radio City Rockettes

I’ve been to see The Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Hall twice now. Not only is it pretty iconic to visit Radio City Music Hall, but the Rockettes are phenomenal. This show has been a New York holiday tradition that’s been enchanting audiences for decades. The legendary Rockettes deliver an impeccably choreographed show filled with high kicks, festive music, and impressive stage effects. Even though I’ve seen it twice now, I’d certainly go back!

Top Tip: Both times we did find discounts when buying tickets on Tickermaster US, so make sure you have a look for discounts!

Bryant Park Winter Village

Located in the centre of Manhattan, Bryant Park Winter Village sits in the shadow of the New York Public Library, and I love it here. It’s a great Christmas market with some excellent food stalls and another Ice Rink. Along with festive treats, some of the stalls have some lovely souvenirs and items which would make beautiful Christmas presents. I really love Bryant Park Winter Village as you are just surrounded by the tall NYC skyscrapers – creating one of the prettiest skating backdrops in the city.

Top Tip: If you bring your own skates, you can ice skate for free! (Although I’m sure a lot of visitors won’t be carrying skates around! ha!)

See the Fifth Avenue Holiday Window Displays

You don’t have to tell me twice to go to Fifth Avenue for a spot of window shopping. It may be slightly chaotic no matter what time you visit but some of the window displays from stores such as Saks, Tiffany’s, Bergdorf’s, and Cartier are out of this world. You may have seen Cartier wrapped like a giant gift. Grab a hot chocolate from Ralph’s and wander around, and maybe even treat yourself too!

Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show

Another unmissable sight on Fifth Avenue is the Saks Light Show. Saks Fifth Avenue puts on a dazzling light show every evening throughout the festive season. The entire storefront on Fifth Avenue transforms into a massive LED display with shows running every 10 minutes, so it’s easy to catch one as you explore the area. It’s completely free, wonderfully over-the-top, and one of the most magical five minutes you can spend in Manhattan at Christmas.

The Rink at Wollman, Central Park

The Rink at Wollman is another iconic ice skating rink in the city. The Wollman rink is located in Central Park with the skyscrapers as a backdrop; it’s also such a romantic spot. Compared to Rockefeller Centre, it’s more spacious and often less chaotic, making it ideal for relaxed skating or simply soaking up the surroundings. Even if you don’t skate (like me), watching from the sidelines with a warm drink is just as lovely.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights in Brooklyn

This is something I need to do next time I’m in NYC at Christmas. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights is an area in Brooklyn where the residents go to town with decorating. Entire streets are transformed into a glowing wonderland, with houses covered in twinkling lights, inflatable Santas, animatronic displays, and themed front gardens. It’s extravagant, charming, and a genuine neighbourhood tradition. Visiting after dark is essential, and you can either wander freely or join a guided tour—either way, it’s one of the most joyful Christmas experiences in NYC.

Have a Home Alone Moment at The Plaza Hotel

If you’re a fan of the movie Home Alone, you need to visit The Plaza Hotel at Christmas. Whilst it’s quite expensive to stay here (you can fully book the Home Alone experience), you can still book a festive Afternoon Tea, grab a drink at the bar or take a look at the beautiful decorations in the lobby. It’s an incredible hotel, and I love that they embrace the Home Alone movie. You can find out more information on their Home Alone package here.

Christmas Shopping at Macy’s & Santaland

With Macy’s Herald Square being the biggest store in the world, it’s no surprise that they go all out at Christmas. I could spend hours in this Macy’s. The store transforms into a festive paradise, complete with beautifully decorated floors, themed gift displays, and its famous holiday windows. The magic continues with Santaland, Macy’s elaborate North Pole-inspired experience where children (and festive adults!) can meet Santa himself. I have visited Santaland myself (without a child), and it was so lovely! We requested tickets online and got to see the big man himself! It’s the ultimate Santa meet and greet!

Top Tip: Book as early as possible for Santaland so you don’t miss out! Reservations can be made 6 days in advance.

Hudson Yards Christmas Decorations

Finally, I wanted to add Hudson Yards Christmas Decorations as I loved them last time we visited. Hudson Yards has quickly become one of NYC’s most Instagrammable Christmas spots thanks to its stunning “Shine On” holiday display. The entire shopping complex glitters with thousands of warm golden lights, and it’s also home to The Edge. So if you’re heading up there, be sure to check out the incredible Christmas Decorations. Outside, The Vessel and the surrounding plaza are beautifully lit, creating the perfect backdrop for festive photos. It’s just a really lovely and festive area to wander around and also do a bit of shopping.

New York at Christmas is truly something special—every corner of the city seems to glow, every neighbourhood has its own festive flavour, and even the simplest moments feel magical. It’s no surprise that I’ve visited so many times at Christmas, as I truly believe it’s one of the world’s best Christmas destinations. With a festive trip to New York City, you’re guaranteed a trip filled with sparkle, joy, and unforgettable memories. If you have any questions about visiting New York at Christmas, do get in touch.

Have you ever been to New York City at Christmas? What is your unmissable festive sight in New York City?