Things To Do In New York At Christmas

New York City is one of the most iconic cities in the world. Founded in 1624, it is among the oldest cities in the United States and has grown to become one of the most populous cities in the world. From the iconic Statue of Liberty to Central Park, it’s a city that has something for everyone. At Christmas time, New York is even more magical as the city comes alive with holiday cheer. Here are some of the best things to do in New York at Christmas.

The Rockefeller Center Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic symbols of the holiday season in New York City. Every year, a giant tree is erected in the Rockefeller Center Plaza, where it remains lit until early January. The tree is often decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments, making it a stunning sight to behold. The tree lighting ceremony is held every year in mid-December, and it is an event that should not be missed.

Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center

What better way to experience the holiday season in New York City than to go ice skating at Rockefeller Center? The ice rink at Rockefeller Center is open from mid-October to mid-April, and it is the perfect place to watch the hustle and bustle of the city and to get into the holiday spirit. Plus, there’s nothing quite like taking a spin around the ice beneath the glowing Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.

Visit a Holiday Market

New York City is home to some of the world’s best holiday markets. From Union Square Holiday Market to Columbus Circle Holiday Market, there are plenty of places to find unique gifts and trinkets. Most of these markets feature local vendors selling handmade items, and they are a great way to support small businesses during the holiday season. Plus, these markets are always filled with delicious food and drinks, so you can make a day of it!

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is one of the most popular holiday events in New York City. This dazzling holiday show features the iconic Rockettes and Santa Clause himself! It’s a dazzling display of Christmas spirit that should not be missed.

Holiday Lights Tour

One of the best ways to experience the spirit of Christmas in New York City is to take a holiday lights tour. On this tour, you’ll get to see some of the most iconic sights in the city, illuminated by thousands of holiday lights. From Times Square to Rockefeller Center, this tour will take you through some of the most iconic holiday sights in New York City.

Visit Central Park

Central Park is an iconic sight in New York City all year round, but it’s especially stunning at Christmas time. During the holiday season, the park is decorated with festive lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that will have you feeling festive in no time. Plus, there are plenty of festive events and activities going on throughout Central Park during the holidays.

Visit Bryant Park

Bryant Park is another great place to experience the spirit of Christmas in New York City. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holidays with its ice skating rink, Christmas market, and festive light displays. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening during the holiday season.

See a Show

New York City is home to some of the world’s best theater, and there are plenty of holiday themed plays and musicals playing during the Christmas season. From “The Nutcracker” to “A Christmas Carol”, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great way to experience some classic theater while also getting into the spirit of Christmas.

Sample Some Holiday Treats

New York City is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, and during the holidays many restaurants offer special holiday menus or dishes. From eggnog lattes to gingerbread cookies, there are plenty of delicious treats to sample during your visit. Plus, many restaurants offer hot chocolate or apple cider for those cold winter evenings.

Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is an iconic sight in New York City all year round. During the holidays, it becomes even more stunning as it is decorated with festive lights and decorations. The cathedral hosts a variety of services and events during the holidays, and it’s a great place to experience some Christmas spirit.

Go Shopping

New York City is home to some of the world’s best shopping, and during the holidays there are plenty of places to find unique gifts and trinkets. From department stores like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s to luxury boutiques like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman, there are plenty of places to find one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones.

Take a Tour

What better way to experience the spirit of Christmas in New York City than by taking a guided tour? There are plenty of companies offering guided tours of New York City during the holidays, from bus tours to walking tours. These tours will take you through some of the city’s most iconic sights while also giving you an inside look into New York City during the holidays.

Experience Times Square On New Year’s Eve

If you’re planning on visiting New York City at Christmas time, then you should definitely make plans to stay until New Year’s Eve so you can experience Times Square on one of its most iconic nights. The streets are filled with people from all over the world who have come to witness the ball drop and celebrate with friends and family. It’s an experience that you won’t soon forget!

Popular Tours

The Best of NYC Lights Tour

The Best of NYC Lights Tour by GetYourGuide offers an unforgettable experience for those visiting New York City during the holidays. On this tour, you’ll get to explore some of Manhattan’s most iconic sights illuminated by thousands of holiday lights, from Times Square to Rockefeller Center. You’ll get up close and personal with some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks while also taking in some stunning views along the way. GetYourGuide offers this tour for two hours, so it’s perfect for visitors who are short on time but still want to experience all that this amazing city has to offer at Christmas time. Book your Best of NYC Lights tour here.

Christmas Lights Bus Tour

The Christmas Lights Bus Tour by Viator offers an unforgettable way to experience New York City’s famous holiday lights display—from the comfort of a double-decker bus! This two hour tour will take you through some of Manhattan’s most iconic sights while also taking in stunning views along the way. You’ll get up close and personal with some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks while also taking in some truly breathtaking views as you pass by them lit up with thousands of holiday lights. Viator offers this tour for two hours, so it’s perfect for visitors who are short on time but still want to experience all that this amazing city has to offer at Christmastime. Book your Christmas Lights Bus Tour here.

Central Park After Dark Tour

The Central Park After Dark Tour by GetYourGuide is perfect for those who want to experience Central Park during Christmastime without being surrounded by crowds. On this two hour tour, you’ll get up close and personal with some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks as you explore Central Park illuminated by thousands of twinkling holiday lights. You’ll get to take in some truly breathtaking views as you pass by them lit up with thousands of holiday lights. GetYourGuide offers this tour for two hours, so it’s perfect for visitors who are short on time but still want to experience all that this amazing park has to offer at Christmastime. Book your Central Park After Dark Tour here.

There are so many things to do in New York City during Christmastime that it can be hard to choose just one activity! Whether you’re looking for festive lights or unique gifts, there’s something for everyone in New York City during this special time of year. From ice skating at Rockefeller Center to watching a play or show at one of Broadway’s iconic theaters, there’s something for everyone at Christmastime in New York City!