Classic Christmassy Things To Do in New York City

There’s truly nothing like Christmas in New York City. The moment Thanksgiving passes, Manhattan transforms into a holiday wonderland that feels like you are living in a movie. 

Get ready for the sparkling lights of Fifth Avenue, the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, and the scent of roasted chestnuts in Central Park. Will this be your first time visiting the city? Or are you returning for a beloved holiday tradition? Either way, NYC in December has the magic and charm for an unforgettable trip.

If you’re planning a holiday getaway, here are some of the most classic Christmassy things to do in New York City.

Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

No trip to New York City during Christmas is complete without a stop at the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Towering above the plaza, this world-famous spruce sparkles with over 50,000 multicolored lights and a stunning Swarovski crystal star.

The annual tree lighting ceremony, held on December 3rd, officially kicks off the holiday season. Even after the ceremony, the tree glows daily through early January, making it one of the most photographed landmarks in NYC.

Pro tip: Visit early in the morning or late at night for fewer crowds and an even more magical view of the lights reflecting off nearby skyscrapers.

Go Ice Skating at Iconic NYC Rinks

Few experiences capture the spirit of Christmas in NYC like ice skating under the stars. Bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and enjoy ice skating in the city. The Rink at Rockefeller Center is a classic choice. Enjoy skating beneath the iconic tree and surrounded by twinkling lights.

New York offers several unforgettable skating spots:

Bryant Park Winter Village: Free admission if you bring your own skates, plus festive shops and food stalls.
Central Park’s Wollman Rink: A picturesque favorite, framed by snow-dusted trees and skyline views.
Brookfield Place Rink: Located along the Hudson River, this rink offers stunning waterfront scenery and fewer crowds.

Explore New York City’s Holiday Markets

NYC’s holiday markets bring cozy, European-style charm to the city’s bustling streets. Twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, and delicious seasonal treats make these markets a must for anyone celebrating Christmas in New York. Stroll the stalls and take in the scent of pine, cocoa, and roasted nuts.

Some favorites include:

Union Square Holiday Market: A maze of local artisans selling everything from hand-knit scarves to unique ornaments.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Perfectly located at the southwest corner of Central Park, this market pairs great views with gourmet snacks.
Bryant Park Winter Village: Over 100 vendors offer gifts, food, and festive drinks, and an ice skating rink.

Catch a Holiday Show or Performance

Holiday performances in NYC are a time-honored tradition. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the world-famous Rockettes, has been dazzling audiences since 1933. This festive show blends classic carols, precision dance numbers, and the kind of holiday magic only Radio City can deliver.

Prefer a touch of ballet? See George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center, performed by the New York City Ballet. Experience glittering costumes, toy soldiers, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.

For something different, check out A Christmas Carol off Broadway or a holiday concert at Carnegie Hall to round out your Christmas trip to New York City.

Admire NYC’s Holiday Window Displays

If you’re searching for free things to do in NYC at Christmas, start with the famous holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue. Every December, New York’s department stores transform their windows into dazzling winter scenes.

Macy’s Herald Square: A pioneer in holiday window displays, featuring whimsical, heartwarming themes.
Saks Fifth Avenue: Known for its nightly holiday light show that illuminates the entire building.
Bloomingdale’s & Bergdorf Goodman: These upscale stores feature imaginative, artful displays worthy of a museum.

See the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights in Brooklyn

If you think Manhattan shines bright, wait until you see Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. This residential neighborhood is famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations, glowing nutcrackers, giant Santas, and enough lights to be seen from space.

The tradition began in the 1980s and has grown into one of the most spectacular Christmas light displays in New York City. You can explore on your own or join a guided tour from Manhattan.

Make sure your camera phone has lots of storage space because every block bursts with color, cheer, and photo opportunities.

Take a Snowy Stroll Through Central Park

There’s nothing more peaceful than a snowy walk through Central Park at Christmas. The park’s bridges, statues, and frozen ponds create the perfect backdrop for a winter wonderland moment.

Walk along The Mall, cross the Bow Bridge, or cozy up in a horse-drawn carriage ride past the park’s twinkling lamps. Stop by Bethesda Terrace where musicians often play and sing carols.

Central Park is one of the best ways to slow down and experience the quieter side of New York during the holidays.

Savor Festive Food and Drinks

The holidays are the perfect time to indulge in delicious seasonal food and drink. From hot chocolate to cozy restaurants decked out in lights, the city’s food scene is as festive as it gets. Try these local favorites:

Serendipity 3: Home of the iconic Frozen Hot Chocolate.
Rolf’s German Restaurant: Famous for its incredible Christmas décor and traditional comfort food.
Bryant Park Grill: Enjoy a festive meal with views of the rink and winter market.
Street Vendors: Roasted chestnuts and pretzels make the perfect holiday snack between attractions.

Stay Near the Magic

When you’re exploring holiday attractions in New York City, location matters. The Hotel Beacon, located on the Upper West Side, offers a peaceful, residential escape while keeping you close to Central Park, Lincoln Center, and Midtown’s holiday landmarks.

While Midtown claims many of New York's most famous landmarks, the Upper West Side offers its own distinctive holiday character. The neighborhood's tree-lined streets take on extra charm when decorated for the season, with local shops and restaurants creating welcoming atmospheres that feel more intimate than their Midtown counterparts.

After a day of sightseeing and shopping, return to your spacious suite (complete with a kitchenette) and relax with a warm drink while watching the city lights twinkle below.

Ready to plan your Christmas trip to New York City?

Book your stay at Hotel Beacon and experience the timeless magic of the holidays in the heart of NYC.