Are you dreaming of taking a trip to New York during the Christmas season? You’re not alone! December is such a romantic time to be in New York City, and we could not recommend a Christmas-themed trip to NYC enough. Here are a few specific ideas that will really put you in the holiday spirit during your New York Christmas trip.
This post is all about 11 Fun Ideas for New York Christmas Travel. After this, make sure to check out our Ultimate Christmas Bucket List 2024 for more Christmas Inspiration.
1. Ice Skate at Bryant Park Winter Village
You can’t leave NYC without going ice skating! There are multiple options (most famously at Rockefeller Center) but the most aesthetic and most fun is at Bryant Park. And, it’s much cheaper than Rockefeller Center!
2. Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
Especially if you’re traveling with kids, this is a must do! The Rockettes are a national treasure, and this Christmas classic will make you feel like a kid again.
3. Shop at Macy’s Department Store
The world famous Macy’s department store and its Santa’s village ire a must. Do a little Christmas shopping at this iconic flagship location and soak in all the phenomenal Christmas decorations.
4. Enjoy the Barney’s Window Displays
Another department store must-do! The window displays here, particularly at Christmas, are elaborate, fanciful, and full of color. Grab a hot coffee or hot chocolate, and spend a few moments gazing at the window displays, taking in their details.
5. Visit the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center
If you’re going to New York during the Christmas season, you can’t skip the most famous Christmas tree in the world!
6. Enjoy a Neighborhood Christmas Market
Explore a neighborhood that maybe you’ve never visited before. Buy a glass of mulled wine, wander the stalls, and buy some handcrafted souvenirs and gifts for your friends back home. They’ll be thrilled to receive a unique gift and to know you thought of them!
7. Enjoy a Christmas-themed Bar
To be honest, NYC Christmas Bars are often overpriced … but provide such a joyful experience that they’re worth at least a stop and sip! There are dozens of these bars around the city, but the most classic is Rolf’s Restaurant. Rolf’s features more ornaments, trees, and garlands than I knew existed, and it’s a great location to get a Christmas themed cocktail before you step back out and brave the cold.
8. Stroll through Central Park in the Snow
Bundle up, pull on your winter boots, and get out there! Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park, and soak in some of the best sights in the whole city, surrounded by snow.
9. Christmas Choir Music at St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Choir music is the ultimate sound of Christmas. Finding a Christmas Carole concert in NYC is a must. You could do this at any number of churches (St. Patrick’s Cathedral, for example, has a Cathedral Concert series with Christmas concerts) or other music venues.
10. Christmas Lights in NYC
There are a few fun options for seeing Christmas lights in NYC. You can check out many of the city parks – like Bryant Park Winter Village – or squares – like Lincoln Center – or you could explore specific neighborhoods. The most famous neighborhood lights are found in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.
Another option is to find a dedicated light show, such as the Brooklyn Botanic Garden Lightscape or the Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights Celebration.
11. Sample Christmas Cookies
The best thing about NYC is the diversity of food and culture. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, you need to enjoy Christmas cookies and treats from all around the city. You can do this on your own by doing a bit of research, or you can sign up for cookie crawls, walking food tours, or other guided seasonal food adventures.
We hope you enjoyed this post all about 11 Fun Ideas for New York Christmas Travel! Now, make sure to check out our Ultimate Christmas Bucket List for more Christmas inspiration.
