chloedickensonLast Updated on 4th January 2026
This post about the best things to do in New York in December contains affiliate links.
Are you planning a festive trip to NYC and looking for the best things to do in New York in December? I’ve got you covered in my ultimate guide to planning a trip to NYC in December below!
Christmas in NYC is probably exactly as you imagine it to be; bright lights, gargantuan Christmas trees and decorations, and a festive atmosphere like nowhere else in the world.
From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the brilliant festive lights of Dyker Heights to the many ice skating opportunities in Central Park, the Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and more, I’ve got you covered when it comes to the best things to do in New York in December and over the festive period!
If you’re planning a trip to New York at Christmas in the coming years or you just want to know more about the best things to do in New York in December, I hope you find this post useful and that you have the most wonderful time in the best city in the world!
Planning a festive trip to NYC? Check out my Ultimate New York City Christmas Travel Guide to help you plan the perfect trip to New York and use the code XMAS20 to get 20% off! You can also join my FREE New York Facebook Group for even more tips, tricks and advice!
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Looking for more NYC Christmas content? Check out my ultimate New York in December itinerary, my guide to the best Christmas hotels in NYC, and how to spend Christmas Day in New York City!
Is it a good time to visit New York in December?
December is the best time to visit New York City in my opinion as it’s one of the most magical places in the world when the festive season descends on the city. However, while I do think that it’s the best time to visit in order to soak up all the festive magic, it is also the most expensive time to visit, so this is definitely something to bear in mind when planning a December trip to New York.
I’ve been super lucky to visit New York multiple times in every single season over the years and while I do adore the city in spring, summer, and autumn, there’s really nothing like New York at Christmas.
Mid-November to early January is the best time to visit NYC if you want to experience all the festive goodness and enjoy all the Christmas decorations in New York, but just remember that this will be the most expensive time for all hotels, attractions, restaurants and travel to and from the city.
Planning to visit New York in a different month? Check out my monthly NYC guides:
January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November
What date do the Christmas decorations and lights go up in New York in December 2026?
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree tree lighting ceremony will be held on the 2nd of December 2026. Most other holiday lights, decorations, and Christmas trees are usually up in the city just after Thanksgiving (end of November) into the beginning of December.
New York in December weather
Despite being the most festive month of the year and, indeed, the official start of the winter season, December in New York City isn’t actually the coldest month of the year!
Of course, it does still get very cold (I’m talking extreme minus temperatures such as -18°C like we experienced in December 2021), but officially, January is the coldest month in New York City.
Is it cold in New York at Christmas?
Temperatures in New York in December usually average between -1°C and 9°C, so, yes, it does get very cold at Christmas in New York and it’s definitely a good idea to be prepared for the extreme temperatures by packing accordingly!
Does it snow in New York in December?
If you’re hoping to experience snowfall during your December trip to New York City, then you’ll have more chance of snow towards the end of the month. There is a rapidly increasing chance of snow expected throughout the month of December, with an average of 39mm expected at the beginning of the month and 120mm expected towards the end of the month.
Snow in New York in December certainly isn’t guaranteed, but it is one of the best times to visit to increase your chances of experiencing the magic of New York City in a winter wonderland!
Best things to do in New York City in December
Now that we’ve established the expected weather conditions for New York, let’s crack on with what to do in New York in December to discover all the best sights and attractions during the festive season in NYC!
1. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
I’ll always start any conversation about Christmas in NYC with my absolute favourite place in the whole world; the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
This iconic New York landmark arrives in the city in November and the tree-lighting ceremony is held every year at the beginning of December. While attending the light switch-on of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree isn’t necessary (and is insanely crowded!), visiting Rockefeller Plaza and admiring this towering beast is one of the absolute best things to do in New York in December.
Adorned with over 50,000 LED lights and a giant star covered in 3 million Swarovski crystals, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will always be my favourite thing to see in NYC at Christmas and it’s something I seriously urge everyone to try and see at least once in their lives.
I remember the first time I ever saw the tree lit up at night in 2018 and I immediately got goosebumps and started to cry; you may think me dramatic, but I assure you there’s no sight like it!
Where to find it: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111.
What you need to know: The Rockefeller Christmas tree is free to visit. Try and head there early in the morning or as late into the evening as possible if you want to avoid the crowds, otherwise, good luck! The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will be lit on the 2nd December 2026!
2. Ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park
Another one of the best Christmas things to do in NYC for a truly magical time and an experience that will leave you feeling like you’ve walked (or skated!) straight into a Hallmark Christmas movie set is ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park.
The world-renowned Wollman Rink has been providing both visitors and locals plenty of festive fun since it opened in 1949. The rink is open between October and March each year (weather permitting) and is one of the most iconic skating rinks in New York City.
Where to find it: You can access Wollman Rink inside Central Park from many park entrances, the closest and easiest is on 59th Street and 5th or 6th Avenue.
Ticket prices for Wollman Rink range from $16 to $40 for adults and $11 for children aged 4-12. I’d recommend purchasing tickets on the Wollman Rink website in advance to guarantee your desired visiting day/time.
3. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights are an absolute must-visit if you’re visiting NYC in December, as they are truly one of the most magical and festive things to see in the city.
Visiting Dyker Heights Christmas Lights is completely free, although there are many tours that you can take if you don’t want to/don’t feel comfortable making your own way there and exploring on your own.
The Dyker Heights Holiday Lights Bus Tour is a great way to see the lights and it costs less than £50 per person and takes you to and from Manhattan on a 4-hour tour of the magical lights in Brooklyn.
Where to find it: The Dyker Heights Christmas lights can be found mainly between 11th and 13th Avenue and between 83rd to 86th street, although we saw extravagantly decorated houses as far down as 77th street!
What you need to know: If you’re travelling from Manhattan, you can take the subway to Dyker Heights via various routes, although you will need to change at various stops, or you can take a taxi, Uber, Lyft or even the bus. Of course, if you don’t want to make your way there (I would personally recommend doing this, however, as it means you get to explore much more of the area), you can always join a Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour.
4. Bryant Park Bank of America Winter Village
Bryant Park’s Bank of America Winter Village is one of the best places to visit in New York in December as it’s home to an epic 17,000 square foot ice skating rink, as well as dozens of festive market stalls selling everything from Christmas decorations to festive souvenirs to food and beverages.
Bryant Park’s ice rink is technically the only “free” ice skating rink in New York City, however, you do have to hire skates if you don’t have your own.
Where to find it: New York, NY 10018, between 5th and 6th Avenue and West 40th and 42nd Streets.
What you need to know: Ticket prices for ice skating at Bryant Park vary depending on the time of day, with the early morning slots usually offering the cheapest tickets. Prices range from $18.72 to $60.32 for the 2025/26 season. I’d highly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance to guarantee the day/time that you want. Tickets are not required to visit the holiday market stalls at the Winter Village.
The rink at Bryant Park is open from the 24th October 2025 to the 1st March 2026.
5. Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
Watching a performance of the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular is an absolute must do in NYC in December, as it’s one of the most fun, festive, and family-friendly things to activities!
Throughout the 90-minute show, you can expect to find more than 140 performers singing, dancing, and generally partaking in festive merriment, accompanied by an original musical score.
Where to find it: 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020.
What you need to know: Ticket prices to see the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular vary depending on the date and time that you visit. The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular will run from the 6th November 2025 to the 4th January 2026.
6. Macy’s
Macy’s is undoubtedly one of the most iconic shopping malls in New York City and while you can visit at any time of the year, it’s arguably best enjoyed during the festive season.
The flagship store resides on West 34th Street in Herald Square and it encompasses almost an entire block set upon many floors and boasting hundreds of brands inside.
Macy’s in New York is also famed for its Thanksgiving Day parade, so if you’re in the city in the run-up to Christmas, you’re really in for a treat!
Santaland at Macy’s
If you’re visiting New York in December with kids, you need to add Santaland at Macy’s to your itinerary, as it’s one of the best places in the city to see Santa!
Inside Macy’s itself, you’ll wander through a gargantuan Christmas village that looks like it’s been taken straight from a scene in Elf where you’ll then be able to have a private sit-in with Santa himself.
What you need to know: Tickets to visit Santaland at Macy’s are free, however, you must reserve tickets online in advance, with reservations usually available five days in advance.
Herald Square Holiday Market
Just outside the Macy’s flagship store, you’ll find the Herald Square Holiday Market, which features many stalls selling handmade crafts, artisanal gifts, festive treats, and so much more.
Where to find it: 151 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001.
7. Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Light Show
Saks Fifth Avenue is another incredibly iconic department store in New York, which resides on Fifth Avenue just opposite the Rockefeller Center and its iconic Christmas Tree.
Each holiday season, Saks Fifth Avenue decorates its window displays in the most extravagant Christmas lights and every night over the holidays from sunset until late, you’re treated to a spectacular light show every 10 minutes or so.
2021’s light show was the best I’ve ever seen and the lights, decorations, and accompanying music were so unbelievably magical that it really makes you feel the magic of Christmas.
Best of all? It’s totally free to watch, making it one of the best things to do in NYC in December on a budget!
Where to find it: 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022.
What you need to know: Once you’ve spent some time enjoying the beauty and magic of Rockefeller Plaza, head out onto West 49th or West 50th street to 5th Avenue and enjoy the show from the sidewalk opposite Saks.
8. Ice skating at the Rockefeller Center
Yet another one of the most incredible things to do in New York in December is to go ice skating at the Rockefeller Center.
The Rink at the Rockefeller is smaller than the ice rinks in Central Park or Bryant Park, but it’s such a beautiful and iconic location, and as it’s located directly underneath the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, it’s arguably the most festive ice rink in NYC!
Where to find it: 600 5th Avenue, Rockefeller Center, New York, NY 10020.
What you need to know: Tickets to skate at The Rink can be purchased via the Rockefeller Center website and prices vary between $22 and $124 per person, depending on the exact time and date you visit. The Rink is open daily between 9 AM and midnight.
9. Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Columbus Circle is always a great place to check out in New York whenever you’re in the city, but if you happen to be visiting NYC at Christmas, be sure to head to the Columbus Circle Holiday Market.
Featuring over 100 stalls and vendors, this awesome market boasts so many incredible places to eat and drink, as well as plenty of places to pick up some last-minute Christmas gifts and souvenirs. The food stalls at Columbus Circle Holiday Market are probably my favourite in the city as there is so much choice across a vast range of cuisines, dietary requirements and plenty of sweet and savoury delicacies to sample.
Where to find it: Columbus Circle, 59th Street and Central Park West.
What you need to know: The Holiday Market at Columbus Circle is open from the 2nd to 31st December 2025. Most stalls are open from 11 AM to 8 PM, Monday to Saturday and 10 AM to 8 PM on Sundays.
10. Hudson Yards holiday decorations
While Hudson Yards is a great place to visit at any time of year, thanks to it playing host to numerous New York attractions such as the Vessel and Edge Observation Deck, I think Christmas is the best time to visit Hudson Yards and experience everything it has to offer as it’s so beautifully decorated over the holidays.
Where to find it: Between 10th and 12th Avenues and West 30th to West 34th Streets.
What you need to know: There’s plenty to see and do in Hudson Yards but if you’re just wanting to get photo opportunities over the Christmas period, head inside the shops and wander around the numerous floors to take in all the magnificent lights and suspended chandeliers and decorations.
11. The Plaza Hotel
I’ve been obsessed with The Plaza for as long as I can remember after seeing it featured in many of my favourite NYC films as a child and my obsession with this iconic New York landmark hotel remains as strong as ever.
Fans of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York will likely recognise this imposing hotel as the place where Kevin McCallister spends his time in the city. You can even book a dedicated Home Alone package when staying at The Plaza, and I’d also highly recommend booking the festive afternoon tea experience at The Palm Court.
Where to find it: 5th Avenue at Central Park S, New York, NY 10022.
12. Fifth Avenue Holiday Window Displays
As it’s home to dozens of designer shops, Fifth Avenue is where you’ll see most of the city’s remarkable holiday window displays such as Chanel, Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Dior, and many more.
Where to find it: Fifth Avenue, mostly between East 50th and 59th Streets.
What you need to know: Each store differs in when they decorate for the holidays, but you can usually expect most holiday windows to be on display in the first week of December until early January.
13. Union Square Holiday Market
One of the very best Christmas markets in New York is the Union Square Holiday Market. It boasts more than 100 vendors selling everything from hot chocolate to festive lanterns to jewellery, paintings, baubles, and so much more.
It covers a huge area of Union Square and is located just above the subway station so it’s in a great location and is very easily accessible.
Where to find it: 14th St, New York, NY 10011.
What you can expect: The Union Square Holiday Market is free to explore at your leisure but can get quite crowded during peak times, so try to visit as early as possible. Union Square Holiday Market will be run from the 13th November to 24th December 2025.
14. Time Out Market New York
Time Out Market New York is one of my favourite food halls and rooftop bars in NYC, and while I love visiting at any time of the year, I think it’s best enjoyed over the festive period as it’s always beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Spanning an impressive 24,000-square-feet and boasting incredible views of the Manhattan skyline, Manhattan Bridge, and Brooklyn Bridge, Time Out Market New York is also home to some of my favourite places to eat in New York, including Bark Barbecue, Clinton St. Baking Company, Doughnuttery, Smashed NYC, and more.
Where to find it: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201.
15. Ice skating at Brookfield Place
One of the more unique things to do in NYC in December is to go ice skating at The Rink at Brookfield Place. It’s also one of the cheapest ice skating rinks in NYC, with tickets ranging from just $15 to $17.
It’s not the biggest rink in the city, but I’ve usually found it to be relatively quiet, even when I’ve skated there at sunset in the middle of December. As it’s set right next to the water, you can also enjoy beautiful views while you skate and there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat or drink afterwards as well, including one of my favourite spots; P.J. Clarke’s on the Hudson.
The Christmas lights at Brookfield Place are also some of the most festive in the city, and inside the shopping centre itself, you’ll find crazy-tall Christmas trees and plenty of lights and decorations.
Where to find it: Three World Financial Center, 230 Vesey St, New York, NY 10281.
What you need to know: Skating at Brookfield Place can be booked online in advance in timed admission slots. Tickets cost $17 plus a $5 skate rental for 1-hour sessions or $15 for skating and skate hire for 30 minutes.
16. 230 Fifth Avenue rooftop bar
230 Fifth is one of my favourite rooftop bars in NYC, and with impressive views of the Empire State Building, delicious food and drinks, and cosy winter igloos, I think it’s safe to see why I love it so much!
I’ve visited 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar on countless occasions, at various times throughout the year (including on the evening of my engagement in New York in January 2025), but I still think December is the best time to visit to soak up the rooftop’s incredible festive magic.
Where to find it: 230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10001.
What you need to know: Reservations for 230 Fifth are not required, but they are a good idea in New York in December as it gets very busy. You can also book the winter igloos directly on the 230 Fifth website.
17. Seaport Christmas tree
The Seaport Christmas Tree might not be as famous as the world-renowned Rockefeller Center Christmas tree or the one that’s part of the Bryant Park Holiday Village, but Seaport’s Christmas Tree totally exceeded my expectations the first time I saw it, and it’s now one of my favourite Christmas trees in NYC!
Where to find it: 28-20 Fulton St, New York, NY 10038.
What you need to know: You’ll find the Seaport Christmas Tree just a 10-minute walk from the start of the Brooklyn Bridge and just a stone’s throw from Pier 15, 16, and 17, so it’s in a great location if you’re exploring Downtown Manhattan before you head over the Brooklyn Bridge.
18. Giant baubles at 1251 6th Avenue
Another iconic holiday thing to do in New York in December is see the giant 25-foot tall baubles at 1251 6th Avenue.
These substantial Christmas decorations form an iconic part of Midtown Manhattan’s holiday cheer as they’re situated just around the corner from the Rockefeller Center, Radio City Musical Hall, and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Of course, this area gets very crowded with eager, festive tourists, especially at night, but if you’re willing to brave the crowds to see them, it’ll be worth it.
Where to find it: 1251 6th Avenue.
What you need to know: The giant decorations are located just over the road from Radio City Musical Hall, between West 49th and 50th. If you’re wanting to take a picture of them, wait patiently for a few minutes as people come and go very quickly just to get a snap of them, so you’re guaranteed to get a good spot for a picture within minutes.
19. Ralph Lauren coffee truck
The Ralph Lauren Coffee Truck is located within the Rockefeller Center complex and sells coffee, hot chocolate, teas, assorted pastries, and chocolate goodies!
You’re likely to pay more than usual for a cup of coffee as you’re obviously paying for the Ralph Lauren brand, but even if you decide against getting a drink from there, I’d still recommend having a peek at the truck as it’s very cute and Christmassy!
Where to find it: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111.
What you need to know: Ralph’s Coffee Truck is located on Fifth Avenue, just next to the Rockefeller Center all year round and at Christmas, it’s the perfect place to grab a hot drink to warm you up on a cold day!
20. Christmas in New York shop
Regardless of whether you’re visiting New York City in the height of summer or over the festive period, the Christmas in New York shop in Little Italy is a must-visit for Christmas lovers.
Their 13,000 square foot ground level boasts thousands of gifts, trinkets, and festive souvenirs. There’s also the Mrs Claus’ Cafe, serving a smorgasbord of delicacies and throughout the entire store, you’ll find beautiful Christmas gems, toys, gifts, decorations, and much more.
Where to find it: 142 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013.
What you need to know: The Christmas in New York store in Little Italy is open 365 days a year.
21. FAO Schwarz
FAO Schwarz is an incredibly fun place to experience if you’re visiting New York in December with kids, as it’s located just around the corner from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice rink.
The enormous toy store is full of giant stuffed animals, plus a huge candy selection, LEGO statues, a Build-A-Bear Workshop, and much more. It’s literally the dream place for kids (and adults) of all ages!
Where to find it: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111.
What you need to know: Over Christmas, specifically the week before, you’ll find queues to get inside FAO Schwarz to be crazy long, so you’ll have to be patient if you really want to visit.
22. New York Stock Exchange Christmas tree
The New York Stock Exchange Christmas Tree is yet another one of the best Christmas trees in New York City.
Located right outside the NYSE, you can’t miss it while checking out the city’s Financial District. The mighty Christmas tree has been a part of the New York Stock Exchange festivities for almost 100 years now and it’s known as one of New York’s most iconic Christmas trees.
Where to find it: New York Stock Exchange, Broad Street.
What you need to know: The NYSE Christmas tree lighting ceremony will take place on the 4th December 2025. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out more of Wall Street, as well as the Charging Bull and the Fearless Girl statue.
23. Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Watermark Pier 15
During the winter season, Watermark at Pier 15 transforms into New York’s very own Santa’s Winter Wonderland, complete with cosy glasshouses, tonnes of holiday decorations, and a fantastic festive food and drink menu.
Where to find it: Pier 15, 78 South St, New York, NY 10006.
What you need to know: It’s a good idea to pre-book tickets for Santa’s Winter Wonderland online in advance. General admission tickets start at $17, while tables in the Chalet Glasshouses cost upwards of $100.
24. Rolf’s German Restaurant
Rolf’s German Restaurant is a pretty famous place during the holiday season, but not necessarily for its food. Receiving only a 3.1* Google rating and 2.5* on TripAdvisor, it’s safe to say that the food at Rolf’s isn’t exactly the most highly rated in the city.
However, the reason I’ve added it to this list of the best things to do in New York in December is because of its sensational Christmas decor which can be seen through the windows from outside or from just inside the restaurant.
I wouldn’t necessarily recommend heading to Rolf’s for the food, but if you can sneak a glance inside at Christmas time, I promise you won’t be disappointed by its stunning festive decor.
Where to find it: 281 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010.
25. Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights Show
If you’re planning a New York Christmas trip with kids, the Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights Show should definitely be on your itinerary.
The Holiday Lights Show encompasses millions of twinkling lights and hundreds of illuminated animals spread across six lantern trails. There’s also immersive light experiences, hands-on activities for kids, and plenty of festive food and drink to enjoy.
Where to find it: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460.
What you need to know: Tickets for the Bronx Zoo Holiday Light Show can be purchased online in advance and prices start at $38.20 for adults and $28.20 for children aged 3-12. The Holiday Light Show will run from the 21st November 2025 to 4th January 2026.
26. New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is yet another one of the best New York December activities for families. It involves model trains traversing through miniature cityscapes, accompanied by almost 200 replicas of famous city landmarks.
You can also enjoy festive treats and seasonal drinks inside the Haupt Conservatory, and the NYBG Shop is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs or festive gifts for loved ones back home.
Where to find it: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458.
What you need to know: Tickets range from $35 to $39 for adults and $25 to $27 for children aged 2-12 and can be purchased online in advance. The Holiday Train Show will run from the 15th November 2025 to 11th January 2026.
Where to stay in New York in December
I’ve been lucky enough to visit New York at Christmas many times, so I know a thing or two about finding the best Christmas hotels in NYC.
On my first ever trip to New York, I stayed at the Courtyard New York Manhattan/Times Square with my mum which is conveniently located right next to Times Square and Bryant Park, so it’s a perfect hotel in New York in December as you’re so close to all the action!
My absolute dream Christmas hotel in New York is The Plaza Hotel; I’ve been obsessed with The Plaza almost as long as I’ve been obsessed with New York itself but with a minimum price tag of $600+ a night, it’s certainly not the cheapest place to stay in New York in December.
For a slightly more affordable hotel option, I’d recommend checking out DoubleTree by
Hilton Midtown Fifth Ave, as this hotel is one of the more reasonably priced places to stay in NY in December.
What should I pack for New York in December?
Christmastime and winter in general in New York can be remarkably chilly, with temperatures usually falling below 0°C on most days. While the winter sunshine is utterly idyllic, you will definitely need to pack warm clothes for a December trip to NYC.
Bring plenty of cosy jumpers, fluffy socks, warm winter boots, a huge winter coat, a hat, scarf and gloves set, and maybe even pack a couple of pairs of thermals while you’re at it; it really does get insanely cold during the holidays in New York!
Is New York expensive at Christmas?
New York isn’t the cheapest city to visit at the best of times and you can expect Christmas to be one of the busiest times of year to book a trip to New York.
Hotels will usually cost a minimum of £100 a night at the start of December and many places can cost upwards of £500 a night for higher-end hotels and accommodations.
New York in December flights from the UK can cost as little as £250 return if you book at least three months in advance, but last-minute flights can cost around £500.
Check out my guide on how to visit New York on a budget for money-saving tips!
New York in December – conclusion
I really hope that you found this guide about what to do in NYC in December useful! It really is the most special time of year and undeniably one of the most magical festive places in the world, so if you were on the fence about visiting New York in December, I hope this guide has inspired you to book the trip!
Have you ever spent Christmas in NYC? Which things to do in New York in December would you like to do the most? Let me know in the comments or in my New York Facebook Group!
Love your NYC post! I used to live there and miss it!