There’s no place quite like New York City during the holidays. The energy is electric, the decorations are dazzling, and the sense of joy that fills the streets makes every visit feel like the first time. Over the years, we’ve visited New York City many times during the winter season, and every trip has left us enchanted with its Christmas magic. These are our absolute favorite holiday experiences. The ones we return to time and time again because they never lose their charm.
Whether it’s your first time spending Christmas in NYC or you’re looking to relive the magic, these must-do activities will make your holiday season unforgettable.
1. Bryant Park Winter Village
Location: Bryant Park, 41 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018
Nestled among skyscrapers, Bryant Park Winter Village transforms into a bustling holiday wonderland each season. Known as the Bank of America Winter Village, this is one of those places we never skip on our NYC holiday trips!
Why It’s Special:
The charm begins the moment you step into the park, where rows of glass-enclosed Holiday Shops line the walkways. Over 175 vendors sell handmade and unique items—candles, ornaments, artwork, and more—making it a perfect spot to find one-of-a-kind gifts. At the center of it all is the open-air ice skating rink, which offers free skating if you bring your own skates (and rentals are available, too).
What Draws Us Back:
The festive ambiance is impossible to resist: twinkling lights, the warm scent of roasted nuts, the sound of cheerful Christmas music, and cozy food vendors offering everything from hot chocolate to gourmet treats. We love grabbing a warm drink, people-watching by the rink, and soaking in the holiday magic.
2. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Ice Skating Rink
Location: Rockefeller Center, 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
It’s impossible to think about Christmas in NYC and not picture the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Standing tall over the plaza, with the golden Prometheus statue and the ice-skating rink below, it’s a classic holiday postcard come to life.
Why It’s Special:
The Rockefeller tree is the crown jewel of the holidays in New York. Selected each year for its size and beauty, the tree is adorned with thousands of LED lights and topped with a stunning Swarovski crystal star . The nearby skating rink adds to the charm, creating an unforgettable holiday scene.
What Draws Us Back:
We visit every year to take in the sparkling tree, especially at night, when it glows against the city skyline. Even when we don’t skate, we adore strolling through the plaza, snapping photos, and letting the festive cheer wash over us.
3. FAO Schwarz Toy Store
Location: Rockefeller Plaza, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112
Walking into FAO Schwarz is like stepping into a childhood dream. This world-famous toy store just steps from Rockefeller Center, bursts with holiday spirit and offers a whimsical escape for the young and the young-at-heart.
Why It’s Special:
The store is full of life-sized stuffed animals, incredible LEGO creations, interactive toys, and the iconic BIG piano (and yes, you can play on it!). The holidays make it even more magical with cheerful decorations and additional seasonal touches.
What Draws Us Back:
FAO Schwarz is pure joy . Every year, we love exploring the displays, taking in the staff’s toy demonstrations, and finding fun trinkets to bring home. It’s the perfect stop during a Rockefeller Center holiday visit!
4. Macy’s Window Displays
Location: Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
The Macy’s holiday window displays are a legendary NYC tradition. This flagship store unveils a series of intricately designed windows each year that tell mesmerizing holiday stories.
Why It’s Special:
Combining animatronics, dazzling lights, artistic designs, and festive themes, Macy’s takes storytelling to the next level. Past windows have featured Santa’s workshop, snowy cityscapes, and beloved Christmas tales.
What Draws Us Back:
Strolling along the bustling sidewalks by Macy’s is like walking through an open-air Christmas gallery. Paired with a pretzel or warm drink from a vendor, it’s a delightful way to spend a holiday afternoon.
5. Ice Skating in Central Park
Location: Wollman Rink, East Side between 62nd and 63rd St, New York, NY 10065
(Alternative: Lasker Rink is located on the north end of Central Park along 110th St.)
Ice skating in Central Park offers a quieter, more romantic alternative to Rockefeller Center. Both the Wollman Rink and Lasker Rink have their own unique charm, providing visitors with a snowy holiday atmosphere surrounded by nature.
Why It’s Special:
Skating in Central Park during the winter combines postcard-perfect views of the city skyline with the peacefulness of being surrounded by trees and nature.
What Draws Us Back:
On the ice, surrounded by nature, time slows down. Wollman Rink holds a special place in our hearts for its gorgeous vibe, which feels like stepping into a dreamy winter scene.
6. Radio City Music Hall Decorations
Location: Radio City Music Hall, 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020
The magic of the Art Deco architecture at Radio City Music Hall comes alive during the holidays.
Why It’s Special:
The entrance to Radio City is decorated to the nines with towering ornaments, sparkling Christmas lights, and larger-than-life displays that make it an irresistible photo opportunity.
What Draws Us Back:
We love starting or ending our Christmas time in NYC by soaking in the decorations outside, glowing like NYC’s most festive building.
7. The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall
Location: Radio City Music Hall, 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an absolute must for visitors. It’s charming, timeless, and unmistakably festive.
Why It’s Special:
This 90-minute performance blends perfect choreography, dazzling costumes, classic Christmas songs, and even a live nativity scene. It’s truly magical for all ages.
What Draws Us Back:
Each performance never fails to deliver nostalgic Christmas joy, leaving us inspired and full of holiday spirit.
8. Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Window Displays
Locations:
- Tiffany & Co.: 727 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
- Louis Vuitton: 1 E 57th St, New York, NY 10022
- Saks Fifth Avenue: 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
- Cartier: 653 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
Why It’s Special:
The luxury window displays on Fifth Avenue take holiday elegance to a new level. Tiffany’s is timeless, Cartier dazzles with festive opulence, and Saks steals the show with its awe-inspiring light display synchronized to music (sadly, this one is not happening in the 2024 holiday season).
What Draws Us Back:
Every display is a spectacle. It’s a journey through creativity and design that we never tire of, capturing the best of NYC holidays.
9. Ellen’s Stardust Diner
Location: 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
You haven’t truly experienced the festive spirit of NYC until you’ve stepped inside Ellen’s Stardust Diner, a retro-themed gem nestled in the bustling Theater District. Known for its lively singing, waitstaff—yes, singing! Ellen’s Stardust Diner is one of those places we make sure to visit every single time we’re in New York, and the holidays are no exception.
Why It’s Special:
Ellen’s offers an atmosphere like no other. Imagine enjoying classic diner food while Broadway-bound performers serenade the entire restaurant with show tunes and pop songs. During the holidays, there’s a good chance you’ll hear them belt out your favorite Christmas classics like “All I Want for Christmas Is You” or “Jingle Bell Rock.” The festive energy, combined with the unique performances, makes this diner not only a meal stop but an unforgettable entertainment experience.
What Draws Us Back:
Simply put, Ellen’s Stardust Diner is pure fun. The singing servers bring so much personality and charm to the experience—it feels like dinner and a show all at once. Plus, the casual vibe makes it a great spot to relax during a busy day of sightseeing. Whether it is the holiday season or not, navigating NYC can be overwhelming, and Ellen’s is our go-to place to unwind with comfort food and stellar performances. Try the milkshakes; they’re as delightful as the tunes!
BONUS: The Grinch Driving Around Times Square
Location: Times Square (spotted around Broadway and 46th St, though he moves!)
If you’re lucky, you might catch the Grinch cruising around Times Square in his decked-out car, honking and waving.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate the Holidays in NYC
No matter how many times we return, NYC in the winter never loses its sparkle. We hope these favorite experiences bring you the same joy and magic they have brought us.
