13 Best Christmas Activites to Do in New York City

New York City is absolutely magical during Christmas time. When you think of the holidays, it’s hard not to picture NYC almost instantly.

For me, it’s right up there with the classic European Christmas markets or even my hometown, Toronto’s holiday market. The energy here is unmatched.

Like many of you, I grew up watching Christmas movies set in New York. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is an obvious one, but even films like Elf make you feel the city was built for Christmas. The truth is, walking around Manhattan in December really does feel like stepping into a movie scene.

From massive Christmas trees and ice-skating rinks to cozy markets and dazzling light displays, the city transforms into a festive wonderland. And no matter how many times you’ve seen it in films or photos, experiencing it in person is something entirely different.

This guide covers the 13 best Christmas activities to do in NYC, plus a few tips to help you make the most of your holiday trip to NYC.

Bryant Park Winter Village & Skating

If there’s one place that kicks off the holiday season in NYC, it’s Bryant Park’s Winter Village.

This spot has it all: a massive ice-skating rink, rows of holiday shops, and numerous festive food stalls serving a variety of treats, from hot cocoa to seasonal snacks.

The rink here is actually free if you bring your own skates, which is a nice perk compared to some of the pricier rinks in the city.

Around the ice, you’ll find over 100 little pop-up shops selling gifts, crafts, and holiday treats. It feels a lot like the European-style Christmas markets.

Even if you don’t lace up a pair of skates, wandering the stalls with a warm drink in hand is one of those classic NYC Christmas experiences. At night, with the lights twinkling and the city skyline as the backdrop, the whole place feels straight out of a movie.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Ice Rink

You can’t talk about Christmas in New York without mentioning the Rockefeller Center tree.

It’s basically the symbol of the holidays in NYC and one of the most photographed spots in the city.

The massive Norway spruce is illuminated with thousands of lights, and seeing it in person truly lives up to the hype.

Right below the tree, you’ve got the famous Rockefeller ice rink. It’s smaller and more crowded than others in the city, but skating here is all about the atmosphere.

With the tree towering overhead and the music echoing off the buildings, it feels iconic. Even if you don’t skate, just being here and soaking up the holiday energy is worth it.

Ice Skating at Central Park’s Wollman Rink

Skating in Central Park is a whole different vibe. Wollman Rink is bigger than Rockefeller’s, and because it’s set against the backdrop of the park and the skyline, it’s arguably even more magical.

Whether you go during the day with sunshine bouncing off the ice or at night when the city lights glow behind you, it’s hard to beat this view.

It’s also a bit less chaotic than Rockefeller, so if you actually want space to skate, this is the better choice.

For many people, gliding across Wollman Rink is one of those bucket list Christmas-in-New-York experiences.

Central Park Holiday Carriage Rides

If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a holiday postcard, this is it. Central Park carriage rides during Christmas are a classic way to see the park dressed up in winter charm.

Blankets keep you warm as the horses trot past snowy paths, twinkling trees, and skyline views.

It’s a slower-paced experience compared to skating, but it has that old-fashioned romance about it.

Couples love it, but honestly, families and groups of friends get just as much joy out of it. The rides usually start around Central Park South, and in December, you’ll see them decked out with wreaths and bows for the season.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights (Brooklyn)

This one is pure neighborhood magic. Dyker Heights in Brooklyn has gained worldwide renown for its extravagant Christmas light displays.

We’re talking full houses covered head to toe in lights, giant inflatable Santas, life-size nativity scenes, the works.

The best part is that it’s not just a few blocks; it’s the entire neighborhood that gets into the spirit.

Families here spend months prepping their decorations, and the result feels like you’ve stepped straight into a Christmas wonderland.

It does get busy at night with visitors, but walking through the streets and seeing house after house lit up is something you won’t forget.

Holiday Cheer in DUMBO, Brooklyn

Head across the river and you’ll find plenty of holiday spirit in Brooklyn, too. DUMBO, with its cobblestone streets and views of the Manhattan Bridge, turns into a cozy holiday hangout in December.

Small markets, pop-up shops, and light displays make it feel festive, and the backdrop of the skyline doesn’t hurt either.

It’s a little less crowded than Midtown Manhattan, so it’s a good spot to slow down, grab a hot chocolate, and take in some holiday charm.

Plus, the photo ops here with the bridge and skyline are next-level, definitely Instagram-worthy if that’s your thing.

Christmas Markets Across the City

If there’s one thing NYC does really well at Christmas, it’s holiday markets. Bryant Park is the most famous, thanks to its Winter Village with dozens of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to mulled wine, but it’s not the only one.

• Union Square Holiday Market – A classic favorite, filled with rows of local artisans, handmade goods, and plenty of festive snacks.

• Columbus Circle Holiday Market – Located right by Central Park, this market feels extra cozy with its mix of gifts, ornaments, and holiday treats.

• Grand Central Holiday Fair – Perfect for staying warm indoors while browsing high-quality crafts and seasonal gifts.

Even if you’re not in shopping mode, wandering through these markets is a great way to soak up the atmosphere, grab a seasonal treat, and maybe pick up a souvenir or two.

The Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden

Up in the Bronx, the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is one of the city’s most unique traditions.

Miniature trains weave their way through intricate replicas of New York landmarks, all built entirely out of natural materials like bark, leaves, and twigs.

It’s whimsical, detailed, and surprisingly mesmerizing, no matter your age. Families, in particular, love this one, but even adults are blown away by the craftsmanship.

Pair it with a stroll through the gardens lit up for the season, and it makes for a perfect holiday outing.

Holiday-Themed Musicals & Shows

New York is Broadway central, and Christmas brings an extra dose of magic to the stage.

From the iconic Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes to seasonal plays and musicals across the city, there’s no shortage of holiday entertainment.

Even if you’re not a huge theater person, catching at least one Christmas-themed show in NYC feels like a rite of passage.

Holiday Boat Cruises & Cocoa & Carols Tours

If you want to see Manhattan in a way most tourists miss, a holiday boat cruise is the way to go.

Picture gliding past the skyline and the Statue of Liberty at night while sipping hot cocoa (or mulled wine) as Christmas carols play in the background.

Some cruises even add live music, festive décor, and cozy indoor seating, making this one of the most unique ways to enjoy the holiday vibes in NYC.

Many of these tours also limit their capacity, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience compared to the crowded streets.

Visit Macy’s Santaland

Macy’s isn’t just a department store during the holidays; it transforms into a full-on Christmas wonderland.

Santaland is a tradition that has been around for decades, complete with twinkling lights, festive displays, and, of course, Santa himself.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or just want to experience a true NYC Christmas staple, it’s worth the visit. Pro tip: reserve your spot early to avoid long waits.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Lightscape

Brooklyn goes all out for Christmas, too, and the Botanic Garden’s Lightscape is a standout.

The garden transforms into a glowing wonderland with tunnels of lights, illuminated trees, and artful installations that feel straight out of a storybook.

It’s immersive, peaceful, and a great way to experience the holiday season outside of Manhattan’s hustle and bustle.

Festive Rooftop Bars & Holiday-Themed Drinks

NYC’s rooftop bar scene doesn’t take a break for winter; in fact, it gets even better.

Spots like 230 Fifth and Magic Hour transform into holiday-themed pop-ups with igloos, twinkling lights, spiked hot chocolates, and seasonal cocktails.

It’s a festive way to take in the skyline and feel like you’re part of the city’s holiday energy, especially at night. I’ve shared some of my favourite and best-known holiday rooftops in the city below!

• 230 Fifth Rooftop – Famous for its heated igloos, skyline views, and boozy hot chocolate.

• Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge – A whimsical space with over-the-top décor and holiday cocktails.

• PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown – Known for its extravagant holiday installations and seasonal drinks.

• Haven Rooftop – A cozier option with themed cocktails and a warm winter setup.

• Refinery Rooftop – Industrial-chic vibes paired with festive décor and excellent holiday menus.

• Westlight (Brooklyn) – My personal favorite rooftop in NYC, offering stunning panoramic views of Manhattan with a more laid-back, stylish Brooklyn atmosphere that still feels festive during the holidays

Holiday Church Services & Gospel Nights

Christmas in New York also has a spiritual side, and attending a holiday service or gospel night is a moving experience, even if you’re not religious.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the classic option with its midnight mass, but you’ll also find mighty gospel choirs in Harlem and Brooklyn filling the season with soul.

It’s a reminder that Christmas in NYC isn’t just about lights and shopping, it’s also about community and tradition.

Tips for Visiting NYC at Christmas

Visiting New York City during Christmas is an unforgettable experience, but it also comes with a few challenges.

The city is packed with tourists, hotel prices spike, and lines get long for almost everything. A little preparation will go a long way in making your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

• Book your hotel early: Aim for at least 2–3 months in advance, as prices rise quickly and demand is exceptionally high in December. If you’re unsure which neighborhood to stay in, you’ll find this guide helpful on where to stay in NYC to help narrow it down.

• Make restaurant reservations: Especially for weekend nights — the city fills up quickly and walk-ins are tough.

• Expect crowds: Popular attractions such as Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and Fifth Avenue will be extremely busy. Embrace the chaos, but plan your timing.

• Consider a New York CityPASS: If you’re planning to hit multiple attractions, this pass can save you both time and money, letting you skip some lines and bundle entry fees for popular spots.

• Plan Your Trip: Book attractions and hotels early during peak season. This NYC trip costs guide breaks down what you’ll spend.

• Map your activities smartly: Group things by neighborhood so you’re not zig-zagging all over Manhattan.

• Dress for the weather: NYC winters can be cold and windy; layers, a warm coat, and comfortable shoes are a must. Keep in mind, there are plenty of things to do in NYC!

• Use public transit: Traffic is brutal during the holidays; the subway is usually faster (and cheaper).

• Leave buffer time: Whether for shows, meals, or skating sessions, everything takes longer in December.

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Final Thoughts on the Best NYC Christmas Things to Do

Christmas in NYC is truly one of those bucket-list experiences that lives up to the hype.

From the giant tree at Rockefeller Center to cozy strolls through the holiday markets, the city transforms into something straight out of a movie.

Every corner has that festive sparkle, whether you’re sipping hot cocoa at a rooftop bar, gliding around an ice rink, or just wandering past glowing shop windows.

If you plan smart, book early, and embrace the crowds as part of the charm, you’ll find that spending Christmas in NYC is pure magic. Just make sure you’re aware of what not to do in NYC so you don’t fall into the typical tourist mistakes during your holiday visit.

Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the holiday season here never gets old in New York City! By the way, after you visit NYC, I recommend you come to my hometown to experience the holidays, that’s Toronto, Canada!