Travel Guide: How to Spend the Holidays in NYC
The holiday season in New York City is nothing short of magical, with its endless places to see twinkling lights, festive decorations and holiday events to take part in. So if New York has been on your bucket list for awhile, maybe consider taking a trip during the holiday season for it to be even a little more magical!
In this guide, I’ll fill you in on the city's most dazzling Christmas trees and decorations, must-see holiday markets, fantastic festive bars, places to stay and a few tips and tricks for your visit during the merry season!
Can’t Miss Christmas Trees, Decorations and Lights
I was honestly blown away by just how beautiful and how plentiful the Christmas displays are in NYC. We would just simply be walking down the street and see some of the most stunning Christmas trees I’ve ever seen sitting in the windows of office buildings, let alone all the epic ‘instagram worthy’ ones. You really do not have to try very hard to find beautiful lights in the city, but here are some going out of your way for.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
I don’t know if there is a more iconic Christmas Tree than the one at Rockefeller Center! When we planned our NYC trip, this was at the tippy top of my list of things I wanted to do! We got to see the tree before they had all the lights set up as well as after the lighting ceremony (which we opted to skip for numerous reasons, but mainly because standing around all day to have partial views of a tree being lit isn’t my cup of tea) And even seeing the tree without the lights was still very impressive because the sheer size of it, and the entire square was lit up.
The Tree at Rockefeller Center 2 days before the lighting ceremony
The Tree at Rockefeller Center 2 days before the lighting ceremony
I think it is absolutely a must-see, however, just know that unless you go at 4am you are not going to get that ‘Home Alone’ moment of having the tree all to yourself. Honestly considering NYC is the city that never sleeps, even if you do go in the wee hours, you still probably won’t be alone.
Be prepared for major crowds and just know that everyone is there for the same reason you are. We offered to take photos of other tourists and they returned the favor for us. Being kind goes a long way!
*Pro Tip: We were able to get a pretty good viewpoint from the side of the tree, there were far less crowds than down the center view with the fountains.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Directly across from the Rockefeller Christmas tree is the amazing light show at Saks Fifth Avenue. This stunning light display on the department store's facade is updated every year and is synchronized to festive music. It runs about every 10-15 minutes like clockwork so you’ll be able to watch the show a couple of times while you’re visiting.
Radio City Music Hall, Giant Candy Canes and Ornaments!
Just a short walk down the block from Rockefeller is another NYC icon - Radio City Music Hall! Seeing The Christmas Spectacular and watching the famous Rockettes dance the night away is on most NYC winter bucket lists, but even if you don’t go to the show, make sure to check out the Radio City Christmas tree on the outside of the building.
Across the street, you’ll find the Giant Candy Canes and Giant Red Ornaments that you’ve probably seen all over social media. (On the corner of 6th Ave and W 50th Street.) Until we went ourselves, I didn’t realize how close together all of these things are! You’ll be able to knock these three things off your bucket list all in one stop.
NYC Public Library
Discovering this enchanting display turned out to be a delightful surprise, all thanks to my quest to find a free bathroom, lol.
The NYC Public Library is totally Free - which in this economy is greatly appreciated. The tree in the heart of the entrance feels like it’s been plucked right from the pages of Harry Potter. Surrounded by gothic architectural details and adorned with bows and garland, this tree will leave you in awe.
While there, pop into the library’s gift shop, grab a cup of coffee and check out the displays throughout the building before venturing back out to the busy streets.
Hudson Yards
Hudson Yards is one of the newer(ish) attractions of NYC. While you can no longer go inside the honeycomb-like structure out front, it’s still worth a visit inside the mall to see all the amazing shops, great cafes and Christmas decorations.
If you have time and feeling brave, take the elevator up to The Edge to see one of NYC highest outdoor sky decks for amazing views of the city!
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Unfortunately I didn’t get to experience this for myself, but if you have the time, head to Brooklyn and check out the amazing neighborhood Christmas displays in Dyker Heights. The residents go all out with extravagant decorations, turning the area into a winter wonderland. Take a stroll or join a guided tour to fully appreciate the dazzling displays.
NYC Holiday Window Displays
Macy’s Christmas Window Display
For another great (and totally free!) festive thing to do, add visiting the top department store window displays to your list. The city really outdoes itself and it takes window shopping to a whole new level!
Some of the best window displays are Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Macy’s, and Bloomingdales. Make sure to also walk down 5th Avenue for all the designer storefronts as well to get in the full holiday spirit.
Must-See Holiday Markets
Bryant Park Holiday Market
I love going to holiday markets and the ones in NYC are some of the best!
We went to both Bryant Park and Union Square holiday markets, and I’d say both are worth visiting, but if you only had time for one, Bryant Park was my favorite for sure.
The vibes at Bryant Park felt very European to me, with twinkling lights adorning each stall, a carousel, ice rink, endless food vendors and one of the most stunning Christmas trees we saw up close, it really felt magical being there.
Bryant Park also has it’s own tree lighting ceremony, which is still crowded but far less of a hassle or time commitment than the one at Rockefeller Center.
All that being said, I would say that the booths at Union Square were more interesting to me, so if you’re actually looking for some artisan gifts to give (or something for yourself) make sure you make it to Union Square too. There are over 150 vendors and is located right on a main stop for a number of train lines, so it’s easy to get to and worth a stop by!
Union Square Holiday Market
Festive NYC Bars and Restaurants
One of my all-time favorite things to do around the holidays is go to a festive bar, and I can honestly say that NYC has set the bar so high that everything back home felt like a joke in comparison. You don’t have to try hard at all to just stumble into a bar that has outstanding decorations only to walk down the block and find 3 more that are even better.
Truly, I will forever be comparing every Christmas bar I go to now to the onesin NYC! Here are a couple we found that are worth going out of your way for.
Pete’s Tavern
Pete’s Tavern is the oldest original bar in NYC, dating back to 1864. That alone makes it worth visiting, but during the holidays they go all out, covering nearly every inch of the place in red Christmas lights, garlands and ornaments.
The bar does get pretty packed and if you’re planning on getting a table and something to eat you need to book your reservation weeks in advance. But we were able to get a drink no problem and found seats outside.
Paddy MaGuire’s Ale House
I love an Irish bar any day of the week, but Paddy MaGuire’s Ale House goes way over the top for Christmas. This small bar is completely decked out in lights, garlands and ornaments, it’s sure to put you in the festive spirit!
Rolf's German Restaurant
You’ve probably seen Rolf’s all over social media, with it’s elegantly adorned bronze, gold and rose gold ornaments over every square inch of the restaurant. (If you haven’t, go check it out, it looks amazing!)
However, because it’s so internet famous, this place is nearly impossible to get into. You will definitely want reservations, probably made months in advance. We walked by to see a line down the block for just a walk-in spot at the bar. But, maybe you’ll get lucky if you go earlier in the day sometime mid-week.
Loreley Beer Garden
Nestled in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, you’ll find one of the only BeirGarten’s in NYC - Loreley Beer Garden.
Known for its extensive beer selection, including classic German brews and local craft favorites, Loreley is a haven for beer enthusiasts seeking a festive spot to enjoy a pint.
The spacious (and heated!) outdoor garden is adorned with twinkling lights and makes the perfect backdrop for a night out. Inside, you’ll find cozy vibes and even more decorations to get you in a festive mood.
Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market, located in the aptly named neighborhood of Chelsea, goes all out at Christmas time with lights, decorations and pop-up markets. There are dozens of restaurants inside to choose from, but I highly recommend checking Los Tacos No. 1! Expect a line, but it moves very quickly.
Need even more Christmas Cheer? Add these bars to your list!
The Lavaux Wine Bar (Need reservations)
Oscar Wilde (a crowd favorite)
Frosty’s Christmas Bar (tickets required)
Miracle on 9th Street Pop-up Bar
Where to Stay
For easy (walkable) access to most of the things on this list, I’d recommend staying in Midtown Manhattan. There are so many options for really great hotels, you really can’t go wrong! With only a short uber or train ride to the other neighborhoods, I feel like being centrally located is way to go if you want to pack a lot of things into a short visit.
Here are a few hotels that come highly recommended to jump start your planning:
St. Regis New York:
The St. Regis is a stunning hotel that really gets into the Christmas spirit. This opulent hotel receives a holiday makeover every year, making it an extremely festive place to stay at Christmas.
Located in the heart of Midtown East, this location is hard to beat! You’re just a block away from the MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) and a short walk from Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center.
The Plaza Hotel:
For a truly luxurious Christmas experience, consider staying at The Plaza Hotel. This iconic establishment, featured in probably one of the greatest holiday movies of all time; Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, The Plaza exudes elegance and is in a prime location right on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South. If you want to have that quintessential “Christmas in New York” experience, this is THE place to stay.
copyright 20th Century Fox
As of this posting, The Plaza has started offering a ‘Home Alone’ Limo and Pizza experience, that will take you to visit some of the famous filming locations from the movie including the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall and of course, Central Park. All while enjoying some New York’s best cuisine - hot cheese pizza!
And don’t worry, if you can’t make it to NY around the holidays, The Plaza is offering this deal year round!
Learn More Here
Lotte New York Palace
You can’t beat the location of this hotel for a trip to NYC during the holidays. It’s located just one block from Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Even if you don’t end up staying here, it’s worth a visit to see their amazing Christmas Tree display in the courtyard of the hotel
Image from staytowander.com
NYC Travel Tips + Tricks
How To Get Around
Getting around NYC is much like getting around any big city. Your most affordable options are going to be taking public transportation (buses/subway) You can purchase a Metrocard and refill it as needed.
Taking the subway in NYC is an experience for sure. Some stations and subway cars are relatively clean and quiet, others are, well… not that at all. Within 10 minutes you can see some of the wildest shit you’ve ever seen and then by the next stop it’s a totally different story.
Or you could opt for a slightly more comfortable experience and take a taxi or private rideshare like Lyft or Uber. Sometimes it will actually be faster to just take the subway than sitting in traffic, but it is also nice to get a break from the crowds from time to time.
Either way, you should also be prepared to do a lot of walking. It’s also worth noting that New Yorkers are busy people and walk super fast. Be prepared to get bumped into from time to time and do your best to stay to the right on the sidewalks so people can pass you.
*Pro Tip: Do NOT take the pedal cabs! We saw a lot of these pedal cabs (guys on bikes blasting Christmas music offering carriage rides to tourists) around the biggest tourist attractions - Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, Times Square, Etc. We heard later that you just might find yourself paying several hundred dollars to go a couple of blocks. Just walk to a quieter street if you can and hail a cab or uber from there.
Finding Public Bathrooms
NYC Public Library
If you have an emotional support water bottle and a small bladder like me, not knowing where the nearest bathroom is when you’re out and about can truly be something of a concern. Luckily, finding a bathroom besides just going to Starbucks and buying something 5 times a day really wasn’t as much of a struggle as I thought it would be.
Discovering Got2GoNYC was truly a blessing! The founder of this account has made it her mission to crowd source where all the best bathrooms are in the city and has since made one of the most used Google Maps that gets added to daily. Honestly, all major cities should be going this if they’re not already!
Apart from using the map, just using any basic city hack to find a bathroom works in NYC too. Go to a nice hotel, walk in confidently and there is likely to be a bathroom in the lobby. This also works for busier restaurants. Walk in like you’re looking for your friend and head to the back, 9 times/10 this is where the bathroom is.
Or ya know, worse comes to worst, just go to Starbucks. There’s basically one on every block.
Crime + Safety
While NYC is one of the biggest cities in the world, it’s really not as scary as TV would make it seem. However, if you’re not used to being in a large city, there are some general safety tips you can follow.
Don’t Be Flashy - This might seem pretty obvious, but don’t take out wads of cash to pay for something or walk around with your expensive camera out all day. You don’t want to look like you have a ton of valuables on you.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings - This is true for any city, but also for NYC. If you look like you know where you’re going (even if you’re not entirely sure) you’ll be a less likely target for scams. Most New Yorkers are looking at their phone as their walking, so having your phone out isn’t inherently a bad thing - just make sure you don’t walk into oncoming traffic.
Turn Your Backpack Around - If you’re wearing a backpack or crossbody purse in a crowded spot or on the subway, turn it around to be in front of you. This will not only help not bump into people behind you, but also make it less easy to pickpocket from.
Catcalling - Unfortunately if you are a woman, you are likely going to get catcalled at some point, especially if you’re traveling solo. I can truthfully say this has happened to me far more often in my own neighborhood in Minneapolis than it ever has while traveling. Regardless, It SUCKS, I know, but it’s best to not respond when they holler at you and just keep walking with purpose. If you’re dressed to impress and planning to take the subway, many NY locals will wear their ‘subway shirt’ (basically just a baggy t-shirt) over their outfit and take it off when they get to their destination to help deter any unwanted attention.
Ask For Help - If you ever feel unsafe or need assistance, look for another person nearby who looks trustworthy and ask them for help or to walk with you to a safer spot. Most people are genuinely good and will help you out. In case of emergencies, call 911.
I hope you found this list helpful for your next holiday adventure! NYC truly shines brightest during the most magical time of the year. Even if you have just a few short days, you can really make memories that will last you a lifetime!
As Always, Happy Adventuring!
Karen
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