The 11 Best Things to Do on Christmas in NYC for a Festive Holiday Season
There's nothing like spending Christmas in New York City (especially if there's snow!).
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The holidays are always a magical time of the year, but there's something extra special about spending Christmas in the Big Apple. Every December, the bustling city transforms into a festive winter wonderland: There are iconic landmarks decked out in twinkling lights, dreamy holiday window displays to stroll past and of course one of the most iconic Christmas trees in the country. The best part? From ice skating to plenty of holiday shopping, there's no shortage of festive things to do on Christmas Day in NYC.
This year, of course, has the holiday looking a little bit different due to the coronavirus pandemic. But even though several of your favorite events may be canceled (or going virtual) this year, there are still so many festive Christmas activities to keep the magic alive in New York City, especially with special events focusing on outdoor activities and social distancing. That means you can still marvel at the whimsical Christmas decor in front of buildings on Sixth Avenue, or enjoy a hot chocolate at the Bryant Park holiday market. Whatever you're in the mood for, though, these fun activities are sure to get the whole family in the merry spirit — and will definitely make this year's Christmas in New York your most memorable holiday yet.
Visit the country's most famous Christmas tree.
How could it be Christmas in New York without the iconic Rockefeller tree? Following tradition, a giant Christmas tree (this year, a 75-foot Norway spruce) will be on full display at Rockefeller Center starting in early December. Though the tree is usually lit from 6 a.m. to midnight, you can expect it to be merry and bright for the full 24 hours on Christmas Day.
See the holiday lights at the Bronx Zoo.
For an fun holiday experience for the whole family, head up to the Bronx Zoo, where you can attend the ultra-festive "Holiday Lights" event this year. With social distancing in place for all activities, you can explore five lantern safaris decked out in illuminated animals — all before enjoying ice-carving demonstrations, wildlife theater and more.
Take in the sights at Central Park.
There's nothing like wintertime at Central Park, where you can enjoy the gorgeous (and hopefully snow-covered) natural splendor against the backdrop of the city. You'll love partaking in sledding and other winter activities, taking a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride or simply strolling through the park (with a hot chocolate in hand, of course).
RELATED: The 25 Best Winter Activities to Keep Yourself Occupied
Visit the New York Botanical Garden.
Kids and adults alike won't want to miss the annual holiday train show at the New York Botanical Garden, which runs from November to late January. (This year, the event is limited to members and Bronx community partners.) After marveling at the magical display of toy trains, be sure to check out the "NYBG GLOW" event, an all-new outdoor experience for the holiday.
Shop at a holiday market.
Looking to get some holiday shopping done, all while sipping on a cup of hot apple cider? Spend your day at the open-air holiday market at the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park (open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.), where you'll definitely feel the holiday spirit while shopping for artisanal gifts and indulging in tasty, festive bites.
RELATED: 30 Unique Christmas Gifts to Pleasantly Surprise Your Family and Friends This Holiday
Go ice-skating.
While you're at Bryant Park, don't forget to grab a pair of skates to take several laps around the free admission risk, where you can skate outdoors surrounded by holiday cheer. (This year, skating will be by timed reservation only.) Another option, of course, is the iconic Rink at Rockefeller Center (open 9 a.m. to 12 a.m.), where you'll be able to skate under the famous Christmas tree!
Soak in the city skyline.
For breathtaking winter views of the city, head 100 floors up to One World Observatory (open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.), which is situated at the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. If you're already visiting Rockefeller Center and prefer to stay in that area, check out the incredible views from 70 floors up at Top of the Rock Observation Deck (open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.).
Stroll past the holiday window displays.
Is there anything more magical than strolling along the New York streets to take in the festive holiday window displays? Every year, big department stores like Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman decorate their windows with intricate holiday vignettes. You can even design your own little walking tour and hit up each store before crowning your favorite!
Drink a frozen hot chocolate.
Scheduled to re-open for the holidays this year, Serendipity 3 is an iconic NYC establishment whose dessert menu is absolutely overwhelming ... in the best way possible. You can't go wrong with one of its giant drugstore sundaes, chocolate blackout cake or the classic frozen hot chocolate. (It's Christmas — treat yourself!)
RELATED: 65 Festive Christmas Desserts to Get You in the Sweet Holiday Spirit
Grab some grub in Chinatown.
It's tradition for many to enjoy Chinese food on Christmas day, so it only makes sense to head to New Yorkers' go-to neighborhood for delicious Chinese food. After a dim sum brunch (popular spots include Jing Fong and Golden Unicorn), be sure to grab some pastries (like sweet buns filled with red bean, taro and more) from one of the local bakeries like Taipan Bakery.
Relax with a cozy cocktail.
After a day of sightseeing, kick up your feet at Dear Irving on Hudson, a stylish bar and lounge serving up innovative cocktails and sweeping views of the city. (The bar has now re-opened with various safety measures in place.) Don't forget to enjoy one of their special "Sweater Weather" seasonal cocktails!
RELATED: 50 Boozy Christmas Cocktails That Are Sure To Get You Into the Christmas Spirit
As the deputy editor of Woman’s Day, Andra (she/her) oversees all print content for the brand. She is a former editor at Good Housekeeping, Redbook, Real Simple and People. Over the course of her 13 year career, she’s covered every inch of the lifestyle space, and has interviewed hundreds of experts on topics including but not limited to relationships, etiquette, personal finance, technology, organization, travel, fashion, beauty, and sustainability. (She's also interviewed a few celebrities, ask her for Kim Kardashian's eBay shopping secrets.) During her off hours, Andra enjoys Thai dramas and long walks down the snack aisle.
Hannah Jeon is an Associate Commerce Editor at Prevention, where she covers expert-driven commerce content for all things health, beauty, and wellness. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Good Housekeeping, she earned her bachelor’s degree in creative writing and psychology from Johns Hopkins University. When she’s not on the hunt for all the best products online, you can often find her trying out new food spots in New York City or clicking away behind a camera.
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