20 Exciting Things to Do in NYC During the Holidays, As Recommended by Locals 

Everyone knows New York City is a bustling hub for global commerce and influence. It’s a cultural powerhouse with some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and museums. It’s a magnet for the arts and a bastion of diversity. But between late November and mid(ish) January, this larger-than-life city is also a magical destination full of holiday cheer!  

From the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (first established in 1924) to the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop (a tradition dating back to 1907), the holiday season in NYC is steeped in history. Today, thanks to its dazzling cultural diversity, New York City offers more stuff to do during the holiday season than perhaps any other city in the US! 

For example, in addition to traditional Christmas activities, NYC’s vibrant Jewish community celebrates Hanukkah with menorah lightings in public spaces—including the world’s largest menorah at Grand Army Plaza. Cultural hubs like the Apollo Theater, and the American Museum of Natural History host colorful Kwanzaa celebrations, as well.  

Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled weekend with the whole family, a more intimate experience with your favorite person, or a solo sightseeing adventure—there’s truly something for everyone! Read on for some suggestions from the locals for things to see and do in NYC during the holidays! 

1. Visit the Nose Best Candle-Making Speakeasy

One of the more unique suggestions we received was from Brittany Furnari of locally owned Nose Best Candles. “New York City during the holiday season is filled with unforgettable experiences, and the Nose Best Candle Making Speakeasy in Bushwick, Brooklyn, is a truly hidden gem!” she says. “Set in a cocktail-style disco lounge behind our candle shop, this slow-paced, luxurious class offers the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones. You’ll choose a glamorous holiday vessel, blend a signature scent, and name your unique candle, all while soaking in the cozy, sophisticated aesthetic. After you’ve made your signature candle, take a walk through nearby festive neighborhoods or cozy up at a local café for a holiday memory you’ll never forget!” 

2. Check out the winter igloos

“The most festive time in New York City is winter,” says Loretta Lester, an event planner who collaborates with clients throughout NYC and Brooklyn. “As an event planner, I love the pop-up venues and activities that happen only during this season. There are plenty of enchanting spaces for friends and family to gather for good cheer, including those throughout the city that showcase the season’s winter igloos!”  

The “igloos” are designed to give visitors stunning views of the city from rooftop bars, parks and open spaces, and even riverfront venues. They’re heated and decorated with cozy furnishings for a festive vibe in which you can enjoy curated menus with hot cocktails, seasonal dishes, and desserts. Many of the igloos can be reserved for private groups, making them very popular for celebrations or romantic date nights! Just be sure to reserve your spot in advance; many venues book up quickly!  

3. Get swanky at The King Cole Bar

While there are plenty of date night possibilities in NYC, we got an insider’s suggestion for a spot made for a memorable time! “The King Cole Bar at 2 East 55th St (just off 5th Ave) inside the St Regis Hotel might be the most beautiful bar in New York City,” says Manhattan-based interior design guru Glenn Gissler. “The bar is named after the stunning mural by artist Maxfield Parish from 1906. Drinks are expensive, but the ambiance and experience are truly memorable!” The St. Regis also offers holiday afternoon tea throughout December, Christmas day brunch, and even a gingerbread house workshop for the kids (or the kids at heart, of course). 

4. Wander Madison Square Park

Gissler also gave us an excellent suggestion for a day of holiday sightseeing around town. “While you are checking out the staggering Italian food marketplace and the Flatiron Building at 23rd and Fifth Avenue, do not miss a stroll in Madison Square Park!” he says. “Originally a 19th-century strolling garden, Madison Square Park hosts the first location of Shake Shack, a fun-filled dog park, and, with over 300 trees and extraordinary plantings, it is a recognized Level 2 Arboretum that is beautifully decorated for the holidays.” 

5. Skate in Rockefeller Center

“New York is one of the best places to be during the Holiday season with the city dressed up in lights, festive holiday decors, and lots of fun activities,” says Tasmina Jahangir of Mahir Floral & Event Designs. “As a local business in the events industry, our favorite things to enjoy are all the Holiday windows and decorated and lit Christmas trees and wreaths everywhere. With that said, NYC’s must-see attraction during the holidays is Rockefeller Center!” With its illuminated angels, oversized ornaments, and iconic ice rink—visiting the Center is a classic NY winter experience for families, couples, tourists, and everyone in between. And, of course, people come from around the world to see the Rockefeller Christmas tree adorned with over 50,000 LED lights and topped with a Swarovski crystal star!  

6. Sip on some hot chocolate while you enjoy a harbor cruise

New York’s sparkling lights and stunning views are even more enchanting during the holiday season. Prolific NYC photographer and cinematographer Ed Hafizov of Zorz Studios gave us a really cozy idea for how to enjoy them with someone you love! “Warm up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate from spots like City Bakery or Serendipity 3, and, for a truly festive evening, take a harbor cruise offering views of the city skyline twinkling with holiday lights!” Of course, the Staten Island Ferry is free and offers views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Lower Manhattan, but you can also book a narrated tour from a number of local cruising companies. Many of these sightseeing cruises feature festively decorated cabins, and some also offer cocktails and dining.  

7. Enjoy The Morgan Library & Museum’s holiday displays

He also introduced us to “a few lesser-known holiday gems in NYC to add a unique sparkle to your trip,” one of which is the Morgan Library & Museum. “While many flock to famous museums, the Morgan Library offers an intimate and refined seasonal experience. Explore their beautiful Christmas decorations, festive programming, and even rare manuscripts, such as Charles Dickens’ original A Christmas Carol draft, on display during the holidays.” 

8. Discover the LuminoCity Festival

“Located on Randall’s Island, this vibrant light festival offers stunning illuminated sculptures and themed installations,” says Hafisov. “It’s an Instagram-worthy wonderland, far from the crowds of Manhattan, and ideal for an offbeat adventure with friends or family. The Morgan Library and LuminoCity Festival provide a refreshing escape from the typical tourist spots, letting you experience NYC’s holiday charm from a new perspective!” 

9. Enjoy the magical holiday sights along Fifth Avenue

Native Manhattanite and founder of NYC-based Swoon Spaces, Natalie Ron, pointed us in a more traditional direction, beginning with a stroll along Fifth Avenue to admire the elaborate window displays at stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue. “Each year, they outdo themselves with creative themes,” she says. “I do this every year with my mom, and the creativity and scope of these displays are always so breathtaking, inspiring, and impressive!” At the end of Fifth Avenue (about a mile from Saks), you’ll find Washington Square Park, offering many holiday activities, and a Christmas tree framed by the Washington Square Arch. “It’s a local favorite and less crowded than Rockefeller Center.”  

Ellie Seymour, travel writer and founder of  New York On My Mind, had the same thought. “I recommend bundling up, grabbing a hot chocolate and hitting the streets to check out some of the city’s famous department store holiday window display,” she said. “New York has some of the world’s fanciest department stores with seasonal window displays to match, a tradition dating back to the late 1800s. Each one is a work of art that involves dozens of craftspeople and thousands of hours to create. Some of the best are found at Bergdorf Goodman and Saks both on Fifth Avenue, whose windows come November are transformed into colorful theatrical scenes filled with all kinds of knickknacks that attract a lot of attention. After soaking up the scenes, I’d head to Central Park for a wander or a carriage ride. ”

While you’re there, Kate Edmonds of KateEdmondsEvents told us about some hidden gems to visit. “In Saks Fifth Avenue go to the Ski lodge bar below L’Avenue; it makes you feel though you have arrived in Aspen with some fancy friends,” she said. “My personal favorite windows to look at in Manhattan are at Bergdorf’s, which are probably the best in the world! After admiring the display, you can see the decorations inside and go up to the bar-restaurant on the 7th floor for a glass of bubbly and enjoy the beautiful views of Central Park. The shopping there on 7th can be great for those who love a petite luxury. Have them wrap your purchase. Your gift will for sure be a great hit.”

10. Attend a performance of The Nutcracker

“This classic ballet at Lincoln Center is a beautiful holiday tradition,” says Ron. Every year since 1954, the New York City Ballet has enchanted audiences with its rendition of Balanchine’s timeless story. The music and dancing are mesmerizing, of course, but the set will blow you away, too. With its dazzling snowflakes, 40-foot Christmas tree, and stunning effects like the “Waltz of the Flowers,” you’ll be transported to another world of Christmas magic!  

11. Take a holiday-themed walking tour

“There is no place in the world like New York City in December,” says Lori Pickhardt. And she should know, as a manager for Tours by Foot, it’s literally her job to show guests around the city. “The best thing about visiting NYC during the holidays is that there is an endless supply of holiday cheer,” she says. “The city is decorated to the hilt, the window displays are phenomenal, and there are several holiday markets all over where you can eat food and buy gifts and souvenirs. Even the restaurants have decor to get you in the mood!”  

Having a hard time deciding where to start? Pickhardt has you covered with holiday-themed walking tours around the city where someone takes you to see these spots and gives you the backstory! “We offer a Holiday Lights tour in Midtown Manhattan, a Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour in Brooklyn, and a Christmas Movie tour in Midtown and Central Park.”  

12. Eat, drink, and shop at Snug Harbor’s Holiday Hop

If you’re looking for a unique way to get into the holiday spirit (and pick up some one-of-a-kind gifts while you’re at it), look no further than the peaceful borough of Staten Island! This vibrant community area is home to the Snug Harbor Holiday Hop, a two-day event celebrating the season in style. Meredith Sladek, marketing and communications manager for the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden let us in on what to expect.  

“The market hosts over 150 vendors, all based in Staten Island and NYC, plus food and music. Taking place throughout six historic buildings on Snug Harbor’s campus, the Holiday Hop includes Snug Harbor’s Cottage Row Curiosities, the Staten Island Museum’s Edible Island Market, the Noble Maritime Collection’s Culture Shop, and Art Lab’s Handcrafted Holiday Market.” You’ll also find live music, food, and beverages for every taste. It’s the perfect place to eat, drink, and be merry! 

Good to know: The market runs December 7-8 from 11 am to 4 pm. Snug Harbor is just a half-hour free ferry ride from Manhattan and a quick bus ride to campus on the S40 or S44! 

13. Get out for dinner and a show

Jaime Kaloustian, licensed realtor and leasing manager for Alpha Properties NYC, knows how to score tickets for the best performances in the city without breaking the bank—if you’re willing to get to the box office early or spend some time waiting in line. “Catch a matinee Broadway show with lottery/rush tickets,” says Kaloustian. The rush and lottery programs took shape when the producers of Rent wanted to make Broadway tickets more accessible and affordable to everyone, and they’ve been delivering huge blockbusters to the people ever since. After the show, spend the money you’ve saved on “dinner at a lavishly decorated restaurant such as Lillie’s Victorian Establishment or Oscar Wilde.”  

Good to know: The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular, Elf, The Lion King, Wicked, and Aladdin are just a few examples of Broadway shows offered this holiday season. For a complete listing and ticket guide, visit Broadway.org. 

14. Make a holiday wish at Luminaries at Brookfield Place

“New York City during the winter holidays is nothing short of magical,” says Gianluca Sardo, president of The Glasshouse, a waterfront penthouse event space in the heart of Manhattan. “As President of The Glasshouse, I’ve come to appreciate the city’s unique charm during this season. For example, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is iconic, and skating beneath its sparkling lights is an unforgettable experience. The Residents go all out with incredible light displays in the Dyker Heights neighborhood, and holiday markets like Bryant Park’s Winter Village and Union Square’s Holiday Market are fantastic for finding unique gifts and enjoying seasonal treats.” 

But for a more intimate experience, Sardo recommends a visit to the Luminaries exhibit “offering stunning visuals and festive vibes” at Brookfield Place in Lower Manhattan’s Winter Garden. It’s an interactive exhibit created by the LAB at Rockwell Group featuring 650 lanterns suspended in a canopy-like arrangement that illuminates the space with dynamic colors and patterns. Visitors can make a wish at one of three “wishing stations” throughout the exhibit, triggering a personalized light display in the lanterns above. The exhibit’s choreographed light shows set to holiday music are free to enjoy, and in the true spirit of giving, Brookfield Place donates $1 per wish to local charitable organizations.   

15. Don’t miss Bryant Park’s Winter Village

Tamara Chaponot, president of NYC’s Clever Alice, recommends a magical day in Bryant Park’s Winter Village to get into the holiday spirit! “The Bryant Park Winter Village is a quintessential holiday destination in the heart of New York City,” she says. “Every year, this festive wonderland transforms the park into a magical escape filled with holiday cheer, perfect for locals and visitors alike!” 

“At the Center of the Winter Village is the iconic ice-skating rink. On this picturesque spot, skaters of all levels can glide beneath twinkling lights surrounded by the city’s iconic skyline. Best of all, admission is free, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy. Encircling the rink, the Holiday Shops offer an extraordinary selection of gifts from local artisans and small businesses. You’ll find something for everyone, from beautifully handcrafted jewelry and luxurious candles to artisanal soaps and unique décor. It’s the perfect place to support local merchants while checking off your holiday shopping list.” 

“And no visit to Winter Village is complete without stopping at the crepe stand for a warm Nutella crepe paired with a steaming cup of hot chocolate—comfort food that will delight all ages. The Bryant Park Grill offers an elegant dining experience for a more substantial meal, making it a cozy retreat from the brisk winter air.” 

16. Check out Dyker Lights in Brooklyn

As co-founder of Sunlight Cleaning NY, Iryna Balaban feels fortunate to take care of her customer’s homes so they have more time to enjoy the city’s festive attractions! “NYC is truly magical this time of year, and there is no shortage of things that make your heart full and happy,” she says. “One of my favorite winter holiday activities in NYC is to stroll around Dyker Heights. If you like Christmas lights, this part of town will blow your mind. Houses covered in the most amazing decorations—it’s pure holiday magic!” You’ll find ornate lighting displays, synchronized music and giant inflatable and animatronic Santas, nutcrackers, snowmen, and more. Some of these impressive displays are professionally designed, adding to the area’s draw. You can explore at your own pace or take a guided bus tour for extra insights into the displays and the neighborhood’s history. If you do choose to check it out on foot, peak hours are nightly from 5 to 9 pm. Be sure to be respectful; it’s easy to forget that these are actually people’s residences!  

17. Take a private vintage cab tour

“People visiting NYC are often looking to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” says Chandler F., creative director at Enchanting Engagements. “Our couples love the classic 1950s cab proposal package because it is one of the more unique ways to enjoy NYC.” Whether you’re planning to propose or are just looking for an interesting way to see the holiday lights, a guided tour via classic car is a glamorous and stylish way to see the sights! Packages are available for a variety of locations, attractions, and occasions—a quick Google search is a good place to start. 

18. Take a stroll in Central Park

“As someone who thrives in the fast pace of NYC, I’ve found the winter holidays here to be an unbeatable mix of tradition, magic, and reinvention,” says Rasa CEO Lenny Chase. “There’s something about this city during the colder months that energizes you, and there’s no better way to start a winter day in NYC than with a walk through Central Park.” 

“The park transforms into a wonderland, with snow-dusted trees and frozen lakes creating a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. I like to grab my favorite warm drink (our Peppermint Cacao blend!) and find a quiet bench near the pond,” he says. “It’s the perfect place to reflect, recharge, and even brainstorm ideas for our next steps. The calmness of Central Park in the morning reminds me of why wellness matters. It’s a space where I can reconnect with myself.” 

19. Check off your list at Union Square Market

There’s no shortage of places to shop for the holiday season in New York, but Chase recommends an afternoon at Union Square. “This market is quintessential NYC during the holidays. Strolling through the rows of vendors, you’ll find handmade gifts, local crafts, and delicious seasonal treats. I love supporting small businesses, so discovering unique items here is not just shopping—it’s an experience,” he says. “For me, the Union Square Market is a reminder of how a city as big as New York can still feel intimate. Each vendor has a story, just like us. When I shop here, I’m inspired by the passion these creators pour into their work—it’s the same spirit that drives me as an entrepreneur! These two experiences—finding peace in the park and connecting with local creators—capture the essence of NYC’s holiday magic. They’re a perfect balance of energy and reflection.” 

20. Skate at Wollman Rink

“There’s joy in experiencing something you grew up watching in movies or hearing about from others. Skating at Wollman Rink as snow begins to fall should be on everyone’s bucket list,” says Bret Pidgeon, General Manager of Wollman Rink. “Even if you’re a big skater, drinking a hot chocolate in one of our rink-side igloos, or enjoying a meal by the local Melba’s on the overlook are must-tries.”  

Whether you’re lacing up your skates or savoring comfort food in a cozy igloo, Wollman Rink offers a quintessential New York experience. It’s a place where tradition meets magic, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s winter charm.   

Enjoy NYC this holiday season! 

The Big Apple is sure to dazzle you any time of the year, but there’s nothing quite like NYC in the wintertime. Dynamic, inclusive, and magical, you won’t find holiday celebrations like these anywhere else! Whether you’re just stopping by or are looking for the right place to put down roots, we hope this list of locals-endorsed things to do fills your holiday season with lots of big-city merriment and cheer. Happy holidays!