There is truly no more magical time to visit New York City than at Christmas. So much so, that I’ve been 6 times during the holiday season. Yes, six trips to celebrate Christmas in NYC! My first visit was with my mom many moons ago, and it completely changed my life. In fact, it led me to the founding of DWD Travel. After a few years, I was able to return to the City, and I just keep coming back! Over time, I’ve realized the best spots and the ones to skip if you want to see the Christmas sights but skip the crowds. Read on for my advice, after nearly 10 visits, 6 during the holidays, for a Christmas trip to NYC.
Plan for Spontaneous Snow
During my last trip to New York, it actually snowed! I say this with excitement, because, believe it or not, seeing snow in December in New York isn’t as common as you’d might think. Out of all of my Christmastime trips, this was only the second time I’d experienced the city blanketed in white. It was completely unexpected, very little chance in the forecast, but the flakes fell and we could not miss the opportunity to relish in it! That morning we had plans to explore the American Museum of Natural History, a must after my kiddos had watched A Night at the Museum, but I literally could not stop them from playing in the snow across the street at Central Park. And I can’t blame them! I was just as excited as they were. So, we played in the snow, explored the museum, then went back for more! All of that to say, prepare for snow in what you pack and how you play.
If You Want to Actually Enjoy Christmas in NYC, Do This
Set your alarm for 5 am. Yeah, I know. I am not a morning person at all, but this will be worth it. Trust me! Now, get your booty up, and get to Rockefeller Plaza, and see the world’s most famous Christmas tree with zero crowds! I’ve done this 3 times now, and it is worth it. every. single. time! I shared more on one of my recent trips here. You can just how few people are there early in the morning.
Then, if you really want to make it worth your while, go ahead and book the 7 am time slot for skating at The Rink at Rockefeller Center. This time of day allows you a bit more space on the rink, as it doesn’t tend to immediately fill up, and a lot less crowds before and after. If there is any advice of mine you take, let it be this!
The Hotspots You’ll Want to See in NYC at Christmas
I won’t tell you not to go to all of the fabulous places you dream of seeing in The City at Christmas. To me, they are every bit as magical as the first time I set eyes on them. Seeing the extravagant window displays in the shops along Fifth Avenue is an adventure in and of itself, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral adorned with Christmas wreaths and bows and their stunning Nativity Scene is breathtaking. There are truly holiday sights at every turn in December in New York. Here are a few of my very, very favorites.
- Christmas Tree & Winter Village at Bryant Park
- Giant Ornaments & Christmas Lights along the Avenue of the Americas
- The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular (so fun, especially with kiddos)
- Saks Fifth Avenue Lights Show & Fifth Avenue Windows
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- Central Park & Columbus Circle Christmas Market
- Grand Central Station Indoor Holiday Market
Something else I love is to venture out of the main areas in neighborhoods with homes and brownstones. Not only will you see stoops adorned for the holidays and Christmas trees in windows, but you’ll find sidewalk stands selling live Christmas trees and wreaths. There is just something so dreamy about that to me. Here in Texas we drive everywhere. And it is hot. We certainly aren’t walking to buy our Christmas trees from the buy on a sidewalk down the block!
Final Thoughts on Christmas in NYC
You can no doubt expect crowds during the holiday season in New York, but with an open mind and patience you’ll have an incredible time! I mean, how could you not? It’s New York City. And it’s Christmas!
It is every holiday movie you grew up watching, brought to life right in front of you. The Rockefeller tree glowing under falling snow, window displays that stop you mid sidewalk, and that crisp winter air that makes a cup of hot cocoa taste like the best thing you’ve ever had. I’ll never forget standing in front of that tree for the first time with my mom, snowflakes landing all around us, feeling like the small town Texas girl in me had finally made it. And then, to bring my kids—dreams that I didn’t even know I had came true! Bundle up, wear the warm boots, and leave room in your schedule to just stand still and soak it in.
If a holiday trip, a snowy honeymoon, or a celebration with the people you love is on your wish list, book a call with me and let’s make your own NYC Christmas memories happen.
