There’s nothing quite like Christmas in New York City. I’ve always dreamed of traveling to NYC during the Christmas holidays and this dream finally came true! I had such high expectations from Christmas in NYC, and it’s safe to say that I was NOT disappointed! If you’re looking for a magical holiday trip with tons of festive cheer and amazing insta-worthy spots, going on a getaway to see the New York City during December will not disappoint you!
Want to check out other Insta-worthy spots in New York City? Check out The Instagram Travel Guide to New York City
NEW YORK CHRISTMAS SPOTS
During Christmas, New York City is one of the most picturesque destinations in the world. The city is draped in lights and festive decor, creating so many beautiful insta-worthy spots for you to explore! I’ve curated this list below of instagrammable spots in NYC during Christmas to help you plan your trip and capture amazing holiday content.
CARTIER FIFTH AVENUE MADISON
The stores in NYC truly go over-the-top for their decorations during the holiday season. The Cartier store in particular is my favorite; it is all wrapped up in a giant red bow and full of golden Christmas lights. This street corner in the 5th avenue shopping area is absolutely iconic and a must-visit on your New York Christmas trip!
ROCKEFELLER CENTER
For me, nothing is more iconic New York City Christmas than the Rockefeller Center. Seeing this tree was a HUGE bucket-list check for me and it is quite possibly the most photogenic Christmas tree in the world. Rockefeller Center
I recommend coming during the day and at night to see the Rockefeller Christmas tree because both are equally as magical! Pro tip: if you want to ice skate here, make sure to reserve far in advance because tickets sell out fast!
SAKS LIGHT SHOW
Located adjacent to the Rockefeller center is the equally stunning, Saks Light Show. This light show spans the facade of the Saks Fifth Avenue store directly across from the Rockefeller tree. The show illuminates the building from late November to early January from 5 pm to 11 pm each night, running for 3-4 minutes every 10 minutes or so.
RALPH’S COFFEE AT THE ROCKEFELLER CENTER
Ralph’s Coffee is a cute Christmas coffee truck pop-up created by Ralph Lauren. It serves up warm coffees, pastries, and hot cocoa nearby the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Ralph’s Coffee also has locations on Madison Avenue and nearby the Flatiron building if you prefer indoor seating.
RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL
Radio City Music Hall is home to the world-famous Rockettes dancers. The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular is a must-see performance during the holidays! I love that Radio City Music Hall building has the festive spirit with a giant Christmas tree on the facade and giant candy cane decor in the plaza across the street.
This spot is also so beautiful at night. The fountain across from Radio City Music Hall has giant red ornaments and trees glittering with Christmas lights for another super cute photo spot.
HUDSON YARDS
The lights at Hudson Yards shopping center are some of my favorite in New York City during Christmas. They drape the main entry way in gold strands of lights and illuminated hot air balloons, plus there are a ton of great shops to do Christmas shopping!
ROLF’S
Rolf’s German Restaurant is a New York Christmas institution. It is the OG Christmas Bar and one of the most popular spots to visit for a Christmas drink in New York during the holiday season. Rolf’s does take reservations for dine-in and purchase of food is required, but reservations fill up fast during the holidays. If you prefer to get a drink at the bar, walk-in’s are welcome. If you chose to walk-in, you will definitely have to wait in a line to get in and it’s super crowded inside once you finally are allowed in! Drinks are required for entry, but they’re festive and delicious.
Pro tip: come before the holiday season begins for an empty bar! The decor stays up year-round at this Christmas bar
DYKER HEIGHTS BROOKLYN
Dyker Heights is a suburban neighborhood in Brooklyn that goes ALL out for Christmas lights. If you have the chance to venture over to Brooklyn, absolutely check out the epic Christmas light displays located on 83-86 St. My favorite house here is located on 84th St!
UPPER EAST SIDE DOOR STEPS
The Upper East Side does Christmas decor big! So many of the beautiful townhouse stoops are decked out in holiday decor during this time of year. Some of my favorite stoops are at 76th St and 64th St between Madison and 5th Ave.
Remember, these are homes so be respectful! 🙂
PAPILLON
Papillon is a bistro and cocktail bar that gets dressed up in over-the-top festive decor during the holiday season. This Christmas Spot is a great spot to meet friends for bites and cocktails.
LILLIE’S VICTORIAN ESTABLISMENT
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment is another NYC Christmas Bar and bistro hot spot. Their location at Union Square has the cutest holiday decor and immaculate vibes!
BRYANT PARK
Bryant Park puts on a Christmas Market and Ice Skating rink every holiday season. The Christmas market has local food vendors, cute shops and lots of holiday spirit! Make sure to reserve in advance if you plan to ice skate here as reservations fill up far in advance.
THE PENINSULA
The Peninsula is a 5-star luxury hotel in New York City that has a beautiful Christmas tree and super cool roof-top igloo bar if you can manage to snag a spot! P.S. Professional cameras are not allowed here!
