Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City in December
Top Things to Do in New York City in December
1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Stand beneath the world‑famous spruce as it sparkles above the Prometheus statue and the ice rink, surrounded by angels, flags, and Midtown’s skyscraper canyons.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the city’s most iconic holiday sight and a quintessential NYC memory—especially after dusk when the lights glow brightest.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights in early to mid‑December after 9 pm to avoid peak crowds; arrive just before dusk to watch the lights come alive.
✓ Insider Tip:
For photos without the crush, shoot from the Channel Gardens on 5th Ave or from 49th St facing the star‑topped tree.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it magical and cinematic, though many note heavy crowds—patience pays off for that postcard‑perfect moment.
2. Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Kick off the season with the Rockettes’ precision choreography, live orchestra, and larger‑than‑life stage effects inside the Art Deco grandeur of Radio City.
✓ Why Go:
A beloved New York holiday tradition since 1933, it blends nostalgia with show‑stopping spectacle that delights all ages.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Matinees on weekdays in early December for better availability and prices; evenings closer to Christmas sell out fast.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive 45 minutes early for security and to admire the lobby’s giant chandelier; check the mezzanine for great value sightlines.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the energy and precision; even repeat visitors say it’s a feel‑good must during December.
3. Bryant Park Winter Village
Skate under Midtown towers on a picture‑perfect rink, then browse chalets laden with crafts, ornaments, and cozy bites around the park.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a one‑stop holiday hub—ice skating, shopping, and seasonal treats in a festive open‑air setting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings or late evenings on weekdays for shorter skate lines; peak afternoons get busiest mid‑December onward.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve skate sessions online and bring your own skates to save; the rink perimeter offers free viewing benches.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers love the atmosphere and variety of stalls; noted as lively but manageable with off‑peak timing.
4. Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows
Stroll Fifth Avenue to see elaborate department‑store displays—moving vignettes, glittering backdrops, and music turning the avenue into a living snow globe.
✓ Why Go:
The windows are a free, artful showcase of NYC’s holiday creativity and craftsmanship.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights after dinner or early mornings to enjoy clearer views before tour buses arrive.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start at Saks and walk north toward 59th St to catch the synchronized light show before continuing past other flagship windows.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests describe the walk as joyful and photogenic; patience is needed at the most popular facades.
5. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Marvel at over‑the‑top home displays in Brooklyn where entire blocks glow with animatronics, inflatables, and choreographed light shows.
✓ Why Go:
It’s NYC’s most extravagant neighborhood illumination, turning quiet streets into a holiday wonderland.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings from about 5–9 pm, especially mid‑December; weekends are busiest—choose weeknights for easier walks.
✓ Insider Tip:
Wear warm layers and comfortable shoes; plan a loop around 11th–13th Aves and 83rd–86th Sts for the densest displays.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors are wowed by the scale and community spirit; crowds and limited parking are common gripes.
6. New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
Watch model trains zip through a miniature NYC built from natural materials inside the warmth of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an enchanting, weather‑proof holiday outing with intricate replicas of landmarks and plenty of kid appeal.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning timed entries on weekdays for fewer crowds; prime weekend slots sell out early in December.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book timed tickets in advance and budget time to explore the outdoor light displays after dusk on select evenings.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families and photographers praise the craftsmanship and organization; a perennial Bronx favorite.
7. Grand Central Holiday Fair
Shop artisanal gifts under celestial ceilings inside Vanderbilt Hall—an indoor market that’s cozy even on frigid days.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a classic New York market with quality vendors and easy transit access, perfect for last‑minute gifts.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late mornings on weekdays to browse comfortably; commuter rush hours and lunch times are busiest.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pop up to the Whispering Gallery by the Oyster Bar for a fun acoustic detour between shopping sprees.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers appreciate the curated selection and indoor setting; prices skew higher but goods feel special.
8. Wollman Rink
Glide across Central Park’s storied rink with skyline views and tree‑lined edges dusted in winter frost.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an atmospheric, only‑in‑NYC skating experience away from Midtown’s biggest crowds.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings or late evenings on weekdays; aim for clear, cold days for the smoothest ice.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book online to skip lines and rent lockers; enter from 59th St and 6th Ave for the quickest access.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Skaters love the scenery and vibe; occasional lines are a small tradeoff for the views.
9. Union Square Holiday Market
Browse rows of red‑and‑white booths packed with local art, gourmet treats, and stocking stuffers in a lively downtown square.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a beloved, community‑driven market ideal for unique, NYC‑made gifts and festive street snacks.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons before 4 pm; evenings glow with ambiance but are shoulder‑to‑shoulder closer to Christmas.
✓ Insider Tip:
Warm up with hot cider while you map a loop—then detour to nearby bookstores for bonus browsing.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise the variety and holiday spirit; expect crowds and bring cash for small vendors.
10. Times Square New Year’s Eve
Ring in the new year with the famed ball drop, confetti blizzard, and worldwide countdown amid neon billboards.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a bucket‑list celebration that puts you at the center of a global New Year’s broadcast.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Arrive early afternoon on December 31 to clear security and secure a viewing pen; dress for hours outdoors.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack light (no large bags), layer up, and know restrooms are limited—eat beforehand and bring hand warmers.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Attendees call it electric and unforgettable; the long wait and cold are the tradeoffs for front‑row excitement.
