Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in December
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in December
1. Rockefeller Center
New York’s holiday heart: the towering Christmas tree, the famous ice rink, and dazzling window displays nearby make this Midtown plaza pure magic for families.
✓ Why Go:
Kids feel like they’re inside a holiday movie—tree selfies, rink watching, and the buzz of Fifth Avenue all in one compact, stroller-friendly area.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings or late evenings in early December to avoid peak crowds; after dusk for the tree lit up.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the underground concourse to move warm and crowd-free between shops, subway, and the plaza; grab hot cocoa before heading outside.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the wow-factor tree and festive energy, noting it’s crowded but unforgettable for kids.
2. Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular
The Rockettes’ high-kicking holiday tradition blends music, dance, and storybook sets in a grand theater kids find mesmerizing.
✓ Why Go:
A quintessential NYC December experience that’s lively, visually stunning, and just the right length for young attention spans.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Matinee performances on weekdays are calmer and kid-friendly; arrive 45 minutes early for security and photos.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring small ear protection for sensitive kids and pick aisle seats for easy bathroom breaks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents call it a feel-good must-do that keeps kids engaged from the opening number to the finale.
3. American Museum of Natural History
Dinosaurs, giant whales, and immersive halls create a warm indoor adventure; seasonal displays add festive flair in December.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a cozy retreat on chilly days where kids can roam, learn, and burn energy without braving the cold for hours.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Right at opening on weekdays or late afternoons; plan 2–3 hours to keep little legs happy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve timed entry and target one wing (dinosaurs, ocean life) to avoid museum fatigue; bring layers for coat-check lines.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families praise the awe factor and easy wins for all ages—from toddlers to tweens.
4. Bryant Park Winter Village
Free-to-enter holiday market and rink in Midtown with twinkling lights, kid-friendly treats, and a carousel amid skyscrapers.
✓ Why Go:
Skate under the skyline, browse whimsical kiosks, and warm up with hot chocolate—all in a compact, family-manageable space.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for skating slots and thinner crowds; after dusk for the most festive atmosphere.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve rink times online and bring your own skates to save on rentals; set a meeting point by the tree if you split up.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents love the variety and open-air magic, noting it feels festive without a big time commitment.
5. New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
Model trains zip through a miniature NYC built from natural materials inside the warm conservatory—pure holiday wonder for kids.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a sit-and-stare spectacle that delights toddlers and train-loving tweens alike, with room to wander indoors.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning timed tickets on weekdays; earlier in December for more availability.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book timed entry well ahead; bring a camera for macro shots of the tiny landmarks and plan a snack stop afterward.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families call it magical, beautifully crafted, and worth the ride to the Bronx.
6. Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
After-dark lanterns, light sculptures, and seasonal performances transform the zoo into a glowing winter playground.
✓ Why Go:
An outdoor, stroller-friendly light experience with animal themes that captivates kids without overwhelming them.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening time slots on weekdays; dress warmly and plan 60–90 minutes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a map at entry and prioritize the lantern trails your kids love most to beat the cold.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents appreciate the space to roam and the gentle, family-focused vibe.
7. Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair
An indoor artisan market beneath the celestial ceiling—festive shopping, warm halls, and easy train-spotting thrills for kids.
✓ Why Go:
It’s weatherproof, central, and pairs browsing with a quick bite while kids marvel at the bustling terminal.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-morning on weekdays; avoid commuter rush (7–9 a.m. and 5–7 p.m.).
✓ Insider Tip:
Show kids the whispering gallery by the Oyster Bar, then reward with a treat from the market vendors.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families enjoy the cozy atmosphere and unique gifts without sidewalk shivers.
8. FAO Schwarz
Iconic toy emporium with hands-on demos, candy counters, and the famous oversized piano.
✓ Why Go:
A dream stop for kids that doubles as a warm-up break near Rockefeller Center’s holiday sights.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Right at opening or during weekday afternoons between rushes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Set a souvenir budget beforehand and beeline to the piano floor before it gets crowded.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents call it delightful and nostalgic, with staff who make interactions feel special.
9. Staten Island Ferry
A free harbor cruise alternative with skyline and Statue of Liberty views—quick, thrilling, and stroller-friendly.
✓ Why Go:
Short attention spans meet big NYC icons, with warm indoor seating and frequent departures.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Clear afternoons for visibility or sunset for golden light; avoid rush hours for more space.
✓ Insider Tip:
Board on the right side leaving Manhattan for Statue views; pack windproof layers for the open deck.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the big views for zero cost and minimal planning.
10. Wollman Rink
An iconic Central Park ice rink ringed by trees and skyline—storybook scenery that enchants kids.
✓ Why Go:
It’s classic NYC skating with ample space and easy park playtime before or after.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning sessions on weekdays for smoother ice and smaller crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve tickets ahead and bring thin socks for snug skate fits; hand warmers help little fingers.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the views and family-friendly vibe, noting it feels less hectic than Midtown.
