"I remember my first Christmas in New York City as a kid. My parents brought us into the city to tour the lights and ice skate at Central Park. What I felt then and still feel now is that Christmas in NYC with kids is a magical time. You can’t go wrong with a family holiday in the city.
Heading into the Big Apple is always an adventure, but thereās something that is just so special about New York City at Christmastime. The lights, the sights, the shows, skaters, and shoppingā¦even the crowdsāitās everything. Iām lucky enough to have grown up in the metro area and to live just across the river from Manhattan. So I have some of the best memories of Christmas in NYC, and now, with a daughter of my own, we continue to make new ones each year.
So if youāre thinking of heading into the big city for some festive fun with the family, here are 11 of my absolute favorite things to do for Christmas in NYC with kids: places to see, things to eat and drink, and more!
The Ultimate Guide to NYC at Christmas With Kids
Planning Your Trip
When to Visit New York City During the Holiday Season
The holiday season in New York City is a magical time that typically kicks off in late November and extends through early January. For the most festive experience, plan your visit between December 1st and December 23rd. During this period, the city is fully decked out in holiday decorations, and the festive spirit is palpable everywhere you go. If you prefer a less crowded experience, consider visiting during the weekdays rather than weekends. And donāt forget to keep an eye on the weather forecastāNew York City winters can be quite unpredictable, so itās best to be prepared for anything from mild days to snowy wonderlands.
Where to Stay in New York City with Kids
Finding the perfect place to stay for Christmas in NYC with kids can make all the difference in your holiday experience. Midtown Manhattan is an excellent choice, offering lots of family-friendly hotels and easy access to iconic attractions like Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History. If you want to go for the most classic New York City option, you can’t go wrong with the Plaza Hotel. There’s even a Home Alone experience and of course, the Eloise pink, pink, pink room and afternoon tea. Look to our list of the best hotels for families in NYC for more hotel ideas in the Big Apple.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, consider staying in Brooklyn or Queens. These neighborhoods provide a more relaxed atmosphere and easy to get to Manhattan via subway.
Holiday Activities for Families in NYC
1. Rockefeller Center Tree
Gather āround at the iconic Rockefeller Center for a dazzling display of lights and holiday cheer. The famous Christmas tree, known as the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, is a colossal Christmas tree whose lighting ceremony is a spectacle that will leave your family in awe. I highly recommend watching it on TV before heading in to see the massive glowing tree in real life.
2. Bryant Park Christmas Village
Step into a winter wonderland at Bryant Park’s Christmas Village. With over 170 boutique-style shops and eateries, an enchanting ice skating rink, the iconic Bryant Park carousel, as well as delicious treats, craft hot chocolate, and drinks at The Lodge or Curling Cafeā and bar, it’s really the perfect spot for family fun and holiday shopping. Just try to get there early, and donāt forget to make advanced reservations to skate.
Another must-visit destination for holiday shopping and a festive atmosphere is the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. Located at the southwest entrance of Central Park, this charming open-air market offers a Hallmark movie-like experience with handcrafted goods, gourmet food, and glittering aisles.
3. Santaland at Macyās
Santaland at Macyās Herald Square is the ultimate Santa meet-and-greet. Meet Santa, explore whimsical holiday displays, and capture precious family moments in this festive setting. Pro tip: Beat the crowds by visiting on a weekday morning. Itās like the classic holiday movie Miracle on 34th Street but in real life.
4. Strolling Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue in NYC is a luxury shopperās dream come true, but it really comes to life during the holidays. The massive windows of some of the most major, highly coveted retailers transform into dazzling, artful holiday-themed displays that just ooze holiday spirit and cheer. The stunning Christmas decorations along Fifth Avenue, with their unique designs and festive elements, further enhance the overall holiday experience. Though the Sakes Fifth Avenue light show is cancelled this year, there is still plenty to see down the avenue. Grab a hot chocolate or coffee before you head over, and kids and adults alike will marvel at the seasonal decor.
5. Union Square Holiday Market
A haven for holiday shoppers, over 150 vendors and artisans gather at the Union Square Holiday Market along with award-winning food and treats, making it a great destination for an afternoon with the family. Wander, eat, and enjoy as you find gifts for everyone on your list.
6. The Hard Rock, Times Square
If you plan on staying overnight, thereās no better place or location to call home for your visit than the Hard Rock Hotel New York. Rock ān roll themed, this hotel is in a prime location for Christmas cheer-seekers, just blocks from Radio City, Rockefeller Center, and everything Times Square has to offer. For the season, they also offer āSessions Snowglobesā where you can dine in an igloo on the terrace with holiday music and delicious food and drink.
7. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Seeing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is pretty much a non-negotiable when in town. The show features incredible singing, dancing, special effects, fun surprises, and of courseāthe infamous kickline. With up to five magical shows per day (Iām tired just typing that), the world-famous Rockettes absolutely know how to put on a show.
Last year, my daughter and I even had the incredible opportunity to take a dance class with them at Radio City, which is sometimes offered as a special event. Truly a dream come true for the former dancer in me, and my little aspiring ballerina.
8. Santa’s Winter Wonderland
Located at The Rooftop at Pier 17, this winter wonderland takes you straight into Santa’s home. With a rooftop skating rink, seasonal treats and sweets, and incredible city views, this North-Pole-inspired pop-up is open from November 8th to December 31st. Advanced tickets are recommended.
9. Rolfās German Restaurant
Known for its over-the-top festive decor (think ornaments and lights, everywhere you turn), Rolfās German Restaurant offers hearty comfort foods and craft cocktails where you can sit down, snuggle up and enjoy a family meal. The unique and stunning Christmas decorations at Rolf’s, featuring intricate designs and vibrant colors, enhance the overall holiday experience. For real, it kind of feels like youāre in a Christmas tree.
10. Serendipity3
This iconic spot is home to the famous Frrrozen Hot Chocolate and much, much more. Itās a magical and whimsical setting year-round, but extra special during Christmastime. With oversized portions, a generous childrenās menu (with crayons for coloringāscore!), and even boozy hot chocolates for the adults, Serendipity3 is a place where you can all be kids again, together. Reservations are available online too!
11. Ice Skating in Central Park
No trip to NYC is complete without a visit to Central Park, but during the holidays it somehow becomes even more magical. At Wollman Rink, you can ice skate with the family in one of the most picturesque, quintessentially New York settings. They even have rinkside igloos available for reservations where you can rest, refuel, and recharge.
12. The Nutcracker Ballet
No holiday season in New York City is complete without experiencing the enchanting Nutcracker Ballet. The New York City Balletās production at Lincoln Centerās David H. Koch Theater is one of the most renowned and beloved performances of this holiday classic. With its breathtaking costumes, elaborate sets, and mesmerizing choreography, this classic ballet is a must-see for visitors of all ages. The story of Clara and her magical journey with the Nutcracker Prince is brought to life in a way that captivates both children and adults. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance, as this popular show tends to sell out quickly. Prices range from $50 to $150 per person, offering a range of options to fit your budget.
Aside from the incredible shows and popular events, just being in NYC at Christmas with kids is an experience in itself. If you havenāt made any advance plans, donāt stress. Just go. Take in what you can, and feel the Christmas magic. My best advice? Just be sure to bundle up, pack snacks, and properly caffeinate.
Erin Celletti, Contributing Writer
Erin is an NYC-based writer with a BA in Journalism from Quinnipiac University and two masterās degrees in education. She is a proud mama to a little girl and a lifestyle, beauty, wellness, and trends reports writer. Beyond The Everymom, Erinās editorial work has been featured in publications like Bustle, Allure, Byrdie, The Everygirl, TeenVogue, BRIDES, Sunday Edit, and TODAY.