Experience the magic of the holiday season with our top 5 favorite places to visit in NYC.
From dazzling light shows to winter villages, discover the enchanting moments that make the city sparkle during this holiday season.
New York Botanical Garden
The renowned Holiday Train Show returns bigger and more magical than ever, offering a captivating blend of outdoor and indoor experiences. Let the festive spirit take over as you witness trains zipping past nearly 200 iconic New York landmarks. The warmth of the conservatory adds to the charm, creating a cozy and immersive atmosphere that brings the holiday magic to life while enjoying curated cocktails at an outdoor bar accompanied by music and light bites.
After the train show, visit NYBG GLOW and discover the splendor of the NYC landscape and historic buildings illuminated across the grounds in a spectacle of light. Embark on a 1.5-mile colorful pathway adorned with whimsical installations, reflecting the beauty of the surrounding gardens and collections. The Haupt Conservatory and Mertz Library Building stand as glowing centerpieces, providing the perfect picturesque setting. Thousands of dazzling, energy-efficient festive lights are choreographed to create a sensory experience captivating visitors of all ages. NYBG is located at 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458. HOURS: Open Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 6pm, closed on Mondays.
MET Christmas Tree and Neopolitan Baroque Creche
At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a timeless holiday tradition unfolds with the unveiling of the grand Christmas tree where art, history, and the spirit of the season converge. Standing proud at 20 feet, the resplendent spruce is decorated with a cascade of lights and 200 hand-sculpted Neapolitan crèche figures. Each figure, meticulously crafted in the 18th century, wears jeweled and embroidered costumes, transporting visitors to a bygone era of opulence and artistry. Amidst the traditional nativity scene, lifelike animal figurines – sheep, goats, horses, and even an elephant – complete the immersive display. The MET is located at 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028. HOURS: Open Sunday – Tuesday 10am – 5pm, Closed on Wednesday, Thursday 10am – 5pm, and Friday – Saturday 10am – 9pm.
Bryant Park Winter Village
Nestled in the heart of Midtown, step into the mesmerizing realm of Bryant Park’s Winter Village, where a 17,000-square-foot outdoor ice rink takes center stage against the backdrop of the New York Public Library and iconic skyscrapers. Illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights and crowned by a majestic Christmas tree, the park transforms into a holiday postcard come to life. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as you explore over 180 outdoor holiday shops, offering everything from unique Christmas ornaments to handcrafted jewelry and more. After skating and shopping at the holiday stands, visit The Lodge Deck to enjoy an outdoor atmosphere where you can cozy up with a festive cocktail, enjoy delicious food, and people watch or simply admire the tree. Located at 42nd Street and, 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018 from October 27, 2023 – March 3, 2024. HOURS: Open Monday – Friday 11am – 8pm, and Saturday – Sunday 10am – 8pm.
Holiday at The Seaport
The holiday festivities at The Seaport are truly a winter wonderland experience, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. At Disney’s The Santa Clause’s Winter Wonderland, experience a whimsical waterfront holiday installation while enjoying breathtaking views of the dazzling city skyline on Manhattan’s only rooftop skating rink. When you’re ready to warm up and relax, grab seasonal treats, hot chocolate, and themed drinks from Judy’s Hot Cocoa-inspired café. Located on The Rooftop at Pier 17, 89 South Street, from November 22, 2023, to January 7, 2024. HOURS: Open Monday – Thursday 3pm – 11pm, Friday 1pm – 11pm, and Saturday – Sunday 10am – 11pm.
Visit The Gingerbread City, a fantastical city constructed entirely of gingerbread, sweets, and frosting, after the Winter Wonderland to revisit a childlike wonder while taking in a cityscape of moving trains and ginger buildings that will astonish guests of all ages. Participate in a gingerbread decorating workshop and bring home your masterpiece created with gingerbread from Balthazar Bakery. The Seaport’s holiday celebrations offer a magical, diverse experience for guests to enjoy, whether they’re searching for unique holiday gifts, delicious food, or fun activities. Located at 23 Fulton Street from November 18, 2023, to January 7, 2024. HOURS: Open Monday – Thursday 3pm – 11pm, Friday 1pm – 11pm, and Saturday – Sunday 10am – 11pm.
Christmas Lights in Dyker Heights
The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights display, located in the heart of Brooklyn, transforms the neighborhood into a breathtaking display of holiday cheer with twinkling lights and melodic Christmas carols. Imagine yourself strolling through the snow-kissed streets, surrounded by Santas, jolly snowmen, and festive sleighs that look as though they could have jumped out of your most beloved holiday films. A symphony of festive cheer, Dyker Heights attracts visitors of all ages. The unspoken camaraderie among residents makes Dyker Heights a magical escape, proving that sometimes the best holiday treasures are found in unexpected corners of the city. If you are interested in travelling by foot, plan on visiting anytime between dusk and 9pm. Located from 11th to 13th Avenues to 83rd to 86th St in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn. The light displays emerge after Thanksgiving through the first week of January.
