A Festive NYC Christmas ItineraryThere’s nothing like Christmas in NYC! This itinerary combines the best festive spots along with the city’s most iconic attractions, for an unforgettable time!Authorspicturesandwordsblog
DestinationsNew YorkItinerary

Where to stay

Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel
You can’t beat the location of this upscale hotel, close to many of the top holiday attractions in NYC. The rooms are super spacious, comfortable, and have views of Midtown Manhattan.
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citizenM New York Times Square
This is an excellent choice for couples and solo travelers, conveniently located near many of the best attractions in the city.
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Day 1

Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is basically the hub of Christmas in NYC, featuring a magnificent Christmas tree that arrives the week after Thanksgiving. Come early in the morning for the fewest crowds!
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The Rink At Rockefeller Center
Skating at Rockefeller Center is an iconic experience! Book the first time slot of the day for the fewest crowds (it’s cheaper too!)
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Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York City Ticket
Top of the Rock has the best views in town, thanks to its location smack dab in the middle of the city. You can see the entire city from here, and you get a picture perfect view of the Empire State Building
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The Plaza
One of the most famous and prestigious hotels in NYC, the Plaza has also featured in a number of Christmas movies. Check out the decorations at the Pulitzer Fountain behind the hotel, but also don’t miss the decorations in the lobby.
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Radio City Music Hall
One of the most iconic performance venues in NYC, and home of the Rockettes, who put on their Christmas Spectacular every year. There’s also some fun Christmas decorations surrounding the theater, from giant ornament balls to candy canes.
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Saks Fifth Avenue
The flagship location of Saks on Fifth Avenue puts on a spectacular light show set to music. The show takes place every 15 minutes after sundown and is a must-see. Afterwards, be sure to check out all the holiday lights and displays on the storefronts of Fifth Avenue.
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Times Square
It may be super touristy, but you can’t go to NYC and not see Times Square. There’s nothing quite like the spectacle of Times Square, and you gotta see it at least once. Just don’t spend too much time here, because there are much more interesting places in NYC!
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Day 2

Central Park
One of the largest urban parks in the world, Central Park as a number of beautiful attractions. You won’t see it all, but you can see some of its top sights in a few hours.
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Wollman Rink
Located in Central Park, the Wollman Rink is one of the city’s most unique skating rinks. Glide across the ice while taking in the park’s natural beauty, while also gazing at the tall skyscrapers surrounding it.
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NYC Empire State Building Observation Deck Ticket
Arguably the most famous skyscraper in the world, the Empire State Building is one of the lasting icons of New York City. During the Christmas season, the viewing platforms are decked out in trees, garlands, and other festive decorations.
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230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
New York City has no shortage of amazing rooftop bars, which are worth visiting even in the winter. 230 Fifth has some impressive views of the Empire State Building. They have heated igloos which are available on a first come, first serve basis.
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Chelsea Market
This food and retail marketplace features a variety of vendors with a global perspective, and is a fantastic place to shop for some unique holiday gifts. There are plenty of food options here as well.
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The High Line
One of New York City’s most unique attractions, the High Line is an elevated park and walkway built on former railroad tracks. You’ll find it dotted with garden areas, art installations, and some amazing views over the city.
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Hudson Yards
One of the newest and trendiest developments in Manhattan, Hudson Yards is home to a number of office buildings, retail shops, and dining, along with a few interesting attractions. You’ll also find some of the city’s best Christmas decorations at the Shops at Hudson Yards, which is decked out in millions of sparkling string lights.
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Day 3

Bryant Park
Start the day off at the Winter Village at Bryant Park. The village takes over most of the park and features an ice skating rink, European-style Christmas Market, food vendors, igloos, a Lodge, and more.
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Union Square Holiday Market by Urbanspace
The largest holiday market in NYC, boasting over 160 vendors mostly focusing on local markers and small businesses.
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Rolf's
It’s Christmas year-round at Rolf’s, which features over-the-top decorations everywhere you look! It’s super popular during the Christmas season, so reservations are a must.
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Oculus World Trade Center
A transportation hub and shopping center located near where the World Trade Center once stood, the Oculus has a striking design. There’s also a small Christmas Market here.
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Brooklyn Bridge
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is one of those iconic NYC experiences. It takes both 30-45 minutes to walk across the bridge. Once on the Brooklyn side, explore the DUMBO neighborhood.
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Juliana’s
You can’t go to NYC and not enjoy some pizza. There’s always debate about which spot had the best pizza, but you can’t go wrong with Juliana’s.
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Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Dyker Heights isknown as one of the best neighborhoods to see Christmas lights in the country. The residents of this neighborhood, located in Southwestern Brooklyn, all deck out their houses with over-the-top Christmas displays.
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