Celebrate the Season with the Best NYC Attractions at Christmas
When the city sparkles with twinkling lights and the scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air, there’s no place like New York City during the holidays. The magic of Christmas in NYC transforms streets, parks, and landmarks into winter wonderlands filled with laughter, shopping, and festive cheer.
Whether you’re admiring the New York Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center, gliding across the ice under the stars, or browsing a Christmas Market in NYC, the season offers something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in NYC for Christmas.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & Skating Rink
The centerpiece of Christmas in New York is, without question, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Every year, this towering Norway spruce becomes the city’s most iconic holiday symbol, dazzling visitors with over 50,000 multicolored LED lights and topped with a Swarovski crystal star that weighs nearly 900 pounds.
The tree lighting ceremony, which takes place on December 3, 2025, marks the official start of the holiday season and attracts crowds from all over the world. Visiting the New York Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center is one of the most cherished Christmas activities in NYC.
After admiring the breathtaking display, head down to the Rockefeller Center ice skating rink for Christmas skating. The famous rink offers a quintessential New York winter experience. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or taking your first tentative glides, there’s something magical about skating beneath the twinkling tree lights and city skyscrapers.
Rockefeller Center is conveniently located less than a 10-minute walk from the Carnegie Hotel, making it easy to enjoy both day and night. It’s one of the closest hotels near the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, and the Carnegie’s central Midtown location places you right in the heart of the holiday action.
Bryant Park Winter Village
A short 20-minute walk from the Carnegie Hotel, Bryant Park’s Winter Village is another must-see attraction for anyone celebrating Christmas in NYC. This festive wonderland transforms the park into a European-style holiday market surrounded by glittering skyscrapers.
Stroll through over 100 artisan kiosks selling handmade gifts, ornaments, winter apparel, and gourmet treats. Sip on hot chocolate, indulge in holiday pastries, or pick up unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else.
At the heart of the Winter Village lies the park’s free-admission ice rink, the largest in Manhattan. Bring your own skates or rent a pair on-site, then take in the scenery as you glide beneath the city lights. Afterward, warm up at The Lodge, a cozy après-skate area offering food, drinks, and unbeatable views of the rink.
Grand Central Terminal Holiday Market
If you’re looking for a more traditional and weatherproof shopping experience, the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Market delivers elegance and charm in equal measure. Just a 25-minute walk or 15-minute rideshare from the Carnegie Hotel, this indoor market offers one of the city’s most beloved Christmas activities in NYC.
Set inside the historic Vanderbilt Hall, the market is a feast for the senses. The scent of pine and cinnamon fills the air as you browse beautifully curated booths featuring local artisans, jewelry makers, and designers. From hand-knit scarves and fine art prints to New York-themed gifts, every stall exudes craftsmanship and holiday warmth.
After your shopping spree, take a moment to admire Grand Central’s celestial ceiling mural or grab a festive cocktail at the Campbell Bar, a timeless spot for warming up and unwinding. The market runs from late November through Christmas Eve, offering ample opportunity to find that perfect last-minute gift while escaping the winter chill.
Other Must-See Holiday Highlights Near Midtown
While the Rockefeller Center tree, Bryant Park, and Grand Central top the list, there’s no shortage of holiday magic within walking distance of the Carnegie. Just a few blocks away, Fifth Avenue shines with elaborate holiday window displays at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tiffany & Co. Each storefront transforms into a work of art, showcasing whimsical winter scenes that rival any museum exhibit.
You can also make your way to Radio City Music Hall, less than 10 minutes from the Carnegie, to catch the world-famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. The precision, costumes, and choreography make this performance a beloved annual tradition for locals and visitors alike.
And if you crave a little holiday peace, step into St. Patrick’s Cathedral, just around the corner from Rockefeller Center, for a moment of quiet reflection amidst the city bustle. The candlelit interior and choral music create an unforgettable Christmas atmosphere.
A Perfect Home Base: The Carnegie Hotel
After a day spent soaking up the sights and sounds of Christmas in NYC, retreat to the warmth and comfort of the Carnegie Hotel, an elegant boutique stay nestled in Midtown Manhattan. The hotel’s prime location puts you within walking distance of the New York Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center, the Bryant Park Winter Village, and the Grand Central Terminal Holiday Market, making it the perfect home base for your holiday adventures.
This season, celebrate the magic of the holidays with the best things to do in NYC for Christmas, from iconic tree lightings to charming winter markets, and let the Carnegie Hotel be your home for all things merry and bright.
We look forward to welcoming you this holiday season.