December in New York City is truly a magical time of year. The crisp air is filled with festive cheer, holiday decorations sparkle around every corner, and the city pulses with seasonal energy. If you’re planning a trip and wondering exactly what to do in NYC in December, prepare for an unforgettable experience. From iconic landmarks decked out for the holidays to cozy hidden gems and unique winter activities, the city offers something for everyone looking to embrace the spirit of the season and discover new york unique things to do amidst the festive buzz.
Festive lights illuminate a New York City street scene during the Christmas season, showing the magical atmosphere of what to do in NYC in December.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the best experiences and answer the question “what to do in NYC in December”.
Witness the Iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
No list of what to do in NYC in December is complete without mentioning the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Lit early in the month and shining brightly throughout December, this towering symbol of the holidays is a must-see. Stop by the bustling plaza to soak in the festive atmosphere, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and capture that perfect holiday photo. For a classic New York winter experience, consider gliding on the famous Rockefeller Center Ice Rink right beneath the tree. While the Rockefeller tree is legendary, NYC boasts other beautiful trees worth visiting to admire holiday decorations:
- Brookfield Place: Located at 230 Vesey St., offers stunning waterfront views alongside its festive tree.
- New York Public Library Flagship: Found at 476 5th Ave., enjoy the grandeur of this historic building complemented by holiday decor.
- The Peninsula Hotel: At 700 5th Ave., experience luxury and elegance paired with a festive tree.
- Zucotti Park: Situated at Liberty St. between Broadway & Church St., offers a peaceful spot downtown to enjoy holiday lights.
Lace Up Your Skates at NYC’s Premier Ice Rinks
December marks the peak of ice skating season in New York City, offering numerous outdoor rinks perfect for enjoying the crisp winter air. Skating is a classic answer to what to do in NYC in December for a fun and active outing.
Ice skaters glide on the rink at the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, a popular spot for what to do in NYC in December.
Popular options include:
- Wollman Ice Rink in Central Park: Offering breathtaking city views as you skate.
- The Rink at Rockefeller Center: An iconic, though often crowded, choice beneath the famous tree.
- The Rink at Bryant Park: Part of the Winter Village, this rink is free to use if you bring your own skates.
Embrace Holiday Shopping at Festive Markets
Holiday markets are synonymous with December in NYC, providing charming spots to find unique gifts and enjoy the seasonal ambiance. Exploring these markets is a key part of figuring out what to do in NYC in December for gift shopping and festive treats.
Vendors and shoppers browse at the Bank of America Winter Village holiday shops in Bryant Park, a festive answer to what to do in NYC in December.
Don’t miss these favorites:
- The Holiday Shops at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park: A large market surrounding the ice rink.
- Union Square Holiday Market: Known for its unique artisan crafts and gifts.
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Located at the entrance to Central Park, offering beautiful views and diverse vendors.
Experience Immersive Entertainment: Squid Game and Santa’s Secret
For those seeking unique thrills beyond traditional holiday fare, December in NYC offers some distinct experiences. If you’re looking for adventurous answers to what to do in NYC in December, consider these immersive options.
The Squid Game Experience allows fans to step into challenges inspired by the hit Netflix series. Test your skills in familiar games like “Red Light, Green Light” and the “Glass Bridge”. This experience also includes a Korean-inspired night market, perfect for grabbing themed food, drinks, and merchandise.
Another unique option is Santa’s Secret Holiday Immersive Experience in Hudson Yards. This adults-only event blends festive installations, from giant snow globes to gingerbread scenes, with a vintage speakeasy, offering a naughty and nice twist on holiday fun.
Admire Dazzling Holiday Window Displays
Even if you’re not shopping, strolling along Fifth Avenue and other key streets to admire the department store holiday window displays is a cherished New York tradition and a free answer to what to do in NYC in December. These elaborate, often storytelling, displays are artistic masterpieces.
Key spots include:
- Saks Fifth Avenue: Famous for its stunning light show projected onto the facade.
- Bloomingdale’s: Always featuring creative and captivating scenes.
- Macy’s Herald Square: A classic, often following a whimsical narrative featuring characters like Tiptoe the reindeer.
Witnessing these displays is a simple yet magical way to soak in the city’s holiday spirit.
Explore Festive Light Sculptures at Lektrik: A Festival of Lights
Step off the beaten path and discover Lektrik: A Festival of Lights in Flushing. This event transforms outdoor spaces into a world of vibrant light sculptures. Featuring over 40 handmade lantern displays by more than 150 artists, you can wander through illuminated depictions of rainforests, ancient art, and more. The festival also includes artisan stalls, live entertainment, and food, making it a visually stunning and culturally rich answer to what to do in NYC in December.
Visit Over-the-Top Decorated Spots and Holiday Pop-Ups
Certain places in NYC go above and beyond with holiday decorations, creating immersive, festive environments. Visiting these locations is a fantastic way to capture the holiday spirit and offers great photo opportunities when considering what to do in NYC in December.
Many bars and restaurants deck their halls with enormous bows, glowing trees, and countless ornaments. Iconic spots known for their extreme decorations include Rolf’s, Oscar Wilde, and Lillie’s Victorian Establishment.
Additionally, a variety of holiday-themed pop-up bars emerge in December, offering limited-time festive cocktails and decor. These temporary venues are perfect for a cozy drink and add a fun, transient element to the December scene.
Dine in a Glasshouse or Igloo on the Waterfront
For a uniquely cozy dining experience with festive flair, consider booking a private heated glasshouse or igloo. Santa’s Winter Wonderland at the Watermark is a popular spot for waterfront dining in individual glass structures, offering protection from the cold while providing stunning views.
People enjoy outdoor dining in private igloos at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, a popular choice for cozy experiences when thinking about what to do in NYC in December.
Many other venues across the city also offer private igloos for dining or drinks, including some at Bryant Park’s Winter Village, ensuring you can enjoy outdoor ambiance in warmth and comfort. This is a particularly sought-after experience for those deciding what to do in NYC in December with a group.
Escape the City on a Winter Hike or Festive Day Trip
While NYC is bursting with activity, sometimes a quick escape offers a different perspective on the season. Winter hikes in areas near the city can be surprisingly beautiful, with frosted landscapes offering a serene contrast to the urban hustle. Consider trails in state parks accessible by public transport or a short drive for a refreshing outdoor activity when deciding what to do in NYC in December.
For a full immersion into a festive small-town atmosphere, take a day trip to places like “Christmas City U.S.A.” (Bethlehem, PA). Less than two hours away, this town is famous for its intense holiday decorations, markets, and events, offering a quaint and charming alternative to the big city celebrations.
Savor Delicious Winter Comfort Foods: Ramen and Latkes
December’s chilly weather calls for warm, comforting food, and NYC’s diverse culinary scene delivers in spades. When considering what to do in NYC in December that involves food, ramen and latkes are excellent choices reflecting the season and local flavors.
New York boasts some of the best ramen shops, perfect for slurping down a steaming bowl of savory broth and chewy noodles. From rich tonkotsu to spicy miso, exploring the city’s ramen scene is a delicious way to warm up.
With Hanukkah often falling in December, finding excellent latkes (potato pancakes) becomes a delightful quest. Many delis and restaurants offer their take on this classic, crispy treat, serving them with applesauce or sour cream. Russ & Daughters, Shelsky’s of Brooklyn, and Katz’s Delicatessen are among the notable spots for trying this Hanukkah staple.
Attend a Candlelight Concert or Holiday Show
Immerse yourself in the sounds of the season by attending a special holiday-themed performance. Candlelight concerts, held in atmospheric venues bathed in the soft glow of countless candles, offer enchanting musical experiences, often featuring holiday classics or festive movie soundtracks performed by live musicians. This provides a serene and beautiful option for what to do in NYC in December.
Beyond candlelight concerts, NYC’s famous Broadway scene often features holiday-themed shows, and many theaters host special seasonal performances, from beloved ballets like The Nutcracker to festive concerts and variety shows, adding a touch of performance art to your December itinerary.
Explore Unique Holiday Displays and Experiences
Beyond the mainstream, NYC offers several distinct holiday sights and activities. Discovering these adds depth to your exploration of what to do in NYC in December.
- World’s Largest Menorahs: Witness the lighting of towering menorahs at Grand Army Plaza in both Manhattan and Brooklyn, celebrating Hanukkah with public ceremonies.
- Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: Venture to this Brooklyn neighborhood famous for its incredibly elaborate and competitive home Christmas light displays, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
- Vintage Holiday Trains: Experience a nostalgic commute or joyride on specially run vintage subway trains, a tradition celebrating the holiday season and transit history.
- Louis Vuitton Holiday Light Show: Even without its flagship store on Fifth Avenue, Louis Vuitton offers a spectacular facade light show, adding luxury fashion flair to the street’s holiday sparkle.
The famous Louis Vuitton store facade on Fifth Avenue is illuminated with a festive holiday light show, showcasing luxury style as part of what to do in NYC in December.
Ring in the New Year in Times Square
While New Year’s Eve is the final day of December, planning for it is a major part of what to do in NYC in December. The iconic ball drop in Times Square is a globally recognized event. Join the massive crowd for the live countdown and celebration, or find one of the many parties and vantage points throughout the city offering views of the fireworks or a festive atmosphere to welcome the new year. You can even write a wish on the official NYE confetti earlier in the month!
Discover Cultural Experiences and Relaxation
December isn’t just about holidays; the city’s museums and cultural institutions remain vibrant. Exploring these offers opportunities for learning and reflection amidst the festive energy.
- Museum Exhibits: Check out new or ongoing exhibits. For example, the Brooklyn Museum might feature intriguing collections like a “Solid Gold” exhibit, showcasing the element’s influence across various art forms and periods. This adds a cultural dimension to your list of what to do in NYC in December.
- Botanical Gardens: Enjoy the winter landscape at places like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, which may offer pay-as-you-wish admission on select dates during the winter months. The New York Botanical Garden also hosts the popular Holiday Train Show, featuring intricate model train displays winding through miniature NYC landmarks.
- Spa Retreats: Combat the winter chill and holiday stress by visiting a spa. Some hotels, like The William Vale in Brooklyn, transform their outdoor spaces into Scandinavian-inspired winter spa havens, offering a chance to relax and rejuvenate.
Give Back by Volunteering
The holiday season is a time for giving. Volunteering is a meaningful way to spend your time and contributes positively when considering what to do in NYC in December. Numerous organizations across the city need help distributing food, clothing, or toys, or supporting various causes. Finding a local charity to contribute your time to offers a different, deeply rewarding kind of December experience in NYC.
Other Festive & Unique Activities
The list of possibilities in NYC in December is nearly endless. Here are a few more ideas to round out your plan:
- Cozy up with Hot Chocolate: Seek out the best spots for a rich, steaming cup of hot chocolate, a simple pleasure perfect for a cold day.
- Visit Nearby Christmas Towns: Explore charming small towns near NYC that go all out for the holidays, offering a different pace and feel from the city.
- Check out Holiday House Competitions: Beyond Dyker Heights, other neighborhoods or individual homes might have impressive light displays worth seeking out, showcasing local holiday spirit.
- Explore the Biggest Christmas Store: Visit massive holiday stores like House of Holiday in Ozone Park for an overwhelming selection of decorations and festive goods.
- Catch a New Movie: December often sees major movie releases, making a trip to the cinema a cozy option for a chilly day.
- Visit a Hanukkah-themed Bar: Experience themed pop-up bars celebrating Hanukkah with special decor, drinks, and traditional bites.
- “Northern Lights Express” Immersive Experience: Step into a simulated winter wonderland to “see” the Northern Lights and other icy landscapes indoors.
- Disney on Broadway Exhibit: For fans of theater and animation, explore costumes, props, and history at an exhibit celebrating 30 years of Disney on Broadway.
- Dine at New Restaurants: NYC’s culinary scene is ever-evolving. Discover new openings like Oncheon, offering unique dining concepts inspired by wellness traditions.
- Enjoy Car-Free Fifth Avenue: On select Sundays in December, parts of Fifth Avenue go car-free, allowing pedestrians to stroll and enjoy the holiday displays and atmosphere safely and leisurely.
With so many incredible options, deciding what to do in NYC in December is all about choosing the experiences that resonate most with you. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic sights, the cozy warmth of festive food and drinks, cultural exploration, or unique immersive events, New York City in December promises a truly unforgettable holiday season.