This post is all about everything on my NYC Christmas bucket list.
There’s no denying that Christmas in New York is one of the most exciting and memorable times of the year. Even after four years here, I get butterflies in my stomach when I see the Rockefeller Christmas tree for the first time of the season or the Nutcracker on Broadway. At this point, I’ve created a bucket list of my favorite activities that I repeat every year to feel the holiday cheer, and today I’m sharing it with you. Let’s dive into the NYC Christmas bucket list!
NYC Christmas Bucket List
1. See the Rockettes
We’re kicking off the NYC Christmas bucket list strong with a tradition that started in 1930s – the Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes! The singing, dancing, and toy soldier routine are a spectacle for all ages.
2. Go ice skating
Lace up your skates and enjoy ice skating right in the heart of New York City. My favorite spots are Central Park’s Wollman Rink and, of course, Rockefeller Center. If you have ice skates, you can skate for free at Bryant Park!
3. See the Rockefeller Center tree
The Rockefeller Center tree is a famed holiday attraction attracting 125 million visitors each year. The 75-foot tree is lit at the start of December and is on display through the middle of January. I recommend visiting early in the morning when it’s quietest. If you’re willing to brave the crowds, consider going to the tree lighting ceremony.
4. See store window displays
This is my favorite Christmas tradition! After Thanksgiving, department stores unveil holiday or winter-themed window displays. I make an activity out of it and get hot chocolate and stroll from Bergdorf Goodman’s to Saks Fifth Avenue, stopping at the Cartier store on Fifth Avenue, which is transformed into a giant light-up present, and ending at Macy’s in Herald Square.
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5. Sip hot chocolate
I’ve spent four winters searching for the best hot chocolate in NYC. I’ll save you the time and spill my favorites:
- Ralph’s (it has to be peppermint!)
- Mah-Ze-Dahr
- Bar Pisellino
- Angelina (be warned, this one is rich and decadent and not for everyone)
6. Go caroling in Washington Square Park
This tradition runs over 100 years! In mid-December, the Washington Square Park Christmas tree is lit under the arch, and the neighborhood gathers together to sing Christmas carols. If you miss the lighting, there’s another round of Christmas caroling on Christmas Eve.
7. Go to Dyker Heights
Take a trip to Dyker Heights, a Brooklyn neighborhood famed for it’s over-the-top Christmas decorations. You can expect entire houses covered in lights and lawns chock-full of inflatables featuring Santa Claus, reindeer, nutcrackers, snow globes, and much more. It’s a holiday sensory overload in the best way.
8. Volunteer
While the holidays are a joyful and busy time for most people, it can be a lonely and challenging season for others. I love to slow down and take some time to give back to my community. Some organizations I can recommend are God’s Love We Deliver and The Bowery Group.
9. Board the holiday nostalgia train
For the holiday season, the Transit Museum brings vintage 1930s trains back to the tracks. Take a step back in history as you board the festive holiday nostalgia train, which is the same cost as a Metro Card swipe. You’ll find these trains on the F line. Visit the website for the schedule.
10. Have a drink at Rolf’s (or Lillie’s Victorian)
Rolf’s German Restaurant is known to get decked out for the holidays – we’re talking 15,000 ornaments. This is a quintessential holiday experience, but I’ll warn you, the lines to get in can be hours long, it’s often very crowded inside, and the food and drinks are quite pricey. That doesn’t deter some, but if you want a more low-key experience but still enjoy extravagant decor, I can recommend Lillie’s Victorian Establishment.
11. Go to a holiday market
Holiday markets are my favorite place to find unique gifts made by local artists. You’ll find everything – art, cosmetics, games, home goods, pet accessories, and much more! In my opinion, these are the best holiday markets in NYC:
- Union Square Holiday Market
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market
- Bryant Park Winter Village
- Grand Central Holiday Fair
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12. See the Saks Fifth Avenue light show
New York goes all out for Christmas, and the Saks Fifth Avenue light show is no exception. The side of the store is covered in over 500,000 lights which are synced to music for an impressive performance. You can catch this directly across from Rockefeller Center on 5th Avenue between 49th and 50th Street. The show lasts 2-3 minutes and plays every 10 minutes between 5-11pm.
13. Have dinner in an igloo
Yes, that’s right, igloo dining is becoming increasingly popular in NYC. Invite your friends and cozy up in this unique setup of an enclosed igloo outside. I have an entire guide to igloo dining in NYC, but the highlights are:
- 230 Fifth
- City Vineyard
- Watermark Waterfront Dining
14. Watch It’s a Wonderful Life at IPIC
This 1946 film is considered a Christmas classic. The American Film Institute has even named it one of the 100 best American films ever made! Each year, the IFC Center in Greenwich Village brings it back to the big screen.
15. Go to the New York Botanical Garden for the Holiday Train Show
I have to admit, I’m not the biggest train fan but I still talk about the New York Botanical Garden’s train show even years after first visiting. Enter the glasshouse and be amazed at New York in miniature! You’ll find plant-based replicas of iconic buildings, bridges, and landmarks and of course a cute little steam train circling through it.
16. See the Christmas tree in the Met Museum
The Met Christmas tree is a hidden treasure. In the Medieval Sculpture Hall, you’ll find a 20-foot tree decorated with eighteenth-century angels and Nativity figures. These are the collection of Loretta Hines Howard, a museum guest who offered her collection to the museum for Christmas displays in 1957 and has since become an annual tradition.
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17. See the Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet
Escape to the land of sugar plum fairies at the New York City Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker. This is a popular tradition, and tickets sell out quickly, so try to get yours as soon as you can.
18. Drink an eggnog cocktail at Pete’s Tavern
Pete’s Tavern is the oldest continuously operating restaurant and bar in NYC. During the holidays, you’ll find the tavern ceiling strung in Christmas lights and every wall and shelf covered with ornaments, bows, and tiny Christmas trees. But what you’re really going for is the eggnog, considered by locals to be some of the best in the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it in your cocktail.
19. Eat fondue at The Lavaux
On a cold winter day a few years ago, we stumbled upon The Lavaux and had the most unforgettable fondue. It has since become an annual tradition! The interior feels like you’re in a Swiss ski chalet. Gather your friends together and enjoy a delicious and comforting fondue night.
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20. See the Columbus Circle and Hudson Yards decorations
Shopping centers get jazzed up too. Pop into The Shops at Columbus Circle to see the beautiful origami stars and Hudson Yards to see Christmas trees and hot air balloons hung from the ceiling.
And on that festive note we conclude this NYC Christmas bucket list. From iconic sights to local traditions, there’s so much to enjoy and discover this season. I hope you’re able to experience all the holiday magic the city has to offer!