Finally, the holiday season is here and celebrating it in the most remarkable city in the USA brings more excitement and happiness. When winter arrives in New York City, something amazing happens. Everywhere you look, the city sparkles with colorful lights, decorations, and a joyful feeling. It’s like a giant party where buildings, streets, and parks dress up in their holiday best.
From the very tall buildings in Midtown to the quieter neighborhoods in Brooklyn, every part of the city gets into the holiday spirit. People decorate their homes, stores light up, and parks become magical with lights and decorations.
This guide will show you the most amazing places in New York City to see the dazzling lights of Christmas. You’ll discover famous spots and hidden gems, all shining brightly and making the city feel extra special during this time of year.
Come along as we explore the magical places in New York City where Christmas lights make everything sparkle and bring cheer to everyone who visits.
1. Rockefeller Center
A visit to New York during the holidays wouldn’t be complete without seeing the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Rockefeller Center is one of the most iconic and beloved destinations in New York City, especially during Christmas time. It’s renowned for its stunning holiday decorations and festive atmosphere, which attract visitors from around the world.
At the heart of Rockefeller Center stands the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree, a colossal and beautifully adorned tree that serves as a symbol of the holiday season. Each year, a massive evergreen tree is selected and placed in the center, decorated with thousands of dazzling lights and ornaments. The tree lighting ceremony, broadcast live on television, is a highly anticipated event that signals the start of the holiday season for many.
Surrounding the tree, visitors can enjoy the picturesque ice-skating rink, where people of all ages glide gracefully on the ice beneath the towering skyscrapers. The rink is adorned with twinkling lights and offers a quintessential winter experience in the heart of Manhattan.
Moreover, the Rockefeller Center complex features shops, restaurants, and boutiques perfect for holiday shopping or enjoying a warm drink amidst the festive surroundings. So take a moment to visit this place and enjoy the best of this lovely festival.
| Name | Rockefeller Center |
|---|---|
| Website | https://rockefellercenter.com/ |
| Address | 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, United States |
| Contact Number | +1 212-588-8601 |
| Opening Hours | Open 24 hours a day |
| Social Media Links |
Facebook |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/k6sxEDC81fUJkmFf8 |
2. Dyker Heights
Another Christmas light viewing spot is Dyker Heights, located in Brooklyn, New York, which is renowned for its elegant and dazzling Christmas light displays. This spot has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination during the holiday season. This residential neighborhood transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle of lights, decorations, and festive cheer that attracts visitors from far and wide.
Each year, especially during December, Dyker Heights residents go all out to decorate their homes with elaborate and creative holiday-themed displays. The neighborhood becomes a magical wonderland, adorned with an incredible array of lights, animated decorations, and sparkling lights. Some houses feature synchronized light shows set to music, while others showcase larger-than-life decorations like Santa Claus, reindeer, nutcrackers, and more.
Visitors come to Dyker Heights to take leisurely walks or drive through the streets. The creativity of the decorations in Dyker Heights makes it a captivating and festive experience for people of all ages.
Many tour companies also offer guided tours of Dyker Heights’ Christmas lights, providing visitors with a hassle-free way to see the neighborhood’s spectacular displays.
| Name | Dyker Heights |
|---|---|
| Website | NA |
| Address | 12th Ave & 84th St, Brooklyn |
| Contact Number | NA |
| Opening Hours | NA |
| Social Media Links | NA |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/Tz91m4pJfdeDeBf69 |
3. Saks Fifth Avenue
Witness the stunning light show at Saks Fifth Avenue. Their holiday window displays and the light show on the building’s front are a visual delight, showcasing the creativity and spirit of the season.
Saks Fifth Avenue is considered one of the best places to visit during Christmas due to its spectacular holiday display and festive atmosphere. This renowned luxury department store, located in New York City, transforms into a magical wonderland during the holiday season, captivating visitors with its dazzling decorations and joyful ambiance.
One of the main attractions at Saks Fifth Avenue during Christmas is its iconic light show. The store lights the night sky with a breathtaking display of lights that dance and sparkle in synchronization with joyful music. The light show typically features stunning visuals and vibrant colors, creating a mesmerizing experience for viewers of all ages.
Inside the store, visitors can explore a winter wonderland adorned with ornate decorations, long Christmas trees, and elegant holiday-themed decor. The festive ambiance and cheerful spirit make it a delightful place to shop, stroll, and soak in the holiday joy.
| Name | Saks Fifth Avenue |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.saksfifthavenue.com/ |
| Address | 611 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10022 |
| Contact Number | +1 212-753-4000 |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10 am–7 pm Wednesday: 10 am–8 pm Thursday: 10 am–9 pm friday: 10 am–9 pm Saturday: 10 am–8 pm Sunday: 9 am–5 pm |
| Social Media Links |
Facebook YouTube |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/iWHqzJVvz5T7j1Qf6 |
4. Central Park
Central Park during the holiday season is like stepping into a sparkling winter wonderland right in the middle of New York City! Imagine taking a walk through the park, and everywhere you look, there are twinkling lights making everything feel magical. The best part is around the Wollman Rink area; it’s like a scene from a holiday movie with all the beautiful lights and decorations.
You can visit Central Park in the evening when the sun starts to set and the lights begin to shine brightly. Weekends are especially fun because they often have special events happening, adding to the festive vibes. It’s not just about the lights; the whole park gets into the holiday spirit! There are often fun activities going on, like ice skating, carol singing, and maybe even some hot cocoa stands to warm you up.
The atmosphere in Central Park during the holidays is so cheerful and cozy. It’s like everyone there is celebrating together, sharing the joy of the season. So, if you want to experience the magical and festive side of New York City, Central Park during the holidays is the place to be!
| Name | Central Park |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.centralparknyc.org/ |
| Address | Central Park Conservancy, 14 E. 60th Street, New York, NY, 10022 |
| Contact Number | +1 212-310-6600 |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: 6 am–1 am Tuesday: 6 am–1 am Wednesday: 6 am–1 am Thursday: 6 am–1 am Friday: 6 am–1 am Saturday: 6 am–1 am Sunday: 6 am–1 am |
| Social Media Links |
Facebook YouTube |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/dDiapXa2iEG9UuAm8 |
5. Brookfield Place
One of the best places to go in New York City over the holidays is Brookfield Place. You can imagine this place as entering an area that is a magical place with lots of twinkling lights. At Brookfield Place, they have this amazing Winter Garden where they’ve put up a dazzling light display. It’s like walking into a fairytale with all these beautiful lights shining above you, making you feel like you’re in a winter wonderland.
But that’s not all! Inside the building, you will find that everything is nicely decorated with holiday stuff. It’s like someone sprinkled joy all over the place. You’ll see decorations that make you smile and you’ll feel the holiday spirit deep in your heart.
One of the coolest things is this special area called the Winter Garden. It’s indoors, so you don’t have to worry about the cold outside. And once you’re in there, the lights above you will make you feel like you’re surrounded by stars. It’s such a unique and beautiful setting, and it really makes the holiday season feel extra special. So when are you planning your steps towards this lovely Christmas light spot?
| Name | Brookfield Place |
|---|---|
| Website | https://bfplny.com/ |
| Address | 230 Vesey St, New York, NY 10281, United States |
| Contact Number | +1 212-978-1673 |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: 10 am–8 pm Tuesday: 10 am–8 pm Wednesday: 10 am–8 pm Thursday: 10 am–8 pm Friday: 10 am–8 pm Saturday: 10 am–8 pm Sunday: 12 pm–6 pm |
| Social Media Links |
Facebook YouTube |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/fnmUPtPMiWw9pWEq7 |
6. The Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
The Bronx Zoo at Christmas is super special! Imagine walking into a place filled with lots of colorful lights and decorations that make you feel like you’re in a magical wonderland.
During this time, the zoo gets all dressed up with amazing light displays. You’ll see fantastic sculptures made of lights that look like animals, and there are dazzling decorations everywhere. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale!
There’s also plenty of fun stuff for families. You can watch cool performances that are all about the holidays, hear exciting stories, ride on a carousel surrounded by festive lights, and even meet Santa Claus! It’s a blast for everyone, especially kids.
And guess what? You can still see the awesome animals at the zoo! While enjoying the bright lights and activities, you can also visit the animals’ homes and learn about them. It’s a fantastic chance to enjoy the holiday spirit while getting to know some incredible wildlife.
So, going to the Bronx Zoo during Christmas is like entering a world full of beautiful lights, fun things to do with your family, and a chance to see awesome animals. It’s a magical experience that will make your holiday season extra special!
| Name | The Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights |
|---|---|
| Website | https://bronxzoo.com/holiday-lights |
| Address | 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460, United States |
| Contact Number | +1 718-220-5100 |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: 10 am–4:30 pm Tuesday: 10 am–4:30 pm Wednesday: 10 am–4:30 pm Thursday: 10 am–4:30 pm Friday: 10 am–4:30 pm Saturday: 10 am–4:30 pm Sunday: 10 am–4:30 pm |
| Social Media Links |
Facebook YouTube |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZrNs6jBicCUmBHRy8 |
7. Lotte New York Palace
The Lotte New York Palace is a place that shines especially brightly during Christmas time. It’s a stunning hotel that transforms into a holiday spot, attracting both guests and travelers.
During the festive season, this place sparkles with elegant decorations, from grand Christmas trees to beautifully adorned interiors. The iconic courtyard is a sight to see, adorned with lights and festive decorations that create a magical atmosphere.
Visitors can experience the joy of the season with special events and activities hosted within the hotel. There might be seasonal-themed afternoon teas, special holiday menus at their restaurants, or even festive gatherings that bring people together in the spirit of celebration.
But what makes the Lotte New York Palace stand out during Christmas is its exterior display. The hotel’s stunning architecture is adorned with captivating lights and decorations, making it a must-see stop for anyone exploring the city during the holidays. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or just passing by, the Lotte New York Palace captures the essence of Christmas in a truly enchanting way.
| Name | Lotte New York Palace |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.lottenypalace.com/ |
| Address | 455 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States |
| Contact Number | 800 804 7035 |
| Opening Hours |
|
| Social Media Links |
Facebook |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/SfbHVxSddRWw8gWC8 |
8. The New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden is a fantastic place to visit during Christmas because it transforms into a magical wonderland. The garden lights up with beautiful holiday decorations, sparkling lights, and festive displays that make it a must-visit spot during the season.
You’ll find enchanting decorations throughout the garden, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for families, friends, or anyone who loves the holiday spirit. The iconic Holiday Train Show is a big highlight, featuring model trains buzzing through small replicas of famous New York City landmarks made entirely from natural materials like leaves and twigs. It’s fascinating and fun to see!
For anyone looking to experience the enchantment of Christmas in a unique setting, the New York Botanical Garden is a magical place to explore, making it a definite must-visit during the holiday season.
| Name | The New York Botanical Garden |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.nybg.org/ |
| Address | 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458, United States |
| Contact Number | +1 718-817-8700 |
| Opening Hours |
Monday: Federal holidays Tuesday: 10 am–6 pm Wednesday: 10 am–6 pm Thursday: 10 am–6 pm Friday: 10 am–6 pm Saturday: 10 am–6 pm Sunday: 10 am–6 pm |
| Social Media Links |
Facebook YouTube |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/o9fHYnofeM152q4HA |
Final Words
The charm of New York City during Christmas is simply magical. You can easily find the array of holiday lights that adorn its famous landmarks and neighborhoods. From the towering brilliance of Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree to the enchanting displays in Dyker Heights, the city transforms into a winter wonderland that attracts both locals and tourists.
Exploring the festive lights isn’t just about the bright and bustling streets of Manhattan. It’s also about discovering the cozy corners of Brooklyn and other boroughs, where communities come together to create stunning displays that embody the true spirit of the season. Each neighborhood boasts its own unique style, offering a delightful mix of traditional decorations and innovative light arrangements. So if you are planning to make your Christmas even more memorable, you can visit these spots.