Christmas in NYC holiday guide - Episode 80
There is truly nothing like Christmas in New York City.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or you’ve lived here for years, the city in December feels like one big movie set.
From iconic trees to pop-up markets, sparkly windows, and cozy holiday drinks, this guide covers every spot you should add to your list this season.
Create & consume:
What Austen is creating this week: date night passport series on Instagram and TikTok where Andrew and I try different cuisines for date night
What Austen is consuming this week: The Pitt on HBO…addicting!
Christmas trees to see
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The most iconic Christmas tree in the world — and for good reason.
It’s stunning, enormous, and dazzling at night.
When to visit: Early mornings or late nights for fewer crowds.
Photo tip: Stand slightly off to the side near the Channel Gardens for the best angle.
Skip the tree lighting: The lighting ceremony looks magical on TV but is extremely crowded in person and visibility is limited.
The Tree at The Palace Hotel
The courtyard tree is gorgeous every year and gives major holiday nostalgia.
And if you’re a Gossip Girl fan, this spot will give you all the Upper East Side nostalgia.
I actually ranked my top three Gossip Girl moments, outfits, plot lines, and more in Episode 78, so check that out if you want to fully dive back into the chaos of the UES.
Bryant Park Winter Village Tree
You’ll find this next to the ice rink and surrounded by holiday shops.
It’s one of the coziest spots to wander, skate, and grab snacks.
Washington Square Park Tree
Placed perfectly under the arch — classic New York vibes and usually far less crowded than Midtown.
FiDi Christmas Tree by the NYSE
Beautiful lights among historic buildings. It feels like stepping back in time during the holidays.
Festive neighborhood & lighting walks
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights (Brooklyn)
One of NYC’s most famous holiday neighborhoods — think massive decorations, over-the-top displays, and a truly festive vibe.
When to go: Early December through Christmas Eve, ideally on weeknights.
Pro tip: Stay on the main streets and follow the crowds.
Sixth Avenue Lights (Around 49th Street)
Oversized ornaments, giant toy soldiers, and glittering lights everywhere — perfect for a quick Midtown stroll.
Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows
A holiday rite of passage.
Don’t miss: Saks’ light show, the Cartier ribbon-wrapped building, and the Louis Vuitton installation.
Holiday markets
Perfect for gifts, snacks, and the best festive atmosphere:
Bryant Park Winter Village
Urbanspace Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Urbanspace Union Square Holiday Market
Grand Central Holiday Fair (indoors, great on cold days!)
Best places to get hot chocolate in NYC
Whether you love rich, classic hot cocoa or something a little more decadent, these spots deliver:
Hot chocolate stands at all holiday markets
Angelina Paris (Midtown) — Parisian-style drinking chocolate
Hungarian Pastry Shop (Morningside Heights) — cozy, charming, old-school
Bar Pisellino (West Village) — chic Italian vibes
Max Brenner (Union Square) — iconic molten chocolate drinks
Glace (Upper East Side — pronounced Gloss) — extremely aesthetic and delicious, line can get long
Notable restaurants & bars with holiday decor
Rolf’s German Restaurant (Gramercy)
Famous for floor-to-ceiling Christmas decor year-round.
Tip: Go off-season for a shorter wait, or stop by right when they open for a drink.
Lillie’s Victorian (Union Square)
Always beautifully decorated and very festive.
Boucherie (West Village)
Their holiday decorations transform the entire restaurant.
Jingle Jangle at The Dead Rabbit (FiDi)
A holiday pop-up from one of NYC’s best bars.
Blitzen’s Bar at the Omni Berkshire (Midtown East)
Cozy seasonal cocktails in a festive hotel setting.
Grinchy’s at Roberta’s (Bushwick)
A fun, Grinch-themed holiday pop-up experience.
Snowday in Brooklyn (South Williamsburg)
Warm and festive with great drinks.
Miracle on 9th Street (East Village)
The original Miracle holiday pop-up — maximalist decor, holiday mugs, and themed cocktails.
Loreley Beer Garden (Lower East Side)
Great for festive outdoor seating and big groups.
Chic hotels with cafes & bars worth visiting
The Beekman (FiDi)
One of the most beautiful hotel lobbies in NYC — magical during the holidays.
Fouquet’s (Tribeca)
Parisian luxury meets holiday charm.
The Plaza (Central Park)
So iconic, especially if you can book afternoon tea.
The Carlyle (Upper East Side)
Classic, timeless elegance.
Chelsea Hotel
Newly updated and eclectic with a cozy lobby bar.
Waldorf Astoria
Just reopened — perfect for a glamorous holiday moment.
Skating time
Choose your rink based on your vibe:
Central Park — classic and scenic
Bryant Park Winter Village — skate next to the tree and shops
Brookfield Place (FiDi) — waterfront views
Domino Park (South Williamsburg) — cool, less crowded
Roebling Rink (DUMBO) — amazing skyline backdrop
Hidden gems
Less-Crowded Photo Spots
Cute cafés, small museums with holiday decor, decorated bakeries, and random cozy corners — perfect for holiday content without the Midtown crowds.
Columbia University’s College Walk does a tree lighting that’s beautiful if campus is open to the public.
Pop-Up Experiences & Installations
Follow brands, NYC creators, and local guide accounts on Instagram — pop-ups appear and disappear quickly during December.
Holiday Magic Outside Manhattan
Queens Botanical Garden — Winter Wonder Event (12/7)
Brooklyn Botanic Garden — Lightscape Installation
Bronx Botanical Garden — Holiday Train Show
Summary
Christmas in New York truly feels like stepping into a real-life holiday movie.
From iconic trees and sparkling lights to cozy cafés, festive bars, and hidden winter gems across all five boroughs, the city transforms into something magical this time of year.
I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect holiday itinerary—whether you're visiting for the first time, reliving memories, or looking for new spots to explore this season.
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