There's nothing quite like New York City during the holidays. From the sparkling lights of Rockefeller Center to festive holiday markets, world-famous performances, and unforgettable attractions, the Big Apple transforms into a winter wonderland unlike anywhere else.
Whether you're visiting NYC for Christmas, planning a family holiday outing, entertaining out-of-town guests, or simply looking to experience the magic of the season, there's no shortage of exciting things to see and do.
And while the holiday crowds and chilly temperatures are all part of the New York experience, some of the city's best attractions offer a chance to enjoy the excitement from the comfort of indoors.
Wondering what to do in New York City during the 2026 holiday season? Here are 10 of the best holiday activities in NYC, including iconic Christmas traditions, family-friendly experiences, and a one-of-a-kind adventure that lets you soar above the city.
1. Soar Above New York City at RiseNY
Location: 160 West 45th Street, Times Square, Manhattan
Best For: Families, tourists, couples, and indoor holiday fun
Looking for an unforgettable experience in New York City this holiday season? Before you explore the city streets, why not see all of NYC from an entirely new perspective?
Located in the heart of Times Square, RiseNY is an immersive attraction that combines the excitement of a theme park ride with the discovery of a museum, offering an entertaining journey through the history, culture, and iconic landmarks of New York City.
Your adventure begins with an immersive film by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Ric Burns, narrated by Jeff Goldblum, exploring the story of New York City and the people who helped shape it.
Next, journey through seven interactive galleries celebrating NYC's contributions to finance, architecture, film, fashion, radio and television, music, and Broadway. Along the way, discover fascinating artifacts and memorable moments from the city's cultural history.
Then, prepare for the ultimate NYC adventure: a breathtaking 4D flying theater ride that takes you soaring above the New York City skyline.
Feel the sensation of flight as you glide over some of the city's most recognizable landmarks, with immersive motion, wind, mist, and stunning visuals bringing the experience to life.
Why RiseNY Is a Must-Visit NYC Attraction During the Holidays
- Perfect for the whole family: An exciting experience for kids, teens, parents, and grandparents.
- An indoor escape from the winter weather: Enjoy the excitement of NYC without spending your entire day in the cold.
- Ideal for holiday visitors: Give friends and family visiting from out of town a unique introduction to the Big Apple.
- Convenient Times Square location: Easily combine RiseNY with Broadway shows, Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and holiday shopping.
- A uniquely New York experience: Discover the city's rich history and cultural legacy before taking flight above its iconic skyline.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong New Yorker, RiseNY offers an unforgettable way to experience the city during its most magical season.
Part Ride. Part Museum. All New York.
Plan your visit and book tickets at RiseNY.
2. See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Location: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown Manhattan
Tree Lighting: December 2, 2026
Best For: Holiday sightseeing, couples, and family photos
No holiday trip to New York City is complete without seeing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
One of the world's most recognizable holiday traditions, this towering Christmas tree lights up Midtown Manhattan with tens of thousands of sparkling lights and a magnificent Swarovski star.
The 2026 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree arrives on November 7 and will be officially illuminated on Wednesday, December 2, 2026.
Beyond the tree itself, Rockefeller Center offers festive shopping, seasonal decorations, restaurants, and the famous ice-skating rink.
For an especially memorable experience, visit after sunset to see the tree and surrounding plaza illuminated against the Manhattan skyline.
Local Tip: Rockefeller Center is just a short walk from RiseNY, making it easy to experience both attractions during one festive Midtown outing.
3. Explore the Bryant Park Winter Village
Location: Bryant Park, 42nd Street and Sixth Avenue
Holiday Shops: October 28, 2026 – January 3, 2027
Best For: Holiday shopping, ice skating, and festive treats
For a classic New York City holiday experience, head to the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park.
Every year, Bryant Park transforms into a charming holiday destination featuring an outdoor ice-skating rink, seasonal food vendors, and festive shopping kiosks.
Browse the Holiday Shops for handmade gifts, unique accessories, decorations, and souvenirs, or grab a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy the atmosphere.
The park's famous ice rink offers free admission, although skate rentals and certain reservations cost extra.
With its central Midtown location, Bryant Park is an ideal stop between other NYC holiday attractions.
Planning Tip: Combine Bryant Park's holiday market with a visit to RiseNY in nearby Times Square for a day filled with shopping, sightseeing, and adventure.
4. Watch the Radio City Rockettes' Christmas Spectacular
Location: Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Avenue of the Americas
Dates: November 4, 2026 – January 4, 2027
Best For: Families, theater lovers, and holiday traditions
Few experiences capture the spirit of Christmas in New York City quite like the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes.
This beloved holiday production brings together dazzling choreography, elaborate costumes, festive music, and the Rockettes' iconic precision dancing.
Performed at the legendary Radio City Music Hall, the Christmas Spectacular has delighted audiences for generations and remains one of NYC's most popular seasonal attractions.
The 2026 production features a new Rockettes number and immersive theatrical technology, making this year's show another exciting way to celebrate the season.
Make a Day of It: Enjoy the Rockettes, explore Rockefeller Center, and visit RiseNY for a unique look at the city's entertainment history and skyline.
5. Admire the Holiday Window Displays Along Fifth Avenue
Location: Fifth Avenue, Midtown Manhattan
Best For: Free holiday activities, sightseeing, and shopping
During the holidays, Fifth Avenue becomes one of the most festive streets in the world.
Famous department stores and luxury retailers transform their storefronts into elaborate holiday displays featuring creative decorations, sparkling lights, and imaginative seasonal scenes.
Stroll past the iconic holiday windows, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and explore some of NYC's most recognizable shopping destinations.
Beginning November 20, Fifth Avenue will feature seasonal decorations and interactive holiday photo opportunities.
On December 13, 2026, the avenue's annual Open Streets celebration will turn several blocks into a pedestrian-friendly holiday promenade with entertainment and festive activities.
Best of all, admiring the decorations is one of the best free things to do in NYC during the holidays.
6. Experience the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden
Location: 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY
Dates: November 14, 2026 – January 10, 2027
Best For: Families with kids, holiday traditions, and train enthusiasts
Looking for a unique family-friendly holiday attraction in NYC?
The New York Botanical Garden's annual Holiday Train Show brings the city to life in miniature, featuring model trains traveling through detailed recreations of famous NYC landmarks.
These miniature buildings are crafted using natural materials such as bark, leaves, and pinecones, creating an imaginative combination of art, architecture, and holiday wonder.
The 2026–2027 exhibition features nearly 200 miniature New York landmarks, along with new additions and seasonal displays.
It's an especially fun experience for children, but visitors of all ages can appreciate the intricate details and creativity.
7. Go Ice Skating in Central Park
Location: Wollman Rink, Central Park, Manhattan
Season: October 2026 – March 2027
Best For: Couples, families, and outdoor winter activities
If you've ever dreamed of ice skating in New York City surrounded by skyscrapers, Wollman Rink in Central Park is the place to do it.
Located in the southern portion of Central Park, this famous outdoor rink offers beautiful views of Manhattan's skyline and the park's winter landscape.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skater, it's an iconic NYC winter activity.
After skating, explore Central Park's scenic paths, take holiday photos, or warm up at a nearby café.
For visitors planning a full day in Manhattan, Central Park is a great addition to a Midtown itinerary.
8. See George Balanchine's The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center
Location: David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center, Manhattan
Dates: November 27, 2026 – January 3, 2027
Best For: Families, performing arts enthusiasts, and holiday traditions
Another beloved New York City holiday tradition is George Balanchine's The Nutcracker, performed by New York City Ballet.
This magical production brings the classic holiday story to life through extraordinary dancing, elaborate costumes, enchanting sets, and Tchaikovsky's timeless score.
From the growing Christmas tree to the Land of Sweets, the performance offers a memorable holiday experience for audiences of all ages.
Whether it's your family's annual tradition or your first time seeing the ballet, The Nutcracker is one of the most iconic cultural experiences in NYC during the holiday season.
9. Discover NYC's Holiday Lights and Seasonal Markets
Locations: Union Square, Columbus Circle, Grand Central Terminal, and Brooklyn
Best For: Holiday shopping, festive outings, and exploring NYC neighborhoods
New York City's holiday magic extends far beyond Midtown Manhattan.
Throughout November and December, festive markets and seasonal light displays pop up across the five boroughs.
Some favorites include:
- Union Square Holiday Market: Browse gifts, crafts, and seasonal treats from independent vendors.
- Columbus Circle Holiday Market: Shop for unique presents near the southwest corner of Central Park.
- Grand Central Holiday Fair: Explore an indoor holiday shopping destination inside one of NYC's most iconic landmarks.
- Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: Head to Brooklyn to see the neighborhood's famously elaborate residential holiday decorations.
- Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights: Enjoy illuminated wildlife lanterns, seasonal entertainment, and festive displays.
These destinations are ideal for visitors who want to experience the holiday season beyond the city's most famous tourist attractions.
10. Celebrate New Year's Eve in Times Square
Location: Times Square, Midtown Manhattan
Date: December 31, 2026
Best For: Bucket-list experiences and New Year's celebrations
The holiday season in New York City culminates with one of the world's most famous celebrations: the Times Square New Year's Eve Ball Drop.
Each year, crowds gather in the heart of Manhattan to count down the final seconds of the year and watch the iconic ball descend at midnight.
The celebration features live entertainment, confetti, and an electric atmosphere as New York welcomes the new year.
If you're planning to attend, prepare for large crowds, extensive security measures, and cold temperatures. Arrive early and review the official Times Square viewing guidelines before visiting.
For those who prefer a more relaxed holiday experience, Times Square is also a fantastic destination throughout November and December, with Broadway shows, shopping, restaurants, and attractions like RiseNY.
How to Spend the Perfect Holiday Day in Midtown Manhattan
Want to experience several of New York City's best holiday attractions in one day? Here's a suggested itinerary that combines festive traditions with a little adventure.
Morning: Explore Bryant Park Winter Village
Start your day with holiday shopping, seasonal treats, and the festive atmosphere of Bryant Park. If you're feeling adventurous, enjoy some ice skating.
Midday: Visit RiseNY in Times Square
Head to RiseNY at 160 West 45th Street for an immersive journey through New York City's history, culture, and iconic landmarks, ending with an unforgettable 4D flying theater ride.
Afternoon: Enjoy a Broadway Show or the Radio City Rockettes
Experience NYC's world-famous entertainment scene with a matinee performance in the Theater District or at Radio City Music Hall.
Evening: See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Fifth Avenue Lights
End your day surrounded by some of the most beautiful holiday decorations in the world. Admire the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, stroll along Fifth Avenue, and take in the magic of New York City after dark.
With so many iconic attractions within walking distance of one another, Midtown Manhattan is one of the best places to experience the holidays in NYC.
Frequently Asked Questions About the NYC Holiday Season
What are the best things to do in NYC during the 2026 holiday season?
The best things to do in NYC during the 2026 holiday season include visiting RiseNY in Times Square, seeing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, exploring Bryant Park Winter Village, watching the Radio City Rockettes, ice skating in Central Park, browsing holiday markets, and seeing The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center.
What are the best family-friendly holiday activities in NYC?
Families can enjoy RiseNY's interactive galleries and 4D flying theater ride, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, the New York Botanical Garden's Holiday Train Show, Bryant Park Winter Village, and the Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights.
RiseNY is especially convenient for families looking for an entertaining indoor experience in Midtown Manhattan.
What are the best indoor things to do in NYC during winter?
Some of the best indoor winter activities in NYC include visiting RiseNY, seeing a Broadway show, attending the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, exploring museums, and shopping at Grand Central Terminal.
Indoor attractions are a great way to stay warm while experiencing the city's culture and entertainment.
When does the holiday season start in New York City?
New York City's holiday festivities begin in late October and early November, with seasonal markets, ice-skating rinks, and holiday performances opening throughout the fall.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting takes place on December 2, 2026, and many holiday attractions continue into early January 2027.
What can you do in NYC during Christmas without spending a lot of money?
Some of the best free holiday activities in NYC include admiring the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, exploring Fifth Avenue's holiday window displays, browsing Bryant Park Winter Village, walking through Central Park, and enjoying the festive atmosphere of Times Square.
Is Times Square worth visiting during the holidays?
Yes! Times Square is one of NYC's most exciting destinations during the holiday season, offering world-famous entertainment, restaurants, shopping, Broadway theaters, and immersive attractions like RiseNY. Its central location makes it easy to explore other holiday destinations throughout Midtown Manhattan.
Where can you take visiting family in NYC during the holidays?
RiseNY is a great choice for entertaining visiting family members because it offers an exciting introduction to New York City's history, culture, and landmarks in one immersive experience. Other popular options include Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park Winter Village, Radio City Music Hall, and Central Park.
Make This Holiday Season Unforgettable at RiseNY
There's a reason New York City is one of the world's most beloved holiday destinations.
From dazzling Christmas lights and world-famous performances to festive markets and unforgettable family experiences, the city comes alive with excitement throughout the season.
And while there's plenty to discover on the streets of New York, there's one adventure that offers a completely different perspective.
At RiseNY, you can journey through the history and culture of the Big Apple, explore interactive galleries celebrating everything that makes NYC extraordinary, and soar above the city's iconic skyline on an immersive 4D flying theater ride.
Whether you're celebrating with family, entertaining holiday visitors, or exploring New York City for the first time, RiseNY is an experience you won't want to miss.
Don't Just See NYC. Feel It.
Make RiseNY part of your holiday plans!
