there’s no time in new york city like the holidays. the city’s streets transform, dressed in glittering lights and bustling with holiday shoppers. for a december your little ones will talk about for years, consider a trip to new york to take in all the city has to offer.
to do
the city’s iconic holiday traditions are enough to fill a week-long visit, with lots to see and do with little ones. depending on their age and energy level, you can put together a packed itinerary for everything from taking in the spectacular holiday shop windows to taking a spin around the ice skating rink.
the rockefeller tree
visit the city’s most beloved tree, which will be lit on december 2nd.
skating in rockefeller center
if you’re visiting the rockefeller tree, build in time to take your little ones skating at the rink.
ride the vintage subway cars
every sunday during december, the nostalgia train pulls into the subway station, offering rides on cars in service during the 1930s.
fifth avenue holiday windows
if you plan to do your holiday shopping on fifth avenue, make sure to take in the storied windows of bergdorf goodman and saks fifth avenue.
radio city holiday show
for a night out with the whole family, the radio city christmas spectacular is something special to do with older children and young teens.
new york botanical garden miniature trains
head uptown and into the bronx to visit the botanical garden, which hosts a spectacular holiday train show.
the nutcracker at new york ballet
if viewing the nutcracker is a holiday tradition, a night spent at the ballet in lincoln center is an event they’ll never forget.
shop the union square holiday market
for one-of-a-kind gifts, peruse the booths at the holiday market, each operated by local craftspeople and artists.
holiday cruise
take in all the city’s brightest holiday lights from the water with a holiday cruise. you can opt for a full meal, or a themed event like caroling or holiday jazz.
to eat
this time of year, some of the city’s most iconic restaurants and cafes embrace the holiday spirit with festive decor children will gaze at in wonder. don’t worry, the food is something for you to love, too.
bubby’s
a must-visit for first timers in the city, bubby’s delicious brunch, including their signature pancakes is the perfect way to prepare for a long day on your feet.
tavern on the green
after a stroll in central park, take in the holiday decor at this timeless new york restaurant.
rolf’s
known for its stunning holiday lights display, this cozy restaurant brings the holiday vibe year round.
a holiday bakery crawl
the city is bursting with amazing bakeries, and if you’re looking to take a break from full-on holiday cheer, plan a visit to a few of them to try both classic and seasonal treats. in manhattan, bookmark librae, supermoon, and frenchette, or head to brooklyn for a visit to radio bakery, win son, or thea.
to stay
whether you prefer to be in the middle of the holiday energy, or want a relaxing retreat from your busy days, choose from a few of our favorite hotels throughout the city.
the plaza
for a memorable new york visit, plan a stay at the plaza where you can also schedule afternoon tea as a fun family activity. starting in january, the plaza will be closed for a 4-year renovation, so be sure to squeeze in a visit while you can.
greenwich hotel
if you prefer to be out of the holiday hustle and bustle, the greenwich hotel in tribeca is both luxurious and understated, while also great for families.
1 hotel brooklyn bridge
for stunning waterfront views and a pet-friendly, sustainability-minded environment, this hotel feels like a tranquil retreat from the nearby bustle.
the carlyle
an upper east side favorite that elegantly captures the spirit of the city. for a night without the children, visit bemelmans bar. 