Ultimate Guide to Traveling to NYC in December
Jingle all the way to NYC this December! It’s time to trade your pumpkin spice latte for a steaming cup of mulled wine and hit the icy streets. This guide will help you navigate the holiday madness like a true New Yorker.
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Weather
The Big Apple turns frosty with temperatures typically hovering between 32°F and 46°F during the day. Snow in December isn’t especially common, so you might not get that picture-perfect white Christmas.
Be prepared for occasional showers and blustery winds. On milder days, you might catch a break with temperatures reaching the upper 50’s F or even lower 60’s F.
Where to Stay
Midtown Manhattan is the epicenter of NYC’s Christmas cheer. The Lotte New York Palace has dazzling decorations and a prime location near Rockefeller Center. You’ll be steps away from the iconic Christmas tree and surrounded by twinkling lights.
For a classic New York experience, stay near Central Park. The legendary Plaza Hotel goes all out with its holiday decor. Plus, you can easily stroll through the snowy park or hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride.
If you’re seeking a more local vibe, check out the charming neighborhoods of the Lower East Side or Greenwich Village. These areas offer boutique hotels such as the Ludlow Hotel or the Walker Hotel Greenwich Village that capture the spirit of a New York Christmas without the tourist crowds.
For budget-conscious travelers, Long Island City in Queens provides affordable options with quick subway access to Manhattan. At Hilton Garden Inn, you’ll get fantastic skyline views and more bang for your buck.
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Best Things to Do in December
Here are the top must-do activities in NYC this December, combining iconic bucket list experiences with seasonal specialties:
1. Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is the most dazzling holiday spectacle in the Big Apple! Mark your calendar for December 4th, 2024 – that’s when the magic happens.
The ceremony typically runs from 7-10 PM, so bundle up and grab a hot cocoa to keep you toasty.
2. Ice Skating at Wollman Rink
Wollman Rink in Central Park is an iconic spot that offers stunning skyline views as you twirl and spin.
Skip the crazy crowds at Rockefeller Center and opt for this more chill (pun intended) experience. Bonus: it’s easier on your wallet too.
Insider Tip: Visit on weekdays or snag special NYC resident discounts. Library card or IDNYC? Score $15 tickets including admission, skate rental, and hot cocoa.
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3. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour
Head to Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood, where hundreds of homes go all out with their Christmas light displays.
The best time to visit is mid-December through December 31st. You’ll see massive Santas, reindeer, and snowmen alongside twinkling lights galore.
4. Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is an iconic show that stars the world-famous Rockettes in a 90-minute extravaganza of high-kicking dance numbers, stunning costumes, and festive cheer.
You’ll be swept away by beloved acts like the Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and Santa’s magical sleigh ride. The Living Nativity scene brings the true meaning of Christmas to life with live animals and an original score.
Snag your tickets early – this NYC tradition sells out fast. The show runs from November to early January.
Insider Tip: For the best views of those legendary leg lifts, aim for seats in the orchestra section.
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5. Met Museum Medieval Christmas Display
Step back in time at The Met Cloisters this holiday season. From mid-December through early January, the museum transforms into a medieval winter wonderland.
You’ll be greeted by a grand arch of holly boughs, their red berries adding a pop of festive cheer. Inside, marvel at the meticulously crafted decorations inspired by centuries-old Christmas traditions.
The Medieval Sculpture Hall hosts a stunning 20-foot blue spruce, adorned with ornate angels and a nativity scene at its base.
6. NYBG Holiday Train Show
The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is a must-see spectacle. Tiny trains chug through a miniature NYC, complete with itty-bitty landmarks crafted from twigs, bark, and leaves.
Feeling fancy? Swing by for Holiday Train Nights, where you can sip cocktails and nosh on festive treats while admiring the twinkling displays. It’s the perfect date night or grown-up outing with friends.
7. Union Square Holiday Market
From November 21 to December 24, the Union Square Holiday Market is your go-to spot for quirky gifts and festive vibes.
You’ll find 150 local vendors hawking everything from handcrafted jewelry to artisanal chocolates.
Insider Tip: Hit up the market on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. And don’t forget to fuel up at one of the food stalls – nothing beats shopping on a full stomach.
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8. SantaCon NYC
Join SantaCon on December 14th, the famous costume-themed pub crawl where thousands dress as holiday characters.
The exact route is hush-hush until the big day, but expect a jolly good time in Midtown and the East Village. Just remember, this sleigh ride is for the 21+ crowd only.
9. Merchant House ‘Christmas Carol’
Attend a performance of “A Christmas Carol” at the historic Merchant House, decorated with authentic 19th-century holiday decorations.
As you watch Charles Dickens himself bring his beloved characters to life, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Victorian Christmas card.
This intimate show runs from late November to late December. With limited seats available, it’s wise to snag your tickets early!
10. Fifth Avenue Window Displays
Ready for some eye candy? Stroll down Fifth Avenue to admire the elaborate holiday window displays at iconic department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman.
Insider Tip: Visit after dark for the full magical effect. The crowds thin out, and the lights sparkle even brighter.
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11. Bryant Park Winter Village
The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is your go-to spot for holiday cheer. Lace up your skates and glide across the free-admission ice rink, where you can show off your triple axel.
Hungry? Grab a bite at The Lodge, open from 10am to 10pm. It’s the perfect place to warm up with a hot cocoa and people-watch.
For shopaholics, the Holiday Shops are a treasure trove of unique gifts. Open daily, they’re packed with local crafts, jewelry, and quirky finds.
12. Roosevelt Island Tram Ride
Take the Roosevelt Island Tram for spectacular views of the city’s holiday lights – a local secret many New Yorkers haven’t even tried.
This aerial cable car whisks you across the East River, serving up jaw-dropping vistas of Manhattan’s skyline. As you soar over the river, you’ll spot iconic landmarks like the Chrysler Building and the 59th Street Bridge.
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Average One-Week Budget
A week in the Big Apple can cost a pretty penny, but with some savvy moves, you can make it work.
For a cozy place to rest your head, expect to shell out around $1750 to $2800 for the week. This will get you a decent hotel room or a stylish apartment in Manhattan.
Gotta eat, right? Budget about $30 per person daily if you’re pinching pennies. Mix it up with street food, delis, and the occasional sit-down meal. For fancier fare, plan on $20 to $50 per person for each meal.
Getting around? Snag a weekly MetroCard for $34. It’s your golden ticket to unlimited subway and bus rides. Pack comfy shoes – you’ll be hoofing it a lot!
Don’t forget the fun stuff! Many top attractions are free or cheap. Set aside about $10 daily for activities.
All in, two people can expect to spend around $2,445 for a week. Adjust as needed based on your champagne wishes or beer budget!
What to Pack
Layers are your best friend in the chilly winter weather. Start with a cozy thermal base layer to keep you toasty. Add a light, breathable sweater for extra warmth without the bulk.
Don’t forget a warm, stylish coat to battle the cold. A down jacket is perfect for insulation and padding. Pair it with a scarf, hat, and gloves to stay snug while exploring the city streets.
Comfortable, waterproof boots are a must. You’ll be doing plenty of walking, and snow is possible in December. Pack thick socks to keep your toes warm and dry.
For indoor activities, bring a nice outfit or two. New York’s restaurants and theaters often have dress codes, so pack accordingly.
Lastly, toss in some lip balm and hand cream. The winter air can be harsh on your skin, so keep it moisturized and happy!
