If you’re going to be visiting NYC at Christmas, then you’ll need to plan your trip carefully. As you start to plan your trip, read these New York Christmas tips.
I’ve lived in New York for almost 20 years and I love it here, but it can be a difficult city if you don’t know what to expect and do. So, I’ve written down my top NYC Christmas tips.
You don’t need to stress about visiting New York City in December – just follow my New York holiday tips and you’ll love it just as much as I do!
Want to save these New York Christmas tips as an easy reference for your trip planning? Pin It.
1. Dress in layers to stay warm
New York City can get cold during the Christmas season. Dressing in layers is essential.
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin. Add a middle layer like a fleece or wool sweater for insulation. Top it off with a windproof and waterproof outer layer to protect against the elements.
This way, you can easily adjust by removing or adding layers depending on whether you’re indoors or outside.
Don’t forget accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves to keep extremities warm.
➡️ Read my Packing List for Christmas in NYC for more details
2. Wear comfortable walking shoes
New York City is best explored on foot, especially during the holidays when the streets are bustling with festive decorations and events. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Wear shoes with good arch support and cushioning to keep your feet happy during long days of sightseeing. Waterproof shoes are a bonus, as they will keep your feet dry if it snows or rains.
Avoid new shoes that haven’t been broken in yet to prevent blisters. Your feet will thank you after a day of exploring holiday markets, ice skating rinks, and iconic landmarks.
➡️ Get some warm shoes for women here
➡️ Get some warm shoes for men on Amazon here
3. Book tickets to any shows such as Radio City Christmas Spectacular well in advance
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular and other holiday shows are incredibly popular and tend to sell out quickly.
To ensure you get a seat, book your tickets well in advance. This not only guarantees your spot but also often provides better seating options.
➡️ Get tickets for Radio City Christmas Spectacular here
4. Arrive early (or late) to see the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see during the holiday season, but it attracts large crowds.
Arriving early gives you a better chance to enjoy the view without the hassle of navigating through throngs of people. Early mornings are usually less crowded, and you might even catch the tree illuminated in the soft morning light.
If you can’t make it early, consider visiting late at night when the crowds have thinned. Either way, arriving early ensures a more pleasant and less stressful experience.
➡️ Read my guide to the NYC Christmas trees for more details on the Rockefeller tree
5. Use the subway to avoid traffic
New York City traffic can be notoriously congested, especially during the holiday season. Using the subway is a more efficient way to get around. The subway system is extensive and can take you to most major attractions.
Buses are also a good option for shorter distances, though they are in the same traffic as all the cars, so I generally use the subway.
You used to need a MetroCard but now, you can use your credit card directly at the turnstiles as long as it’s the type you can tap, and you don’t need to buy a MetroCard.
6. Download a subway map app for easy navigation
Navigating the New York City subway system can be daunting for first-time visitors. Downloading a subway map app can make this much easier. Apps like Citymapper, Google Maps (the one I use the most for trip planning), or the official MTA app (good for updates) provide real-time updates, route options, and step-by-step directions.
These apps can help you find the quickest routes, avoid delays, and even provide walking directions to and from subway stations.
7. Make restaurant reservations well ahead of time
New York City is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, and they get especially busy during the holiday season. Making reservations well ahead of time ensures you get to dine at your chosen spots without long waits.
I use apps like OpenTable or Resy to book tables in advance. Popular restaurants often fill up weeks or even months ahead, so plan accordingly.
Different restaurants have different times when they open up reservations. Many open reservations 60 days in advance, but this can vary.
So, I recommend researching your restaurants far in advance, and bookmarking the date when reservations open up for the date you want to go. then book early in that day, as popular restaurants book up very quickly.
8. Visit popular attractions early in the day to avoid crowds
Popular attractions like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and holiday markets can get extremely crowded as the day progresses. Visiting these spots early in the day helps you avoid the bulk of the crowds.
Early mornings are generally quieter, allowing you to enjoy the attractions at a more leisurely pace. Plus, the morning light can be great for photos.
Plan to arrive as soon as these attractions open to make the most of your visit and minimize wait times.
9. Plan your itinerary to group nearby attractions together
New York City is big and the attractions are scattered throughout the city, so it’s easy to waste time traveling back and forth between distant attractions.
So, plan the things you want to see and do, then research where they all are and then group them together by area. Planning your itinerary to group nearby attractions together saves time and makes your day more efficient.
For example, visit the Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue in one outing.
10. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas
New York is one of the safest big cities in the USA, but holiday crowds can be a magnet for pickpockets, so it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings.
Use a crossbody bag or a messenger bag with secure zippers to keep your items safe.
️➡️ Get an anti-theft cross-body bag here
Don’t be paranoid, but New Yorkers are always aware of our surroundings. So just keep an eye and take notice of what the people around you are doing. If something feels ‘off’ then move away. Be especially vigilant in crowded areas like holiday markets, subway stations, and popular tourist spots.
I also recommend avoiding carrying large amounts of cash, and keep your wallet and phone in inner pockets. And don’t leave your bag lying on the seat next to you in the subway – always hold into it.
Staying aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure ensures a worry-free holiday experience.
11. Bring a reusable shopping bag for holiday market purchases
Holiday markets in New York City are a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
This may seem a bit weird, but bringing a reusable shopping bag makes it easier to carry your purchases and is an eco-friendly choice. Many vendors do not provide bags, or they may charge extra for them.
A reusable bag is sturdy and can hold multiple items, making your shopping experience more convenient. Plus, it’s a small step towards reducing plastic waste during the holiday season.
12. Take breaks in indoor spaces to warm up and rest
Exploring New York City during the holidays can be tiring, and the cold weather can be harsh. Taking breaks in indoor spaces allows you to warm up and rest.
Coffee shops, museums, and department stores are great places to take a breather.
Use these breaks to recharge, enjoy a hot beverage, and plan your next move. Regular breaks help you maintain your energy levels and make your holiday experience more enjoyable.
If you liked this list of the best things to do in NYC at Christmas , Pin It to your Holiday Board or New York City Board!
More Planning Resources for Christmas in New York
📃 Ultimate Guide to Christmas in NYC
🎄 New York City Christmas Tree Guide
🚶♂️ Ultimate New York Christmas Walking Tour
🏮 New York City Christmas Lights: Where to Find them
⛸️ Ice Skating in New York Guide
🛍️ The Best New York Holiday Markets
🎅 The 10 Best Things to Do in New York City at Christmas
🎆 10 Events Not to Miss in New York City During the Holidays
🏨 Best Hotels In New York City At Christmas
🎫 The Best NYC Christmas Tours
🎁 Gift Guide of great New York City experiences
About the author
James Ian has traveled to 83 countries and all 7 continents. He is passionate about experiential travel, i.e. meaningful travel that actively engages with the environment and culture. He helps people have similar experiences that involve active participation in activities and festivals; engaging with the local food and handicrafts through lessons and food tours; and interacting positively with environment by hiking, riding, rowing, diving and low/no impact animal encounters.
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