There’s something truly magical about New York at Christmas, and this year we were lucky enough to experience it together as a family. From snow-covered streets and iconic landmarks to festive lights, shows and unforgettable moments, this trip more than lived up to the hype.
If New York at Christmas has been on your wish list, here’s a look at exactly what we did, what worked well, and why I would highly recommend it for families.
Flying to New York: A Stress-Free Start
We flew from London Heathrow Terminal 3 with Virgin Atlantic, travelling in Upper Class, and from the very beginning everything felt relaxed and easy.
We opted for meet and greet airport parking, which I always recommend. It removes so much stress on departure day. You simply hand over the car and focus on the excitement ahead.
Upper Class security was quick and seamless, and we then headed straight into the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse. As our flight wasn’t until the afternoon, we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast and plenty of time to unwind.
The Clubhouse itself is fantastic. Stylish surroundings, excellent food ordered easily via QR code, and attentive staff regularly checking if you need anything. There are also showers, which are ideal if you want to freshen up before boarding.
The flight itself was comfortable and restful, and we arrived in New York feeling refreshed, which is always a bonus when travelling with children.
Arrival in New York and Our First Night
I had pre-booked a private transfer, so our driver was waiting for us as we exited the airport. Traffic was busy, very New York, but we reached our hotel in around an hour and a half.
After a long travel day, we kept things simple. We checked in, settled into our room and headed straight to bed, ready for an early start.
Day One: Snowy Streets, Hudson Yards and Ice Hockey
Jet lag worked in our favour, and we were up early, allowing us to explore New York while it was still relatively quiet.
Opening the curtains to snowfall felt instantly magical. Wrapped up in coats and snow boots, we headed out, grabbing breakfast before walking to Hudson Yards, soaking up the Christmas lights along the way.
Hudson Yards was beautifully decorated, and we visited The Edge observation deck. Due to the snow, the views were clouded, but the experience was still great. The children loved feeling like they were in the clouds. We were offered the option to reschedule, which I would recommend if clear views are important, but we decided to go ahead.
Later, we visited Macy’s to see the festive displays before heading over to New Jersey for a New Jersey Devils ice hockey game. This was such a fun experience and something I would highly recommend adding to any USA itinerary. American sports events are brilliant, even if you’re not a big sports fan.
We ended the day with New York pizza, Christmas pyjamas, a movie and an early night.
Day Two: Rockefeller Centre, Top of the Rock and Santaland
Another early start meant we reached Rockefeller Centre while it was still dark and beautifully quiet. Seeing the Christmas tree without the crowds was a real pinch-me moment.
After breakfast, we headed up Top of the Rock, followed by lunch in Times Square. I had managed to secure a reservation for Macy’s Santaland, which was a lovely festive experience for the children and well worth booking in advance.
In the afternoon, we enjoyed a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, which felt incredibly Christmassy, before dinner at Pete’s Tavern. It’s a cosy, traditional restaurant beautifully decorated for Christmas and one I’ll definitely be recommending.
Day Three: Broadway Shows, Christmas Markets and Festive Lights
We started the day at Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where the waiting staff are Broadway-style performers who sing while serving your food. It’s loud, fun and completely unique, a must-do for families.
One of the highlights of the entire trip was seeing the Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. The show was phenomenal and truly magical, and I cannot recommend it enough for a New York Christmas trip.
After the show, we explored Bryant Park Christmas Market, with its ice rink, festive stalls and food stands, before finishing the evening watching the Saks Fifth Avenue light show.
Day Four: Statue of Liberty and Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
We took a Statue of Liberty cruise tour, followed by a visit to the World Trade Center site, which was incredibly moving and thought-provoking.
In the evening, we joined a Dyker Heights Christmas lights tour. This neighbourhood goes all out for Christmas, with every house decorated differently and more impressively than the last. Lights, inflatables and decorations cover every inch. It’s such a fun and festive experience and a brilliant way to see another side of New York at Christmas.
Final Day: Ice Skating, Shopping and Heading Home
On our final day, we fitted in some last-minute shopping and ice skating in Central Park before returning to the hotel to prepare for our transfer home.
Is New York at Christmas Worth It?
New York at Christmas is busy, exciting, festive and unforgettable. Planning it properly makes all the difference. Knowing when to visit early, what to pre-book, where to stay and how to avoid the biggest crowds can completely transform your experience.
If you’d love to recreate this trip, or tailor it to suit your own family, budget or travel style, I’d be delighted to help.
Flights, hotels, transfers, shows, experiences and a personalised itinerary
Expert advice from someone who’s just done it
Stress-free planning from start to finish
Get in touch to start planning your New York at Christmas getaway and let’s make it truly magical.