Each December, every corner of New York City is covered in holiday decorations. From its famous Fifth Avenue holiday window displays to the city’s most iconic Observatory, this guide provides tips for a holiday experience that feels straight out of a movie.
Start at the Icon: The Empire State Building Observatory
The City's Best and Brightest View
Voted the number one top attraction in New York City for four consecutive years, all the city’s holiday lights are visible from the Empire State Building’s iconic 86th and 102nd Floor Observatories. Each Observatory ticket includes access to the immersive museum with nine galleries that explore the building’s history, from its innovative construction to its current place in pop culture.
Special Holiday Experiences at ESB
- Holiday Décor: The Empire State Building is adorned with over-the-top décor that any season-seeker will not want to miss. Find wreaths, bows, Christmas trees, balls, tinsel, and limited-time Radio City Rockettes exhibits at the Observatory through December.
- Official Rockettes Combo Ticket: Pair two NYC icons. Experience the “Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes” and the Empire State Building Observatory in the same day with this exclusive ticket offer.
- ESB Holiday Movie Nights: Cozy screenings above the skyline include classic favorites “Elf” and “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Pair the screenings with snacks, sweet treats, and sweeping views.
- Visits from Santa: Meet Santa at the Observatory on select dates for festive photos with a New York City backdrop.
- Holiday Tower Lights: The Empire State Building’s world-famous tower lights celebrate the season with dedicated lightings for Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. The Empire State Building will also debut its annual holiday Music-to-Light Spectacular which features the building’s thousands of LED lights synched to a holiday song from a notable artist. Follow the Empire State Building on social media for updates on this year’s light show, and text CONNECT to 274-16 for real-time updates on the building’s tower lights.
Ready to plan your visit? Reserve your Observatory tickets now.
Classic Manhattan Spots for New York Christmas Decorations
Rockefeller Center and Fifth Avenue
- Rockefeller Center: The famous Christmas tree is a must-see, and the skating rink below adds timeless charm. Visit early morning or late evening for lighter crowds.
- Fifth Avenue Windows: Walk from ESB’s 34th Street and Fifth Avenue corner to 59th Street to see the charming holiday windows and facades. Watch Saks’ annual light show and enjoy the holiday artistry in the windows at Bergdorf Goodman, Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and more.
Bryant Park Winter Village
Visitors gather annually to this European-style market with local artisans, seasonal bites, and a free-admission skating rink. Finish your last-minute holiday shopping or enjoy one of the market’s many food vendors like Smores N’More, Red Hook Lobster Pound, and Pickle Me Pete.
Lincoln Center and Columbus Circle
Lincoln Center glows each year with elegant, understated lights. Whether you stop by to see “The Nutcracker” or just to walk the campus, Lincoln Center is sure to bring the holiday spirit. Nearby, the Columbus Circle area adds festive touches, convenient holiday shopping, and easy connections to Central Park’s southwest corner.
How to See New York City Christmas Lights
- Start at sunset: Blue hour gives you color in the sky and lights on the streets.
- Bundle your route: ESB Observatory, Fifth Avenue windows, Rockefeller Center, and Bryant Park are an easy, walkable circuit.
- Dressed to chill: Layers, warm shoes, scarves, hats, and gloves keep you comfortable.
- Check schedules: Light shows, rink times, and store windows often run on set schedules. Confirm before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best time to visit the Empire State Building for holiday views?
A: Arrive just before sunset to catch blue hour and stay as the city lights come on. For fewer crowds, try late evening. Consider the Express Pass to head right to the top.
Q: Does ESB host a music-synchronized NYC light show?
A: Yes! Each year, the Empire State Building debuts its annual holiday Music-to-Light Spectacular, which features the building’s thousands of LED lights synched to a holiday song from a notable artist. Stay tuned for this year’s announcement!
Q: How do I buy the Rockettes combo ticket?
A: You can find the Rockettes ticket and other Empire State Building ticket options on the Buy Tickets page. Availability and inclusions vary.
Q: Are Holiday Movie Nights and Santa visits included with general admission?
A: Some events may require separate tickets or reservations. Check details and dates on the Buy Tickets page.
Q: Is the Observatory family-friendly and accessible?
A: Yes. Elevators, accessible entries, and stroller-friendly spaces make visits easy for all guests.
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