Top 5 NYC Christmas Light Displays for a Magical Holiday Escape
From larger-than-life neighborhood displays to iconic tree lightings and dazzling store windows, the city turns into a festive wonderland each winter. Whether you’re planning a girls’ getaway, a family trip or a cozy couple’s escape, these are some of the most magical spots to see Christmas lights in NYC this season.
Rockefeller Center
1. Dyker Heights, Brooklyn
Why go: Known as the “capital of Christmas lights,” this Brooklyn neighborhood takes holiday decorating to another level. Expect life-size Santas, glowing reindeer and homes so decked out they attract visitors from around the world.
✨ Planning tip: Book a local tour so you can enjoy the ride and don’t have to navigate parking.
2. Rockefeller Center
Why go: No NYC holiday trip is complete without a stop here. The famous Rockefeller Center tree, typically a towering Norway spruce covered in 50,000 lights, sets the scene alongside the nearby ice rink and festive angels lining the promenade.
✨ Planning tip: The tree lighting ceremony kicks off the season in early December, but it stays lit nightly through early January. Visit late at night or during the week for smaller crowds.
3. Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show
Why go: Just steps from Rockefeller Center, the iconic Saks building transforms with a choreographed light show set to holiday music. The massive display covers the entire façade, creating one of the city’s most magical street-view experiences.
✨ Planning tip: Shows run every evening after sunset, looping about every 10 minutes. Arrive a little early to snag a good viewing spot.
Horse-Drawn NYC Carriage Ride
4. Central Park and The Plaza
Why go: Central Park sparkles with twinkling trees, ice rinks and horse-drawn carriages during December, giving it fairytale vibes. Just across the street, The Plaza Hotel goes all out with holiday décor inside and out, making it worth a peek.
✨ Planning tip: For an unforgettable walk, start at The Plaza and head down Fifth Avenue toward Bryant Park to see store windows, lights and the season’s best city sparkle all in one route.
5. Brooklyn Botanic Garden Lightscape
Why go: This ticketed evening event feels like stepping into an enchanted forest. Expect immersive light tunnels, glowing sculptures and colorful projections set across the garden’s pathways. It is family friendly but still chic enough for a festive girls’ night out.
✨ Planning tip: Tickets sell out quickly, so book in advance. Bundle up and grab hot cocoa before wandering the trail.
Final Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Escape
Book ahead: Tickets for Lightscape, carriage rides and restaurants go fast.
Layer up: NYC in December is chilly but walking is the best way to see the lights.
Bring a portable charger: The photo ops are endless and you will want the extra battery.
Book a photographer: Capture the magic with a holiday photo session in the city. We love Flytographer for easy, stylish shoots. Get $25 off your session here!
Plan the Rest of Your Festive New York Weekend 🎄
Christmas lights are just one part of New York’s holiday magic. To make planning effortless, download the New York City Holiday Escape Mini Guide, a 10-page PDF with holiday highlights, shopping stops, festive dining and drinks, weekend holiday activities, event dates and a winter packing list to keep you cozy in the city.
👉 Get the New York City Holiday Escape Mini Guide here.
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