Christmas in New York City 2019 - Holiday Things to Do & Fun Seasonal Activities

By Katie Sagal
Published: May 16, 2024

There are few places as magical in the wintertime as Christmas in New York City. And when it comes to celebrating the Christmas holidays, you better believe that NYC has got plenty going on. If you’re traveling to New York this holiday season, check out our list of the top things to do for Christmas in New York City 2019.

Save on attraction admission for the Holidays

Regular admission to a number of these attractions is available on the Go New York Pass®. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 50% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. See all available New York passes, attractions & prices. Please note, some of these special Christmas & holiday events may be separately ticketed and not included in the Go New York Pass.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

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We're sure the first thing that comes to mind when you think New York City Christmas celebration is the iconic Rockefeller Plaza Christmas Tree. For over eight decades, the Tree Lighting Ceremony has been a classic New York tradition. If you're going to be in the city during the holiday season, you have to visit the gorgeous display. Pose in front of the gigantic tree, watch from above as holiday visitors skate the rink, shop around the Rockefeller Plaza shops, and more. The tree will be lit for the first time for the Christmas 2019 season on Wednesday, December 4, and will remain lit through early 2020. On Christmas Day, the tree will remain lit for the full 24 hours, so be sure to check it out! Since you'll already be at 30 Rock, you may as well take a trip up to the Top of the Rock Observatory. You can see the tree from the highest vantage point while taking in the views of the entire city below. This is a great opportunity to see New York's Christmas lights from a unique perspective. Getting in: Top of the Rock tickets are included in Go New York Pass.

Bryant Park Winter Village presented by Bank of America

Bryant Park's Winter Village has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in recent years. The popular greenspace has transformed into a Winter Wonderland for the past 17 years, and this year is no exception. Complete with 170 stalls, a 17,000-sq ft ice rink, and a delicious food hall made up of 12 vendors serving delicious holiday meals, it’s no surprise as to why it’s the best and biggest holiday market in the city. Shop local at the boutiques, offering everything from fashionable sunglasses to hand-made sculptures of your favorite movie characters. It's the perfect place to find a niche gift for that tricky loved one in your life. While you shop, make sure to try a few of the holiday treats too. Delicious craft cocoa and sugar cookies are not to be skipped. Of course, the crown jewel of the Winter Village is the ice rink which serves as a centerpiece. The ice rink is always packed with visitors twirling about and is a fun experience no matter your skating skill level. You can rent skates and a locker on-site and get right onto the ice. There are skating lessons and skate assistants available for kids as well. Anyone visiting New York during the holidays has to visit Bryan Park's Winter Village. It's such a special space and worth spending a few hours! *Please note, the Rink and the Lodge will be open from October 31, 2019, through March 2020. The Holiday Shops will only be open until January 5, 2019. Getting in: Bryant Park Winter Village is free and open to the public. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park Ice Rink tickets are included with Go New York Pass.

New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

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Participate in another one of NYC’s most beloved holiday traditions with the visit to the New York Botanical Garden. Their Holiday Train Show is a one-of-a-kind experience. You’ll see trains wind through replicas of over 150 different New York landmarks – all made of organic, botanical materials. Think tiny depots made of bark and acorns, bridges made of sticks and stones, and décor made of dried mosses and flowers. It’s a truly inspiring work of artistic labor and a super fun thing for the whole family to see. Kids and adults alike will be amazed at the artistic and technical skill that has gone into making the magical Holiday Train Show. Getting in: New York Botanical Garden tickets included with Go New York Pass.

Union Square Holiday Markets

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Another great place to do some Christmas shopping is the Union Square Holiday Markets at Union Square Park. Local crafters and artists come together to set up booths of home-made items, from jewelry to scarves, to artwork. The Union Square Market has sections like Little Brooklyn and Urbanspace Provisions in addition to a Warming Station and Lounge. There will be over 50 stalls to shop around and plenty of delicious food and drink available. You're sure to find some perfect gifts for family and friends back home... or for yourself! Getting in: the Union Square Holiday Markets are free and open to the public.

THE RIDE Holiday Edition

Take NYC’s most enjoyable bus tour with a special holiday twist! Now in its seventh year, it’s more fun and festive than ever, with a focus on holiday sights and sounds. You'll tour New York on a unique bus with side-facing seats, as your entertaining guides tell you what you need to know. But that's not all – keep your eye out for street performers bringing NYC to life all along the route. It's an unforgettable attraction at any time of year – but extra special during the holidays. The RIDE is a great way to get to know NYC and soak up the Christmas spirit, all at the same time! Getting in: THE RIDE tickets are available on the Go New York Pass.

View the Holiday Lights from the Empire State Building

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A good way to see the city’s best and brightest Christmas lights is with a trip to the top of this towering skyscraper – one of the city’s most famous buildings, too. The Empire State Building is an amazing experience any time of year, but when you build in the festive atmosphere and twinkling lights of the holiday season, it simply can’t be beaten. Explore the exhibition halls, enjoy the full Empire State Building Experience, and snap photos of the Winter Wonderland that is New York City. Getting in: Empire State Building tickets are available on the Go New York Pass.

Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History

If you’re in search of a unique spin on a Christmas tradition, pay a visit to the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). Their 30-year tradition of putting up an origami tree has inspired kids and adults alike for quite a long time, and it’s well worth your time to visit. The origami itself is made by volunteers throughout the preceding year who were inspired by some aspect of the museum’s collections. The origami takes all forms - from dinosaurs to sea creatures to figments of the imagination. The tree will be on display from November 25, 2019 - January 12, 2020. Explore the museum while you're there! AMNH is one of the largest museums in the world, featuring a 94-foot model of a whale, a famed collection of dinosaur fossils, a 563-carat Star of Indian sapphire, and plenty more intricate artifacts. It has to be on your New York Bucket List. Getting In: American Museum of Natural History tickets are available on the Go New York Pass.

Holiday Window Displays on Fifth Avenue

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Embark on a self-guided tour down Fifth Avenue to take in all the intricately-designed holiday displays. Each year, the displays get more and more ornate, with flashing lights, golden decorations, and gorgeous artwork calling for attention. Its beautiful holiday ambiance almost offsets the craziness of holiday shopping at stores like Saks and Macy's. Almost. Fashion fans may want to take a Fashion Window Walking Tour of Fifth Avenue, to see the beautiful windows with an expert guide. Getting in: Fashion Window Walking Tour tickets are included with the Go New York pass.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche

 The Metropolitan Museum of Art will continue its longstanding holiday tradition of erecting the 25-foot blue spruce. It serves as the perfect backdrop for their Neapolitan Nativity scene, complete with silk-robed angels hovering above. The Met's take on a Christmas display always shows the creativity and artistic nature of New York City's art scene. After visiting the tree, make sure to explore as many of the exhibition halls as you can. The museum houses a variety of artworks in all mediums, covering art from each part of the globe. Getting In: Metropolitan Museum of Art tickets are available on the Go New York Pass.

Remember to save on attraction admission

So there’s our brief list of the top things to do in New York City during Christmastime and the holidays. Remember, many of these options are included on the Go New York Pass, which can save you up to 50% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. Please note, the Christmas events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go New York Pass. We hope you plan to add a few of these fun options to your winter vacation itinerary!

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Top of the Rock vs Edge
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Top of the Rock vs Edge - Compare Observation Decks

Do you know what's better than one observation deck overlooking Manhattan? Two observation decks overlooking Manhattan. That's right, we're talking about Top of the Rock and Edge. Double trouble. The gruesome twosome. Now imagine, if you will, that these two static buildings suddenly came to life. No, please don't click away. So they're alive, right? And they have to, like, fight and stuff. Who would win? Well, let's explore their strengths and weaknesses as Top of the Rock faces off Vs. Edge. Let's get ready to rumble! Top of the Rock Vs. Edge: A brief history You'll find Top of the Rock at the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. If that combination of words sparks recognition in that withered brain of yours, it's likely due to the hit sitcom 30 Rock, which takes place within its walls. The Plaza is nearly 100 years old, being built back in 1933, so it's certainly the older of the two. It's also been home to some of America's biggest companies, including General Electric, Comcast, and NBC - 30 Rock's network, funnily enough. Edge, on the other hand, is the baby of the two. It's a newly-established observation deck at the newly-renovated Hudson Yards, which has evolved from a shipping district to a cool, gentrified neighborhood. It's named as such due to its proximity to the Hudson River. But other than that, there's not much more history to cover. Top of the Rock Vs. Edge: The view As you'll find both, there are bound to be landmarks you'll see from both Top of the Rock and Edge. So, let's explore each in more detail, so you'll know what to point your camera at! From the Top of the Rock observation deck, you'll get clear views of the Empire State Building, the whole of Central Park, the Statue of Liberty (on a clear day, but don't count on it), Times Square (more likely a night due to all the LED light), and the Chrysler Building. So, plenty to see! From Edge, you'll also see the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and maybe Lady Liberty on a good day. But what else will your eyes gaze upon? Well, you'll see the One World Trade Center, The Vessel (an interactive art installation in Hudson Yards, and the Hudson River. What can you do at Top of the Rock? Yes, there is the observation deck, but we'll get to that. Patience is a virtue, after all. Why are we making you wait? Well, because there's more to 30 Rock than just the observation deck. Start at the bottom, where you'll find multiple exhibits dedicated to the building, the area, and New York in general. You'll see video footage of the Rockefeller Center's historic 10-year construction during the Great Depression in the 1930s. You'll even learn more about the life and times of the building's namesake, John D Rockefeller. Drink all that in, and then it's time for the ascent. The ride up itself lasts but a minute, shooting you up into the sky like some kind of advanced catapult - though a lot more comfortable. Then, you'll exit the elevator and be hit by the view. Get your camera or phone out and get snapping. Snap like there's no tomorrow. Snap like your life depended on it. After that, you're done! Feel free to head back down and explore Manhattan! What can you do at Edge? No messing around here. Head straight in, and take the elevator up to the 100th floor. Then, step out onto the open-air viewing platform and see for yourself. When you're up there, you can drink the view. Ah. Just sip it so it lasts longer. Delicious view. In the middle of the observation deck, you'll find a glass floor. Why is that there? Well, it's for daredevils like you to walk on top of, so you can see the ground hundreds of feet beneath you! Then, when you're done, head back down and take a mosey around Hudson Yards. It's not just newly built flats but an entire ecosystem of shops, restaurants, bars, and parks to explore. How to get to Top of the Rock There are several ways to get to Top of the Rock. These are them! If you're going on the subway, the B, D, F, and M lines stop at the 47-50th Streets-Rockefeller Center station, just a short walk from Top of the Rock. Alternatively, take the 1, E, or C subway lines to the 50th Street station. If the bus is the best boy, you're in luck; several routes head into the area, including the M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, M7, M27, M50, and M104. If you're driving, there are several parking garages in the area. However, traffic downtown can be utterly brutal. So maybe leave the car at home. You could always get a taxi if you want it to be someone else's problem! Then, when you're there, purchase a ticket or show your pass to beat the queue and get in straight away. How to get to Edge If you plan on taking the subway, the closest subway station to Hudson Yards is the 34th Street-Hudson Yards station (funnily enough), that's served by the 7 train. From the subway station, you can walk to Hudson Yards in a few minutes. If you're taking a bus, several routes serve the Hudson Yards area, including the M12, M34, and M34A. If driving's your poison, you'll find several parking garages in the area. But parking in Manhattan can burn through cash quicker than a bad habit, and driving around there isn't much better. Then, when you're there, purchase a ticket or show your pass to beat the queue and get in straight away. Save on New York Activities and Attractions And now you know everything anyone ever need know about Top of the Rock faces off Vs. Edge. Rather than pick just one, go to both to make the most of the differing views and experiences! Does booking both sound expensive? It needn't be. With Go City's All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can head to both, as well as tons more of New York's best bits, for one low price!
Dom Bewley
 Whitney Vs MAD
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 Whitney Vs MAD: NYC’s Best Art Museums Compared

Two museums, two vibes—one unforgettable deep dive into American creativity.
Statue of Liberty in close-up with the New York skyline beyond.
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Empire State Building Vs Statue of Liberty NYC Comparison

Ask your average Jane or Joe to name as many top New York attractions as they can in 10 seconds and it’s fairly likely the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building will be first out of their mouths. But how do they measure up? Which has been around the longest and which has stolen the most blockbuster movie scenes? We got up close and personal with these two titans of the Manhattan skyline to find out. History The Statue of Liberty arrived on US shores in 1885, a gift from the people of France. This beautifully rendered copper giant was designed by celebrated sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, with a metal framework by his engineering pal Gustave Eiffel. Yes, that Gustave Eiffel. The statue was dedicated on Liberty Island in October 1886, where she has stood ever since, her gorgeous patina earning her the nickname ‘Green Goddess’. Still the definitive emblem of American freedom after more than 140 years, the statue attracts around 3.5 million visitors every year. The Empire State Building joined the party a little later, and will reach its centenary year in 2031. Perhaps the most iconic Art Deco building on the planet, it stands at 1,453ft and was the world’s tallest building for over four decades, until topped by the World Trade Center’s North Tower in 1970. No other building has held the record for that long, just one of many accolades held by this monolithic Manhattan masterpiece, which attracts around four million visitors a year, primarily for the birds’ eye views afforded by its observation platforms on the 86th and 102nd floors, some 1,250ft from terra firma. At the Movies The iconic status of the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building mean both have featured in countless movies, TV shows and music videos over the years. How many can you think of? The image of King Kong at the top of the Empire State Building, clinging to his beloved Ann Darrow (Fay Wray) and swatting away airplanes like flies before succumbing to their gunfire, is one of the most recognizable in movie history. It’s the Empire State’s mic drop moment, but the Green Goddess is no cinematic slouch either, having appeared on the silver screen many hundreds of times, even as far back as the silent movie era, when she made what is thought to be her debut alongside Charlie Chaplin in 1917’s The Immigrant. As a proud symbol of American freedom, Lady Liberty has also done innumerable stints in disaster movies, representing hope – or the fall of humankind. We’re talking the haunting image of the statue half-buried in sand in the closing scenes of Planet of the Apes as well as appearances in – deep breath – Independence Day, Deep Impact, The Day After Tomorrow, Cloverfield and, um, Sharknado 2. What can you do at the Statue of Liberty? A trip out to the planet’s most famous torchbearer takes in both Liberty Island (where the statue is located) and its near-neighbor Ellis Island, home of the National Museum of Immigration. And it’s well worth visiting both while you’re here. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the rich history of New York and the USA itself, there’s no better place to start. Photographs, heirlooms and a database of searchable historical records track the history of immigration in the US, and you can even peep into the baggage rooms and dormitories once used by ‘the huddled masses’ who arrived in New York in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Of course, the statue herself is the main event, and there are various options depending on what you want to see. You can book to climb to the top of the pedestal on which Lady Liberty stands, or go the whole hog and climb the 162-step spiral staircase inside the statue for epic views from right up inside her famous crown. Tickets for these experiences are available via the Statue City Cruises website, while a pass from Go City includes your ferry ticket plus entry to the museums, as well as dozens more New York attractions including the Guggenheim, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and – yep – the Empire State Building. What can you do at the Empire State Building? Really the only downside of visiting the observation platforms on the 86th and 102nd floors of the Empire State Building is the fact that those crazy views don’t include... the Empire State Building itself. Instead, soak up some of the best selfie opportunities in town with backdrops that include Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge and many other icons of the New York skyline. The 86th floor is in pole position for photo opps thanks to its open air platform, while the top floor is higher up (obvs) but fully enclosed. You can pimp up your visit with a range of direct ticket options that includes skip-the-line tickets, premium champagne packages and guided tours of the building, including the incredible Art Deco lobby. Or go straight for the 86th floor with an attraction pass from Go City. How to get to the Statue of Liberty The Statue of Liberty’s location on Liberty Island means the only way of getting there is by ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or the Liberty State Park in New Jersey. All passengers are required to undergo a security screening before boarding, so we’d recommend arriving 30 minutes or so before your planned departure, to avoid missing the boat. The Staten Island Ferry is another option if you just fancy a close pass (with stacks of great photo opportunities of both the statue and Manhattan skyline) but without actually physically visiting the attraction. Check out our blog on the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty here. How to get to the Empire State Building Getting to the Empire State Building is an absolute cinch. It’s right in the center or the Big Apple and you really can’t miss it; it’s visible from just about everywhere. The nearest metro stations are Herald Square and Penn Station, or arrive in style at the awesome Grand Central, and make the 10-minute walk from there. Check out our blog on the best time to visit the Empire State Building here. Save on New York Activities and Attractions And that concludes our deep dive into the world of the Empire State Building vs the Statue of Liberty. We hope, in the unlikely event that you choose to visit only one of these big attractions, that in some small way our guide can help you make your decision. If not, and if indecision continues to dog you, remember you can easily visit both and save money thanks to Go City’s All-Inclusive and Explorer passes for New York. So what are you waiting for?
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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