Christmas in New York City with Kids: Your Ultimate Family-Friendly Guide

Christmas in New York City is truly magical, transforming the city into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer at every turn. As a parent who loves Christmas (one of my all-time favorite holiday movies is Home Alone 2: Lost in New York), I was beyond excited to take our toddler to experience the magic of NYC during the holidays. While staying at The Plaza and eating pizza in a limo remain on my bucket list, we still managed to visit many iconic spots from the movie, including the Gapstow Bridge in Central Park, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

This guide is designed to help you plan the perfect family holiday trip to New York City, filled with festive fun, practical tips, and must-see attractions for parents traveling with young children.

1. Choosing the Right Time to Visit

The holiday season in New York City kicks off in late November, but the most magical time to visit is from early December to New Year's Eve. For a less crowded and more affordable experience, consider traveling in the first two weeks of December. We went the week of December 5th and found it to be a perfect time—smaller crowds and better flight deals compared to Thanksgiving or closer to Christmas.

2. Where to Stay in NYC with Kids

For our trip, we opted for an Airbnb or VRBO rental instead of a hotel, giving us more space for our toddler to roam and the comforts of a home-like environment. When booking your stay, consider accommodations in Midtown Manhattan for easy access to holiday attractions. Pro tip: staying within walking distance of major sights makes exploring much easier with a stroller, avoiding the hassle of carrying a car seat for taxis or rideshares.

3. Must-See Holiday Attractions in NYC

A Christmas trip to New York wouldn’t be complete without visiting these iconic spots:

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: This centerpiece of NYC's holiday celebrations is a must-see. The tree lighting happens in late November, but it stays lit until early January.

• Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center: Glide under the stars and the famous Christmas tree. For fewer crowds, go early in the morning or later at night.

• Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Featuring the Rockettes, this holiday show at Radio City Music Hall is a must-do. Be sure to book tickets in advance!

• Holiday Windows on Fifth Avenue: Take a stroll down Fifth Avenue to see the stunning window displays at stores like Saks, Macy’s, and Bergdorf Goodman.

• Bryant Park Winter Village: This European-style market features ice skating, unique holiday gifts, and festive treats.

Or you can book a New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour. Visit iconic landmarks like Rockefeller Center, 9/11 Memorial, and Central Park while traveling by bus and ferry. Enjoy insider commentary from a knowledgeable guide and breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and more.

4. Holiday Shopping in New York City

NYC is a shopper’s paradise, especially during the holidays. Be sure to check out:

• Union Square Holiday Market: Filled with local artisans and unique gifts, it's perfect for finding handmade crafts, jewelry, and seasonal foods.

• Brookfield Place: For high-end shopping and a beautiful indoor winter garden, head to this upscale mall in Lower Manhattan.
  

5. Family-Friendly Dining in NYC

NYC offers countless dining options, from casual bites to fine dining. Here are some festive spots that kids will enjoy too:

• Ellen's Stardust Diner: Near Broadway, this diner offers singing waitstaff and family-friendly dining, perfect for the holiday season.

• S'MAC (Sarita's Mac and Cheese): A cozy spot offering gourmet mac and cheese that both kids and adults will love.

• Joe's Pizza: For a classic NYC pizza experience, visit Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village. It’s a no-frills, iconic spot that’s been serving slices since 1975.

• Levain Bakery: Don’t miss the oversized gooey cookies that Levain is famous for!
  

6. Getting Around NYC with Kids

Navigating New York with a stroller takes some planning, but it’s definitely doable. Here are some tips:

• Walking: We found walking to be the easiest way to get around, especially with so many attractions close together in Midtown.

• Public Transportation: While the subway is convenient, not all stations are stroller-friendly, so plan your route and look for stations with elevators.

• Taxis and Rideshares: This wouldn't be my first choice with carseats but they are readily available. If you do need a car seat, request one ahead of time.
  

7. Extra Tips for a Smooth Holiday Trip

• Dress in Layers: NYC can get very cold in December, so pack warm layers, a good coat, gloves, and a hat. If you are a wuss in the cold like me, pack layers for sleeping. It is humid and cold and those radiators cause a lot of moisture in the buildings at night.

• Book in Advance: Popular attractions and restaurants fill up quickly, so make reservations early to avoid disappointment.

• Stay Flexible: The holiday season is busy, so be prepared for crowds and possible delays. A flexible itinerary will help you enjoy your trip more.

• Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, diapers, and a portable charger to keep your day running smoothly.

• Review guides. Get ideas by viewing guides for first timers with top activities around NYC.

  
  

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to experience the magic of Christmas in New York City with your family. Whether it's ice skating under the Rockefeller tree, browsing festive holiday markets, or indulging in some delicious food, NYC offers a magical holiday experience you’ll never forget. Happy travels and Merry Christmas!