If you know me, you know that I love New York City. And while visiting the Christmas Markets in Europe is one of the best things to do around the holiday season, I happen to think that New York City is actually one of the world’s best destinations during the holidays.

To make my case in point, I’ll be sharing the ultimate New York City holiday bucket list. But be forewarned - this post may or may not change your current holiday plans.

The Ultimate New York City Holiday Bucket List

New York City is a great idea year-round. However, the city holds a certain sort of magic around the holiday season. Seeing Central Park covered in a fresh blanket of snow, watching 5th Avenue light up with shimmering red, green, and gold lights, and feeling the light powdery snow gently fall as you ice skate in one of the world’s most iconic landmarks are just a few reasons why New York City should be on your holiday bucket list.

Without further ado, here are some of the best activities and places you need to add to your New York City holiday bucket list. Starting with…

1. See the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Bonus points if you can make it for the lighting ceremony (which changes from year to year so be sure to look it up). Even if you can’t make it for the official lighting, seeing the Rockefeller Christmas tree is one of the quintessential New York City holiday bucket list activities for both locals and tourists alike.

Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, New York

2. Go Ice Skating in Rockefeller Center

You know the scene in Disney’s Fantasia 2000 where animated characters dreamily ice skate in the midst of towering skyscrapers to the sound of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue? Going ice skating in Rockefeller Center is so iconically New York during the holiday season.

I’m not going to lie - it’s going to be crowded. So if ice skating isn’t your cup of cocoa, I still recommend visiting the rink for the Christmas-card perfect photo.

P.S. The rink usually opens in late November and stays open until mid-January. Just a tip if you want to beat the crowds, get there as early as possible and plan to skate in the morning.

Address: 600 5th Avenue, New York, New York

Price of Admission: $25-$35* per adult with $13 for skate rentals

Hours: 9 AM to midnight

3. Ice Skating at Central Park’s Wollman Rink

If skating with fewer crowds and with a more natural surrounding fits your vibe, Central Park’s Wollman Rink is a great option. It might not be as iconic as skating as Rockefeller, but it’s still a beautiful experience to add to your holiday bucket list.

The Wollman Rink is situated in heart of Central Park, and the views are unbeatable. Put on your gloves, grab a cup of hot cocoa, lace your skates up, and cue the Christmas music. Skating in Central Park is definitely an experience for the books.

Address: Central Park at 63rd Street

Hours: 10 AM - 2:30 PM on Monday and Tuesday, 10 AM - 10 PM on Wednesday to Friday, 10 AM - 11 PM on Saturday, and 10 AM to 9 PM on Sunday.

Admission and skate rental prices: $12 - $19* and skate rentals are $10

4. Ice Skating in Bryant Park for Free

It’s no secret that New York is an expensive city. And prices certainly do not drop like the temperatures in the winter. But if you want to go skating for free, visit Bryant Park. This is the only place in New York City where you can ice skate for free. The only thing you have to pay for? Skate rentals!

Hours: 8 AM - 10 PM

Skate rental prices: $21 - $36* subject to change depending on the season

5. Stroll Through Bryant Park’s Winter Village

Ok ok, there’s so much more to do in New York in the holidays than going ice skating. And I’m about to dive into them, starting with a stroll through Bryant Park’s Winter Village. This is New York City’s answer to the traditional Christmas Markets of Europe.

Although the look and feel of the Winter Village is completely different, the concept is the same. Walkthrough and browse the little clear structures that feature art, gifts, and crafts created by local artisans.

P.S. Bryant Park’s Winter Village is only open during the peak holiday season so plan your trip accordingly.

6. Igloos at New York’s Largest Rooftop Garden

What’s better than the perfect Christmas and New York City photo op than a rooftop igloo with the infamous skyline as your backdrop? The Igloo Bar is a seasonal attraction that opens in mid-November and is worth a visit if you’re in for good drinks and even better views.

Book one of their 17 igloos for brunch or an evening out with friends. These igloos seat up to 10 people within their heated but clear walls. And if that isn’t enough, the bar will provide red robes for an added layer of coziness.

Address: 230 5h Avenue (corner of 27th) New York, New York

7. Go Window Shopping on 5th Avenue

5th Avenue is a shopper’s paradise. But even if you aren’t planning on lugging gifts back from New York City, window shopping on 5th Avenue is a classic holiday activity. As a native New Yorker, some of the best window displays can be found at Barney’s, Bergdorf Goodman’s, and of course, Macy’s.

8. See a Classic New York Holiday Show

New York City is home to many mediums of art. It’s no wonder there isn’t a shortage of shows, galleries, and concerts to attend. While catching a Broadway show is always a must while visiting the city, the holiday season does offer timeless experiences. Go see the classic Christmas Rockettes show at Radio City Music Hall. Or head to Lincoln Center to watch the New York City Ballet tradition of performing George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker.

Radio City Music Hall address: 1260 6th Avenue, New York, New York

Lincoln Center address: Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, New York

9. Tea Time at the Plaza

Having high tea at the Palm Court is a quintessential New York City activity any time of the year. The art deco styled interiors are so perfect, it was featured in scenes from The Great Gatsby. However, a visit during the holiday season will promise out-of-this-world holiday decor worth swooning over. So pinkies up! Get out of the cold and carve out some time for afternoon tea at the Plaza.

The Plaza address: 5th Avenue at, Central Park S, New York, NY 10022

10. Dyker Heights Holiday Lights in Brooklyn

For the coup de grace of over-the-top holiday spirit, take a trip out to see the Dyker Heights holiday lights in Brooklyn. Each home is decked out with excessive christmas lights and decor that’s sure to conjure up a few “oohs” and “ahhs”. So climb aboard the holiday express (with a Slice of Brooklyn Tours) and get ready to see some truly extravagant displays that, dare I say, might put 5th avenue to shame.

TTG Expert Tip: This tour sells out quick so you’ll want to book it ASAP

10 Things to Add to Your NYC Holiday Bucket List