There’s nothing like Christmas in NYC. When Manhattan sparkles with twinkling lights, storefronts transform into winter wonderlands, and the city’s most iconic landmarks put on their festive best, it’s pure magic.

Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate beneath the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, admiring Christmas decorations along Fifth Avenue, or ice skating under the skyline, the holidays in New York City bring magic, tradition, and cheer.

For those seeking the ultimate holiday season experiences (without the wait times), these curated picks (with no lines) will turn must-see moments into unforgettable memories.

1. Priority Access to the World’s Most Famous Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is the centerpiece of Christmas in NYC, and the VIP Rock Pass: Holiday Edition offers a truly elevated experience. As the only tour in NYC with close-up viewing of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, this 2-hour guided experience includes a VIP tour of Top of the Rock, featuring access to Skylift and a private Beam Experience, a Champagne Toast, and Photo Pass to commemorate your visit. Then you’ll enjoy close-up access to the tree, followed by an exclusive visit to one of Rockefeller Center’s hidden rooftop gardens.

Raise a glass and enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience combining festive glamour with quiet, behind-the-scenes moments at one of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions. After sunset the VIP experience even gets you access to a private viewing of the Saks Light Show from one of the private rooftop gardens at Rockefeller Center.

2. Après Skate Chalets at Rockefeller Center: Your Private Winter Wonderland

Step inside a Chalet at Rockefeller Center, your cozy alpine hideaway in the heart of Manhattan. This seasonal experience lets you sip, dine, and unwind amid the sparkle of Manhattan’s holiday magic, with winter cocktails, desserts and warm, festive charm. It’s the perfect place to take in the holiday lights and soak up the magic of Christmas time.

Enjoy 40 minutes in your own cozy, private Après Skate Chalets presented by Balsam Hill, overlooking the iconic Rink and Christmas Tree. Each reservation for up to six guests includes two digital chalet photos, with the option to order bites and beverages from 5 Acres, Rockefeller Center’s on-site American restaurant offering seasonal fare.

3. Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show and Seasonal Stroll

Across 5th avenue from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the Saks Light Show dazzles visitors with its iconic holiday display. Pair your visit with a stroll along Midtown Manhattan’s glittering streets, where window displays at Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, and Macy’s bring Christmas in New York City to life. Stop for a moment at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, sip a warm drink, and take in the twinkling lights and festive décor that transform the avenue into a seasonal spectacle.

Pro tip: Book an evening slot of the VIP Rock Pass: Holiday Edition for one of the best views of the Saks Light Show as the lights begin to dance across Fifth Avenue.

For a seasonal cultural experience, visit the New York Public Library at Bryant Park, where historic architecture meets holiday décor, or explore Grand Central Terminal to see its garlands and twinkling lights. Both spots offer a cozy, festive atmosphere that feels distinctly New York, making them great additions to any holiday itinerary.

4. VIP Skate at Rockefeller Center: Glide Beneath the Christmas Tree

Nothing captures the spirit of NYC Christmas quite like a visit to the ice skating rink beneath the world-famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree. VIP Skate takes it up a notch: enjoy reserved ice time at The Rink with a 60-minute session on the ice, priority entry, access to our heated VIP lounge with warm beverages, complimentary skate rental, and 20% off at the gift shop — all at New York City’s most iconic Rink.

It’s a bucket-list experience that combines the glamour of Manhattan with the intimacy of a private winter escape.

5. An Exclusive, Expert-Led Tour of MoMA

Experience MoMA like never before with a private, expert-led tour that lets you skip the lines and take in the museum’s most celebrated works at your own pace. Explore legendary galleries, admire modern and contemporary masterpieces, and enjoy the rare quiet that makes it easier to take in each work without distraction.

Paired with MoMA’s subtle seasonal touches, it’s a culture-rich, art-forward way to pause and recharge amid the season’s busier moments.

6. A Holiday Market Hop: Bryant Park to Union Square

No Christmas in New York City is complete without a visit to a Christmas market (or three). Start at the Bryant Park Winter Village, where rows of charming glass booths overflow with handmade gifts and seasonal treats. Then, make your way downtown to the Union Square Holiday Market, a must-see for local artisans, cozy garlands, and New York-style hot chocolate.

Beyond Midtown, Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights Christmas lights offer a spectacular display, turning streets into a glowing holiday showcase and a true local tradition. Or head uptown to Central Park, where the snow-dusted trails and horse-drawn carriages create a picture-perfect winter escape.

7. Celebrate the Season With Iconic NYC Sights

Wrap up your day of New York City Christmas with exclusive evening experiences in Midtown Manhattan. Enjoy reserved seating or early access to the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, featuring the Rockettes, then take in the dazzling lights of Times Square. For a quieter finale, stroll along 34th Street or stop at Columbus Circle, where holiday décor and twinkling lights capture the essence of NYC Christmas.

Experience the Magic of Christmas in New York City

From private access to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and VIP skating sessions to holiday markets, festive light displays, and iconic city sights, Christmas in NYC offers endless ways to make the holiday season sparkle. Whether it’s your first Christmas in New York City or part of an annual tradition, these experiences promise a celebration that captures the heart, glamour, and magic of Manhattan at Christmas time.