There’s nothing quite like a Rockefeller Center Christmas. Each year, the heart of Manhattan transforms into a glowing winter wonderland, as millions gather beneath the most famous Christmas tree in the world and celebrate a holiday tradition nearly a century in the making. Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker or experiencing Christmas in New York for the first time, Rockefeller Center is where the season shines brightest.

From VIP skating and cozy chalets to up-close tree views, festive Santa encounters, and sweeping city vistas, these five experiences capture the magic of Christmas at Rockefeller Center.

1. Take In Breathtaking Holiday Views from Top of the Rock

To see the magic of Christmas in New York from above, head to Top of the Rock, where sweeping views stretch across Manhattan, Central Park, and beyond. From this vantage point, you can enjoy glittering city lights, skyscraper views, and the festive energy of the city below.

For an enhanced experience, the VIP Rock Pass: Holiday Edition offers premium Top of the Rock access and transforms this visit into something even more magical. The two-hour guided journey begins in the VIP Lounge and includes a stop at one of Rockefeller Center’s hidden rooftop gardens, where you can take in the holiday scene—including a unique, elevated vantage point for the Saks Light Show. It’s also the only tour in NYC that provides an exclusive, up-close viewing of the Christmas Tree.

Whether you visit during golden hour, twilight, or under the glow of the city’s nighttime lights, Top of the Rock provides unforgettable photo opportunities and a moment above the festive energy of the streets—and the VIP Rock Pass wraps these views in a rare, behind-the-scenes holiday experience you won’t find anywhere else.

2. Take Your Holiday Photo With the Iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

No visit to NYC during Christmas is complete without experiencing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. The tradition began in 1931 when construction workers raised the first tree, and it has since become the official tree watched by millions worldwide. This year’s Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree—a towering Norway spruce standing more than 75 feet tall—was donated by the Russ family of East Greenbush in upstate New York. Crowds gather nightly to admire its 50,000 multicolored LED lights and its brilliant Swarovski star designed by Daniel Libeskind.

For those hoping to capture the moment, Rockefeller Center offers professional digital photos taken from an exclusive vantage point on The Rink steps, giving you a beautifully framed shot with the Christmas tree glowing in the background. It’s a seamless way to walk away with a memory that feels as magical as the tree itself.

The season officially begins on Wednesday, December 3, with Christmas in Rockefeller Center, the official Christmas tree lighting ceremony, broadcast annually by NBC Universal, and continues through mid-January.

3. Book an Après Skate Chalet for a Cozy Holiday Experience

For a festive way to celebrate the holiday season, nothing compares to the Après Skate Chalets presented by Balsam Hill, an intimate winter escape overlooking the ice. These heated, beautifully decorated chalets provide a premium hospitality experience—perfect for families, couples, or groups searching for a memorable moment away from the bustling Midtown sidewalks.

The experience includes a 40-minute private rental for up to six guests, two digital chalet photos, and access to 5 Acres' festive menu, perfect for sharing with friends or family. Cozy up with s’mores dip, NY-style pretzel bites, or a giant grilled cheese, and toast the season with festive drinks, including hot chocolate, mulled wine, or a spiked holiday cocktail like the Poached Spiced Apple Punch.

For a full day of activities, the Premium Après Skate Chalets ticket enhances the experience with four complimentary Top of the Rock tickets (valid any time on the day of chalet reservation).

4. Upgrade Your Visit with VIP Skate at The Rink at Rockefeller Center Presented by Chase Freedom

Skating at The Rink beneath the most famous Christmas tree in the world is one of the most iconic winter activities in New York City, but this premium skating experience takes it to the next level.

The VIP Skate Pass includes a 60-minute skate session, complimentary skate rentals, and warm beverages, plus a 20% discount at the gift shop. VIP Skate guests can also enjoy access to an exclusive heated lounge for warming up between laps. It’s the perfect way to take in the energy of Rockefeller Center, and enjoy one of NYC’s most cherished holiday traditions.

Whether you’re creating a romantic moment, planning a family outing, or simply experiencing the magic of Christmas at Rockefeller Center, this upgraded skating experience lets you glide through it all with comfort and festive cheer.

5. Meet Santa on the Iconic Beam for a One-of-a-Kind Holiday Moment

Step into a holiday scene like no other at Top of the Rock, where you can meet Santa Claus on the landmark Beam. Inspired by Rockefeller Center’s famous “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” photo, The Beam is perfect for striking a festive pose and capturing a magical moment with Santa.

At select times, this special encounter is included in VIP Pass and VIP Rock Pass tickets, and can also be added to General Admission, All-In Pass, or Express Pass Top of the Rock tickets. Guests can save 20% when purchasing in advance. It’s a playful, heartwarming stop to add to your Rockefeller Center Christmas itinerary, offering a memorable photo and a joyful pause before or after taking in the skyline views above.

Whether you're visiting the tree, skating at The Rink, or exploring the magic of the Channel Gardens, meeting Santa at Top of the Rock adds a little extra wonder to Christmas in New York.