There’s nothing quite like New York in December. The city sparkles with festive lights, world-famous holiday displays, and seasonal traditions that draw visitors from around the globe.
From the magic of Midtown’s holiday windows to the excitement of the Times Square Countdown, December in New York transforms the city into a winter wonderland filled with iconic celebrations, family-friendly activities, and can’t-miss spectacles.
If you’re planning a holiday trip, here are the best things to do in New York in December.
Located only a 30-minute rideshare from the Opera House in the Bronx, the NYBG Holiday Train Show is one of the city’s most enchanting holiday traditions. Model trains weave through miniature recreations of NYC landmarks—all crafted from natural materials like bark, leaves, and twigs. It’s a family favorite and perfect for visitors wanting a winter activity outside the busier Midtown crowds.
The centerpiece of New York in December is, without question, the Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting, and for guests of the Opera House Hotel, it’s only a 35-minute rideshare away. This towering evergreen, often more than 75 feet tall, creates one of the city’s most dazzling holiday displays.
Covered in more than 50,000 lights and topped by the world-famous Swarovski star, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting in December. Just below the tree is the iconic ice-skating rink, where visitors glide under the sparkling lights in one of the most scenic skating locations in the world.
New York in December is synonymous with this annual Christmas tradition. This year is particularly special as it is the 100th anniversary of the Rockettes, who will be performing yet another legendary Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Located a 35-minute rideshare from the Opera House Hotel, the show features precision choreography, dazzling costumes, stunning stage effects, and classic scenes like “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers.”
It’s one of the most beloved holiday performances in the country and essential for anyone visiting New York in December. Families, couples, and holiday lovers will find this show the perfect way to get into the festive spirit. The anniversary season also introduces updated numbers and special nods to a century of Rockettes history.
Just across from Rockefeller Center, the nightly Saks Fifth Avenue light show draws massive crowds every December. Every 10 minutes, the façade of the Saks building comes alive with a choreographed show featuring thousands of lights synchronized to holiday music.
It’s one of the most extravagant light displays in the city and is completely free to watch. Before or after the show, stroll along Fifth Avenue to see holiday windows from luxury brands, department stores, and flagship shops that go all out on imaginative holiday storytelling.
In December, Fifth Avenue, about a 35-minute rideshare from the Opera House Hotel, becomes a glittering corridor of holiday displays. Stores decorate their windows with elaborate, often whimsical designs that turn the avenue into a winter attraction of its own. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Fifth Avenue is an essential NYC holiday experience.
Bryant Park, a 40-minute rideshare from the Opera House Hotel, transforms into a European-style winter market each December, filled with artisan shops, food vendors, and festive decorations.
The Winter Village also features New York’s only free-admission ice rink (skate rentals extra), as well as sit-down dining options in heated igloos and glass-enclosed lounges. This is one of the best places in the city for holiday shopping, casual bites, and seasonal ambiance.
No visit to New York in December is complete without understanding how to watch the ball drop in Times Square. It’s a 35-minute rideshare from the Opera House, but it’s an iconic thing to do on New Year’s Eve. Here are your options for how to watch:
If you’re planning to purchase Times Square ball drop 2025 tickets, it’s best to book early, as special-viewing parties sell out quickly.
Central Park, located a 30-minute rideshare from the Opera House Hotel, offers quiet winter charm with carriage rides, snowy landscapes (when the weather cooperates), and the beloved Wollman Rink for ice skating. The park is peaceful in December and a wonderful escape from holiday crowds.
New York in December is magical, festive, and filled with unforgettable experiences, from the Rockefeller tree to the Rockettes, the Saks light show, and the iconic Times Square countdown.
To make your holiday trip even better, consider staying at the Opera House Hotel. Its comfort, convenience, and easy rideshare access to Manhattan make celebrating the season effortless.
Book your stay and enjoy what December has to offer for the holidays.