10 Things to Do In New York in December 2025

December is the most wonderful time of the year to experience the magic of New York. Whether you are planning to visit for holiday celebrations or just want to indulge in the winter spirit, there’s no shortage of the best things to do in New York in December.

This time fills New York with holiday magic, iconic decorations, and the thrill of winter festivities, thus transforming the place into a winter wonderland. So, what’s holding you up? Pack your bags and celebrate the most enchanting time of the year in New York to create lifetime memories. This guide provides everything you need for a cozy, eventful December trip to the Big Apple.

Is December a Good Time to Visit NYC?

Wondering if December is the right time to visit New York? Well, the answer is YES. Winter is the best time to celebrate the charm of New York. The average temperature in NYC during winter ranges from -2℃ to 7℃, making it perfect for enjoying crisp air and occasional snowfall.

Besides, winter months in New York are filled with festive events and holiday spirit that further transform this place into a snowy paradise. So, whether you are interested in Christmas celebrations or welcome the New Year in the Big Apple, New York’s festive cheer will surely enthrall you.

What are the 10 Best Things to Do In New York in December?

Explore the 10 best things to do in New York in December and make the most of your winter trip in this frozen fairyland. Be sure to dress warmly and create memories to cherish for a lifetime. Let’s have a closer look.

1. Visit the Bryant Park Winter Village

Let’s begin with the best. The Bryant Park Winter Village is back in all its holiday glory. Here, you can explore more than 180 shopping and food kiosks to make the most of your visit.

Besides, this park offers a 17,000-square-foot ice-skating rink to pamper the adrenaline junkie inside you. So, whether it’s about shopping for handmade items, filling up your appetite with hearty food, or satiating your adrenaline rush, this winter village has it all.

2. Bask in the Magic of Lights at Jones Beach

If you have ever visited New York’s Long Island during the holidays, you must be aware of its tradition of the Magic of Lights at Jones Beach. This drive-through light experience brings your holiday scenes to life.

Make your way down Candy Cane Alley, where you will encounter a larger-than-life sparkling Christmas Barbie display, Bigfoot Monster Truck, and various other enchanting scenes.

3. Enjoy the New York Botanical Garden Train Show

One of the best things to do in New York in December is to enjoy the New York Botanical Garden Train Show. This meticulously crafted miniature allows you to explore iconic structures like the Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, and 200 other landmarks created entirely from plants.

Don’t miss out on the enthralling outdoor display and enjoy a ride on 21+ Holiday Train Nights on select dates.

4. Get Into the Holiday Spirit at Kingston’s Snowflake Festival

What’s better than exploring the charming and decorated streets of the Historic Stockade District while enjoying plenty of holiday-themed activities? This festival keeps the visitors hooked while indulging them in the true holiday spirit.

Visitors here can enjoy live entertainment, including carolers, dancers, horse-drawn carriage rides, jugglers, and much more, to create beautiful memories.

5. Try Indoor Skydiving at iFLY Westchester

Do you love skydiving? Well, then what’s better than enjoying this activity indoors during winter? Head to iFLY Manchester and lose yourself to indoor skydiving like never before. It is a themed wind tunnel that allows you to enjoy a great time with your family and friends.

Add this activity to your December itinerary and feel the adrenaline coursing through your veins. Don’t worry about the safety, as you’ll get a professional trainer during the activity.

6. Spend Leisure Time in Central Park

Central Park is a must-visit tourist attraction in New York, irrespective of the time of your visit. There are plenty of things to do in Central Park in December, such as exploring the park zoo, where you can witness different species, or going to the ice rink for skating.

In addition, you can enjoy many other activities like boating in the river, hiking in the Ramble, and much more, to make your trip memorable.

7. Explore Radio City Music Hall

Still, looking for the best things to do in New York in December? Well, you cannot miss adding the famous Radio City Music Hall to your itinerary. Here, you can enjoy the amazing performance of the Rockettes or witness the grandeur of the Christmas tree.

Besides, this museum is packed with some famous big red ornaments and many other goodies like paintings, bags, and wallets to keep the visitors engaged.

8. Witness the Stunning Christmas Light Show at Saks 5th Avenue

December is mainly synonymous with Christmas celebrations; hence, you cannot miss enjoying the iconic light show on Saks 5th Avenue between 49th and 50th Street. Here, you will enjoy thousands of LED lights, which are synchronized to the Christmas music.

However, you can enjoy the light show in early December due to fewer crowds. You’ll get to experience the light show for three minutes with intervals of ten minutes.

9. Pay a Visit to the Rockefeller Center In December

Visiting the famous Rockefeller Center is one of the best things to do in New York in December. This place is best to witness the beauty of the Big Apple during the festive season.

Rockefeller Center hosts the massive Christmas tree and the gorgeous Swarovski Star, which are the main attractions of this place during December. Here, you can buy souvenirs and presents for your loved ones and try ice skating to pamper the adrenaline junkie inside you.

10. Enjoy the Nutcracker Ballet Performance

Last but not least, the thing you cannot miss when visiting New York in December is the famous Nutcracker Ballet Performance. It provides a great entertainment experience for adults as well as children.

The Nutcracker is a musical play that was originally written by ETA Hoffmann. This two-hour-long play depicts the story of a girl who befriends a nutcracker and defeats the evil mouse king.

Summing Up

With a variety of things to do in New York in December, this city attracts tourists from every nook and corner of the world. Whether you are a nature buff, art lover, adventure enthusiast, or looking for some quality time with your loved ones, New York has something for every kind of visitor. From spending your evening admiring Christmas decorations to witnessing the spectacular LED light show, the Big Apple never runs out of options. So, what’s holding you up? Plan your vacation to New York this December and get spellbound with the charismatic beauty of this winter wonderland.

Read Also: 10 Things to Do in New York City