What to Do on Christmas Day in NYC?

Christmas Day in New York City offers a magical atmosphere unlike any other time of year. While many businesses close for the holiday, the city still buzzes with special activities and festive energy. This guide explores what to do on Christmas Day in NYC, from morning traditions to evening celebrations, ensuring your December 25th in the Big Apple is memorable.

Just as you might research what to do in Kennebunkport for a coastal getaway, planning your Christmas Day in NYC requires some strategic thinking to make the most of this special day. It’s similar to knowing what to do after buying a used car from dealer – a little preparation goes a long way.

Morning Magic: Start Your Christmas Day Right

Deciding what to do on Christmas Day in NYC begins with planning a special morning in the city that never sleeps—even on holidays.

Enjoy a Festive Hotel Breakfast

Many hotels in NYC offer special Christmas morning buffets and brunches:

• The Plaza Hotel presents elegant holiday spreads
• Many midtown hotels host special Christmas breakfasts
• Reservation-only brunches often include festive decorations and music
• Some packages include champagne or special holiday cocktails

Take a Peaceful Morning Stroll

Early Christmas morning offers a rare chance to experience a quieter New York:

• Central Park covered in winter frost is breathtaking
• Fifth Avenue without crowds lets you appreciate the decorations
• Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers spectacular Manhattan views
• The High Line gives a unique elevated perspective of the city

This peaceful time is perfect for reflection and appreciating the beauty of what to do on Christmas Day in NYC before the city fully awakens.

Iconic Christmas Day Activities in Central Park

When planning what to do on Christmas Day in NYC, Central Park should be high on your list.

Wollman Rink Ice Skating

One of the most picturesque Christmas activities in NYC:

• The rink typically opens at 10am on Christmas Day
• Skating against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline creates perfect holiday photos
• Fewer crowds than usual make for a more enjoyable experience
• Pre-booking tickets online is recommended

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Experience an old-world Christmas tradition:

• Carriages operate throughout the day, weather permitting
• Special holiday-decorated carriages add to the festive atmosphere
• The snow-dusted park scenery creates a scene straight from a holiday card
• Rides typically last 20-45 minutes depending on your package

Festive Walking Tours

Several companies offer Christmas-themed walking tours:

• Learn about holiday traditions in New York
• Discover hidden Christmas decorations and displays
• Hear stories about historic Christmas celebrations in the city
• Most tours operate even on Christmas Day, but require advance booking

These Central Park options provide classic answers to what to do on Christmas Day in NYC for both tourists and locals alike.

Special Christmas Day Performances

A highlight of what to do on Christmas Day in NYC includes attending special performances that only happen during the holiday season.

Radio City Christmas Spectacular

The Rockettes perform their famous Christmas show:

• Multiple showtimes on Christmas Day
• The iconic venue is decorated beautifully for the holidays
• The show combines traditional elements with modern staging
• Tickets should be purchased well in advance

Holiday Movie Screenings

Several historic theaters show Christmas classics:

• IFC Center often screens “It’s a Wonderful Life”
• Village East Cinema typically shows holiday favorites
• Nitehawk Cinema sometimes offers special Christmas Day brunches with classic film screenings
• Check theater websites for special Christmas Day programming

Christmas Concerts

Music fills the city on Christmas Day:

• Select churches host afternoon choir performances
• Some jazz clubs remain open with special holiday performances
• The Met sometimes schedules special Christmas Day events
• Trinity Church often hosts afternoon music programming

These performances create memorable experiences for anyone wondering what to do on Christmas Day in NYC.

Festive Dining Options

Finding special meals is an important part of what to do on Christmas Day in NYC, as many restaurants close for the holiday.

Restaurants Open on Christmas Day

While many places close, these establishments typically welcome diners:

• Chinese restaurants in Chinatown remain busy (a New York tradition)
• High-end hotel restaurants offer special Christmas menus
• Select steakhouses stay open with holiday specials
• Certain Italian restaurants in Little Italy maintain Christmas Day hours

Christmas Day Dining Tips

When planning what to do on Christmas Day in NYC around meals:

• Make reservations as far in advance as possible
• Expect fixed-price special menus at many locations
• Call to confirm hours, as they may be limited
• Consider early dining times as many places close earlier than usual

Festive Take-Out Options

For a cozy meal in your hotel or apartment:

• Several gourmet markets offer pre-ordered Christmas meals
• Food delivery services operate with limited restaurant options
• Specialty bakeries sell Christmas desserts for pickup
• Some delis create special holiday sandwich packages

Having a plan for meals is an essential part of what to do on Christmas Day in NYC, especially since options are more limited than usual.

Visit Religious Services and Displays

For those seeking spiritual aspects of the holiday, knowing what to do on Christmas Day in NYC includes finding beautiful services.

Attend Christmas Mass or Services

NYC offers beautiful religious ceremonies:

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral holds multiple Christmas masses
• Trinity Church Wall Street hosts special Christmas services
• Cathedral of St. John the Divine presents a magnificent Christmas Day service
• Many neighborhood churches host special music and ceremonies

Explore Holiday Displays

Churches and religious institutions often have beautiful nativity scenes:

• The Metropolitan Museum features historic nativity art
• Many churches display elaborate nativity scenes
• Some locations offer guided tours of their Christmas decorations
• Religious institutions often have extended hours on Christmas Day

These spiritual experiences provide meaningful options for what to do on Christmas Day in NYC for those seeking connection to the holiday’s religious origins.

Experience Winter Wonderland Views

The city’s iconic skyline takes on a special quality during Christmas, making scenic viewpoints a must for what to do on Christmas Day in NYC.

Visit Observation Decks

Many remain open on Christmas Day:

• Empire State Building observation deck often has shorter lines
• Top of the Rock provides views of the Empire State Building and Central Park
• One World Observatory offers panoramic views of the entire city
• The Edge at Hudson Yards provides a unique perspective

Cross the Brooklyn Bridge

A Christmas Day tradition for many New Yorkers:

• Morning crossings often feature beautiful winter light
• Less crowded than usual days
• The Manhattan skyline view decorated for Christmas is spectacular
• Bundle up as the bridge can be windy and cold

Roosevelt Island Tram

A unique perspective of the city:

• The tram operates limited hours on Christmas Day
• The aerial view of the city is breathtaking
• The ride itself is a fun activity
• Less crowded than during normal days

These viewpoints offer spectacular perspectives that enhance what to do on Christmas Day in NYC.

Neighborhood Explorations

Certain neighborhoods maintain their charm and remain lively on Christmas Day, offering unique experiences for what to do on Christmas Day in NYC.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Brooklyn’s famous holiday display:

• The neighborhood’s elaborate decorations stay lit through Christmas
• Some homes feature massive displays with thousands of lights
• While at its busiest before Christmas, the displays remain up on Christmas Day
• Consider taking a late afternoon visit to see the lights come on at dusk

Lower East Side

A neighborhood with significant Christmas Day activity:

• Historic synagogues and Jewish museums often remain open
• Several restaurants maintain regular hours
• The area offers a glimpse into New York’s diverse holiday traditions
• Walking tours of the tenement museum area provide historical context

Brooklyn’s Prospect Park

A beautiful setting for Christmas Day:

• The park’s winter landscape offers peaceful walks
• Local residents often gather for informal celebrations
• The park’s arches and structures look particularly beautiful with winter frost
• The Boathouse and other facilities may have limited hours

Exploring these neighborhoods provides authentic experiences when considering what to do on Christmas Day in NYC.

Shopping and Markets

While most retail stores close, some shopping options remain, adding to what to do on Christmas Day in NYC.

Last-Minute Gift Markets

Select holiday markets maintain Christmas Day hours:

• Bryant Park Winter Village may have limited vendors open
• Grand Central Holiday Fair sometimes has select stalls open
• Union Square Holiday Market occasionally has abbreviated hours
• Check social media for up-to-date information on market hours

Specialty Stores

Some unique shops maintain Christmas Day hours:

• Select souvenir shops in tourist areas remain open
• Certain specialty food stores welcome customers
• Some bookstores in hotel lobbies maintain service
• A few iconic NYC stores open for limited hours

While not the main focus of what to do on Christmas Day in NYC, these shopping options provide flexibility for last-minute needs.

Evening Entertainment

As day turns to night, what to do on Christmas Day in NYC transitions to evening activities.

Christmas Light Tours

Several companies offer evening light tours:

• Bus tours showcase Manhattan’s best decorations
• Walking tours focus on specific neighborhoods
• Some companies offer special Christmas Day-only routes
• Most require advance booking

Holiday Cruises

See the city from the water:

• Select cruise lines offer Christmas dinner cruises
• Special holiday packages include meals and entertainment
• The city skyline from the water offers unique perspectives
• Most cruises last 2-3 hours

Bar and Lounge Experiences

For adult beverages and celebrations:

• Hotel bars almost always remain open for guests and visitors
• Some specialized cocktail lounges offer Christmas-themed drinks
• Jazz clubs sometimes feature special Christmas night performances
• Rooftop bars with heated areas provide festive atmospheres

These evening activities round out what to do on Christmas Day in NYC as the holiday continues into the night.

Family-Friendly Christmas Day Activities

For those traveling with children, what to do on Christmas Day in NYC includes special family options.

Natural History Museum

One of the few museums open on Christmas:

• The dinosaur halls amaze children of all ages
• Special holiday programming is often available
• The planetarium typically runs shows throughout the day
• Less crowded than usual for a more relaxed experience

Central Park Zoo

Weather permitting, a Christmas Day visit offers:

• Many animals are active in cooler weather
• Special winter exhibits and habitats
• Fewer visitors than normal days
• Check website for holiday hours

Holiday Scavenger Hunts

Several companies create Christmas-themed hunts:

• Follow clues throughout decorated areas of the city
• Discover hidden holiday gems
• Learn about NYC Christmas traditions
• Suitable for various age groups

These family options ensure everyone enjoys what to do on Christmas Day in NYC.

Late Night Christmas Experiences

As Christmas Day winds down, what to do on Christmas Day in NYC includes these evening options.

Times Square Experience

Less crowded than normal:

• The brilliant lights against the night sky create a festive atmosphere
• Street performers often work on Christmas evening
• The area feels more accessible without the usual crowds
• Perfect for photos without tourist photobombs

Midnight Walks

Experience the city at its quietest:

• Fifth Avenue after dark showcases store windows without crowds
• The financial district takes on a peaceful quality
• Rockefeller Center’s tree remains lit but with smaller crowds
• Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers spectacular night views

Late Night Dining

For those seeking late meals:

• Select diners remain open 24 hours, even on Christmas
• Hotel restaurants often serve until late hours
• Some bars offer limited food menus into the night
• Call ahead to confirm hours, which may be adjusted for the holiday

These night options complete a full day of what to do on Christmas Day in NYC.

Planning Tips for Christmas in NYC

To make the most of what to do on Christmas Day in NYC, consider these practical suggestions. Just as you’d want to know what to do if a bird hits your window in an unexpected situation, having a plan for navigating Christmas Day in the city helps you handle any surprises.

Transportation Notes

Getting around requires planning:

• Subway and bus service runs on a holiday schedule
• Many subway lines operate less frequently
• Taxis may be harder to find in residential areas
• Rideshare apps typically have normal service but possibly higher rates

Weather Considerations

Be prepared for winter conditions:

• Temperatures typically range from 25-40°F (-4 to 4°C)
• Snow is possible but not guaranteed
• Wind between buildings can intensify cold
• Layered clothing is essential for outdoor activities

Reservation Recommendations

For the best experience:

• Book special meals 2-3 months in advance
• Purchase show tickets before arriving in NYC
• Reserve special activities at least 30 days ahead
• Confirm all reservations the week before Christmas

These planning tips ensure a smooth experience when deciding what to do on Christmas Day in NYC.

So the Answer to What to Do on Christmas Day in NYC is…

Christmas in New York City offers a unique blend of magic, tradition, and unexpected moments. While the city operates differently on this holiday, that’s part of what makes it special. What to do on Christmas Day in NYC ultimately depends on your personal preferences—whether seeking quiet reflection, family activities, cultural experiences, or festive celebrations.

Just as visitors might research what to do in North Conway for a mountain getaway or what to do if a bird hits your window for handling unexpected situations, Christmas Day in NYC requires some advance planning but rewards you with unforgettable holiday memories.

The city’s Christmas spirit shines through in both grand displays and quiet moments, creating a holiday experience that captures the essence of the season in America’s most vibrant city. Just as you’d want to know what to do after buying a used car from dealer to protect your investment, knowing how to navigate Christmas Day in NYC helps you make the most of this special holiday experience.

References:

1. Timeout
2. Loving-Newyork