TRAVEL
The New York City Holiday Travel Guide
November 15, 2026
We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun. Here’s where to stay, eat, and shop during the holiday season in New York City, according to Tuckernuck.
The NYC Holiday Look
Now’s the time to go all-out holiday—think festive tartan, statement coats, cozy cashmere, and a little sparkle for good measure. From window shopping to dinner reservations, there's always an excuse to get dressed up.
Getting There
New York is especially busy during the holidays, so plan on a little extra travel time. Trains are a great way to get into the city, and once you're here, walking or taking the subway is often faster than a taxi or Uber—especially around Midtown. Pack comfortable shoes, bundle up, and leave extra time between reservations.
See the City Sparkle
Start with the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, then stroll Fifth Ave to see the department store windows decked out in their holiday best.
Catch a Holiday Show
The Rockettes at Radio City or The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center—you can't go wrong with either. Dress up and make a night of it.
Take a Spin
Lace up your ice skates at Wollman Rink for an only-in-New-York experience, complete with Central Park scenery and skyscrapers in the background.
These hotels make traveling with the whole crew feel like a true vacation.
The Plaza
If you've ever dreamed of spending Christmas like Eloise, this is your chance. From its grand lobby to its famous afternoon tea, The Plaza is about as quintessentially New York as it gets.
The Carlyle
Old New York glamour at its finest. We love this legendary hotel for its elegant interiors and classic cocktails at Bemelmans Bar.
The Bowery
This downtown favorite is an ideal home base for holiday shopping in SoHo and exploring the East Village. Think a crackling fireplace, velvet sofas, and all the cozy vibes.
The St. Regis
A little luxury goes a long way during the holidays. With its grand interiors, storied history, and Fifth Ave location, this New York landmark puts you right in the middle of the festive action.
Come hungry, dress for the occasion, and don't skip dessert.
Coffee & Treats
The Plaza Afternoon Tea
A holiday afternoon at The Plaza's Palm Court is a New York tradition worth dressing up for. Come for the delicate sandwiches and beautiful pastries, stay for the old-world glamour.
Ladurée
A little taste of Paris in the middle of Manhattan. Stop in for colorful macarons, pastries, and a gorgeously packaged box of sweets to bring home (if they make it that far).
Veniero's
Cannoli, cookies, cheesecake…good luck choosing just one. This old-school Italian bakery is the perfect excuse to pick up a box of treats to share.
Ralph's Coffee
Holiday shopping calls for a coffee break. Step inside Ralph Lauren's signature café for a cappuccino, hot chocolate, or sweet treat before heading back out to Fifth Ave.
Lunch & Dinner
The Polo Bar
Dark wood, equestrian details, classic American food, and an excuse to wear your favorite holiday dress. Reservations are notoriously hard to come by, so plan ahead.
Tavern on the Green
A New York classic that feels especially magical during the holidays. Set in the heart of Central Park, it's the perfect place to warm up over lunch after a morning of skating.
Balthazar
Red leather banquettes, bustling tables, and French bistro classics—this downtown institution always feels like a celebration. Stop in for a leisurely lunch or make a night of it with steak frites and champagne.
The Waverly Inn
Tucked away on a charming West Village street, this cozy, old-school favorite is just the place for a dressed-up December dinner. Request a table by the fireplace and keep your phone tucked away—no photos allowed!
Pete's Tavern
Old-school New York holiday cheer, with a side of twinkling lights. This historic neighborhood spot goes all out with floor-to-ceiling decorations. Grab a cozy booth and a burger.
Snowday at Sunday in Brooklyn
No lift ticket required. This Williamsburg favorite gets an après-ski makeover for the holidays, complete with over-the-top decorations, cozy blankets, and festive cocktails.
Decked-out windows, charming boutiques, and gifts worth making room in your suitcase for.
Bergdorf Goodman
No NYC holiday shopping trip is complete without a stop at Bergdorf's. Admire the famously elaborate window displays, browse the beautiful floors, and head upstairs for lunch with a view.
John Derian
A treasure trove of vintage-inspired ornaments, whimsical decorations, and beautifully unexpected gifts. His dedicated holiday shop is the kind of place where you'll want to buy everything.
ABC Carpet & Home
For the person who loves a beautifully set table. Browse gorgeous home accents, decorative objects, and thoughtful gifts at this design-lover's dream of a store.
The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park
Part holiday market, part winter wonderland. Wander through the little shops for handmade gifts, ornaments, and seasonal treats, then take a lap around the skating rink.
The Six Bells
This storybook-inspired Brooklyn shop is full of charming tableware, cozy textiles, and gifts you won't find just anywhere. Come for the holiday shopping, leave with inspo for your next tablescape.
DUMBO Holiday Markets
Escape the Midtown crowds for a little holiday shopping across the river. Browse vintage finds, handmade gifts, and one-of-a-kind treasures at the Brooklyn Flea under the Manhattan Bridge or FAD Market at Empire Stores.
How to make the most of the most wonderful time of the year.
See a Holiday Show
The Rockettes at Radio City or The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center? We say both. These iconic performances are the kind of holiday traditions that never get old.
Skate at Wollman Rink
Bundle up and lace up for one of the most picturesque skating experiences in the city. With the Manhattan skyline in the background, it's a scene straight out of a holiday movie.
Visit the Holiday Train Show
At the New York Botanical Garden, miniature trains wind past intricate replicas of New York landmarks, all made from natural materials. A charming tradition for kids and grown-ups alike.
See Lightscape
Cross the river for a nighttime stroll through a garden transformed by twinkling lights and illuminated installations. Bundle up and enjoy the magic.
Visit Merchant's House Museum
Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 19th-century home, where flickering candles and old-fashioned decorations set the scene for an intimate performance of A Christmas Carol.
Take a Holiday Cruise
See the city's festive lights from the water with Classic Harbor Line. Board a 1920s-style yacht and sip hot cocoa or champagne from the heated cabin as you cruise past the skyline.
We hope this inspires you to book a trip,
pack your bags, and plan your itinerary!
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