Christmas & New Year Tours from New York City

What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours from New York City

• What special Christmas activities are included in tours starting from New York City?

  New York City tours during Christmas time let you experience the city's most beloved holiday traditions. You can see the giant Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, walk past the elaborate window displays on Fifth Avenue, and go ice skating in Central Park's Wollman Rink. Most tours include tickets to see the Rockettes perform in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. One TourRadar traveler shared, "the combination of Bryant Park's Winter Village, shopping at Macy's decorated for Christmas, and evening carriage rides through Central Park made for magical holiday memories." You'll also have time to browse festive markets like the Union Square Holiday Market.

• What are the typical meeting points for Christmas and New Year tours starting in New York City?

  Most tours meet at one of three easy-to-find spots in Manhattan: near the TKTS booth in Times Square on 42nd Street, outside Port Authority Bus Terminal, or in the main concourse of Grand Central Terminal. TourRadar travelers often mention "the conveniently located Port Authority side entrance at 330W 42nd Street" as their preferred meeting spot for multi-day tours. Some tours also start from hotels like the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Midtown or La Quinta Inn in Manhattan.

• What weather conditions should I prepare for on Christmas and New Year tours starting from New York City?

  New York winters can be quite cold, with temperatures usually between 26-40°F (-3 to 4°C). You'll need proper winter clothes, especially if you're joining outdoor activities. The weather can vary depending on where your tour takes you - New York might be snowy while Washington DC or Miami could be much milder. One TourRadar traveler suggests, "Layer up for outdoor New Year's festivities in NYC but pack lighter items for indoor holiday events at places like Radio City Music Hall or upscale restaurants at the Rockefeller Center."

• What dining experiences are offered during Christmas and New Year tours from New York City?

  You'll get to enjoy special holiday meals at famous New York restaurants like Tavern on the Green in Central Park and Rolf's German Restaurant, known for its amazing Christmas decorations. TourRadar travelers love places like Ellen's Stardust Diner, where the servers sing holiday songs while you eat. Tours mix traditional American holiday food with New York favorites, and often include New Year's Eve dinner at places like the Sheraton at the Falls or special holiday menus at Manhattan restaurants.

• What iconic New Year celebrations can I experience on tours starting in New York City?

  New Year's in New York means you can join the famous Times Square Ball Drop celebration, watch fireworks in Central Park, or take a special harbor cruise to see the Manhattan skyline at night. Most tours include evening events around Rockefeller Center, Times Square, or viewing spots in Long Island City. One TourRadar traveler shared their experience: "Watching the ball drop in Times Square on New Year's Eve was an unforgettable bucket-list experience, though you need to arrive very early to get a good spot."

• What holiday shopping opportunities are available on Christmas tours starting from New York City?

  You'll have plenty of chances to shop at New York's famous holiday spots like Fifth Avenue's luxury stores, Bryant Park Winter Village, and Union Square Holiday Market. Tours usually stop at Macy's Herald Square, the biggest department store in the world, and the fancy shops along Madison Avenue. TourRadar travelers say you'll have free time to check out the shops at Rockefeller Center and see the beautiful holiday window displays at stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman.