There’s no place more magical during the holiday season than New York City. With light installations around every corner, endless festive window displays and brownstones, and grand Christmas trees in all the iconic places, the Big Apple is full of yuletide charm.
For tourists who may be visiting from all over the world, or even for locals who wish to soak in the holiday cheer, look no further. Read on to discover best Christmas photo spots in NYC and capture the magic!
Fifth Avenue
As a native New Yorker, I avoid Fifth Avenue during the holidays like it’s the plague omicron variant. Believe it when I say, the place is packed. Like, unable to move kind of packed. But it’s the definition of Christmas spirit, so if it’s your first time in NYC during the holidays, I recommend checking it out. Just go early or on weekdays to avoid the crowds! From the iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree to the Saks Fifth Avenue light display and St. Paul’s Cathedral across the street, here you’ll find some of the most magnificent Christmas decorations you’ve ever seen. All the luxury shops are decked out as well. Be sure to check out Pulitzer Fountain for the cutest installation — it changes every year, and this year it’s penguins and polar bears!
Lotte New York Palace
Most of the high-end hotels have their own festive decor, but my favorite is the Christmas tree in the Lotte New York Palace courtyard. While the tree isn’t up this year (2021), it usually is an amazing sight that draws many visitors. While I love lounging around in pajamas (especially in quarantine…), I also love getting glammed up. This spot is perfect for a Christmas photo shoot with family and friends.
Hudson Yards
My work just relocated to Hudson Yards last year, so I’ve gotten the chance to see more of this neighborhood that I’d previously never explored. The Shops at Hudson Yards has this amazing hot air balloon light display, and the Vessel is equally well-decorated. It’s surprisingly not as crowded as Midtown, so if you’re looking for a popular spot away from (most of) the tourists, come to Hudson Yards!
Brookfield Place & The Oculus
My old stomping grounds! When I first moved to NYC after college, I lived in Battery Park City and would walk here all the time after work. Sunsets over the Statue of Liberty, sailboats in the marina, kids ice skating in the winter… this neighborhood will always hold a special place in my heart. Outside Brookfield Place you’ll find a path lined with lit-up trees, and inside you’ll see tons of Christmas trees and a fascinating light display. Head over a few blocks to the Oculus for even more of a winter wonderland!
Upper East Side
As an Upper West Sider, I’m fully #TeamWestSide. However, I have to give the Upper East Side credit for its impressive brownstone decorations. This brownstone on East 76th St between 5th Avenue and Madison is a hidden gem that’s far from the crowds. The detail that went into this is incredible. Look at those nutcrackers! And wreaths! And presents! And candy canes! Just too cute.
Planning a visit to NYC during the holiday season? Let me know what other cute spots you discover!
