Christmas City Lights Walking Tour in New York
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the magic of New York City at Christmas on a 2-hour holiday lights tour NYC led by a licensed local guide. Stroll through Manhattan’s most dazzling streets and discover the stories behind the city’s holiday traditions. Admire the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the sparkling Fifth Avenue displays, and the timeless beauty of St. Patrick’s Cathedral Christmas decor.
Pause to enjoy the festive charm of Bryant Park New York Christmas Market, explore Macy’s Christmas displays, and see famous movie locations in New York that capture the holiday spirit on screen. This walking tour blends history, lights, and local insight, offering a perfect way to tour like a local and celebrate the season in style.
- 2-hour guided walking tour through Manhattan’s holiday highlights
- Uncover the history, traditions, and movie moments that make Christmas in New York so magical.
Available options
Christmas City Lights Walking Tour in New York
What's included
Professional Licensed Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Begin your festive journey surrounded by glowing lights and cheerful carols. See where Elf filmed its most magical moments and take in views of the Plaza Hotel’s elegant decorations.
2
Stop 2
Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows
Marvel at the legendary displays from New York’s most luxurious stores. Each window tells a story, a blend of art, tradition, and Christmas fantasy.
3
Stop 3
Admire this majestic landmark, adorned with seasonal wreaths and candles. Learn about its midnight mass, holiday concerts, and moving Christmas traditions.
4
Stop 4
Stand beneath the world’s most famous Christmas tree, take photos by the sparkling Channel Gardens, and feel the excitement that fills this plaza every December.
5
Stop 5
Experience the electric energy of Times Square illuminated by winter lights and festive cheer, where Christmas meets New York’s iconic buzz.
6
Stop 6
Continue your tour with the cozy glow of Bryant Park’s Winter Village. Wander through charming stalls, enjoy a warm drink, and watch skaters glide across the ice under twinkling lights.
7
Stop 7
Admire the holiday lights adorning this historic landmark and its iconic stone lions as you discover its cinematic holiday legacy.
8
Stop 8
End your tour at the legendary Macy’s, where stunning Christmas window displays and festive music have enchanted visitors for generations
What's not included
Food and drinks from the winter markets are not included. Your guide will be happy to point out the best spots to enjoy a warm drink or festive treat along the way.
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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2 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Come meet us at the General William Tecumseh Sherman Monument on Grand Army Plaza. It is a gilded bronze equestrian statue located at the southeast entrance of Central Park, at the intersection of 5th Avenue and 59th Street.
About New York City
New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.
Top Attractions
Statue of Liberty
A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.
Historical
3-4 hours
$18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)
Central Park
A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free (some attractions have fees)
Times Square
The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)
Empire State Building
An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.
Architecture
1-2 hours
$44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)
Metropolitan Museum of Art
One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.
Museum
3-5 hours
$25 (suggested admission)
Brooklyn Bridge
An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
New York-style Pizza
Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Bagel with Lox
A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.
Breakfast
Contains dairy and fish.
Cheesecake
Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.
Dessert
Contains dairy.
Pastrami on Rye
Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.
Lunch
Contains meat.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Central Park
Kayaking in the Hudson River
Rock climbing in the Bronx
Spas and wellness centers
Yoga and meditation classes
Strolling through botanical gardens
Museum visits
Broadway shows
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use common sense and trust your instincts
Getting there
By air
- John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
- LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown
By train
Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal
By bus
Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Manhattan
Brooklyn
Queens
Bronx
Staten Island
Day trips
Niagara Falls
650 km (400 miles) • Overnight
A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Washington D.C.
370 km (230 miles) • Full day
The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.
Philadelphia
150 km (93 miles) • Full day
A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.
Festivals
New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November
NYC Pride • Late June
Pro tips
- Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
- Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
- Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
