Best Things to Do in NYC in December: The Ultimate Winter Guide for Travelers

Dec 3

Discover New York’s top seasonal experiences, from art exhibits to magical light shows.

December in New York City is pure magic, with sparkling lights, holiday markets, cozy cafés, and immersive winter experiences. Whether you're looking for indoor activities to stay warm or festive outdoor adventures, this guide covers the top things to do in NYC in December.

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Indoor NYC Winter Activities to Stay Warm

reSOUND: An Immersive Multisensory Art Exhibition

reSOUND offers an incredible escape from the winter chill, combining immersive visuals, layered soundscapes, and interactive environments. It’s the kind of art experience that surrounds you completely, inviting you to wander, listen, and absorb the creativity. Perfect for travelers looking for a unique NYC activity that’s both inspiring and indoors.

Holiday Train Nights at the New York Botanical Garden

Inside the warm conservatory at the New York Botanical Garden, you’ll find miniature trains weaving through stunning replicas of NYC landmarks made from natural materials. Holiday Train Nights add live music, lights, and seasonal drinks, turning the evening into a cozy escape. It’s charming, beautiful, and a fantastic way to experience holiday magic without braving the cold.

Santa's Secret Immersive Holiday Experience

For holiday lovers, Santa’s Secret is a joyful, playful, adults-only experience featuring performers, themed rooms, cocktails, and a whimsical underground North Pole. It feels like discovering a hidden holiday world beneath Manhattan, complete with Instagram-worthy moments, dancing elves, and a fun, festive atmosphere ideal for groups or solo travelers.

See a Show (Times Square, Lincoln Center, Radio City, St. Ann’s Warehouse)

Nothing beats staying warm in a theater while watching a world-class performance.

Broadway: The heart of NYC’s theater scene with musicals, dramas, and iconic productions.
Radio City Music Hall: Famous for the Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes.
Lincoln Center: Opera, ballet, and classical music for a more elegant evening.
St. Ann’s Warehouse (Brooklyn): Trendy, experimental, and unforgettable shows.

Winter is NYC’s coziest theater season perfect for pairing with dinner or hot chocolate after.

Cozy Treats & Hot Chocolate Spots

Angelina Paris at Bryant Park

Angelina’s legendary L’Africain Hot Chocolate is thick, rich, and easily one of the best hot chocolates in NYC. Sipping it inside their elegant Parisian-style café located right next to the Bryant Park Winter Village.

Venchi

Venchi offers gourmet Italian chocolate, fountains of flowing chocolate, and hot cocoa that tastes like melted truffles. It’s a beautiful stop on a cold day and a great place to pick up gifts or photos for Instagram.

*Max Brenner*

A winter trip to NYC isn’t complete without a visit to Max Brenner, where chocolate is the main event. From velvet hot chocolate to over-the-top desserts like chocolate fondue and “hug mugs,” it’s a cozy, warm, and playful spot that feels tailor-made for December.

Festive Light Shows & Holiday Events

Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Lightscape transforms the Brooklyn Botanic Garden into a luminous nighttime wonderland. Twinkling arches, glowing pathways, and immersive light installations guide you through a magical outdoor journey. It’s one of the most photogenic events of the season and perfect for visitors who want a peaceful, enchanting winter experience.

Other seasonal light shows

NYC is full of sparkling displays in December. Visit Hudson Yards’ Shine Bright installation, Fifth Avenue holiday windows, and the iconic Dyker Heights Christmas lights in Brooklyn. Many of these are free, making them easy and festive additions to your winter itinerary.

Outdoor Fun: Ice Skating Around NYC

Central Park Ice Skating (Wollman Rink)

Few experiences feel more “New York in winter” than skating under the skyline at Wollman Rink. The views are unbeatable, the atmosphere is classic, and it’s a great activity for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Park Slope Ice Rink

Located in a cozy Brooklyn neighborhood, the Park Slope rink is smaller, more relaxed, and less crowded than Midtown options. It’s a great choice if you want a more local feel.

Brookfield Place Rink

Skating at Brookfield Place offers stunning waterfront views and a calm atmosphere. Afterwards, you can warm up inside the luxury mall or enjoy food at the nearby marketplace.

DUMBO Rink

With the Manhattan Bridge towering overhead, this rink offers some of the best rink views in the city. It’s a great spot for photos, exploring the waterfront, and enjoying the charming streets of DUMBO.

FAQ

Broadway shows, reSOUND, Santa’s Secret.
Brookfield Place or Park Slope.
Yes. Popular activities like immersive exhibitions, Broadway shows, and ice skating sessions often sell out. Advanced tickets save time and guarantee your preferred time slot.
A warm waterproof coat, thermal layers, gloves, scarf, hat, comfortable boots, and lip balm. Don’t forget a portable charger for long sightseeing days.

Why Stay at American Dream Hostel This Winter

American Dream Bed and Breakfast is one of the coziest and most convenient places to stay during the holiday season. With affordable rates during peak travel periods, free breakfast, and warm common areas, it offers comfort and community in the heart of Manhattan. You’ll be steps away from Midtown holiday attractions, theaters, Bryant Park, and major subway lines, making it easy to explore everything on this list without long travel times. Whether you're here solo or with friends, it’s the perfect home base for a magical December in New York. Book your stay today!

Family-owned & traveler-loved, American Dream is a cozy hostel in Midtown Manhattan. We offer clean rooms, free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a friendly vibe — perfect for students, backpackers & explorers.

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