10+ Best Unbelievable Things to Do in NYC in December

Are you planning to visit New York this December? Well, you’re lucky and in for a surprise. You’re just in time because we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in NYC in December. If this is your first time visiting the Big Apple, we have great tips on things to do in New York for first-timers. So, let’s get started!

What’s the Weather like in December?

Before we get into the details, let’s learn about NYC’s weather. This is what you need to know:

Don’t let rainy days stop you from having fun. We’re here to tell you all about the best things to do in New York in the rain.

What Should You Wear in New York in December?

Check out some tips about how you can enjoy your your walking tours in December.

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in NYC, you’ve to walk a lot! Walking is one of the best things to do in New York for free because you get to see all the gorgeous sights on foot at no cost.

For evening outings, you can have something a bit more elegant to match the lavish nightlife. Dress in layers since temperatures can drop, especially during mornings and evenings. On observation decks, a warm, windproof jacket is the best choice. Don’t forget to pack:

These accessories will help you stay warm.

What are New York Prices like in December?

If you’re looking for free things to do in New York, you need to be aware of NYC prices in December. Hotel prices and airfare tend to be high in December due to peak travel season. Visitors flock to popular attractions and indulge in shopping sprees. To secure the best prices, book your flights and accommodations in advance.

While Midtown and Times Square are the most popular tourist destinations, Brooklyn also offers several options with convenient transport to Manhattan attractions. If you’re looking for bucket list things to do in New York while staying on a budget, you must plan your trip properly.

You can use free online resources like:

These will smoothen your experience in NYC.

Getting Around NYC in December

Getting around New York is straightforward. There are many options available. The subway is the fastest way to get around places. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with rides starting at $2.75. If you’re with your family and looking for things to do in NYC with kids, riding the subway for sightseeing is the best option. You can go everywhere without paying extra charges.

You can also hire a taxi for traveling. They will charge you a fare of $2.50, which increases by 50 cents every fifth of a mile. You can also use buses for your commute throughout the city.

While on the bus, you can have a chance to click some memorable snaps of the sights of the city. This is one of the best things to do in NYC with teens. Teenagers love to take pictures, right? This is also a convenient way to take a break or enjoy a meal while sightseeing.

List of Top 12 Things to Do in NYC in December

1. Sip Afternoon Tea

It’s winter, so why not indulge in an afternoon tea experience at one of New York City’s finest locations? You can enjoy:

You can enjoy all of these while getting a caffeine boost. You can visit the elegant Grand Salon at the Baccarat Hotel or enjoy stunning park views at the Mandarin Oriental. Paying a visit to these cafes is one of the best things to do in NYC with toddlers because they offer a calm and serene environment that relaxes you and your child.

2. Roc Holiday Village Winter Festival

If you’re looking for fun things to do in NYC this weekend, this winter festival is what you should attend. Prepare yourself for 17 days of non-stop festive excitement as the Roc Holiday Village transforms downtown Rochester into a winter wonderland. You can enjoy enchanting events like:

This festival is free to attend and is ideal for couples visiting New York for the first time.

3. 5th Avenue’s Window Displays

If you’re visiting the city with your partner, you might be looking for romantic things to do in NYC. Why don’t you and your significant other take a stroll through 5th Avenue? Catch up with the beautiful holiday window displays along 5th Avenue. You’ll find stores like:

All of them have stunning decorations. Saks Fifth Avenue goes the extra mile with a new theme each year and a gorgeous light display above their windows. The light show starts every 10 minutes from 5 to 11 p.m., so save 5th Avenue for the evening to enjoy the display. You might even be tempted to get your partner a cute present for the holidays.

4. Well-Being Concert at Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall’s new concert series invites you to experience one of the most unique things to do in NYC. All you have to do is wear stretchy pants, cozy sweaters, and comfy shoes. This winter, the iconic venue hosts five musical concerts combining:

These hour-long Well-Being Concerts cost between $15-$30 and run through April. Audience can get comfortable on floor mats and cushions. The host will:

So, if you want to have an unconventional experience, it’s one of the most unusual things to do in New York.

5. Ralph’s Christmas-Themed Coffee Truck

If you’re on the lookout for hidden things to do in New York, don’t miss Ralph Lauren’s Ralph’s Coffee truck. It’s been redesigned for the season. Warm yourself up with:

Do ensure to tip your hat to the oversized Polo Bear driver who’s dressed for the season.

6. Broadway Karaoke

If you’re searching for fun activities in NYC for couples, what’s better than singing the night away with your partner? Experience Broadway Karaoke at the rooftop of M Social Hotel in Times Square this winter. You can witness all-time favorites like Moulin Rouge. The Musical has taken over the venue with red decor and chandelier lighting.

This event promises to warm up your spirits and is perfect for a fun night out. This is also one of the most fun things to do in New York for your birthday! You can get all of your friends together and experience the overwhelming fun and fantasy.

7. Watch the Rockettes

The Rockettes have been dazzling audiences at Radio City Music Hall during the holidays since the 1930s. Their Christmas spectacular is a quintessential festive experience. The 90-minute show has been updated and enhanced over the years, but the iconic kick line remains a staple. It’s an ideal activity for the whole family to enjoy together.

8. Drown in Pink at Pier 15

If you want to experience some crazy things to do in New York, check out Pink Pier! It is returning to Pier 15 with extravagant decor and themed food—all in pink.

Watermark, the wide 10,000-square-feet outdoor bar and restaurant along the East River, is transformed into a pink paradise. Whether you’re celebrating with a Valentine, a gal-entine, a pal-entine, or just enjoying your fabulous self, Pink Pier is a fun outing.

The experience promises to be otherworldly, beginning with a floral hallway that sets the stage. The pink and red flowers, twinkling lights, and heart installations create excellent photo backdrops, while ribbons, bows, and garlands complete the ultimate coquette aesthetic to click a memorable picture.

9. Christmas Market Tour

If Bergdorf Goodman’s holiday display is more for window shopping, you can visit one of the city’s beloved holiday markets for actual shopping. These markets offer:

These offerings make this site perfect for you. Markets like those in Union Square and Columbus Circle open in mid-November and run through December 24th. Brooklyn Borough Hall’s market gives you a few extra days to embrace and soak in the holiday spirit. It closes down on December 26th.

10. Make Your Handbag

If you’re looking for eccentric and weird things to do in NYC, why not make your own handbag? At Sip & Stitch, you can create your own custom handbag with the help of purse expert Anthony Luciano. As a seasoned handbag artisan and fashion expert, Luciano will share tips and techniques for making a handbag that suits your personal style. The lively workshops take place at Luciano’s Garment District studio. It’s filled with vintage ephemera, beautiful decor, and many custom designed purses to inspire you.

11. The Bank of America Winter Village

The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is basically a Christmas market, but it offers much more, including but not limited to:

It’s perfect for those looking to make most of their visit. The Winter Village is one of the earliest markets to open.

12. The Met’s New Fashion Exhibit

A refreshing fashion exhibit at The Met showcases and celebrates the skills of  pioneering women designers who put their heart and soul into their craft. The exhibition highlights how female designers have reclaimed the body and the narrative in fashion. “Women Dressing Women” has 80 garments by 70 designers, ranging from couture gowns by well-known designers like Donna Karan to political garments by Katharine Hamnett and plus-size outfits by Ester Manas.

What to Avoid in New York in December

1. Driving into Manhattan

Traffic in and around Manhattan is notorious, especially during the holiday season. Local news stations report gridlock alert days nearly every day from Thanksgiving to New Year’s.

Driving in New York City during the peak holiday season can lead you to frustration. This is all before you even begin searching for a parking lot with available space, all while sifting through traffic and crowd.

2. Not Using the Subway

While the ride hailing services can be convenient, they’re expensive. You still have to go through the same traffic as all other vehicles on the road. As the meter in your yellow taxi ticks up, so will your stress and frustration. Even flat-rate rides can’t avoid the amount of time wasted when you realize it took that long to travel just two miles.

3. Not Wearing Warm Clothes or Comfy Shoes

Visiting the New York City, you may experience a bout of cold during the winter. It can go from tolerably cold to downright freezing. This depends on your luck and the weather forecast. Manhattan is an island, and islands are breezy. The rivers on either side are not warm bodies of water but icy flows. When you combine this with the grid layout of New York’s skyscrapers, the streets can become wind tunnels blasting cold air.

Therefore, we advise you to plan your visit strategically and in advance. Dressing appropriately can make the difference between enjoying your visit and feeling so cold that it ruins your experience.

4. Not Having a Plan

Start by creating a list of all the adventurous things to do in New York that you want to indulge in and experience. This will help you plan your trip, and you won’t miss out on any of the fun stuff you want to engage in. While in New York, don’t forget to get the New York City PASS to avoid any hiccups.

You must also check out which activities require prior reservations. You can reserve time slots to enjoy your ice-skating experience at Bryant Park or schedule a visit to the Santa at Macy’s. If you want to visit a popular holiday spot like Rolf’s, make reservations in advance.

If you want to see the Rockettes, a specific Broadway show, or a tour of Brooklyn’s Christmas-lit neighborhood, book them early. The city’s life is too busy during the holiday season.

Conclusion

Now that you have a detailed guide on all the best things to do in New York during the holidays, you can plan your trip today! Get ready to experience an adventure for a lifetime in the city of dreams.

Frequently Asked Questions