There’s nothing better than seeing New York City lit up for
the holidays. If you’re planning on taking a New York City trip this holiday
season, be sure to make some time to check out some of the City’s best holiday
light displays. Between the bulbs and the beauty, you won’t forget the
experience!
But before you start marking down which displays to check
out, let us help with our Holiday Lights
Sightseeing Tour. We’ll take you to see all of the city’s best lights and
holiday sights in a climate-controlled, luxury motor coach that ensures you and
your group stays cozy throughout your stay.
Ride in comfort, get off at each stop, and let our guides take you
through the rich history and heritage that many of these sites have to offer.
Learn more about our Holiday Lights
Sightseeing Tour.
Now, onto some of our favorite spots for checking out
holiday lights!
The Rockefeller
Center Christmas Tree – Seen on TV, in movies, and in countless other
media, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is just one of those sights that
New Yorkers love to share. This huge tree features glittering lights and a
Swarovski Crystal star – the perfect backdrop for a New York City Christmas.
See the tree lit daily from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. from December 1, 2010
through early January. Lit for 24 hours on Christmas Day. Rockefeller Center,
Rockefeller Plaza, From West 48th Street to West 51st Street between 5th and
6th Avenues. Call 212-632-3975 for more information.
American Museum of
Natural History – The whole family will love seeing 500 origami figures in
this holiday light display at one of New York’s most popular attractions. See
the museum and experience this holiday tradition from November 22 to January 2,
daily, 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Closed on Christmas and Thanksgiving. Central Park W., at 79th St. Call
212-769-5100 for more information.
The New York
Botanical Garden – A 26-foot tall Fraser fir is the centerpiece in this New
York City light display. But besides the tree, there’s also a breathtaking
train show and gingerbread house display that act as the main attractions. All
through December to January 9. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Bronx River Parkway at Fordham Road, Bronx. Call 718-817-8700 for more
information.
Dyker Heights –
Known for over-the-top holiday decorations and elaborate light displays, this
is a must-see during your New York City trip. Runs late November to early
January, after sundown. 83rd St. to 86th St between
Eleventh Ave. and Twelfth Ave.
Lighting of the
Hanukkah Menorah – From December 1 through December 9, visitors can
celebrate Hanukkah with the lighting of the world’s largest menorah. This
32-foot-high, gold-colored holiday icon is wonderful to see during the holiday
season. Grand Army Plaza at Fifth Avenue and 56th Street, across the
street from The Plaza hotel. Lit at 5:30 p.m. daily. For the Sabbath, the
lighting will be at 3:30 p.m. on Friday and 8:30 p.m. on Saturday.
Holiday Windows –
OK, so they’re not necessarily holiday light displays, but store windows
throughout Manhattan are certainly something to see this month. New York’s most popular department stores
always have spectacular holiday displays that are entertaining for all ages. Be
sure to check out Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Barneys, Lord & Taylor, Saks
Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman, among other NYC sights, to see some of the
most unforgettable window displays. Free and located throughout the city. Runs
from mid-November into mid-January.