Christmas in New York: Holiday Lights&Rockefeller Tree Tour

Experience a Festive 40-Minute Tour of New York’s Holiday Highlights for $112

The Christmas in New York: Holiday Lights & Rockefeller Tree Tour offers an engaging glimpse into the city’s most iconic holiday sights for $112 per person. Lasting 40 minutes, this guided adventure is a lively way to experience the city’s festive spirit, especially suitable for those with limited time but eager to see major landmarks decorated for Christmas.

Starting in Times Square, the tour captures the energetic vibe of New York during the holiday season. It then takes guests through Midtown’s dazzling displays, including the Fifth Avenue window decorations and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. With an accessible format and options available in the afternoon, evening, or night, this tour fits well into busy holiday schedules.

While it covers a lot of ground, bear in mind that food, drinks, and tickets to the Radio City Christmas Spectacular are not included. This tour is ideal for visitors who want a quick, lively overview of New York’s holiday magic, with the flexibility of a private group and the guidance of multilingual hosts.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $112 for 40 minutes, this tour offers a quick but thorough holiday experience.
• Landmark Highlights: Focuses on Rockefeller Center’s Christmas Tree, Fifth Avenue’s holiday window displays, and Bryant Park’s Winter Village.
• Inclusive Stops: Visits Times Square and Herald Square to see festive decorations and skate at Bryant Park.
• Extra Experiences: Provides viewing of the Empire State Building lit in holiday colors and insider stories about New York’s Christmas traditions.
• Practical Info: Conducted in multiple languages, with skip-the-line access and private group options, but not wheelchair accessible.

How the Tour Starts in the Heart of Times Square

This tour begins amidst the bright lights and bustling crowds of Times Square, a perfect starting point to feel the holiday energy. Visitors experience the glow of enormous billboards and colorful decorations, setting a festive tone for the journey ahead. The guide provides commentary to introduce the holiday sights, creating an inviting atmosphere for all.

From there, the tour moves towards Herald Square, home to the Macys Christmas windows. These windows showcase animated holiday scenes that have delighted viewers for over a century, adding charm and nostalgia to the experience. The short walk through this area allows for great photo opportunities of the whimsical displays.

Exploring Bryant Park’s Winter Village and Ice Skating Rink

One of the tour’s highlights is Bryant Park’s Winter Village, transformed into a cozy winter scene. The twinkling Christmas tree and the holiday market offer a picturesque setting for photos and browsing. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, surrounded by sparkling lights and charming holiday shops.

The skating rink at Bryant Park is a key attraction, often surrounded by decorations and holiday music. While the tour does not include ice skating tickets, the spectacle of the rink and the market space make Bryant Park a must-see during the season. It’s a perfect spot for a quick stop to soak in the holiday cheer.

Admiring Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Window Displays and Light Shows

Walking along Fifth Avenue, the guide points out some of the city’s most spectacular holiday window displays. Saks Fifth Avenue dazzles with its iconic light show, while Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and Bergdorf Goodman each present elegant, eye-catching displays. These windows have long been part of New York’s Christmas tradition and remain a highlight for visitors.

This stretch is also marked by luxurious lighting displays. The guide explains how each department store creates a unique festive presentation, making the walk a feast for the eyes. Visitors should bring a camera to capture these glittering scenes.

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The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: The Ultimate Holiday Icon

The tour culminates at Rockefeller Center, home to the legendary Christmas Tree. Standing tall over the ice rink, the tree is decorated with more than 50,000 sparkling lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The guide ensures visitors have plenty of time to enjoy the view, take photos, and absorb the holiday magic.

This spot offers a quintessential New York Christmas experience, with the tree often serving as the city’s most photographed holiday landmark. The lively atmosphere and the glow of lights provide a memorable finale to the tour.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Dutch, and Portuguese. It features skip-the-line access, making it easier to avoid waiting times at popular spots. Conducted as a private group, the experience provides personalized attention and flexibility.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as the tour takes place outdoors. Bringing a camera is recommended to capture the dazzling displays. The tour usually departs in the afternoon, evening, or at night, allowing visitors to choose the most suitable time for their holiday plans.

While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it offers a comfortable, manageable walk through Midtown Manhattan’s holiday sights. Food, drinks, and tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular are not included, so travelers may want to plan additional outings if interested.

Why Choose This Christmas Lights Tour in New York

This guided tour stands out for its compact yet comprehensive coverage of key holiday landmarks within just 40 minutes. It offers insightful commentary and insider stories that add context to the stunning decorations and traditions. The private group format ensures a more personalized experience, while the multi-language options cater to a diverse audience.

The tour’s focus on world-famous landmarks like Times Square, Fifth Avenue, and Rockefeller Center makes it an ideal choice for visitors who want a well-rounded overview of New York’s holiday spirit without committing to a full-day itinerary. The inclusion of Bryant Park’s Winter Village adds a cozy, charming touch, balancing the grandeur with intimate holiday scenes.

Final Thoughts on the Christmas Lights & Rockefeller Tree Tour

For travelers seeking a short but festive way to experience New York City during Christmas, this tour offers a great value. It captures the essence of holiday cheer through visits to iconic landmarks decorated for the season, with lively commentary and beautiful views.

While it does not include access to the Radio City Christmas Spectacular or food and drink, the tour provides a convenient overview of Manhattan’s winter wonderland. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or friends who want a guided, private experience in a limited timeframe.

Overall, the combination of key sights, festive atmosphere, and knowledgeable guides makes this a worthwhile addition to any holiday visit to New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring on the tour?
It’s best to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing. Don’t forget a camera to capture the holiday lights and displays.

Are tickets to the Radio City Christmas Spectacular included?
No, tickets are not included and should be purchased separately if you want to attend the show.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Dutch, and Portuguese.

Is this tour available in the evening?
Yes, the tour is usually available in the afternoon, evening, and at night, giving flexibility for your holiday plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby