What Makes It Guide-Worthy: An iconic holiday tradition, experience the best of New York City’s festive spirit at the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. This high-energy spectacle featuring the world-famous Rockettes has been delighting families since 1933. The experience begins with the Art Deco grandeur of the theater, one of the country’s largest indoor performing arts venues. As the lights dim, anticipation builds. The live orchestra performs rousing renditions of holiday classics and the audience erupts in cheers as the Rockettes take center stage in astonishing synchronized precision.
When to Book: The Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall is immensely popular, especially during prime holiday weeks. Accommodating the demand, the grand hall can see up to five performances of the 90-minute show daily. For prime seats during holiday weekends, reserve tickets at least three months in advance. Hotels nearby fill up quickly during the holiday season. Consider booking your tickets and stay at least six months in advance to lock in value and secure a prime location in the 5,960-seat venue.
Must-See & Do: New York City transforms into a majestic wonderland every holiday season, where twinkling lights, towering trees and festive magic create an air of enchantment. Here are a few of the top highlights to make the most of the Big Apple as it pulses with holiday cheer.
Rockefeller Christmas Tree and Ice Skating: Perhaps the country’s most iconic Christmas tree, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is a glistening wonder to behold—and it’s right across the street from Radio City Music Hall. Before or after your performance, be sure to see the towering tree shining in the center of Rockefeller Plaza, and then glide on the famous ice rink below. Evening visits to the plaza provide maximum sparkles.
The Holiday Spirit Along Fifth Avenue: Stroll down the legendary Fifth Avenue during the holiday season and you’ll experience a dazzling runway of world-famous window displays from iconic brands. An easy walk from Radio City Music Hall, your first stop should be Saks Fifth Avenue at 49th Street, home to an annual display of whimsical and fashion-forward pageantry. Just across the street is St. Patrick's Cathedral, with its ornate Nativity scene. From there, make your way up Fifth Avenue and you’ll be delighted by the opulent, high-fashion displays at stores including Cartier, Tiffany & Co. and Bergdorf Goodman.
Central Park Winter Walks & Carriage Rides: Think Christmas wonderland in the city, and it probably looks something like a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park. A few blocks north of Radio City, horse carriages line up along Central Park South between 5th and 6th avenues—and no reservations are needed.
Where to Stay:
Premier: JW Marriott Essex House New York, Marriott: With Central Park at your doorstep, JW Marriott Essex House New York is situated on prime city real estate. A short stroll from Radio City Music Hall and Fifth Avenue, JW Marriott Essex House offers an elegant and surprisingly serene retreat from the bustle of the city. Staying here during the holiday season is the best, as Christmas trees and warm twinkling lights liven the hotel lobby.
Mid-Range: Hyatt Union Square New York, Hyatt: Located in New York’s central Union Square neighborhood, Hyatt Union Square boasts upscale, refreshed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and excellent views of the city. During the holiday season, the hotel’s lobby is adorned with stylish decor and a stunning Christmas tree that stretches from the floor to the ceiling. The hotel is a 20-minute subway ride or drive from Radio City Music Hall.
Budget-Friendly: Hampton Inn Manhattan/Times Square Central, Hilton: Just steps away from Times Square, Hampton Inn Manhattan/Times Square Central puts you in the direct center of the city with easy access to just about everywhere you want to go. The hotel is a 15-minute scenic walk to Radio City Music Hall.
SideQuest: Get off the beaten path and head to one of New York’s top holiday hidden gems, The Cloisters, owned and operated by The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met). This quiet oasis all the way uptown in Manhattan is where you’ll find a unique take on the holiday season by way of medieval tradition. You’ll be immersed in mystical displays of fresh ivy, rose hips and pinecones—all locally sourced.
