If you’re lucky enough to have a layover in New York City—especially during the holiday season—you’re in for an unforgettable experience. With a 10-hour layover at JFK, it gave me about 4 hours to spare, and I decided to make the most of my time in the city. What better time to visit than right before Christmas? The entire city is buzzing with excitement, filled with festive lights, twinkling decorations, and the warm, welcoming spirit that only New York can deliver during the holidays.
Here’s how I spent my 10-hour layover soaking in the magic of Christmas in NYC—an experience that’s truly not to be missed.
1. Starting with Bryant Park: A Winter Wonderland
I kicked off my day at Bryant Park, one of the most iconic places in the city during the winter months. Known for its expansive ice skating rink, this park transforms into a festive wonderland starting right after Thanksgiving. The rink is open to the public, and there’s something undeniably magical about skating in the shadow of the skyscrapers, surrounded by twinkling lights and seasonal music.
But there’s more to Bryant Park than just the ice skating. The Winter Village at Bryant Park is an enchanting little marketplace, offering an array of holiday gifts, artisanal goods, and hot cocoa stands. I wandered through the charming little stalls and felt the festive buzz in the air. The entire atmosphere felt like something out of a holiday movie, with every corner filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and fresh pine trees.
You can take your holiday experience to the next level by renting one of their cozy, private igloos. These charming little domes offer a unique way to enjoy the park’s winter magic while staying warm and comfortable. Perfect for a group gathering or a romantic retreat, the igloos are equipped with heaters, blankets, and festive decor, making them an ideal spot to enjoy hot cocoa, a warm meal, or simply relax while taking in the surrounding holiday atmosphere. Whether you’re ice skating or just soaking in the sights, these igloos provide a truly special winter experience in the heart of NYC.
2. The Majestic Department Stores: Macy’s & Saks Fifth Avenue
No Christmas in New York is complete without a visit to the city’s legendary department stores, Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Macy’s Herald Square, the largest department store in the world, really knows how to put on a show. From larger-than-life holiday scenes to whimsical characters brought to life with cutting-edge technology, Macy’s is a must-see for anyone visiting NYC at Christmas. Inside, the store is decked out with glittering garlands, sparkling trees, and plenty of festive decorations. Who can resist a bit of holiday shopping (or at least window shopping) in one of the most famous department stores in the world?
No holiday visit to NYC is complete without a visit to Saks Fifth Avenue on 5th Avenue, where the store’s renowned light show takes center stage. Every evening, the facade of Saks is illuminated with synchronized lights and music that tell a holiday story. Even during the day, the store is decked out with breathtaking Christmas windows that bring the magic of the season to life. Saks really takes the Christmas spirit up a notch with their elaborate displays—nothing quite captures the feeling of New York during the holidays like seeing the city’s top landmarks transformed into glittering works of art.
3. Rockefeller Center: A Christmas Classic
Visiting the Rockefeller Center at Christmas time is a must do! Home to the iconic Christmas tree, this spot is truly the epitome of Christmas in New York. As I write this the giant tree is already on it’s way to get ready for its lighting ceremony in early December.Standing beneath the giant tree, surro unded by ice skaters and holiday revelers, makes you feel like you are right in the middle of a holiday movie.
If you have more time during your layover, I highly recommend taking the elevator up to the “Top of the Rock” observation deck for panoramic views of the city—especially with the holiday lights twinkling below.
4. Holiday Markets & Festive Foods
Be sure to wander around Midtown, where you will come across several more holiday markets, each offering everything from handmade jewelry to delicious seasonal treats. The aroma of cinnamon, gingerbread, and mulled wine fills the air, and you won’t be able to resist stopping at one of the food stands for a warm, spiced apple cider to keep you energized.
If you’re visiting around Christmas, you’ll also find plenty of holiday-themed pop-up cafes and street vendors selling everything from roasted chestnuts to classic New York-style pretzels. The festive energy in the streets is contagious, and you can’t help but feel like you’re part of something special.
5. Why Christmas in NYC is a Must-See
Christmas in New York City isn’t just a holiday celebration—it’s an experience that you can feel in every street corner, in every window display, and in the energy of the people around you. The city is alive with holiday cheer, and whether you’re ice skating at Bryant Park, shopping at Macy’s, or just strolling through the snow-covered streets, New York is a city that knows how to celebrate Christmas like no other.
And while it may only have been a 10-hour layover, I left the city with a full heart, filled with memories of twinkling lights, festive music, and the joyful spirit of the season. If you find yourself with even a few hours to spare in New York during the holidays, don’t hesitate to dive into the Christmas magic that the city has to offer. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve boarded your flight.
Tips for a Holiday Layover in NYC:
- Timing: If you have a short layover, be mindful of the time. NYC’s holiday season can get crowded, so plan your route and timing accordingly.
- Transport: Use the subway to quickly navigate through the city or consider a hop-on-hop-off bus tour to see multiple landmarks.
- Dress Warmly: Winter in New York can be cold, so pack appropriately—especially if you plan on doing outdoor activities like ice skating.
Even a short visit to New York during the holiday season will leave you with memories of joy, lights, and holiday magic. Make sure you don’t miss it!
Contact me today to book your NYC Christmas vacation!
