New York at Christmas was always going to be a special trip for us. For my husband and me, it was wrapped up in nostalgia — memories of earlier visits, of being younger, newly engaged, and dreaming about the future. But this time, it wasn’t about revisiting our own memories. It was about finally sharing the city with George, now old enough to really experience it.
The days were long and tiring, the kind where you collapse back at the hotel each night with sore feet and full hearts. But they were also full of wow moments — especially watching George experience New York for the very first time. That alone made every early alarm and freezing cold 32,000 steps worth it.
Must-Dos in New York at Christmas
I’ve already shared our family guide to New York at Christmas, how we got from Newark to Lower Manhattan, and where we ate, but this post brings it all together — the experiences that felt most special and the moments we’d happily relive.
Things that felt especially good with a teenager
Some of our favourite moments were the simplest ones. Wandering through Central Park with no agenda. We could have spent hours here — walking, chatting, stopping when we felt like it. It was calm, open, and a welcome pause from the buzz of the city.
Watching a live game. Seeing the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center and the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden was a huge highlight. The atmosphere, the scale, and the excitement made it unforgettable — and it’s something New York does so well.
Noticing the little details. Christmas-decorated stoops, neighbourhood streets, and even playing hopscotch on the pavement. These small moments made the city feel playful and lived-in, not just iconic.
Ice skating together in Central Park. Cold hands, wobbly starts, lots of laughter — one of those moments that felt very “New York at Christmas” and very us.
The things that surprised us
Some experiences completely exceeded expectations. A Circle Line cruise. Seeing the Statue of Liberty up close was special, but it was the journey back — the skyline unfolding in front of us — that really stayed with me.
The Empire State Building at night. The city below looked like a Christmas tree, glowing and alive. Seeing it from above after dark felt genuinely magical. George said this was his favourite viewpoint.
Hot chocolates at Top of the Rock. Sitting there, drinks in hand, breathing in the view — one of those moments where you just stop and take it all in.
Sunset on the subway to Brooklyn. Watching the light change as we travelled over to see the Nets wasn’t something we planned, but it’s one of the moments I keep replaying.
What we’d happily do again
Some things were so good, we’d repeat them in a heartbeat. Early mornings in the city. Getting out before 10am made such a difference. Fewer people, softer light, and that feeling of having the city to yourself — magical.
DUMBO and Washington Street. Taking a cab over to Washington Street in Brooklyn to see the famous view back towards the city is an absolute must. The area is beautiful and the views are incredible.
Wandering the streets of SoHo and Little Italy before retiring for the night.
Big Christmas moments
These were the ones that truly felt festive. Early walks down Fifth Avenue and seeing the Rockefeller Christmas Tree in the morning light, before the crowds, was quietly special.
Festive surprises. Stumbling across a festive bar in SoHo and soaking up the atmosphere together — unplanned moments like this often become the best ones.
Christmas everywhere. The shop windows, the streets, the decorations — New York really leans into Christmas, and it’s impossible not to feel caught up in it.
The Rockettes at Radio City. Pure Christmas magic. A classic New York experience and such a special thing to share as a family.
Final thoughts
This trip wasn’t about ticking boxes. It was about choosing moments that felt right for us, at this stage of our lives. New York at Christmas is busy, bold, and full-on — but it’s also full of warmth, nostalgia, and moments that stay with you long after you’ve come home.
Seeing it all through George’s eyes made it even more special. Some trips are just holidays. This one was a memory-maker.
Must-Dos in New York at Christmas
I hope this post helps you in your planning. We tried to share the things that felt most special, the moments that stood out, and the experiences we’d recommend if you’re planning a Christmas trip to New York, especially with a teenager.
I’m Kerri-Ann or KA as my friends call me, always found with a cup of coffee in one hand and my camera in the other. I have a huge passion for photography, fitness, fashion and family travel. I started this blog in 2014. It began as my creative outlet after becoming a mummy to our little boy George Archie. I started out blogging about parenting and over the years it has evolved into a blog that covers lifestyle, fashion, family and travel. Today TheKAEdit is ultimately a life and style blog. Thank you for reading x x
