New York City has always had a special place in Payton’s heart. She loves big cities full of multi cultural people, bright lights, towering skyscrapers, and every kind of food imaginable. Her first visit to the city was a surprise trip for her 9th birthday. She was instantly hooked. Last year, a week before Christmas, we decided to surprise her with a quick 2 day trip to NYC. The lights of the city at Christmas time make for magical experience and long lasting memories. This budget guide to NYC at Christmas with kids provides everything you need to know when planning your adventure.
Things to do in NYC at Christmas with Kids (on a budget)
Everything mentioned below can be done for under $10 (not including transport between places or food). We hope this helps you plan your budget Christmas trip to NYC with your kids!
Rockefeller Center
For almost 90 years the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has stood as a holiday icon for New Yorkers and visitors. Since its very first year the tree has acted as a reflection of what was happening in the world around it. The first tree was erected here during the height of the Great Depression in 1931 and it was the location where workers would collect their wages. Even though the size, lights and decorations have changed over the years, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree remains an icon for the city and the world.
The 2019 Rockefeller Christmas Tree was 77 feet tall with 50,000 colorful LED lights and a sparkling Swarovski star on top. It really is a sight to behold and a perfect place to begin your NYC Christmas with kids. The tree is located on the Plaza between West 49th and 50th streets and Fifth and Sixth avenues.
Saks 5th Avenue Lights Show
Saks 5th Avenue is located just across the street from the Rockefeller Plaza. Each year the entire front of the building comes alive with the lights and sounds of Christmas. The synchronization of the lights and music make for a spectacular display of holiday cheer. Your kids will love this Christmas show put on by Saks.
Wollman Ice Skating Rink in Central Park
Few NYC experiences are as iconic as ice-skating in Central Park. Especially after the movie Home Alone 2 became so popular. From late October to early April the Victorian Gardens amusement park for kids is transformed into the Wollman Ice Skating Rink. It is open to the public with admission starting at $6. This experience is fun for the entire family. Afterwards grab a snack and hot cocoa from the snack bar and continue sightseeing in Central Park.
Holiday Window Displays
During the holidays all of the store fronts transform into a Christmas showcase. From oversize stuffed animals to Santa Claus and live performances, they really display the Christmas spirit. When visiting NYC at Christmas with kids, browse the storefronts and enjoy the sparkle in the eyes of your child. It is a winter wonderland across the city.
Make sure to check out the windows at the world’s largest Macy’s store. The store covers an entire city block and is 10.5 levels tall. The windows there are our favorite.
New York is a place we keep going back to – especially for special occasions!
FAO Schwarz
Who remembers the dance-on piano made famous by Tom Hanks in the movie Big? The piano is located in the 20,000 sq ft FAO Schwarz toy store and yes your children (and you) can dance on it at no charge. This massive toy store is filled with the most unique toys and gifts you can imagine. Many of the toys have display models that your children can play with and try out during the visit. However, dancing on the piano is a must.
A Budget Guide to NYC at Christmas with Kids
New York City is a magical place to visit with kids at Christmas. Being able to do this on a budget is especially important at Christmas time, when money can be tight anyway. These free or cheap things to do in NYC at Christmas will help bring joy and fun to your family trip, without breaking the bank. I hope that you get to experience the Christmas joy in New York with your family one day – we will certainly never forget our Christmas in NYC!
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I went to NYC during Canadian Thanks Giving weekend and it was so pretty, it’s my absolute DREAM to go to NYC when it’s Christmas-y, it looks so magical!!
This budget guide for NYC at Christmas with kids is so helpful! It’s packed with great tips for making the most of the holiday magic without breaking the bank. Can’t wait to plan our festive family trip!