A Mama’s Guide to Holiday Magic in NYC (Family, Friends & Festive Moments)

The best things to do in New York City during the holiday season, with stories from our own trips.

There’s something wildly irresistible about New York City during the holidays. The lights, the windows, the music drifting down Fifth Avenue. It feels like stepping into your own Christmas movie. Over the years, I’ve visited with my husband, with my daughter, and even on a quick girls’ getaway, and each time I’ve discovered the city has a different kind of sparkle depending on who you’re traveling with.

Whether you’re planning a family trip, a mother-daughter getaway, or a festive weekend with friends, here are my favorite holiday things to do in NYC – inspired by my own multigenerational adventures.

1. See the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall

My number-one recommendation. Every single time.

The Rockettes are dazzling! Timeless, joyful, and full of holiday magic. One year James and I went together, and the next I returned with friends for a girls’ trip. We laughed, we cried, we kicked our feet in the aisle (discreetly)… and yes, we found the Champagne booth.

Let me tell you: sipping bubbly from a reusable plastic flute (which I absolutely carried home and used the rest of the season) while watching the Rockettes is the definition of holiday luxury for this Traveling Mama.

2. Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Nothing screams “New York at Christmas” like the Rockefeller Plaza tree.

The year I visited with friends, we stood there in that sea of people, bundled up, slightly overwhelmed, fully smitten. The energy is contagious. It’s a must-see, at least once.

Tip: Go either early morning or late at night to avoid the heaviest crowds.

3. FAO Schwarz (Young at Heart Required)

Even as an adult, FAO Schwarz is pure magic.
Giant teddy bears. Holiday displays. Jellycat. Nostalgia everywhere.

It’s perfect for families, but honestly, my friends and I had just as much fun reliving our childhood toy obsessions. I might have done a bit of shopping last year and purchased amazing adoptable (and magic) unicorns for my granddaughters!

4. Step Inside a Live TV Studio (Yes, It Can Happen!)

Last year, during a holiday trip with friends, we ended up sitting inside the Good Morning America studio.
It felt surreal: bright lights, fast-paced energy, behind-the-scenes holiday buzz. Now if I can only get them to mention my book on air!

Travel tip:
Watch for free standby tickets online, or simply arrive early outside the studio. Sometimes you get lucky!

5. Explore Bryant Park Winter Village

Skating rink, holiday shops, warm drinks…
It’s the coziest corner of Midtown in December.

Great for date nights, kids, teens, or girlfriend groups.

6. Add a Stroll Down Fifth Avenue

The window displays at Saks, Bergdorf’s, and Tiffany’s are legendary.
Every year designers outdo themselves, and the crowds gather like moths to glittering flame.

7. Choose a Hotel Strategically

Whether you want parade access, Midtown convenience, or a luxury escape, staying in the right neighborhood makes your trip magical from the moment you open your curtains.

I’ve put together my full guide here:
→ Link: Best Hotels for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

NYC Is Holiday Magic, No Matter Who You Travel With

With James, with Lauren, with friends…each trip has become a core memory for me.

NYC at the holidays is for families, for girlfriends, for couples, for travelers who just want to feel enchanted again. Add a warm coat, a sense of adventure, and maybe a Champagne flute tucked in your bag… and let the magic unfold.