17 Things to Do in NYC in December

Looking for things to do in NYC in December that will get you in the holiday spirit? This is for you.

From Fifth Avenue’s glittering window displays to beautifully decorated Christmas trees, this scavenger hunt takes you around NYC’s best holiday lights and decorations. 

Together, you and your team will have to do your best not to be dazzled by the magic of the season as you solve clues to help the Holiday Guardian “save Christmas”! 

If nothing else, it’s an awesome way to enjoy NYC at its most hectic time of the year–and it’s a great way to get your bearings of Midtown if you’re visiting NYC for the first time.

As any local will tell you, NYC is chaotic any time of the year. But when December comes knocking, so do half the world’s tourists–or at least, it feels that way, anyway.

And that’s all to the better! There’s a reason NYC is at the top of many people’s bucket lists and especially during December: it’s the winter holiday season and people want a slice of the buzz! 

Of course, that does mean that many tourist attractions are even busier than they usually are, which isn’t great news if you’re not into crowds…but don’t worry. There are plenty of other things to do in New York City in December besides seeing Lady Liberty. 

Here are some of my favorites:

• 📍The Tenement Museum
• 📍Museum of Chinese in America
• 📍The Morgan Library
  

Who said finding things to do in NYC in December had to involve holiday activities? 

This immersive mystery game set in Manhattan lets you put your crime-solving skills to the test. 

With your team, you'll hunt for clues, interrogate suspects (virtually!), and race across Manhattan to crack the case before time runs out. 

Along the way, you’ll pick up snippets of NYC history, snap a few selfies and, if you want, visit some top-recommended bars and cafes for caffeinated pick-me-ups.

Speaking of caffeine… coffee might be the first hot drink you think of when NYC pops into your head but during December, it’s all about the hot chocolate, baby.

Even if you’re dedicated to you cup of Joe, while you’re here during holiday season, it’d almost be rude not to cozy up with a hot chocolate. 

Here’s where I’d recommend:

• 📍Angelina Paris
• 📍Venchi
• 📍Max Brenner

If you’re looking for things to do in NYC in December that show you around NYC’s most iconic streets, these games are for you.

All you have to do is team up with your friends, family, significant other or whoever you want to solve riddles and follow cryptic clues sent straight to your phones. Once uncovered, these clues will lead you through lesser-known streets, revealing historical gems and quirky landmarks. 

It’s the perfect way to explore the city like a local—and locals, you’ll be surprised at some of the stuff you’ve never noticed!

Nothing says NYC like a classic slice!

Whether you’re strolling through the streets or need a quick bite between sightseeing, NYC’s pizzerias have you covered. 

And yes, I realize it’s unusual to head straight for pizza during the holiday season but, let’s be real for a sec here: if you celebrate Christmas or any other holiday in December, you’re bound to be in for some real delicious but traditional foods soon, and it’s unlikely pizza’s going to be one of ‘em. 

In other words, treat yourself–before the other treats start! 

PSST: Wanna know where my favorite pizza slices in NYC are? Here are my recommendations:

• 📍Sal and Carmine
• 📍L’Industrie
• 📍Paulie Gee’s

Did you know many people in NYC’s Jewish community eat Chinese food on Christmas Day? 

No matter if or what you’re celebrating this December, Chinatown is a food lover’s paradise. 

From Dim Sum to Dumplings, wander the narrow streets and dive into the best soup dumplings, roast pork buns, and hand-pulled noodles you’ve ever tasted. 

It’s a feast for the senses—and your Instagram feed.

• 📍Mel Lai Wah
• 📍King Dumplings
• 📍Bahn Mi Saigon

If you’re looking for unique things to do in New York City in December, take a step back in time at Village Vanguard, NYC’s oldest jazz club. 

Since 1935, this cozy basement has hosted jazz legends and upcoming stars, and it’s got a super friendly, intimate vibe to it. 

If nightclubs aren’t your thing or you’re a jazz superfan, this is a nice place to enjoy some smooth tunes, sip on some drinks and ease into the holiday season.

FYI, you don’t need a library card to appreciate the grandeur of The New York Public Library. 

Home to iconic architecture, incredible exhibits, and a treasure trove of knowledge, it’s one of the city’s must-visit landmarks. 

As you’re visiting around the holiday season, make sure you check out the gorgeous Christmas tree and Hanukkah lamp in Astor Hall.

For basketball fans who are looking for things to do in NYC in December, obviously getting tickets to the Christmas Day game will already be at the top of your list. 

But don’t worry if it’s too expensive or you won’t be here for the big day. 

Madison Square Garden and Barclays Center have electric energy no matter what month it is, so whether you’re a die-hard fan or just there for the vibes, there are plenty of opportunities to see these teams on the courts.

Forget cereal or a boring hotel breakfast—bagels are the only acceptable breakfast around here. 

It’s a classic tourist thing to do while visiting the Big Apple, and there’s something about the cold air in December that makes that freshly-toasted, chewy, delicious bagel with lox and cream cheese even more delicious than usual.

Broadway is where the magic happens, and as that’s what the holiday season is all about, there’s no better time than December to catch a hit show. 

From timeless classics to dazzling new productions, there’s a performance for everyone. The hardest part? Deciding which show to see and getting tickets for one. Spoiler: they’re all amazing.

When it’s too cold to walk around, warm up with a round of board games at a cozy games café.

I don’t know about your family, but at my house, the holiday season is when we all get to hang out together and let loose a bit. Oftentimes, that means me and my brother fighting over Boardwalk (but we’ve stopped playing Monopoly for this reason) and my mom trying to persuade us to play Scrabble instead (she’s awesome at that game). 

Whatever you decide to play, Uncommons is a super cozy venue with endless game options to keep you entertained.

Pups need festive fun too! Chateau le Woof is part café, part doggie playground where your furry friend can socialize while you sip your latte. 

This place is great if you want to include your four-legged family member in on the festive fun. It’s also got great brunch options (and you can order a glass of wine if you’re feeling like a treat).

For a holiday experience that’s as sweet as it is impressive, visit the Gingerbread NYC: The Great Borough Bake Off at the Museum of the City of New York. 

Talented bakers compete by creating detailed gingerbread versions of the city’s five boroughs, from Brooklyn’s iconic brownstones to Manhattan’s skyscrapers. 

It’s a great family-friendly activity and offers a fresh, festive twist on exploring NYC’s unique neighborhoods.

Last but not least on our list of things to do in NYC in December; there’s nothing quite like ice skating in Central Park.

Glide around Wollman Rink with the city skyline as your backdrop and holiday tunes filling the air. Whether you’re a skating pro or hugging the rail, it’s a winter tradition that never gets old!

Escape the hustle of Manhattan and take a peaceful retreat at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden on Staten Island. 

Whatever you’re after, you’ll find it here: gardens, historic buildings, and contemporary art exhibitions. During the holiday season, the gardens are particularly serene, and you can explore the stunning New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden or take a peaceful walk through the grounds. 

Just a ferry ride away from the city, it’s the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for those seeking tranquility and beauty.