Seasonal Highlights • 3 hours 5.0 (6)

Manhattan's festive sights and Christmas lights

Discover Manhattan's Christmas magic with a local guide! Explore Rockefeller Center, Fifth Ave, Bryant Park, and more for a festive evening.

Avoid annoying a New Yorker by walking too slow or stopping in the middle of the sidewalk to take a picture!

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Experience the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice rink through the eyes of a local, bringing New York's festive lore to life.
  • Stroll Fifth Avenue with a native guide, unveiling the stories behind the world-renowned holiday window displays and their dazzling artistry.
  • Explore Bryant Park Winter Village's charming shops and seasonal treats, guided by a local's insight into the best-hidden spots and flavors.
  • Enjoy a serene walk in Central Park, transformed into a winter wonderland, with your host sharing tales that blend city history with holiday magic.
  • Visit the vibrant Columbus Circle Holiday Market, where your guide highlights unique finds and local crafts, far from the usual tourist trail.
  • Benefit from a host's deep knowledge and passion for Manhattan, turning a simple tour into an immersive, unforgettable Christmas experience.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

A cup of hot chocolate, mulled wine to warm up or a soft drink per person
3-hour private and personalized walking experience

What’s not included

Additional food and drinks from the ones provided in the experience
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

Your hotel/apartment or any other central location

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

What you’ll do

Embark on an enchanting Christmas adventure in Manhattan, where the festive spirit is palpable in every twinkling light and cheerful smile. Your journey into this holiday wonderland begins at a place of iconic New York stature - the Rockefeller Center. Here, at the statue of Atlas, standing majestically across from St. Patrick's Cathedral, your host, a wellspring of local knowledge and stories, warmly greets you. Imagine the awe-inspiring sight of the grand Rockefeller Christmas Tree, its lights dancing in the evening while skaters add to the charm of the ice rink below.

With the festive aura of Rockefeller Center setting the tone, you'll meander along the famous Fifth Avenue. Here, each window display, especially at Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman, transforms into a canvas of Christmas fantasy. Your host, with an eye for detail, unveils the hidden narratives behind these visual spectacles, making each moment a discovery of holiday magic.

The journey then takes you to the cozy corners of Bryant Park Winter Village. Amidst the quaint holiday shops, your senses are treated to the delights of seasonal snacks, with the aroma of hot chocolate enriching the festive air. Your host, sharing tales and traditions, makes the experience more intimate and inviting.

As the city's festive hustle bustles around, find solace in the serene embrace of Central Park. Here, a winter walk becomes a tranquil retreat. The path leads you through picturesque locales like Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace, each step a peaceful contrast to the city's lively spirit. Your host, enriching the experience with historical insights, turns this walk into a journey through time and nature.

The final gem in this festive crown is the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. As if lifted from a storybook, this market bustles with holiday cheer, offering unique gifts and treats. Your guide ensures this is more than just a visit; it's an exploration of local culture and seasonal joy.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

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17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
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What travelers think of this experience

Brooke Dec 2024

Private Christmas tour in NYC with Ross was amazing. He customized the tour toward my family’s interests and we saw EVERYTHING we wanted to see. He was patient with the crowds and made changes at our request. Highly recommended!!!

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Tony Dec 2022

We had a great time and Denise showed us around, had a great time! Would recommend!

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Soeren Nov 2022

Good to have a person that has so much knowledge on the area.

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Rosa Dec 2021

Mei was a truly amazing guide, she tailored the trip to our needs and age group, she took us through public transportation and taught us how to use the subway, it was wonderful and interesting we experienced NY like locals do. She is friendly, easy to talk to and she makes sure your trip is memorable. Thank you Mei for everything. (bonus she takes amazing pictures)

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luis Dec 2018

Denise Foley was carefully chosen and made a perfect work. I strongly recommend her

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William Apr 2025

Our tour guide, Olga, took us on a fun, well-paced, historical and scenic tour of Brooklyn Heights and Dumbo neighborhoods. So much to see! Olga was knowledgeable, friendly and culturally aware of what makes Brooklyn so special. We highly recommend her to other looking to explore Brooklyn. I want to book a return trip to spend more time in Brooklyn.

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