New York City Holiday Experiences Requiring Advance Booking
Source:
@pointsforfamilytravel
15 places on the map
Explore the map in the DocentPro app15 places in New York: Rockefeller Center, Macy's, Radio City Music Hall, and 12 more. Every place is verified on Google Maps, featured in an Instagram post by Stacy | Points & Miles |Family Travel.
Rockefeller Center
Historical landmark
4.7
• Iconic spot to see the giant Christmas tree and ice rink • Go early in the morning to avoid crowds • The tree lighting ceremony is a major event in early December
Macy's
Department store
4.4
• Free to visit but reservations are required ✓ Reservations for visits open on November 20th ✓ VIP tickets go on sale October 22nd, $250 for up to 8 people
Radio City Music Hall
Concert hall
4.8
• A highly recommended Christmas experience with the Rockettes • Shows begin November 4th, as of October 2026 • Chase cardholders may get access to preferred seating
Top of The Rock
Observation deck
4.7
• Recommended for panoramic city views, especially at sunset ✓ Sunset timeslots sell out weeks in advance
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Place
4.6
• Another highly recommended observation deck experience ✓ Sunset timeslots sell out weeks in advance
FAO Schwarz
Toy store
4.6
• A fun, must-do experience for families, especially in December ✓ Reservations are required and sell out in December • Lines to enter FAO Schwarz in December often wrap around the building
Central Park
Park
4.8
• Enjoy a pedicab ride for photo stops and historical details ✓ Prebook with Prince from @gohybridnyc early on his FB page • You don't pay until the tour is over
Rolf's
German restaurant
3.1
• One of NYC's most festive Christmas restaurants ✓ Make reservations as early as possible for December dates
Pete's Tavern
Restaurant
4.4
• One of NYC's most festive Christmas restaurants ✓ Make reservations as early as possible for December dates
Lillie's Victorian Establishment
Restaurant
4.4
• One of NYC's most festive Christmas restaurants ✓ Make reservations as early as possible for December dates
Oscar Wilde
American restaurant
4.3
• One of NYC's most festive Christmas restaurants ✓ Make reservations as early as possible for December dates
The Rink At Rockefeller Center
Ice skating rink
4.5
• An iconic spot for ice skating ✓ Reserve your skating time in advance, especially during Christmas week
Bryant Park
Park
4.7
• A great option for ice skating during the holidays • Known for its Winter Village with shops and food vendors
Wollman Rink
Ice skating rink
4.3
• A popular and beloved ice skating rink in Central Park • Offers a scenic skating experience within the park
Grand Central Terminal
Train station
4.7
• Historic transportation hub and architectural landmark • Famous for its Beaux-Arts design and iconic Main Concourse • Features shops, restaurants, and occasional holiday markets
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