New York City , United States of America

Artful Holiday Lights & Sights

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The holidays truly are the most wonderful time of the year in NYC, and this guided walk will help you experience the best of the holiday windows and delightful decorations in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, with a focus on the artists and creatives that make it all happen.

Join us to experience the best of the Holiday window displays, including Saks Fifth Ave and Bergdorf Goodman, while also learning about their history and the artists who make them come to life.

You'll get to bask in the glow of the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and marvel at the dazzling display of lights and decorations that adorn the buildings all along 5th Ave, with a few surprises you might not find on your own.

This insightful, art-full tour is sure to help shake off any winter blues and get you into the holiday spirit. It is great for locals and visitors alike and also can be tailored for private groups. A great team-building outing or alternative to a holiday party!

Available options

Artful Holiday Lights & Sights

What's included

1 hot cocoa + 1 snack

Detailed itinerary

These holiday windows are the creme de la creme of NYC window displays - you will learn about this year's theme and the hours of work that goes into designing and creating these masterpieces.

Stop 2

No holiday visit to NYC is complete without a visit to the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and skating rink. We won't go out on the ice but will learn more about the origins of this holiday tradition.

Stop 3 Pass by

The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral is the original Cathedral of the Archdiocese of New York. Since its construction 200 years ago on the corner of Mott and Prince, it has stood as the heart of old New York; a beacon for the Catholic faithful and an American symbol of religious freedom. And the holidays are the best time to experience it full of festive decor.

Stop 4

A beloved holiday tradition since 2004, the Saks Fifth Ave light show is made up of hundreds of thousands of LED lights synchronized to holiday music projected onto the side of its flagship store on 5th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets. We will also experience their holiday window displays.

Stop 5

The Bryant Park Winter Village is a European-insured holiday market featuring over 170 vendors, positioned around a 17,000-square-foot ice-skating rink. I'll point out a few of my favorites and can reserve you time a time to skate after the tour is over. Skating is free, though you have to pay for rentals.

Beautiful decor in the old Villard mansion, slightly away from the crowds, plus a giant gingerbread house inside

Stop 7

Home to the Rockettes as well as beautiful decor & photo opps

Stop 8

Ten floors of opulence designed by Peter Marino and including art by everyone from Keith Haring to Jean Michelle Basquiat

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We will meet in the front area of the cafe. I am 5'11" with blonde hair.

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information