There’s truly nothing like New York City during Christmas. The lights, the shopping, the shows, the food — everything feels magical in December. We’ve visited NYC with our kids since they were little, but now that Ella and Beckett are teens, our holiday trips have shifted from the “classic tourist must-dos” to food adventures, Broadway shows, and experiences tailored for older kids.
If you’re planning a Christmas trip to NYC with teens, here’s our full guide including where to stay, where to eat, and the best things to do this holiday season.
Where to Stay in NYC at Christmas
When visiting NYC during the holidays (AKA the busiest time of the year!), staying somewhere central makes everything easier — especially with kids and teens.
⭐️ Midtown
Perfect if you want to be close to:
- Rockefeller Center
- Broadway
- Bryant Park Winter Village
- Fifth Avenue holiday windows
- Times Square
Family-friendly hotel picks:
- The Westin New York at Times Square – great location, good room sizes.
- The Warwick – classic NYC feel, walkable to everything.
- The Conrad Midtown – spacious suites are amazing for families.
⭐️ Upper East Side
A little quieter and more residential, but still close to shopping, museums, and Central Park.
Stay here if you want:
- Easy access to Glace Hot Chocolate, Ralph’s Coffee, & boutique shopping
- Quick subway access without the Midtown rush
Family-friendly hotel picks:
- Loews Regency New York Hotel– spacious rooms for families.
- The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel- Great boutique hotel.
- The Lowell- A cute boutique hotel, just a block from Central Park, and close to Madison Avenue shopping.
⭐️ Hudson Yards / Chelsea
This is a great area if your teens love:
- The Vessel
- Little Spain food hall
- High Line
- More modern, trendy vibes
Bonus: It’s easy to get around without the heavy tourist crowds.
Where to Eat in NYC With Teens
This trip was ALL about the food, and NYC did not disappoint. Here are our top family favorites (including some hidden gems!).
⭐️ Don Angie
Our absolute favorite Italian spot. The famous lasagna rolls and chrysanthemum salad are must-orders. Reservations go fast, so book early!
⭐️ We Hop – Chinatown
A true hole-in-the-wall basement spot that serves some of the best Chinese food you will ever eat. Cash only, no frills — but worth it!
⭐️ Joe’s Pizza
A NYC classic. After our Broadway show, Beckett wanted Joe’s. The line was crazy long, so here’s your mom tip: order online for pickup and take it back to the hotel.
⭐️ Louis Vuitton Café
Ella’s dream moment — and yes, reservations open 30 days out and fill fast. The pastries and latte art alone are worth it, and it’s such a fun teen-girl experience. If you are an Amex Card holder, take advantage of the concierge and have them book it for you!
⭐️ Glace New York (Hot Chocolate Bar)
The viral toasted marshmallow hot chocolate! Visit the Upper East Side location for shorter lines.
⭐️ Tavern on the Green
A perfect bucket-list NYC Christmas lunch — especially with the holiday decorations. We loved the French onion soup and French dip.
⭐️ Liberty Bagels
Famous for their rainbow bagels. Order ahead for delivery or pickup to skip the line.
⭐️ Mercado Little Spain (Hudson Yards)
Great for families because everyone can choose something different. Tapas, churros, sandwiches — it’s a fun food-hall vibe.
⭐️ Luger Steak House
A classic New York steakhouse — dry-aged USDA prime beef, old-school vibes, and a must-do for meat lovers. Legendary for a reason.
⭐️ Bad Roman
If you can’t get into Don Angie, try Bad Roman, it’s their sister restaurant and so good! Don’t skip the lemon dessert!
⭐️ Chelsea Market
I love Chelsea Market and so do the kids! It has so many great options. You can’t miss the homemade noodles!
Things to Do in NYC at Christmas With Kids & Teens
There is SO much to do in NYC during December, but these are the hits that work especially well for teens.
⭐️ See a Broadway Show
This year we saw The Outsiders Musical, and even Beckett loved it!
Other teen-approved shows we’ve seen:
- Back to the Future
- & Juliet
- Hamilton
- The Outsiders
- Six
- MJ The Musical
- Wicked
December shows book up quickly, so plan ahead.
⭐️ Visit The Vessel at Hudson Yards
It’s freezing in December (prepare yourself!), but the structure is incredible and such a fun experience for teens who like a good photo moment. Lots of steps — Jason was not thrilled about paying $10 per person to climb stairs. 😂
⭐️ Experience Summit One Vanderbilt
We did this last year and still think it’s one of the best observation experiences in NYC.
Glass floors + mirrored rooms + incredible views = teens love it.
⭐️ Holiday Classics
These Christmas must-dos never get old, even when your kids grow up:
🎄 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Crowded but magical. Worth a stop every year.
⛸ Bryant Park Winter Village
Skating, hot chocolate, food stands, and tons of small shops. Teens enjoy the browsing and the festive vibe.
🎁 Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows
Saks Fifth Avenue puts on an incredible light show every year. Grab a hot chocolate and stroll!
✨ Brookfield Place Luminaries
A calmer, less crowded light display — great photo ops and easy for younger kids too.
🧸 FAO Schwarz
Still fun even for teens, especially the giant piano (nostalgia!). And of course Jelly Cats.
🚗 Central Park Carriage Ride
A classic Christmas moment. Beautiful at night and great for families.
🎭 The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
If your kids haven’t seen it yet, this is the year!
Final Thoughts: Why We Love NYC at Christmas With Teens
Traveling to New York during the holidays has become one of our favorite family traditions. Every year looks a little different — from playgrounds and toy stores when they were small, to Broadway shows and foodie stops now that they’re teens.
NYC just has a way of making even the simplest walk feel magical in December.
Whether you’re planning your first Christmas trip with your kids or returning for another round of holiday magic, I hope this guide helps you create the perfect teen-friendly NYC itinerary.
