10 Most Beautiful Christmas Trees In New York

As the festive season approaches, the Big Apple adorns itself with a spectacular array of Christmas trees that are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Here’s a thoughtfully curated list of the 10 best and most beautiful NYC Christmas trees that you just can’t miss!

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List Of The Best Christmas Trees: New York, US

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The most iconic Christmas tree in New York City is located at the Rockefeller Center. The annual tree-lighting ceremony will take place on November 29th.

For those seeking the perfect photo opportunity in front of this tree, you’ll want to time your visit just right. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree dazzles with its brilliant lights between 5 am and 12 am.

However, on Christmas Day, this symbol of holiday magic remains aglow for a full 24 hours. And on New Year’s Eve, you can capture its colorful lights from 5 am to 9 pm.

Right beneath this gorgeous Christmas tree is the famous ice skating rink with a Prometheus statue; one of the quintessential holiday activities in this city. Find more amazing (and free) things to do in NYC here.

Looking for a stay near the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree? We’ve already prepared a list of the best hotels in Manhattan for you.

When: from November 29, 2023

Where: Rockefeller Center

Christmas Tree Under The Arch In Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is home to NYC’s second longest-running tree lightning. The 45-foot Christmas tree is beautifully decorated under the Arch.

The annual tree lighting ceremony usually takes place in the first week of December and is lit between 4 pm and 1 am.

You can also come here for Christmas Eve caroling on Friday, December 24th at 5 pm.

When: from the first week of December (check for updates here)

Where: Washington Square Park

Radio City Music Hall Tree

Placed on the facade of the building, this Radio City Music Hall Christmas tree catches everyone’s attention.

However, it’s not a real tree — just lamps in the shape of a tree. Nevertheless, it’s a unique sight and one of the best Christmas trees in New York.

When: the tree lights up in early December

Where: Radio City Music Hall

Christmas Tree In Madison Square Park

The first Christmas tree installed in the US was right here, in Madison Square Park in 1912. This year marks the 111th anniversary!

Come here to enjoy live holiday performances and a festive atmosphere.

When: from December 6, 2023

Where: Madison Square Park

Beautifully Lit Trees In The New York Botanical Garden

The New York Botanical Garden’s GLOW is overflowing with Christmas spirit.

During the holidays, NYBG’s iconic sights and buildings like Haupt Conservatory are shining bright in festive colors. You’ll also see many trees decorated with Christmas lights. An event you cannot miss!

When: November 17, 24, and 25; December 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 26–30, 2023; January 6 and 13, 2024 (5 pm – 10 pm)

Where: New York Botanical Garden

Christmas Tree In Bank Of America Winter Village

Another must-see Christmas tree is located in Bryant Park’s Winter Village. It’s the perfect place to visit during the holiday season.

It features an ice skating rink, a variety of food vendors, and a popular tree-lighting ceremony. Read our Bryant Park Winter Village Guide before your visit!

When: from November 28, 2023

Where: Bryant Park Winter Village

The Floating Christmas Trees In Central Park

Explore all the holiday fun in New York and visit the iconic flotilla of Christmas trees gliding across the Harlem Meer. The lights remain lit throughout the holiday season. How cool is this?!

When: the trees light up in early December (check date & time here)

Where: Harlem Meer, Central Park

Picturesque Christmas Tree In South Street Seaport

During the holidays, Manhattan’s South Street Seaport District’s top attraction is its lovely Christmas tree.

The surrounding area in the “oldest new neighborhood” features cobblestones that add charm to the cozy atmosphere.

Visit the official Seaport website to keep up with upcoming holiday events.

The NYSE tree

Join the 100th annual lighting of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Christmas Tree. On November 30, 2023, from 3 pm to 6:30 pm, the event will host a range of performances.

If you can’t make this event, no worries, you can still see the glittering tree till the end of the holiday season.

When: from November 30, 2023

Where: New York Stock Exchange

Christmas Tree At The Lotte New York Palace Hotel

Lotte New York Palace is a fabulous hotel set inside a late 19th-century mansion. You might recognize it from famous shows like Gossip Girl and Will & Grace. It’s located at 455 Madison Ave.

We have to mention that the Christmas tree is not put up every year, before planning a visit make sure to check the official website of the Lotte New York Palace Hotel.

FAQ

What are the best Christmas trees in New York?

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree;
Christmas Tree Under The Arch In Washington Square Park;
Radio City Music Hall Tree;
Christmas Tree In Madison Square Park;
Christmas Trees In The New York Botanical Garden;
Christmas Tree In Bank Of America Winter Village;
The Floating Christmas Tree In Central Park Central Park;
Christmas Tree In South Street Seaport;
The NYSE tree;
Christmas Tree At The Lotte New York Palace Hotel.

What date is the Rockefeller tree lighting in 2023?

November 29th, 2023.

How long will the Rockefeller Christmas tree be up?

From November 29th, 2023 to January 13, 2024.

What is the best Christmas Tree in Manhattan?

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree.

Where is the big Christmas Tree in Manhattan?

In Midtown Manhattan, between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue, and between 49th Street and 50th Street.

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