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Christmas Hotels in New York City: The Most Festive Places to Stay for the Holidays

  • Writer: Ryan Jones
    Ryan Jones
  • 16 hours ago
  • 7 min read

Why Visit New York City at Christmas


There’s truly no place like New York City during Christmas. The moment Thanksgiving ends, the city transforms into a glowing holiday wonderland — where twinkling lights wrap every tree and snow-dusted streets echo with carols and laughter. From the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Bryant Park’s Winter Village to the Saks Fifth Avenue light show and Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular, NYC captures every bit of the holiday spirit. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa in Central Park, watching the Rockettes perform, or wandering through festive markets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a holiday movie.


Elegant building facade with wreaths and red ribbons. Two flags, U.S. and blue, hang outside. Classic architecture and festive decor.

Staying in the right hotel can elevate your entire holiday experience. Many of New York’s most iconic properties go all-out for Christmas, with grand lobbies filled with sparkling trees, festive music, and even visits from Santa. Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best Christmas hotels in NYC — from opulent five-star landmarks to charming Midtown boutiques — plus exclusive travel advisor perks you can unlock when you book through me.



How to Choose the Best Hotel for Christmas in NYC


Choosing the perfect Christmas hotel in New York depends on your style, budget, and what kind of holiday magic you’re after. Midtown Manhattan is ideal for first-time visitors and families who want to be close to the main holiday attractions — Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue, and Bryant Park are all within walking distance. Downtown offers a quieter experience, while Brooklyn brings a more local, budget-friendly vibe.


When booking, look for hotels that offer added value — such as complimentary breakfast, property credits, and flexible check-in — all of which can enhance your stay at no extra cost. Through my travel advisor partnerships, I can secure exclusive VIP perks, upgrades, and amenities at many of these properties that aren’t available when booking online directly.



The Best Luxury Christmas Hotels in New York City


Waldorf Astoria New York


Elegant hotel lobby with ornate ceiling, central clock, column flanked by tall plants. People seated at tables, dim lighting, luxurious decor.

The legendary Waldorf Astoria reopens in late 2025 after an eight-year, $2 billion restoration — just in time to reclaim its place as the crown jewel of Christmas in New York. Stepping into the marble-clad lobby during the holidays feels like entering a film set, with towering trees, glistening chandeliers, and live music echoing through Peacock Alley. Guests can indulge in luxurious dining experiences or enjoy cocktails surrounded by gilded holiday decor. Its location on Park Avenue places you within walking distance of Bryant Park, the Rockefeller tree, and Fifth Avenue’s sparkling displays.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Best available rate

  • VIP guest status

  • Complimentary breakfast for 2

  • $100 hotel credit per stay

  • Double Hilton Honors Points

  • Upgrade to next room category (based on availability)






The Plaza Hotel


Elegant hotel facade with illuminated marquee, flags, and intricate windows. Warm lighting enhances the classic architecture's grandeur.

Few places are as synonymous with Christmas in New York as The Plaza. Set beside Central Park, this legendary hotel glows with festive decor each December — from its grand lobby tree to its Champagne Bar and afternoon tea in the Palm Court. Fans of Home Alone 2 will instantly recognize it as one of the city’s most iconic holiday backdrops. The Plaza also welcomes four-legged guests with its “Pampered Pup Package,” and families can enjoy the whimsical Eloise-themed tea for an extra dash of nostalgia.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Daily breakfast for 2

  • VIP welcome

  • $100 property credit

  • Early check-in & late check-out (if available)

  • Room upgrade (if available)






The Peninsula New York


Modern hotel room with a white bed, gray couch, blue pillows, and patterned carpet. A window with blue curtains overlooks a city view.

Perched on Fifth Avenue and 55th Street, The Peninsula New York is the definition of holiday elegance. During December, its rooftop transforms into a cozy winter hideaway, complete with heated igloos, blankets, and panoramic views of the city lights. Downstairs, a massive Christmas tree greets guests in the lobby, while the hotel’s prime location makes it easy to stroll to Rockefeller Center, Saks, and the best shopping on Fifth Avenue.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Upgrade on arrival (within same room type)

  • Daily full breakfast for 2

  • $100 resort or hotel credit

  • Flexible check-in/check-out

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi






The St. Regis New York


Elegant bedroom with a plush white bed, turquoise headboard, floral wall art, ornate chandelier, and patterned furniture. Bright and serene.

If you picture Christmas in Manhattan as something grand and timeless, The St. Regis is your dream stay. Nutcracker statues guard the entrance, while golden garlands and an elaborately decorated tree set the stage for a holiday filled with luxury. Its Midtown location is ideal for visiting the Rockefeller Tree, Fifth Avenue’s displays, and Central Park. Inside, every corner feels curated for celebration — from the King Cole Bar’s legendary cocktails to the opulent suites that can be outfitted with private Christmas trees.


Marriott STARS Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Personalized welcome amenity

  • Daily breakfast for 2

  • $100 hotel credit

  • Early check-in & late check-out (if available)

  • Complimentary upgrade (if available)

  • Welcome note from the General Manager






The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park


Elegant hotel room with a large bed, soft gray armchair, and lamps. Golden curtains frame windows with a city view. Calm and inviting.

Overlooking Central Park, this refined property provides a calm retreat from the bustle of Midtown. During the holidays, its lobby sparkles with garlands, lights, and twinkling ornaments, while the hotel’s signature restaurant serves festive seasonal menus. Guests are steps away from ice skating at Wollman Rink or horse-drawn carriage rides through Central Park.


Marriott STARS Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Personalized welcome amenity

  • Daily breakfast for 2

  • $100 hotel credit

  • Early check-in/late check-out (if available)

  • Room upgrade (if available)






The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue


Modern hotel room with a city view, featuring a bed with a blue throw, a patterned chair, and striped curtains. Bright and elegant ambiance.

The Langham offers modern sophistication in the heart of Manhattan’s holiday action. With views of the Empire State Building and Fifth Avenue, it’s perfect for visitors eager to shop, explore Bryant Park, or visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Each year, The Langham transforms its interiors with festive lighting and refined holiday touches that balance classic and contemporary style.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Upgrade on arrival (if available)

  • $42 breakfast credit per person (for up to 2 guests)

  • $100 hotel credit per stay (+$100 for Penthouse Suite bookings)

  • Early check-in/late check-out (if available)

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi






The Mark Hotel


Elegant bedroom with beige bedding, yellow curtains, and floral artwork. A TV on a dresser, lamps, and roses enhance the serene mood.

Located just off Central Park on the Upper East Side, The Mark is stylish and contemporary while still delivering a warm holiday feel. Its façade and interiors get a chic Christmas makeover, and guests can enjoy dining by Jean-Georges or explore the park using complimentary hotel bicycles. With a focus on personalized luxury, it’s a favorite among celebrities and travelers who want a refined yet festive stay.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Upgrade at booking (if available)

  • $55 pp daily breakfast credit (for 2)

  • $100 food & beverage credit

  • Early check-in/late check-out (if available)

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi






Lotte New York Palace


Historic stone building with ornate fence in front, set against a modern glass skyscraper. Clear blue sky, detailed architecture visible.

A Christmas icon in its own right, Lotte New York Palace is known for its towering courtyard Christmas tree, prime location next to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and proximity to Rockefeller Center. Guests can expect a true holiday spectacle — with seasonal treats, festive lobby decor, and even a mailbox for children to send letters to Santa.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • VIP status

  • $100 daily breakfast credit

  • $100 hotel credit

  • Room upgrade (if available)

  • Early check-in/late check-out (if available)

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi






Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown


Cozy bedroom with a large bed, green headboard, and multiple pillows. A potted plant and wall art enhance the modern, serene decor.

If you prefer a more modern and serene Christmas experience, the Four Seasons Downtown is a sleek oasis surrounded by glittering glass towers. Just steps from the Oculus, 9/11 Memorial, and One World Observatory, it’s a great choice for those who want luxury without the Midtown crowds. Expect understated holiday elegance, spa treatments, and fine dining amid the city’s twinkling skyline.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Daily breakfast for 2

  • $100 credit for rooms / $200 for suites

  • Room upgrade (if available)

  • Early check-in/late check-out (if available)






Best Mid-Priced Hotels for Christmas in New York City


The Knickerbocker Hotel


Luxurious hotel room with a king-sized bed, soft lighting, dark wooden furniture, and a large TV. Calm, elegant atmosphere.

In the heart of Times Square, The Knickerbocker balances upscale comfort with unbeatable access to the city’s holiday action. Guests can take in the bright lights and Broadway buzz or enjoy a rooftop cocktail overlooking the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. Inside, the decor is stylish yet warm, offering a quiet retreat from the crowds below.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Breakfast included

  • Complimentary upgrade

  • 2pm late checkout

  • $50 food & beverage credit






The Bryant Park Hotel


Bright hotel room with a white bed, TV, and blue armchair. Open door reveals a living area. Large windows show cityscape. Calm ambiance.

Overlooking Bryant Park’s Winter Village, this boutique property gives you front-row access to ice skating, holiday shopping, and seasonal food stalls. It’s perfect for travelers who want to stay in the heart of Midtown but prefer a smaller, more personal atmosphere.






The Ned NoMad


Elegant bedroom with a vintage armchair, abstract red and blue art, and wooden floors. A bed with white pillows is framed by black trim.

Set in a Beaux-Arts building, The Ned NoMad brings a cozy, European feel to the city’s holiday season. Elegant interiors, festive touches, and exceptional dining create a welcoming atmosphere perfect for couples and creatives alike.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Welcome amenity

  • Room upgrade (if available)

  • $50–$100 property credit (depending on stay length)

  • Breakfast for 2 ($70 credit)

  • Early check-in/late check-out






Hotel Edison


Modern hotel room with a bed, striped carpet, yellow chair, desk, and TV. Large windows show cityscape. Flowers add a cozy touch.

A timeless Art Deco hotel in the Theater District, Hotel Edison has been part of NYC’s story since 1931 — even turned on by Thomas Edison himself! Its proximity to Broadway makes it a fantastic choice for holiday showgoers and anyone craving classic New York charm.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Waived daily destination fee

  • Complimentary walking tours & wine hours

  • Room upgrade (if available)

  • 15% off best available rate

  • Free Wi-Fi






The Evelyn Hotel


Cozy hotel room with a neatly made bed, pink blanket, and illuminated wall lamps. A blue chair and curtains frame cityscape views.

Once known as The Gershwin, The Evelyn combines vintage character with modern flair. Situated near Madison Square Park and the Flatiron holiday market, it’s a charming boutique hotel with a distinctly festive energy.


VIP Perks When You Book Through Me:

  • Waived daily destination fee

  • Complimentary walking tours & wine hours

  • Room upgrade (if available)

  • 15% off best available rate

  • Free Wi-Fi







Best Value Christmas Hotels in New York City


Motto by Hilton Chelsea


Modern hotel room with a bunk bed, blue and white decor, and wood flooring. A colorful stool and bathroom with a gold mirror in view.

Motto by Hilton Chelsea is a stylish and affordable choice for travelers who want to experience Christmas in NYC without the luxury price tag. Rooms are efficiently designed and some feature clever bunk setups for groups or families. Located close to Madison Square Park and the High Line, it’s ideal for sightseeing with a cozy home base feel.





Additional NYC Christmas Hotel Picks by Area


Midtown Manhattan

  • Hyatt Centric Times Square: VIP welcome, breakfast for 2, property credit, upgrade priority.

  • Dream Midtown: Modern and vibrant with rooftop city views.

  • EVEN Hotel Times Square: Affordable, wellness-oriented, and centrally located.


Downtown Manhattan

  • AC Hotel New York Downtown: Sleek and peaceful with views of the East River.

  • Washington Square Hotel: Historic charm in Greenwich Village.

  • Arlo SoHo: Trendy and compact, offering modern design and thoughtful perks.

    • Room upgrade (if available)

    • Guaranteed 2pm late checkout

    • Welcome drink

    • 20% off Bodega Grab & Go


Brooklyn

  • EVEN Hotel Brooklyn: Spacious, modern rooms near the subway.

  • Wyndham Garden Brooklyn Sunset Park: Close to Dyker Heights Christmas lights.

  • NU Hotel Brooklyn: Boutique-style rooms with L’Occitane amenities and bikes for exploring.



Final Tips for Booking Christmas Hotels in New York City


New York at Christmas is one of the most sought-after travel experiences in the world, so book early — ideally by September or October for the best rates and room types. Midtown is the heart of the holiday action, but Downtown and Brooklyn offer calmer, budget-friendly alternatives.

When you’re ready to plan your trip, I can help secure the best rooms, rates, and VIP perks at no additional cost to you. Whether it’s breakfast credits, upgrades, or special welcome amenities, these perks can make your Christmas in New York truly unforgettable.



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