What are the 10 Best Christmas Photo Spots in New York
New York City shines during the holiday season, transforming its landmarks into sparkling symbols of the Christmas spirit. There’s something incredibly magical about the city at this time of year, from the massive Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center to the nostalgic holiday markets. As someone who’s experienced Christmases here firsthand, I’ve come to know the best places for capturing the season’s magic. Here’s a guide to the best Christmas photo spots in New York, with each location offering a unique and festive experience. I’ve also included photo tips for each spot to help you make the most of every scene.
1. Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is synonymous with Christmas in New York. Each year, a massive Norway Spruce, usually standing between 70-80 feet tall, is erected in the plaza and adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and a star on top. The famous Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting ceremony is a city tradition, broadcast nationally and attended by thousands. The rink below, one of the most iconic ice-skating rinks in the world, adds to the scene’s charm as skaters glide below the tree and the Prometheus statue. Visiting Rockefeller Center during the holidays feels like stepping into a movie set, where everything around exudes holiday cheer. It’s a bustling area but worth braving the crowds to experience one of New York’s most festive spots.
Photo Tip: Position yourself slightly off to the side to capture the tree, rink, and the Prometheus statue all in one shot. If you’re photographing at night, bring a tripod or use a higher ISO to get sharp shots in low light. Try some wide-angle shots to fit in as much of the scene as possible, including the beautiful skyscrapers surrounding the plaza.
2. Fifth Avenue Store Windows
Fifth Avenue’s window displays are a holiday attraction in their own right, with each store unveiling intricate scenes that tell a story of the season. Stores like Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, Cartiers, and Tiffany & Co. compete each year with elaborate, imaginative displays, often inspired by winter wonderlands, classic tales, or even futuristic themes. Walking down Fifth Avenue during the holidays is a feast for the senses, with bright lights, bustling shoppers, and seasonal music playing in the background. Saks’ holiday light show is a highlight, filling the entire façade with synchronized lights that dance to Christmas tunes. The tradition of decorating these windows has become a true NYC holiday staple, drawing locals and tourists alike for decades.
Photo Tip: Try visiting in the late afternoon when there’s still some natural light to avoid glare on the glass. Use a lens with a wide aperture (like f/1.8 or f/2.8) for beautifully blurred backgrounds that emphasize the window details. Don’t be afraid to get creative with angles to avoid the crowds and capture reflections of the lights.
3. Bryant Park Winter Village
Bryant Park’s Winter Village offers a different kind of holiday experience, inspired by European Christmas markets. With over 170 holiday shops, including cozy wooden stalls selling unique gifts, food, and holiday treats, the park becomes a winter haven in the heart of Manhattan. At its center stands a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, with the Empire State Building peeking out from behind. The ice-skating rink is free (with a small fee for rentals), making it a popular spot for families and couples looking to enjoy a holiday skate. The Winter Village has a laid-back vibe compared to the crowded Rockefeller Center, giving you space to explore the festive scene at a leisurely pace.
Photo Tip: For a shot that captures both the rink and the Empire State Building in the background, head to the north end of the park. A slightly elevated angle, like from the fountain area, helps you get a clear view without too many skaters blocking your shot. Evening is best for capturing the lights, and if it’s snowing, you’ll get some added magic in your photos!
4. Central Park’s Bow Bridge
Central Park’s Bow Bridge becomes even more enchanting in winter, framed by the bare branches of trees dusted in snow and holiday decorations. This Victorian-style bridge, known for its romantic design and gentle arches, sits in the heart of the park. The surrounding area is picturesque, offering a stunning view of the bridge against the city skyline. The Bow Bridge’s charm lies in its simplicity and natural surroundings, making it a beloved spot for photographers, couples, and anyone seeking a peaceful winter escape. When the snow falls, the scene transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland that feels worlds away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Photo Tip: Visit early in the morning for softer light and fewer people. Position yourself slightly off-center on the bridge for a dynamic composition. If it has snowed, use a lower exposure to keep the details of the snow bright without overexposing.
5. The Plaza Hotel
The Plaza Hotel is a symbol of New York elegance, especially during the holidays, when it’s dressed up with holiday décor and a grand red carpet at the entrance. Located at the edge of Central Park, the Plaza exudes old-world charm, having hosted countless iconic moments in film and history. Its ornate Beaux-Arts architecture, luxurious interior, and storied past give it an aura of classic New York. During the holidays, the hotel’s lobby and entrance are decorated in lavish holiday style, drawing visitors who want to experience a bit of holiday luxury. Its connection to holiday movies and timeless architecture make it a must-visit for any holiday photo tour of the city.
Photo Tip: Frame the entrance in a way that shows the grandeur of the hotel while capturing the decorations. If you’re shooting at night, a little backlighting from nearby lamps can add a warm, inviting glow. Play around with symmetry by shooting straight on for a regal, balanced look.
6. Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park’s iconic arch and Christmas tree create a peaceful, festive scene in the heart of Greenwich Village. The park is a beloved community space, offering a quieter alternative to Midtown’s holiday hustle. Each year, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree is placed under the arch, with the Empire State Building visible in the distance through the opening. The combination of historic architecture, the holiday tree, and the city skyline in the background makes for a quintessential NYC Christmas photo. It’s also a great place to relax and take in the season’s beauty without the crowds.
Photo Tip: Late afternoon offers softer lighting here. Frame the arch to center the tree, creating a sense of depth in the shot. For a nighttime shot, use a tripod to keep the lights crisp and capture the ambient glow from the surrounding buildings.
7. DUMBO with a Manhattan Skyline View
DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) in Brooklyn offers one of the best views of Manhattan, framed by the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. During the holidays, the area’s cobblestone streets and industrial architecture are decorated with festive lights, adding holiday charm to the urban landscape. The area has become a trendy spot for visitors and photographers, with its unique combination of scenic views, modern boutiques, and waterfront access. From here, you can capture both the bridges and the skyline, making for a stunning panoramic holiday shot. There’s a sense of timelessness to DUMBO, making it a beautiful place to capture a festive yet gritty New York Christmas.
Photo Tip: Sunset is ideal for this location, providing you with a gorgeous sky that contrasts with the twinkling city lights. Use a wide-angle lens to capture both the bridge and the skyline. Don’t miss framing the shot with some nearby holiday lights to add a festive touch to the foreground.
8. Radio City Music Hall
Radio City Music Hall is a legendary New York landmark, famous for its Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes. The building’s Art Deco architecture and bright red marquee lights, combined with the giant red ornaments displayed out front, make it a favorite holiday photo spot. The hall’s Christmas decorations add a vintage touch to the Midtown holiday scene, blending nostalgia and grandeur. Crowds gather to enjoy the holiday atmosphere, and the whole area comes alive with the spirit of Christmas. It’s a must-visit for capturing classic New York Christmas photos, especially at night when the lights are most vibrant.
Photo Tip: Position yourself across the street to capture the full grandeur of the ornaments with the Radio City marquee in the background. A long-exposure shot here (using a tripod) can capture moving cars and people as blurred lights, adding a sense of city bustle to the photo.
9. Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair
Grand Central Terminal is one of New York’s most beautiful indoor landmarks, especially during the holidays when the Holiday Fair adds an extra layer of festive charm. The historic Beaux-Arts design, combined with holiday decorations and the bustling market, creates a unique atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. The fair offers holiday gifts, food, and seasonal treats, and the terminal’s main concourse with its celestial ceiling and iconic clock makes for an awe-inspiring holiday photo. Grand Central feels like a holiday scene from another time, and it’s a warm, bustling spot where you can capture the city’s holiday spirit indoors.
Photo Tip: The main concourse provides a majestic backdrop for photos. Set your camera to a slightly slower shutter speed to capture movement, showing the energy of the fair. For a fun angle, try capturing the decorations in reflection on one of the terminal’s many glass surfaces.
10. The Oculus at the World Trade Center
The Oculus is a stunning modern structure in Lower Manhattan, with soaring white arches that resemble wings, symbolizing hope and resilience. During the holidays, it’s decorated with lights and ornaments, creating a beautiful contrast between the contemporary design and festive warmth. The Oculus is part of the World Trade Center complex and serves as a transit hub and shopping center, adding a sense of community to the holiday decor. Its sleek lines and open spaces offer a peaceful escape from the city’s busier holiday spots. The architecture alone is breathtaking, but the addition of holiday decorations makes it an exceptional photo location.
Photo Tip: Experiment with symmetry here to emphasize the sleek design of the Oculus. A lower angle can help capture the high arches, with decorations framing the shot. It’s also beautiful at night when the space is illuminated, so use a slower shutter speed to capture all the lights.
Each location captures a different facet of New York’s holiday spirit, offering diverse backdrops and unforgettable holiday memories. With these spots and quick photo tips, you’re ready to experience the magic of a New York Christmas!
