Top 20 Christmas Hotels in New York
There’s something magical about Christmas in New York. The glittering lights, ice skating in Central Park, and the iconic Rockefeller Christmas tree – it’s a city that embraces the holiday season like no other.
But to truly experience the festive spirit, choosing the right place to stay makes all the difference. Whether you’re looking for a lavish escape or a cozy, intimate retreat, these top 20 hotels in New York offer unparalleled Christmas experiences, each with its own unique charm and holiday traditions. Let’s take a closer look at why each of these hotels deserves a spot on your holiday itinerary.
The Plaza Hotel: A Christmas Classic
The Plaza is synonymous with luxury, and at Christmas, it transforms into a winter wonderland. Step inside its iconic doors, and you’ll be greeted with opulent decorations that transport you to a different era.
From their stunning Christmas tree in the Palm Court to the intricate holiday décor throughout the hotel, The Plaza celebrates the holiday season with grace and grandeur. Their festive afternoon teas are a beloved tradition, and staying here feels like stepping into your favorite holiday movie.
The Plaza’s location right next to Central Park allows guests to enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park, which is particularly magical during the holiday season when snow covers the ground.
- Opulent holiday decorations, including a grand Christmas tree
- Festive afternoon teas in The Palm Court
- Central Park carriage rides available right outside
- Luxurious rooms with a view of the park’s snowy landscapes
The St. Regis New York: Timeless Elegance
The St. Regis is known for its timeless elegance, but at Christmas, it becomes even more enchanting. The hotel’s decorations are tasteful yet magnificent, featuring rich colors and sparkling lights that create a cozy holiday atmosphere. The St. Regis is also home to some of the best holiday dining experiences in the city, with special Christmas menus that will delight even the most discerning guests.
The hotel’s famous King Cole Bar, where the Bloody Mary was invented, serves festive holiday cocktails that can be enjoyed by the roaring fire. There’s something comforting and nostalgic about spending Christmas at The St. Regis.
- Elegant holiday decorations with rich, festive colors
- Exclusive Christmas dining experiences and festive cocktails
- Iconic King Cole Bar for cozy holiday evenings
- Prime location near 5th Avenue holiday displays
The Peninsula New York: Holiday Rooftop Magic
The Peninsula New York may be known for its luxurious accommodations, but during the holidays, it’s the hotel’s rooftop that steals the show. Overlooking Fifth Avenue, the hotel’s rooftop bar transforms into a winter wonderland with cozy fire pits, holiday cocktails, and breathtaking views of the city’s Christmas lights. The Peninsula’s spa also offers special holiday treatments, perfect for unwinding after a day of shopping or sightseeing.
For families, the hotel offers festive experiences such as gingerbread house decorating and visits from Santa Claus, making it a perfect choice for a magical Christmas getaway.
- Rooftop bar with holiday decor and stunning views of Fifth Avenue
- Holiday spa treatments for relaxation
- Family-friendly activities like gingerbread house decorating and Santa visits
- Central location perfect for holiday shopping
Lotte New York Palace: A Regal Holiday Retreat
Lotte New York Palace is one of the most regal hotels in New York, and during Christmas, it lives up to its royal reputation. The massive Christmas tree in the courtyard, surrounded by twinkling lights, makes for a perfect holiday photo opportunity. Inside, the hotel’s grand staircase is decked out in festive garlands, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.
The Lotte New York Palace offers special holiday packages that include tickets to Christmas-themed events, making it easy for guests to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. Its proximity to Rockefeller Center and St. Patrick’s Cathedral makes it a prime location for holiday sightseeing.
- Enormous Christmas tree in the courtyard
- Grand staircase adorned with holiday garlands
- Holiday packages with tickets to festive events
- Close to Rockefeller Center’s famous Christmas tree and ice rink
The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park: Winter Wonderland Views
If you want to wake up to the sight of snow-covered Central Park on Christmas morning, The Ritz-Carlton is the place to be. This luxurious hotel offers rooms with unbeatable views of the park, and the holiday décor inside is just as stunning. The Ritz-Carlton’s lobby features elegant Christmas trees and festive floral arrangements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Contour, offers special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining experiences, complete with holiday-inspired dishes and cocktails. Whether you’re enjoying the park’s ice skating or sipping cocoa by the fire, The Ritz-Carlton makes Christmas in New York feel magical.
- Rooms with stunning views of snow-covered Central Park
- Elegant holiday decor and festive floral arrangements
- Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining experiences at Contour
- Close to Central Park ice skating and holiday activities
The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue: Modern Holiday Luxury
The Langham offers a modern take on holiday luxury. With its sleek design and minimalist decorations, it provides a serene and peaceful Christmas atmosphere. The hotel’s location on Fifth Avenue makes it ideal for guests who want to explore the city’s holiday window displays and enjoy some world-class shopping.
The Langham also offers special holiday packages that include personalized Christmas stockings delivered to your room and a private car for a festive city tour. The hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Ai Fiori, serves a holiday menu that is sure to impress.
- Modern, minimalist holiday decorations for a serene atmosphere
- Personalized Christmas stockings delivered to your room
- Private car tours of the city’s holiday lights
- Michelin-starred dining at Ai Fiori
The Waldorf Astoria New York: Gilded Holiday Charm
For those who love old-world charm and timeless elegance, The Waldorf Astoria New York is a top choice for Christmas. The hotel’s gilded interiors, plush carpets, and grand ballrooms make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time. During the holidays, the hotel is filled with twinkling lights, garlands, and Christmas trees, creating a nostalgic yet luxurious atmosphere.
The Waldorf Astoria also hosts a variety of holiday events, including festive afternoon teas and Christmas carol performances in the grand lobby. It’s the perfect place to soak in the holiday spirit with a touch of glamour.
- Gilded, old-world holiday decorations
- Grand ballrooms and elegant lobbies adorned for the holidays
- Festive afternoon teas and Christmas carol performances
- A historic New York landmark with timeless appeal
The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel: Intimate Holiday Elegance
The Carlyle is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more intimate Christmas experience. This Upper East Side gem exudes understated elegance, and during the holidays, the hotel’s art deco interiors are tastefully adorned with classic holiday decorations. The Carlyle’s iconic Bemelmans Bar is particularly festive during the holiday season, with live piano music and seasonal cocktails.
Guests at The Carlyle can also enjoy holiday shopping at nearby luxury boutiques on Madison Avenue or take a winter walk through Central Park, just steps from the hotel.
- Intimate, understated holiday decorations
- Live piano music and festive cocktails at Bemelmans Bar
- Close to Madison Avenue luxury shopping and Central Park
- Cozy art deco interiors for a relaxed Christmas stay
The Knickerbocker Hotel: Holiday Glamour in Times Square
For those who want to be in the heart of the action, The Knickerbocker is the perfect choice. Located right in Times Square, this historic hotel offers glamorous holiday decor and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the holiday lights below. The Knickerbocker’s festive atmosphere is perfect for those who want to experience the energy and excitement of New York during Christmas.
The hotel also offers special holiday packages, including tickets to Broadway shows and access to holiday-themed events throughout the city. The Knickerbocker’s proximity to Times Square’s New Year’s Eve celebrations makes it a great choice for extending your holiday stay.
- Glamorous holiday decor and rooftop views of Times Square
- Holiday packages with Broadway tickets and event access
- Prime location for New Year’s Eve celebrations
- Historic hotel with modern amenities
The Standard, High Line: Festive Chic in the Meatpacking District
The Standard, High Line, located in the trendy Meatpacking District, offers a cool, contemporary holiday experience. The hotel’s floor-to-ceiling windows provide breathtaking views of the city’s holiday lights, and the festive decorations inside are chic and stylish. The Standard’s rooftop ice rink, complete with holiday music and seasonal treats, is a fun and unique holiday attraction.
Guests can also enjoy holiday shopping at nearby boutiques or explore the Chelsea Market’s Christmas offerings, all within walking distance. The Standard’s hip atmosphere and modern design make it a great choice for those seeking a non-traditional holiday experience.
- Chic holiday decorations and floor-to-ceiling window views
- Rooftop ice skating rink with holiday music and treats
- Walking distance to Chelsea Market and Meatpacking District shopping
- A fun and modern holiday experience in a trendy neighborhood
Conrad New York Downtown: Christmas on the Hudson
Situated along the Hudson River, Conrad New York Downtown offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling holiday crowds. The hotel’s sleek, modern design is enhanced by tasteful holiday decorations, and many rooms offer stunning views of the river and the city’s sparkling holiday lights. The Conrad’s spacious suites are perfect for families looking for a comfortable holiday getaway.
The hotel is also close to the Brookfield Place Winter Garden, where guests can enjoy a beautiful display of holiday lights and shop at luxury stores. The Conrad’s quiet location makes it a great option for those who want to experience the magic of Christmas in New York without the noise of the city.
- Modern, sleek holiday decorations with river views
- Spacious suites ideal for families
- Close to Brookfield Place Winter Garden and holiday shopping
- A peaceful retreat near the Hudson River
The Mark Hotel: Festive Luxury on the Upper East Side
The Mark Hotel is a chic and luxurious choice for a Christmas stay in New York. Located on the Upper East Side, The Mark’s stylish holiday decorations blend modern sophistication with classic elegance. The hotel’s festive experiences include private horse-drawn carriage rides through Central Park, holiday shopping assistance, and gourmet holiday feasts prepared by their renowned chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
The Mark’s stunning suites and personalized service make it a favorite among those seeking an intimate, high-end holiday experience.
- Chic, sophisticated holiday decor
- Private horse-drawn carriage rides through Central Park
- Gourmet holiday feasts by Jean-Georges Vongerichten
- Personalized shopping assistance for holiday gifts
The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel: A Holiday Hidden Gem
The Beekman offers a unique and charming holiday experience in the heart of Lower Manhattan. The hotel’s historic architecture, with its soaring atrium and stunning skylight, is beautifully accented with holiday decorations that create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The Beekman’s intimate ambiance and vintage charm make it feel like a hidden holiday gem.
Guests can enjoy festive dining at Temple Court, the hotel’s signature restaurant, where chef Tom Colicchio creates a special holiday menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and flavors.
- Cozy, vintage holiday charm with stunning architecture
- Intimate dining experiences at Temple Court
- Historic hotel with modern amenities
- Located in the heart of Lower Manhattan
The Whitby Hotel: Boutique Holiday Charm
Located in the heart of Midtown, The Whitby Hotel is a boutique hotel that offers a cozy and charming holiday atmosphere. The hotel’s colorful and whimsical holiday decorations create a warm and festive ambiance, and the rooms are uniquely designed with vibrant fabrics and furnishings. The Whitby’s Film Club offers special holiday movie screenings, perfect for families looking for a cozy night in.
The hotel is also close to some of the city’s best holiday attractions, including Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall, making it an ideal choice for those looking to experience the best of New York’s Christmas spirit.
- Colorful and whimsical holiday decorations
- Unique room designs with vibrant fabrics
- Holiday movie screenings at the Whitby Film Club
- Close to Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall
The NoMad Hotel: Eclectic Holiday Elegance
The NoMad Hotel offers an eclectic and artistic take on holiday decor. The hotel’s dark, moody interiors are enhanced with rich, festive decorations that create an inviting and intimate atmosphere. The NoMad’s library bar, complete with leather armchairs and roaring fireplaces, is the perfect place to enjoy a holiday cocktail or hot chocolate.
The hotel’s central location makes it easy for guests to explore nearby holiday attractions, including Bryant Park’s Winter Village and the holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue.
- Eclectic holiday decor with dark, moody interiors
- Cozy library bar with fireplaces and holiday cocktails
- Close to Bryant Park’s Winter Village and Fifth Avenue
The Dominick Hotel: Downtown Sophistication with Holiday Flair
The Dominick Hotel in SoHo combines sleek luxury with a festive holiday vibe. Its minimalist design is enhanced with tasteful holiday decorations, creating a sophisticated yet festive atmosphere. The spacious rooms and suites offer stunning views of the city, including a perfect vantage point for seeing New York’s holiday lights and decorations.
The Dominick’s location in SoHo means guests have easy access to the neighborhood’s iconic boutique shopping, perfect for holiday gift-hunting, and nearby holiday markets.
- Sophisticated holiday decor with modern touches
- Stunning city views, ideal for seeing holiday lights
- Easy access to SoHo’s boutique shops and holiday markets
- Spacious suites perfect for families and couples
The Pierre: Old-World Christmas Elegance
The Pierre, a classic New York City hotel, exudes old-world charm, especially during the holiday season. With its elegant, timeless decorations, the hotel offers a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. The Pierre is known for its luxurious suites, impeccable service, and prime location on Fifth Avenue, close to Central Park and the city’s top holiday attractions.
The hotel’s restaurant, Perrine, offers a special holiday menu, and festive afternoon tea in the Rotunda is a beloved holiday tradition.
- Timeless holiday decorations with old-world charm
- Festive afternoon tea in the Rotunda
- Prime location near Central Park and Fifth Avenue holiday attractions
- Special holiday menus at Perrine restaurant
The Ludlow Hotel: Cozy, Hip Holidays in the Lower East Side
For those seeking a more intimate, hip holiday experience, The Ludlow Hotel on the Lower East Side offers a cozy and stylish retreat. The hotel’s holiday decorations blend cool, modern design with a festive, laid-back vibe. Its rooftop terrace offers breathtaking views of the city, particularly stunning during the holiday season when New York is aglow with festive lights.
The Ludlow’s casual-chic setting is perfect for a relaxed yet stylish Christmas stay, with easy access to the Lower East Side’s vibrant nightlife and holiday markets.
- Hip, modern holiday decor with a relaxed vibe
- Rooftop terrace with stunning city views
- Close to the Lower East Side’s vibrant nightlife and holiday markets
- Intimate, stylish setting ideal for couples
1 Hotel Central Park: Eco-Friendly Christmas in the Heart of New York
1 Hotel Central Park is the perfect choice for eco-conscious travelers looking to enjoy a sustainable holiday experience in New York. The hotel’s rustic yet chic holiday decorations are made from natural and reclaimed materials, giving it a warm and environmentally-friendly holiday feel. Located just steps from Central Park, it offers guests easy access to iconic holiday attractions.
The hotel’s commitment to sustainability extends to its dining options, which feature farm-to-table holiday menus that highlight seasonal ingredients.
- Eco-friendly holiday decorations using natural materials
- Farm-to-table holiday dining experiences
- Located near Central Park for easy access to holiday attractions
- Sustainable, luxurious design with a cozy atmosphere
The Greenwich Hotel: Rustic Elegance in a Festive Setting
The Greenwich Hotel, located in the trendy Tribeca neighborhood, offers a unique and rustic take on the holiday season. The hotel’s cozy, artisanal interiors are beautifully complemented by understated yet elegant holiday decorations, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy relaxing by the fireplace in the Drawing Room, which feels more like a private home than a hotel.
During the holidays, The Greenwich also offers an array of festive dining options at its renowned restaurant, Locanda Verde, with special holiday menus that highlight rustic Italian cuisine.
The hotel’s serene, Japanese-inspired Shibui Spa is an ideal retreat from the holiday hustle, offering relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the festive chaos of the city.
- Understated holiday elegance with rustic charm
- Cozy Drawing Room with a fireplace, perfect for winter nights
- Italian holiday feasts at Locanda Verde
- Tranquil, Japanese-inspired Shibui Spa for holiday relaxation
Final Word
New York City during the holidays is truly a sight to behold, and staying at one of these incredible Christmas hotels takes the experience to a whole new level. Each hotel on this list offers something unique, from luxurious suites with breathtaking city views to cozy, intimate settings that feel like home. Whether you’re seeking old-world elegance, modern sophistication, or eco-friendly charm, these hotels in New York deliver unforgettable holiday experiences tailored to every type of traveler.
From the festive ice rinks, and gourmet holiday feasts, to the twinkling lights of Rockefeller Center and beyond, staying at any of these hotels means you’re at the heart of the season’s most magical moments. Soak in the holiday spirit with stunning decorations, cozy fireplaces, and exclusive holiday events that make your stay special. These hotels in New York offer not just a place to rest but a way to truly immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas in the city that never sleeps.
