Arguably no other city feels as magical as New York during the Holiday Season. In weeks leading up to Christmas, The City That Never Sleeps turns into an actual fairy tale. Breathtaking Christmas lights and decorations, magnificent window displays, spectacular Christmas Trees and vibrant holiday markets: not only do they attract hundreds of thousands of tourists, but they also make us believe that New York is the City where the Holiday Spirit lives. If you are planning to visit New York during the Holidays, here are the 5 best hotels to stay at for the ultimate Christmas experience.
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The 5 best hotels for Christmas in New York
1. The Plaza Hotel
Location: Midtown Manhattan, near Central Park.
Holiday Highlights: Elaborate Christmas decorations and grand tree displays; iconic afternoon tea service in the Palm Court: proximity to Central Park’s holiday activities.
When it comes to the best hotels for Christmas in New York, The Plaza Hotel is a top choice. This iconic hotel, situated near Central Park, is famous for its grand holiday displays and festive atmosphere. The lobby transforms into a holiday paradise with opulent decorations and beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Guests can also indulge in a seasonal afternoon tea at the Palm Court, making it a cozy and refined way to celebrate the season.
Staying at The Plaza puts you right next to Central Park, where you can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the snowy paths or ice skating at the Wollman Rink—a classic New York Christmas experience.
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2. The Peninsula New York
Location: Fifth Avenue, Midtown.
Holiday Highlights: lavish holiday decorations throughout the hotel; festive rooftop bar for winter cocktails; special holiday tea and gingerbread displays.
The Peninsula New York is another of the best hotels for Christmas in New York City, known for its beautifully decorated interiors and holiday-themed experiences. Located on Fifth Avenue, The Peninsula’s holiday charm shines with its seasonal decorations, grand tree displays, and even gingerbread house installations.
Visitors can enjoy a rooftop drink at Salon de Ning, where the seasonal transformation creates a cozy, festive atmosphere perfect for winter cocktails. Additionally, The Peninsula offers holiday-themed teas and activities for kids, making it a perfect spot for families. Its prime location on Fifth Avenue also means guests can easily access the world-famous holiday window displays and Rockefeller Center.
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3. Lotte New York Palace
Location: Midtown Manhattan.
Holiday Highlights: a grand Christmas tree in the courtyard; stunning lobby decorations and festive atmosphere; close to holiday landmarks like Bryant Park and Radio City Music Hall.
Lotte New York Palace is a favorite choice among those looking for the best hotels for Christmas in New York City. Known for its grand holiday display, this hotel impresses with its massive Christmas tree in the courtyard, accompanied by festive decorations throughout the lobby. Guests feel transported into a holiday fairytale as they enter the hotel.
The location of Lotte New York Palace is ideal for holiday activities, with easy access to Bryant Park’s Winter Village, Rockefeller Center’s ice skating rink, and the famed Radio City Music Hall, home to the annual Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. If you’re looking for a central location that places you in the heart of NYC’s holiday magic, this is the place to be.
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4. The St. Regis New York
Location: Midtown Manhattan.
Holiday Highlights: elegant holiday decor and seasonal activities; festive cocktails at the King Cole Bar, Holiday dining experiences in the Astor Court.
The St. Regis New York embodies classic luxury with timeless holiday charm, making it one of the best hotels for Christmas in New York. Each year, the hotel is beautifully decorated, creating a warm holiday atmosphere that exudes sophistication. The King Cole Bar, known for its iconic “Red Snapper” (a New York twist on the Bloody Mary), is a cozy spot for seasonal cocktails.
Guests can also enjoy holiday dining options in the Astor Court, where seasonal menus add a festive touch. The St. Regis’ central location allows for easy access to nearby attractions, including Times Square and Bryant Park’s Winter Village, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary holiday magic.
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5. Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown
Location: Financial District.
Holiday Highlights: beautiful holiday decorations and cozy atmosphere; close proximity to Lower Manhattan holiday attractions; unique location for exploring NYC’s holiday markets.
Located in Lower Manhattan, the Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown offers a unique take on Christmas in New York City. While it may not be in Midtown’s holiday epicenter, it boasts its own festive charm and is close to many holiday landmarks in the Financial District. The hotel is elegantly decorated, creating a cozy and upscale atmosphere for the holidays.
Guests can enjoy holiday markets at the nearby South Street Seaport and experience the One World Observatory, which offers breathtaking winter views of the city. Battery Park and Wall Street also have their own holiday displays, making the Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown a great choice for those looking to explore a different side of Christmas in NYC.
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Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Hotel for Christmas in New York City
Whether you want to stay near the iconic attractions of Midtown or explore the holiday magic in Lower Manhattan, these top five hotels offer some of the best holiday experiences. Each hotel brings its own festive charm, from grand Christmas trees to cozy holiday cocktails and seasonal teas, making your stay truly unforgettable.
Happy Holidays!
