New York City at Christmas on Points

Visiting New York City at Christmas is a dream for so many people, but the expense makes it seem out of reach. Good news, it doesn't have to be! Read on to learn how to use credit card points to stay at a hotel for $0 out of pocket. You'll also find a list of our family's favorite FREE activities to do in NYC at Christmas with kids.

5/8/20241 min read

Favorite Hotel: Hyatt House Jersey City

Price: ~18,000 points/night and $0 out of pocket

Credit Card that will EARN you the points needed: Chase Sapphire

WHY I Love the Hotel: Right beside PATH train for easy transportation, beautiful large playground beside hotel, gorgeous skyline view of Lower Manhattan while eating FREE breakfast

Favorite FREE Activities in NYC with Kids at Christmas:

  • Play in Central Park at Heckscher Playground

  • Visit FDNY's Fire Zone

  • Walk through Macy's Herald Square and Visit Santaland (reservation required)

  • Watch the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show while visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree (will it be crowded, yes...is it a must-do, YES)

  • Walk through the Occulus on your way to Rockefeller park playground

  • View the lights of Shine Bright at Hudson Yards

  • Wander through a Holiday Market: Options in Bryant Park, Columbus Square and Union Square

  • View the Christmas Tree at the New York Public Library

    NOT Free, but Fun Activities:

  • Ice Skating: There are so many options! Wollman Rink in Central Park, Bryant Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Rockefeller Center, Ice Rink at the Seaport, The Rink at Brookfield Place

  • Go see The Christmas Spectacular by the Radio City Rockettes. This is the quintesential NYC at Christmas activity and I still remember it from my childhood!

Photo Tip: Make sure to pack red coats. It's likely going to be chilly so you'll be wearing coats and hats in many pictures. I love to make sure my family has festive red and green coats to make our pictures scream Christmas!