HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN NYC CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TOUR

UNION SQUARE CHRISTMAS MARKET, LOWER MANHATTAN, HUDSON YARDS & SKIP THE LINE PERK AT 230 FIFTH ROOFTOP BAR

Experience the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan NYC Christmas Lights Tour!

Step into the magic of My Christmas in New York. Our fully guided Holiday Spirit in Manhattan NYC Christmas Lights Tour is the perfect way to enjoy the season in 2025.

Marco and the My Christmas in New York team are ready to lead you through Manhattan’s most festive sights. Travel in comfort aboard our first-class buses, complete with onboard bathrooms and guided by knowledgeable NYC tour guides.

This Manhattan Christmas Lights tour includes three unforgettable stops and a grand finale:

Union Square Christmas Market: Spend 45 minutes exploring this charming market. Shop for festive gifts, warm up with seasonal treats, and take in the atmosphere.
Lower Manhattan’s Historic Holiday Glow: Experience the festive charm of Wall Street’s Christmas Tree, Zuccotti Park, and the Oculus. While in the area, we also take time to visit the 9/11 Memorial after dark. Though not a holiday stop, it’s a meaningful and essential part of New York City’s history.
Hudson Yards and the Vessel: See over two million twinkling lights surrounding one of Manhattan’s most iconic modern landmarks.
The Grand Finale: End your Manhattan Lights Tour at the iconic 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar. With the My Christmas in New York team, you skip the line and avoid the cover charge. Enjoy food or drinks in festive heated igloos while taking in breathtaking and unobstructed views of the Empire State Building.

Get ready to join New York Christmas Lights Tour and know everything about the most beautiful festive traditions.

During the past two holiday seasons, Marco and his team welcomed over 20,000 happy guests on their different Christmas Lights tours. You can explore all the glorious reviews in the highlights of Marco’s Instagram pages: @MyChristmasInNewYorkCity and @MyChristmasInNewYork!

You can also browse real guest experiences in our Reviews section by clicking HERE.

Click the BOOK NOW button to join the best Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour beyond Midtown’s tourist crowds!

Want to dive deeper into the best things to do in NYC at Christmas? Don’t miss our full guide: Christmas in New York 2025 – Best Things to Do.

KEY INFO OF THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN TOUR

CALENDAR

The 2025 Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour runs daily from November 28 to December 23. Multiple time slots are available and shown on our booking platform when you click BOOK NOW.

Meeting Point

The tour begins in Times Square, on 45th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues, at a clear, easy-to-find location. A My Christmas in New York team member will be near Starbucks, under the tunnel, holding a yellow umbrella. You’ll receive step-by-step instructions in your booking confirmation to ensure a smooth and stress-free start.

FULLY GUIDED

During the 2025 Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Christmas Lights Tour, a licensed NYC tour guide stays with you throughout. Enjoy live narration, festive stories, and insider tips, both on the bus and during each walking stop. Discover the true magic of Christmas in New York City.

TOUR DURATION

The Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour lasts about 4 hours and includes three festive stops. Enjoy Union Square Christmas Market (45 min), Lower Manhattan (45 min), and Hudson Yards with the Vessel’s 2 million lights (30 min). The tour ends at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, where you skip the line and avoid the cover charge. A licensed NYC tour guide will be with you throughout, ensuring smooth entry at the rooftop. Please note: Holiday traffic may extend the tour slightly.

tour Vehicles

During the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour, you’ll ride in a spacious coach bus with up to 54 passengers. Enjoy a shared experience in a climate-controlled vehicle with charging outlets and a bathroom on board, driven by some of the best drivers in New York City. Click HERE to learn more about the buses used for this tour.

END OF TOUR

The tour ends at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, near the Flatiron District. If you prefer not to stay for food or drinks, there are great restaurants nearby. Times Square is just 15 minutes away by subway via the N, Q, or R lines. Alternatively, you may end the tour at Hudson Yards, home to Little Spain Food Market and other dining options. It’s also a quick 10 minutes subway ride to Times Square via the 7 line. Please note: Return transportation to Times Square is not included. Both end locations are central and very easy to navigate.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOP RATED HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN TOUR

Exclusive rooftop bar access: Skip the line and avoid the cover charge at 230 Fifth Rooftop, a holiday favorite with Empire State Building views, only with My Christmas in New York.
Fully guided by licensed NYC experts: Enjoy live narration, festive stories, and insider tips throughout your Holiday Spirit in Manhattan experience.
Three unforgettable stops across Manhattan: Union Square Holiday Market, Lower Manhattan Walking Tour, and Hudson Yards with the Vessel’s 2 million lights.
Luxury, climate-controlled coach bus: Spacious seating, onboard bathroom, and charging outlets—ideal for your Manhattan Christmas Lights adventure.

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN LIGHTS TOUR?

INCLUDED

Fully guided Manhattan NYC Christmas Lights tour led by a licensed NYC tour guide
Travel in a luxury, climate-controlled coach bus with bathroom and charging outlets
Stops at Union Square Holiday Market, Lower Manhattan, and Hudson Yards & the Vessel
Exclusive skip-the-line access to 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Exclusive waiver of the cover charge at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Option to end the tour at Hudson Yards or 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, both with great dining options and easy access to Times Square

EXCLUDED

FULL ITINERARY OF THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN TOUR

UNION SQUARE CHRISTMAS MARKET

Spend 45 minutes exploring the festive and bustling Union Square Christmas Market, one of New York City’s most iconic holiday destinations. It’s the perfect spot for Christmas shopping, discovering handcrafted gifts, and enjoying seasonal food and drinks. Warm up with a hot chocolate or grab a bite as you take in the joyful atmosphere, holiday music, and charmingly decorated stalls.

LOWER MANHATTAN GUIDED WALK

Join us for a 45-minute guided walk through the historic Financial District, where New York’s rich history meets festive charm. Highlights include the Wall Street Christmas Tree, the Fearless Girl, Trinity Church, the twinkling lights of Zuccotti Park, and the beautifully lit Oculus. We also visit the 9/11 Memorial at night, including the Survivor Tree. While this is not a holiday-themed stop, it’s an essential and meaningful part of any visit to New York City. We believe it’s important not to overlook such a significant place in the city’s history.

HUDSON YARDS AND 230 FIFTH ROOFTOP

Marvel at the stunning holiday display at Hudson Yards, where over 2 million Christmas lights illuminate the streets and The Vessel. Don’t miss the gigantic hot air balloon installation, a favorite for festive photos and holiday cheer. Then, your Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour ends in style at the famous 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar. With My Christmas in New York, you’ll skip the line and enjoy unobstructed views of the Empire State Building at night. Where applicable, the cover charge is waived—an exclusive perk just for our guests.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN TOUR

The Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour runs rain or shine. Please dress warmly and prepare for winter weather conditions.
Our meeting point is in Times Square, a busy Midtown Manhattan location. Arrive 15–20 minutes early for smooth check-in. Our team will be there 30 minutes before departure, holding a yellow umbrella to help you find us easily.
What to bring: comfortable walking shoes, warm winter clothing, an umbrella in case of rain, and anything else you need to stay properly dressed for winter in New York City.
This tour includes a 45-minute walking tour in Lower Manhattan. Participants must be able to walk without difficulty. The walking portion cannot be observed from the bus. All stops require guests to step off and explore on foot.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with mobility limitations, due to the walking required.
What’s not allowed on the bus: pets, bicycles, alcohol, drugs, or strong-smelling foods. What is allowed: snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.

And more...

Children aged 0–2 can travel for free as long as they sit on a parent’s lap. No seat will be allocated for them.
Children are welcome on the tour. However, guests under the age of 21 are not allowed at the rooftop bar on Fridays and Saturdays due to venue policy. If you'd like to enjoy the rooftop experience with anyone under 21, please avoid booking on Friday or Saturday nights.
Adults 21+ must present a valid photo ID to access the rooftop bar, as required by the venue.
If the rooftop is closed for a private event, you’ll be notified in advance, and an alternative (like a skip-the-line voucher) will be offered.
This tour ends at Hudson Yards or 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, depending on your preference. Return to Times Square is not included. However, it’s easy to get back by foot, subway, or Uber. Both Hudson Yards and Flatiron district offer plenty of food options for dinner or a holiday snack after the tour.
Seating on the vehicle is assigned first-come, first-served within your chosen category (Priority or General Seating).
The tour will depart exactly on time. Late arrivals may not be able to join the tour and no refunds will be provided for missed tours outside of the cancellation window.

2025 HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN LIGHTS TOUR DATES

The Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour starts on November 28, 2025, the day after Thanksgiving. The Christmas tour runs on multiple days each week, and we may open extra dates based on demand. There is no difference in lights or decorations between weekdays and weekends. Marco recommends joining the tour on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday for the best experience. Why? These days have fewer tourists and locals, making it easier to walk, explore, and take photos. Visiting during the week allows for better photo opportunities and a more relaxed holiday experience.

All available dates for our 2025 Manhattan NYC Christmas Lights Tour are shown in real time below. We operate the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour with a luxury coach bus, featuring power outlets and an onboard bathroom. Check the calendar below and reserve your spot now.

HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN TOUR VEHICLE - THE COACH BUS (MAX 54 PASSENGERS)

The Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour is one of our most magical NYC Christmas experiences, filled with lights, stories, and iconic stops. Will you join us for Christmas 2025?

Each coach bus used for the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan NYC Christmas Lights Tour is spacious, top-quality, and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable ride. You’ll find charging outlets at your seat and an onboard restroom for convenience during the tour.

When booking your 2025 tour, you can select between Priority Seating and General Seating. Priority Seating includes seats toward the front of the coach, usually within the first five rows, offering added comfort and a premium view. All seats are assigned on a first come, first served basis within each category. Please note: the exact number of rows included in Priority Seating may vary slightly depending on the bus layout used on the day of your tour. In some cases, Priority may extend up to six rows to ensure guest comfort and consistency.

Each tour is fully guided from start to finish by a licensed New York City tour guide, who stays with you onboard and during every stop. Below, you’ll find the real-time calendar of our 2025 Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Christmas Lights Tours. Book early to reserve your preferred seating and experience the magic in comfort and style!

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN LIGHTS TOUR ITINERARY IN NYC

MEETING POINT IN TIMES SQUARE AND CHECK-IN

Your Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Christmas Lights Tour begins in the heart of Times Square, one of New York City’s most iconic and festive locations, especially magical during the holiday season.

Meeting Address:
220 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036

This is right in front of the Starbucks on 45th Street, located midway between 7th and 8th Avenue. The Starbucks sits under the pedestrian tunnel of the Marriott Marquis Hotel and is directly across from Junior’s Cheesecake Restaurant, a clear and easy-to-find location.

To ensure a smooth check-in, we recommend arriving at least 15–20 minutes before your scheduled departure. Our My Christmas in New York team will be there 30 minutes early, holding our recognizable yellow umbrella so you can spot us easily.

If you’re unsure where to stand, just come up to our staff, we’ll guide you to the correct check-in lane and answer any questions. If you don’t see other guests or members of the My Christmas in New York team, you are not in the correct location. We welcome hundreds of guests every day, so if you’re in the right spot, you’ll know it!

The tour departs exactly at the time listed on your booking. Due to NYC traffic and the tight schedule, we cannot wait for late arrivals.

If you arrive late and miss your tour, we’ll try to reschedule you based on availability, but no refunds are provided for no-shows outside the cancellation window.

To avoid stress and fully enjoy the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan NYC Christmas Lights Tour, arrive early, check in on time, and let our team handle the rest.

TOUR STOP #1: UNION SQUARE HOLIDAY MARKET

The first stop on your Holiday Spirit in Manhattan NYC Christmas Lights Tour is the festive and beloved Union Square Holiday Market. We pause here for 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore one of New York City’s best Christmas markets. Browse over 100 stalls offering handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, crafts, and one-of-a-kind holiday finds from local artists and vendors. Craving something sweet or savory? You’ll find burgers, tacos, crepes, hot chocolate, and many other seasonal treats to enjoy.

Marco, the founder of My Christmas in New York, chose this stop for its charm, variety, and unbeatable holiday atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to shop, eat, and soak in the Christmas spirit, right in the heart of Manhattan.

TOUR STOP #2: FINANCIAL DISTRICT WALKING TOUR

Your second stop on the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Christmas Lights Tour is a 45-minute walking tour through the historic Financial District. We begin at the stunning Wall Street Christmas Tree, beautifully lit and far less crowded than Rockefeller Center’s version. You’ll also see the Fearless Girl standing proudly in front of the New York Stock Exchange and pass by the historic Trinity Church.

Next, we walk through Zuccotti Park, glowing with thousands of festive Christmas lights, a hidden gem in Lower Manhattan. We then enter the Oculus, a breathtaking architectural space filled with lights and holiday decorations, perfect for photos.

The final part of this walk brings us to the 9/11 Memorial, including the two reflecting pools and the Survivor Tree. Please note: Obviously the 9/11 Memorial is not a holiday sight, but we believe it’s essential to include in this experience. This powerful landmark represents a pivotal moment in NYC history, and we didn’t want to leave it out.

The combination of festive lights and meaningful sites makes this stop truly unforgettable during your Manhattan Christmas Lights tour.

TOUR STOP #3: HUDSON YARDS & THE VESSEL WITH 2 MILLION LIGHTS

The third stop on your Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour is a 30-minute visit to Hudson Yards and the Vessel, one of the most stunning holiday displays in New York City. This ultra-modern neighborhood shines with over 2 million Christmas lights, creating a perfect backdrop for festive photos and unforgettable memories.

Explore the glowing streets, step inside the Hudson Yards shopping center, and take in the lights, music, and holiday atmosphere. Your Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Tour Guide will point out the gigantic hot air balloon installation and share insider tips for the best photo spots.

If you prefer, you may choose to end your tour at Hudson Yards instead of continuing to the final stop at the rooftop bar. Simply let your guide know you won’t be reboarding the bus. From here, the evening is yours to enjoy!

Hudson Yards offers many ways to extend your Christmas adventure. You can visit The Edge Observatory for breathtaking views or dine at Peak, which includes observatory access with your meal. Alternatively, explore The Vessel before it closes or enjoy a relaxed evening at Little Spain Market, with dozens of delicious food options.

Need to return to Times Square? It’s easy! Take the 7 subway line for just one stop and arrive in about 10 minutes. You can also take a taxi or Uber, but honestly, the subway is faster and more convenient from here.

This flexible ending makes the Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Christmas Lights Tour a perfect mix of guided experience and personal discovery.

GRAND FINALE – END OF THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN MANHATTAN TOUR & 230 FIFTH ROOFTOP BAR

The final stop of your Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Christmas Lights Tour is the legendary 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, one of NYC’s most festive and iconic holiday destinations.

After our visit to Hudson Yards, our coach bus brings you straight to 230 Fifth, this is the official end of the tour and the only drop-off location. Return to Times Square is not included, but it’s easy to get back: hop on the N, Q, or R subway (just one stop), grab a taxi or Uber, or take a short walk through Manhattan’s beautifully lit streets.

At 230 Fifth, enjoy breathtaking views of the Empire State Building, cozy heated igloos, and a vibrant holiday atmosphere.

Thanks to our exclusive partnership, you’ll skip the line and pay no cover charge, a VIP perk just for My Christmas in New York guests.

Please note: Children under 21 are not allowed on the rooftop Friday and Saturday evenings. If you’re visiting with family, we strongly suggest booking on a weekday or Sunday.

Guests 21+ must bring a valid photo ID. This is a rooftop policy. No ID = no entry, even with skip-the-line access.

Normally, 230 Fifth charges $15 cover on weekends and $5 on weekdays, but your tour includes free entry and priority access, another exclusive benefit for our guests.

In rare cases when the rooftop is closed for a private event, the tour will end at Hudson Yards. If this happens, we’ll notify you in advance and offer a replacement, such as a voucher for rooftop access on another day.

Wrap up your NYC Christmas Lights Tour with unbeatable views, festive energy, and a magical rooftop experience at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) INCL. CANCELLATION POLICY

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR NEW YORK CITY CHRISTMAS TOURS? START HERE!

Do you have questions about our Holiday Spirit in Manhattan Lights Tour, booking process, or cancellation policies? You’re in the right place! Our FAQ section is designed to help you prepare for your trip and answer the most common questions about our Christmas Tours in New York City.

You can always reach us directly at info@discovernyc.tours or via WhatsApp (messages only – no calls). Our team aims to respond within 48 hours.

Before contacting us, we recommend checking out our FAQ section, which we regularly update based on real feedback and questions from past tour participants. Whether you’re looking for tour-specific details, advice on what to bring, or want to learn more about our NYC Holiday Lights Tours, the answers are just a click away.

Curious about our cancellation policy? You’ll find all the details there too! All of our tours include free cancellation up to 72 hours before departure. Need even more flexibility? At the time of booking, you can choose to upgrade to a 24-hour cancellation option for an additional fee.

Click the button below to visit our FAQ section and get all the information you need to enjoy a stress-free Christmas in New York.