Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree: complete New York guide
The Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic sights of the Holiday Season in New York City. You’ll find it behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral, in the beautiful courtyard of the Lotte New York Palace Hotel. This festive tree enchants visitors every year with its sparkling lights and magical decorations.
The Christmas tree at the Lotte New York Palace is among the most famous holiday landmarks in New York. It transforms this elegant corner of Midtown Manhattan into a true Christmas postcard. Thousands of visitors stop by every season to enjoy its beauty and soak up the festive spirit.
In 2025, the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree is expected to light up starting Tuesday, December 2nd. This is perfect timing for those visiting for Thanksgiving weekend and the start of the Christmas season in New York.
You can admire this stunning tree during our My Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour. While the bus does not stop here, it will slow down at the Lotte New York Palace so you can enjoy the view and snap great photos. If you want more time to capture this beautiful sight, our New York Movie Tour ends at the Lotte Hotel. This way, you’ll have a chance to take your pictures with the tree at your own pace.
For more details, visit our website and explore our Christmas tours in New York.
Table of Contents
Introduction to the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree
Ready to discover everything about the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree? Many people know this hotel from the TV series Gossip Girl. However, for us, it is famous for having one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in all of New York.
This iconic Christmas symbol is located in the courtyard right in front of the hotel. You’ll find it on Madison Avenue, just a short walk from Rockefeller Center. The hotel gate is almost always open. This allows visitors, even those who are not hotel guests, to take pictures of the Lotte Christmas Tree.
If you are in New York City during the holidays, make sure to visit the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree. It is truly one of the most beautiful holiday decorations in Manhattan. You can also see it during our My Christmas Morning in Manhattan Tour. While the bus does not stop, we pass by slowly to give you the chance to enjoy this magical spot and take pictures.
History and Backstory of the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree
The Lotte New York Palace is one of the most famous hotels in New York City, known not only for its luxury but also for its connection to pop culture. Many visitors recognize the hotel from the popular TV series Gossip Girl, where it served as the home of the fictional Bass and Van der Woodsen families. However, beyond television fame, the hotel holds a rich history as part of the historic Villard Houses, architectural landmarks in Midtown Manhattan.
The Christmas tree tradition at the Lotte New York Palace has grown over the years to become a beloved symbol of the holiday season in New York. While it may not have the global fame of the Rockefeller Center tree, the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree is equally cherished for its elegance and charm.
Today, the tree is one of the most photographed Christmas sights in Manhattan. Visitors love its combination of classic holiday design, stunning location behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the beautiful architecture of the hotel itself.
Where to Find the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree
The Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree is very easy to find. It sits right behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral, one of New York’s most famous landmarks. This central location makes this Christmas sight easy to visit for anyone exploring the city during the holidays.
The Lotte New York Palace, with its majestic architecture and elegant decorations, is already a must-see destination. During the holiday season, the Christmas tree adds a festive touch that makes the visit even more special. Strolling through the hotel courtyard and admiring the sparkling lights and the towering tree is one of the simple joys of Christmas in New York.
The Lotte NY Christmas Tree is less than five minutes on foot from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. If you want to learn more about that iconic sight, read our full article on the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree here on My Christmas in New York.
How to Reach This Famous Christmas Tree: A Detailed Guide
We’ve already shared the exact location of the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree. It is truly one of the must-visit Christmas attractions in New York for 2025. Now, let’s focus on how to reach this festive landmark with ease.
In the next sections, you will find simple directions from two of the most popular holiday spots in New York City. The first is Rockefeller Center, just a short five-minute walk away. The second is Bryant Park, home to the Winter Village and its charming holiday market.
Whether you prefer to walk or take the subway, these directions will help make your visit to the Lotte Christmas Tree easy and enjoyable.
Directions from Rockefeller Center to Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree
If you are at Rockefeller Center, reaching the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree is very easy. These two iconic holiday spots are just a short walk apart. The journey will take about five minutes on foot.
Start by heading southeast on West 50th Street towards Fifth Avenue. Continue straight onto East 50th Street. After passing Saks Fifth Avenue on your right, turn right. Walk towards Madison Avenue, then turn left.
The famous Lotte Hotel Christmas Tree will appear on your right. The hotel’s beautiful courtyard, home to this famous holiday sight, will welcome you as you arrive.
Directions from Bryant Park to the Famous NYC Holiday Landmark
Walking from Bryant Park to the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree is easy and enjoyable. The walk takes about 15 minutes.
Start by heading north on Sixth Avenue towards West 42nd Street. Turn right onto West 45th Street, then turn left onto Madison Avenue. Continue straight on Madison Avenue for about five blocks until you reach 455 Madison Avenue.
The Lotte Christmas Tree will be on your right. You will recognize the hotel’s beautiful courtyard, home to one of the most dazzling holiday trees in New York City.
Alternative Directions from Bryant Park to Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree
Looking for a more scenic route from Bryant Park to the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree? This alternative takes you along the famous Fifth Avenue, passing iconic landmarks like the NBA Store and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Start by heading north on Sixth Avenue towards West 42nd Street. Turn right onto West 42nd Street and walk until you reach Fifth Avenue. Turn left onto Fifth Avenue, one of New York’s most famous streets, known for luxury shops and architectural landmarks.
As you walk along Fifth Avenue, you will pass the NBA Store, a fun stop for sports fans. Further ahead, you will see Saks Fifth Avenue, beautifully decorated for the holidays with its famous window displays.
Continue straight until you reach East 50th Street. Turn right onto East 50th Street and walk one block until Madison Avenue. Turn left onto Madison Avenue. The Lotte Hotel Christmas Tree will be on your right. Enter the courtyard to admire one of the most beautifully decorated holiday trees in New York City.
This route may take a bit longer, but walking along Fifth Avenue during the holidays is worth it. The festive lights and decorations will enhance your Christmas experience in New York.
Lotte Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Many visitors wonder if there is a public event for the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree lighting. The answer is no. This exclusive ceremony is strictly reserved for invited guests, typically VIPs, high-profile clients, and select hotel guests with a personal invitation.
The private event marks the start of the holiday season with festive Christmas-themed food and drinks, along with a special appearance by Santa Claus. During the ceremony, the hotel courtyard is closed to the public. Access is carefully controlled, and only those on the guest list are permitted entry.
If you are not invited, you can still watch the tree lighting from the street outside. The tree is clearly visible through the gates, allowing you to enjoy this magical moment from a short distance.
The lights will officially turn on by Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025, and will remain on daily through the Christmas season.
Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree: Size, Design, and Decorations
The Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree is not just any holiday decoration. It is a carefully designed, elegant Christmas display that fits perfectly with the luxurious surroundings of the hotel.
The tree is approximately 30 feet tall and shines brightly with over 4,500 twinkling lights. It features more than 1,000 ornaments, often in rich tones of red, gold, and silver, creating a timeless and festive look. The decorations change slightly from year to year, but the style always remains classic and sophisticated.
The grand courtyard of the Lotte New York Palace Hotel frames the tree beautifully. The elegant architecture combined with the glowing Christmas lights creates a picture-perfect holiday scene. This makes it one of the most photographed Christmas trees in New York City during the holiday season.
Why Lotte New York Palace Is the Best Hotels for Christmas in New York
The Lotte New York Palace is not just home to one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in New York City. It is also considered one of the best hotels to stay at during the Christmas season. Every year, the hotel transforms into a true holiday wonderland, offering festive experiences both inside and out.
The magic begins as soon as you arrive. The courtyard features the famous Christmas tree, glowing with thousands of lights and framed by the hotel’s elegant architecture. Inside, the holiday atmosphere continues with beautiful Christmas decorations throughout the lobby and public spaces. Highlights include the impressive gingerbread house display and the hotel’s iconic Golden Room, often beautifully decorated with rich holiday colors and festive details.
Throughout December, the Lotte New York Palace enhances the festive mood with seasonal touches like Christmas-themed drinks and pastries served at the on-site café and bar. Guests may also encounter Santa Claus during special events or photo opportunities organized within the hotel.
The hotel’s luxurious suites are also part of the holiday magic. Some of the holiday suites are specially decorated for Christmas, offering guests a cozy, elegant place to enjoy the season in true New York style.
Whether you are staying overnight or simply visiting to admire the decorations, the Lotte New York Palace captures the spirit of a classic New York City Christmas like few places can.
Important Things to Know Before Visiting
Before visiting the Lotte Christmas Tree, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. The tree is usually set up about a week before Thanksgiving. In 2025, it is expected to be ready by Tuesday, December 2nd.
This is a busy time in New York, so try to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds. While the hotel courtyard is free to enter, please remember that the Lotte New York Palace is both a hotel and a residence. Always respect the staff and guests during your visit.
Keep your camera ready. The Christmas decorations here are stunning. Inside the hotel, you may also spot a magnificent gingerbread house, another favorite for holiday photos.
Why You Should Visit the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree in 2025
In this complete guide, we’ve explored everything you need to know about visiting the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree. This festive gem is perfectly located at 455 Madison Avenue, between 50th and 51st Streets, right behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s also just a short walk from other famous holiday sights like Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park’s Winter Village.
With its twinkling lights, elegant decorations, and impressive size, the Lotte Christmas Tree remains a must-see for anyone visiting New York during the holidays. It offers some of the most beautiful photo opportunities in Midtown Manhattan.
We’ve also provided easy directions from Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park to help you reach this magical spot. Whether you choose the direct route or the scenic walk along Fifth Avenue, both are filled with festive charm and classic New York City holiday atmosphere.
Whether you are staying at the hotel or simply exploring the city’s Christmas landmarks, the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree is sure to add a touch of holiday magic to your NYC itinerary.
For more ideas and inspiration, visit our blog where you will find detailed guides to New York’s best Christmas tours, lights, and festive experiences.
Author: Written by Dora Formica on behalf of My Christmas in New York
