New York City transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, making it a photographer’s dream and an Instagrammer’s paradise. With twinkling lights, festive decorations, and iconic landmarks dressed in their holiday best, the city offers endless opportunities to capture stunning photos that will make your Instagram feed sparkle.
Here’s your guide to the most Instagrammable holiday spots in NYC:
1. Rockefeller Center:
This iconic Midtown landmark is a must-visit for any holiday Instagrammer. The towering Christmas tree, shimmering ice rink, and dazzling light displays create a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for capturing festive photos.
* Pro Tip: Head to the Top of the Rock observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and the tree.
* Instagrammable moment: Capture a twirling ice skater with the tree as a backdrop, or pose with the iconic golden statue of Prometheus.
2. Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Window Displays:
Every year, Saks Fifth Avenue unveils elaborate window displays that tell enchanting holiday stories. These intricate scenes are a feast for the eyes and a must-see for any Instagrammer.
* Pro Tip: Visit in the evening when the lights are at their most vibrant.
* Instagrammable moment: Capture a close-up of a particularly intricate detail, or pose with the entire window display as your backdrop.
3. The Plaza Hotel:
This legendary hotel is decked out in festive splendor during the holidays, making it a picture-perfect Instagrammable holiday spot.
* Pro Tip: Enjoy a festive afternoon tea in The Palm Court, surrounded by elegant decorations.
* Instagrammable moment: Pose with the grand Christmas tree in the lobby, or capture the elegant holiday décor.
4. Bryant Park Winter Village:
This charming park transforms into a winter wonderland with a holiday market, ice skating rink, and festive decorations.
* Pro Tip: Visit during the evening when the park is illuminated with twinkling lights.
* Instagrammable moment: Capture the festive atmosphere of the holiday market, or snap a photo of yourself ice skating with the New York Public Library in the background.
5. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights:
This Brooklyn neighborhood is famous for its over-the-top Christmas light displays. Houses are adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, inflatable Santas, and festive decorations.
* Pro Tip: Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the tradition and see the best displays.
* Instagrammable moment: Capture a wide-angle shot of a street lined with brightly lit houses, or pose in front of a particularly impressive display.
6. Rolf’s German Restaurant:
This Midtown restaurant goes all out for Christmas, with floor-to-ceiling decorations that create a truly immersive experience.
* Pro Tip: Make a reservation well in advance, as this popular spot fills up quickly during the holidays.
* Instagrammable moment: Capture the festive atmosphere of the restaurant, or pose with a mug of glühwein in front of the elaborate decorations.
7. The Lotte New York Palace:
This luxury hotel boasts a stunning Christmas tree in its courtyard, making it a popular Instagrammable holiday spot.
* Pro Tip: Enjoy a festive cocktail at the hotel’s bar, The Villard.
* Instagrammable moment: Pose in front of the towering Christmas tree, or capture the elegant holiday décor in the courtyard.
8. Washington Square Park:
This Greenwich Village park is a beautiful spot to capture the holiday spirit. The iconic arch is often adorned with festive lights, and the surrounding streets are lined with charming shops and restaurants.
* Pro Tip: Visit during the day for natural light, or in the evening for a more romantic atmosphere.
* Instagrammable moment: Capture the arch with its festive lights, or pose with the Washington Square Park Christmas tree.
9. The Oculus:
This architectural marvel at the World Trade Center Transportation Hub is a stunning backdrop for holiday photos.
* Pro Tip: The Oculus is particularly photogenic at night when its illuminated.
* Instagrammable moment: Capture the unique architecture of the Oculus with festive decorations, or pose with the holiday installations.
10. Central Park:
This iconic park is a magical place to capture the beauty of winter in New York City. Take a stroll through the snow-covered landscape, or go ice skating at Wollman Rink.
* Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds.
* Instagrammable moment: Capture a snowy scene with the city skyline in the background, or snap a photo of yourself ice skating with the iconic Gapstow Bridge in the background.
Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to use relevant hashtags to help your photos get discovered! Some popular options include #NYCchristmas, #holidayinNYC, #christmasinnewyork, and #nycholidays.
With its abundance of Instagrammable holiday spots, New York City is the perfect place to capture the magic of the season and share it with your followers. So grab your camera, bundle up, and get ready to create some festive memories!
