15+ Best Places to Stay in New York City during Christmas (2024)

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Ready to stay at one of the best Christmas hotels in New York City?

Christmas is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning where you’ll spend the holiday season.

Although you can choose at any’ ole hotel in New York City, the finishing touch of your NYC at Christmas experience is to stay in a property that decorates for the holidays.

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in New York City during Christmas, I’ve researched NYC hotels that offer a unique holiday touch.

Whether it’s going all out with their decor, special Christmas-themed packages, or hosting their own ice rinks.

As a licensed New York City tour guide, I’ve had countless opportunities to ask visitors to the Big Apple where they’re staying, and if they enjoyed their experience.

You’re sure to find that your Christmas stay in NYC is more magical with one of these hotels!

Editor’s Choices: Where to Stay in NYC for Christmas

Best Hotels in New York at Christmas

1. Lotte New York Palace

• Location: 455 Madison Avenue, Manhattan
• Rating: 8.4 Stars out of 400+ reviews
• Price: $$$$
• Check rates and availability for Lotte New York Palace now

Easily one of the best places to stay in New York City in December, The Lotte New York Palace (Booking | Hotels) is a luxury hotel on Madison Avenue and East 50th Street in Midtown Manhattan.

Housed in a 19th-century mansion, the hotel is famous for its incredible Christmas decorations.

Garlands, lights, and other decorations adorn the inside of this hotel. At the same time, you can find a 30-foot Christmas tree in its outside courtyard.

They also host events throughout the holiday season for guests, like holiday-themed happy hour specials, Story Time for Christmas classics, cookie decorating, and carols.

The Lotte New York Palace is my pick for the best Christmas hotel in New York City.

“The whole atmosphere in the hotel was one of comfort and luxury, made even more special by the beautiful Christmas decorations. All the staff were extremely pleasant and helpful. We were allocated a corner room, which had a fantastic view down 51st Street.”

–Michael (Lotte New York palace Review)

2. The Peninsula New York

• Location: 700 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan
• Rating: 8.8 Stars out of 600+ reviews
• Price: $$$$
• Check rates and availability for The Peninsula now

At 700 Fifth Avenue, The Peninsula Hotel (Booking | Hotels) is just steps away from the Fifth Avenue stores’ bright lights and Rockefeller Center.

The Peninsula Hotel New York is a luxurious hotel located at 700 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, close to the Fifth Avenue window displays and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.

This five-star hotel features a spa, restaurant, bar, fitness center, rooftop terrace, and concierge services.

They go all out with beautiful holiday decorations to celebrate the season.

The hotel’s decorations are aligned with its signature “Stories from the Tree” theme incorporating six character ornaments, including the Gingerbread Man.

Two exciting hotel experiences are available for those wishing to stay at the Peninsula Hotel New York.

The Night Before Christmas package is perfect for families, while the Holly Jolly Holiday package is better suited for adults.

It includes VIP access to Top of the Rock, a window-display walking tour, and drinks in their infamous igloos.

If you can splurge, take advantage of one of their packages to access several different Christmas landmarks around the city.

“The Peninsula Hotel is a Premier property in New York City. Every aspect of your visit is attended to. The staff, the rooms and the facilities are superb. For Christmas, the lobby was decorated with a beautiful tree and there were nightly Carolers performing. There was a holiday candy shop for the children. The gym, spa and pool are exceptional.”

–James (The Peninsula Review)

3. The Algonquin

• Location: 59 West 44th Street, Manhattan
• Rating: 7.8 Stars out of 70+ reviews
• Price: $$$
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ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Just a block from Times Square, The Algonquin (Booking | Hotels) is another excellent hotel beautifully decorated for the holidays, perfect for your New York City Christmas itinerary.

The hotel first opened in 1902 but rose to prominence after World War I when it became a haven for writers and artists to meet and discuss.

F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Dorothy Parker, and Edna Ferber are just a few incredible writers who met for lunch at the hotel daily.

Now, the historic hotel is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. You’ll find ornate decor enhanced at Christmastime with a giant Christmas tree in the lobby and garland throughout.

 “It is a place with character and the location is fantastic if you’re aiming to stay midtown. Breakfast is very good and the restaurant staff is outstanding. Saturday Jazz was a nice surprise for us.”

–Norma (The Algonquin Review)

4. The Plaza

• Location: Fifth Avenue at Central Park South, Manhattan
• Rating: 8.3 Stars out of 300+ reviews
• Price: $$$$
• Check rates and availability for The Plaza now

Where is the best place to stay in New York during Christmas? Many will say The Plaza.

Made famous from movies like Barefoot in the Park, Sleepless in Seattle, Home Alone 2, and Plaza Suite, The Plaza Hotel (Booking | Hotels) is an absolute luxury hotel.

Built in 1903 by John Jacob Astor IV and designed by McKim, Mead & White, one of America’s most prominent architectural firms, the hotel is located across the street from Central Park, close to Madison Avenue and Fifth Avenue.

Enjoy an opulent stay in one of the most iconic pieces of New York City architecture. Many rooms have Central Park views, and the hotel has stunning holiday decor.

However, if staying at this historic hotel is outside your price range, you can schedule a traditional tea experience at their restaurant, The Palm Court, instead.

You can learn more about their tea time menu and reserve a table on their website.

Every day from 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., The Palm Court serves an elegant afternoon tea. It’s beautifully decorated for the holiday season.

With its smart-casual dress code, you feel like you’re enjoying a refined experience.

 “Staying at THE PLAZA for Christmas was a check off my BUCKET LIST… I loved it!!! The staff was incredible!!! The Champagne Bar was fabulous!!!”

–Marilyn (The Plaza Review)

5. Thompson Central Park

• Location: 119 West 56th Street, Manhattan
• Rating: 7.9 Stars out of 350+ reviews
• Price: $$$
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Right next door to Carnegie Hall, MoMa, and Central Park, the Thompson Central Park New York (Booking | Hotels) is a Hyatt property right in the best area to stay in New York at Christmas.

It’s easy to walk to beautiful holiday landmarks like the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center, the Saks Fifth Avenue light show, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

The hotel offers spacious guestrooms and suites, luxurious amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi access, a 24-hour fitness center, valet parking, and concierge services.

Last year, the hotel partnered with several winter activities in NYC, like the Big Apple Circus and Wollman Rink in Central Park, to celebrate the holiday season.

 “Very clean, comfortable, and efficient (luxury) hotel near Central Park. Easy to get in and out for Christmas activities. The room fit a family of 4 perfectly with a bed and sofa bed.”

–Marques (Thompson Central Park New York Review)

6. St. Regis Hotel

• Location: Two East 55th Street, Manhattan
• Rating: 8.3 Stars out of 60+ reviews
• Price: $$$$
• Check rates and availability for the St. Regis Hotel now

If you’re seeking a hotel with both history and luxury, you should book a room at the St. Regis Hotel (Booking | Hotels) this holiday season.

Established by John Jacob Astor IV in 1904, this luxury Marriott hotel is only 5 blocks north of Rockefeller Center.

It’s a great place to stay if you want to be in the middle of NYC’s iconic Christmas activities.

From the first moment you walk into the lobby, you’ll be amazed by the elegant holiday decor throughout the entire property.

The crystal chandeliers twinkling overhead add to the holiday ambiance in the historic Beaux-Arts building.

Guests can enjoy fine dining at Astor Court, where they’ll find classic American cuisine served alongside seasonal dishes. After dinner, you can sip cocktails in their famed King Cole Bar.

Not only does the whole hotel look amazing, but it’s also known for its legendary service. Enjoy luxury hotel amenities, including butler service, valet parking, and 24-hour room service.

The hotel even has its own holiday history! When John Lennon lived in the hotel, he recorded an acoustic version of the Christmas song “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” in his room.

Nine subway lines within four blocks of the hotel make it convenient for you to travel throughout the entire city.

 “Everything was really smooth. The room had a personal butler service, the staff was friendly and responsive to requests. The hotel is situated in a good location and is accessible. It was indeed a luxury service overall.”

– Anna (St. Regis Review)

7. Dream Downtown

• Location: 355 West 16th Street, Manhattan
• Rating: 7.0 Stars out of 600+ reviews
• Price: $$$
• Check rates and availability for Dream Downtown now

Down in the Meatpacking District, the Dream Downtown (Booking | Hotels) offers an unforgettable Christmasy experience with a beautiful rooftop bar overlooking the city.

Walk through their beautifully decorated lobby and head up to their rooftop bar, which has breathtaking views of the holiday lights on the Empire State Building.

During the holiday season, they transform the space into a whimsical, wintery version of Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream.

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale when you visit their rooftop bar, where you can sip on delicious drinks in festive flavors like s’mores and gingerbread and enjoy the beautiful views of the city skyline.

It’s one of my favorite NYC bars decorated for the holiday season.

This boutique hotel is just steps from Manhattan’s most popular attractions, including the High Line, Chelsea Market, and Union Square.

With so many options for staying in NYC during the holidays, there’s no reason not to make your trip extra magical this year!

 “The hotel location is fantastic. Right in the middle of Chelsea, near Chelsea Market, the Highline, and great bars and restaurants, as well as easy subway access.”

–Marsit (Dream Downtown Review)

8. The Pierre

• Location: Two East 61st Street, Manhattan
• Rating: 8.6 Stars out of 400+ reviews
• Price: $$$$
• Check rates and availability for The Pierre now

The Pierre (Booking | Hotels) is another excellent place to stay if you’re visiting New York City during Christmastime.

Opened in 1930, The Pierre has hosted many society events and is still considered one of the most prestigious hotels in Manhattan.

The hotel’s restaurant, Perrine, serves seasonal modern American cuisine with a French flair.

You can enjoy a classic, sit-down tea in the afternoons and jazz from Thursday to Saturday nights at their bar Two E.

Along with their holiday decorations, they offer a variety of experiences for your young traveler, like opportunities to visit the Central Park Zoo, museum passes, and kid-friendly movies and treats.

 “This was our first stay at the Pierre and it was fabulous! Our room on the 36th floor had a park view which we loved. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. The location is perfect and we enjoyed many meals at the Perrine. We would highly recommend this beautiful hotel.”

–DR (The Pierre Review)

9. The William Vale

• Location: 111 North 12th Street, Brooklyn
• Rating: 8.3 Stars out of 1,200+ reviews
• Price: $$$$
• Check rates and availability for The William Vale now

Situated right between McCarren Park and Bushwick Inlet Park in Brooklyn, The William Vale (Booking | Hotels) is a brilliant choice for your holiday stay in NYC.

This five-star hotel is located in trendy Williamsburg, close to excellent local bakeries, restaurants, and thrift shops.

Each hotel room has a furnished balcony with a beautiful city view, a Keurig coffee maker, a bathrobe, a minibar, and flat-screen TV.

Every holiday season, the holiday pop-up Westlight comes to The William Vale. High above the city, you can twirl around on the Vale Rink with panoramic views of the five boroughs.

Yes–they have their own ice skating rink on their roof! Once you finish shredding the ice, warm up in one of their private chalets.

And if you’re staying at the hotel on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, you won’t have to worry about where to find your evening meal.

Their on-site Italian restaurant Leuca serves a traditional Christmas Feast you can pick up.

With its prime location, stylish decor, and excellent service, the William Vale is a fantastic choice for travelers visiting New York City during the holiday season.

 “I have visited William Vale a couple of times and I have never been disappointed. Clean chic hotel, amazing Manhattan view from the Gotham king balcony, scenic rooftop bar. The relaxing music coming from the 4th floor is a nice touch. Free coffee, water bottles & cookies in room when I arrived. Stocked mini bar for purchase in room. High quality toiletries. We will be back again!”

–Christina (The William Vale Review)

10. TWA Hotel

• Location: One Idlewild Drive, Queens
• Rating: 7.8 Stars out of 700+ reviews
• Price: $$$
• Check rates and availability forthe TWA Hotel now

If you’re trying to think of a unique option for where to stay in NYC in december, the TWA Hotel (Expedia | Hotels) is a brand-new hotel located at John F. Kennedy Airport in Queens, NY.

Built in 1962 by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen for the TWA airline, the hotel features more than 500 guestrooms and suites, meeting spaces, restaurants, bars, and other amenities.

You can also visit the TWA Museum, which showcases the history of air travel.

There are exhibits throughout the hotel that tell the story of TWA, including vintage planes, uniforms, memorabilia, and more.

Thanks to the beautiful interior decor and amazing views, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy land from the 1960s.

This hotel is a perfect place to stay while visiting NYC during the holiday season, especially if you’re looking for a festive hotel close to the airport.

Their holiday decorations follow the brand’s red and white theme. You can ice skate outside their non-operational airport runway at their Runway Rink.

 “Amazing hotel and all very new! Room was clean and a perfect size. Check in and check out so easy. Great food and drink options in the hotel so no need to venture into airport terminal, Roof top pool area is a bonus.”

–Mark (Twa hotel Review)

11. The Conrad New York Midtown

• Location: 151 West 54th Street, Manhattan
• Rating: 8.4 Stars out of 100+ reviews
• Price: $$$$
• Check rates and availability for The Conrad New York Midtown now

The Conrad (Booking | Hotels) in Midtown Manhattan offers a unique experience for those visiting New York City during the holidays.

Guests staying in the Winter Suite will enter their cozy “cabin,” complete with faux sheepskin rugs, a decorative fireplace, Adirondack chairs, and a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label to enjoy the stunning views of the city.

However, if the Winter Suite is already booked, it’s still an excellent place to stay in NYC this Christmas.

Each hotel room is a spacious, two-room suite with a wet bar, two flat-screen TVs, and a walk-in shower with rainfall showerheads.

This Hilton-brand hotel also has a beautifully decorated holiday restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails.

You can access the next-door Regal Cinema without even leaving the hotel.

 ” I have always loved staying at this property. Mostly because of its location. I’ve been coming to this hotel during all of its previous iterations. The Conrad has done a fabulous job renovating the hotel. The staff are great and the bellman are exceptional. Rooms are nicely decorated and very clean. Great trip Thanks for the hospitality.”

–Renee (The Conrad new York Midtown Review)

12. The Moxy NYC Times Square

• Location: 485 7th Avenue, Manhattan
• Rating: 8.1 Stars out of 9,000+ reviews
• Price: $$$
• Check rates and availability for The Moxy NYC Times Square now

Another Marriott hotel, The Moxy (Booking | Hotels) is a trendy hotel right around the corner from Times Square.

Everything you could ever want in Midtown is available, from superb shopping to world-class theatre and excellent restaurants.

And then, with access to all the different subway lines at the Times Square-42nd Street station, you’re within easy reach of all of New York City’s landmarks and Christmas bucket list activities.

Along with their guestrooms featuring modern decor–some with a view of Times Square–head up to their rooftop terrace on the 18th floor to Magic Hour.

During the holidays, it becomes a Christmas instagrammable hotspot as a pink winter wonderland with a snow lodge theme.

With pink logs, ski-lift-looking chairs, and 25,000 fake crystals sparkling around the space, it’s truly magical.

 “Location was good! Workout facility is nice! Great little coffee shop and pastry shop around the corner. Just a quick walk to Times Square. Hotel smells amazing and was very clean. My son loved the free candy and soda from 3-5 every day. The lounge is so nice. Delicious coffee.”

–Ashton (The Moxy Review)

13. Refinery Hotel

• Location: Midtown East
• Rating: 8.2 Stars out of 200+ reviews
• Price: $$$
• Check rates and availability for the Refinery Hotel now

If you’re interested in staying near Bryant Park this holiday season, check out the Refinery Hotel (Booking | Hotels).

You need to experience the holiday spirit at this excellent hotel to stay in New York City during Christmas.

With their Winter Spectacular Stay package, you’ll receive a free Christmas tree delivery to your room, so you can decorate your home away from home.

They also offer seasonal room service, with festive favorites like eggnog, Christmas cookies, and a gingerbread house decorating kit.

The holiday fun continues throughout the rest of the hotel, including the lobby, bar, and restaurant. Plus, there’s a free hot chocolate cart available every afternoon.

 “Everything. The staff were incredibly helpful and arranged the perfect room as requested. Had the perfect view of the Empire State Building. It was a very romantic room as promised. Otherwise, the facilities in the room and the hotel were brilliant.”

–Ben (The refinery Hotel Review)

14. The Jane

• Location: 113 Jane Street, Manhattan
• Rating: 7.5 Stars out of 2,000+ reviews
• Price: $$
• Check rates and availability for The Jane now

The Jane Hotel (Booking | Hotels) is located at the corner of some of my favorite neighborhoods–the West Village and the Meatpacking District–with views of the Hudson River.

It was initially designed by William A. Boring (the same architect who designed Ellis Island’s immigrant station) in 1908 as the American Seaman’s Friend Society Sailors’ Home and Institute.

The hotel’s historic cabin-like rooms have been fully renovated with modern amenities. Its historic charm is amplified during the holiday season with its decorations.

This is one of my more affordable hotel options for where to stay in NYC at Christmas; it’s a well-priced option in an otherwise very expensive area of Manhattan.

 “The Jane is a beautiful building. We had a lovely room with a balcony and a huge tub. Very comfortable and also in a great neighborhood, easily accessible to everything.”

–Sarah (The Jane Review)

15. The Ludlow

• Location: 180 Ludlow Street, Manhattan
• Rating: 8.9 Stars out of 900+ reviews
• Price: $$$
• Check rates and availability for The Ludlow now

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Found in the historic Lower East Side neighborhood, The Ludlow Hotel (Booking | Hotels) is a beautiful boutique hotel that offers you a warm welcome–starting with their entrance.

Their lobby lounge has a roaring fireplace. It is perfect for warming up after spending a day in the cold and (hopefully!) snow in NYC at Christmas.

Each guestroom comes with luxe touches like hardwood flooring, a minibar with local products, handcrafted silk rugs, and Moroccan lamps, and beautiful views of the city’s bridges and skyline.

And with its lovely holiday decorations throughout, it’s definitely one of the best places to stay in New York City during Christmas.

The Ludlow is even on my list of the top quiet hotels in NYC!

 “Our room was ideal because we had a separate bedroom attached for our son, with shared bathroom and a nice seating area. The beds were very comfortable. The hotel is beautifully decorated and very cosy, and we loved the lounge area and restaurant. The rooftop view is incredible. It was nice to have access to treadmill in the rooftop gym.”

–Penny (The Ludlow Review)

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More Resources For Visiting New York City this Christmas

• In charge of planning your complete Christmas itinerary? I have a full guide for planning your itinerary in NYC this Christmas.

• Are you interested in all the most Instagramable romantic spots? Be inspired by my list of the best Christmas photo spots all around NYC.

• Trying to find some other wintery activities? Check out my list of awesome winter activities in New York City.

• Interested in taking a holiday-themed tour? Check out my list of the top Christmas tours throughout the five boroughs.

• Are you visiting New York City this winter with your significant other? Be inspired by my list of the best winter dates all around NYC.

• Looking for more ideas this holiday season? Take a look at my complete New York at Christmas bucket list.

Best Places to Stay in New York City during Christmas: Wrap-Up

If you’re planning a trip to NYC for the upcoming holiday season, here are some of the best places to stay in New York City during Christmas.

These hotels have everything from cozy rooms to luxury suites, and each has its own unique vibe.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a family-friendly Christmas escape, one of these hotels is sure to fit your needs perfectly.

Happy holidays!

Lyndsay