When the Big Apple starts to twinkle under the first snowflakes of the season, there’s no place more fabulous than the Christmas-decorated hotels in New York City! Can you imagine waking up to a killer view of the decked-out Rockefeller Christmas tree, or sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire in a lobby that looks like it’s been sprinkled with holiday fairy dust? These gems are about so much more than just a cozy place to crash—they are your very own Christmas wonderland, right in the heart of NYC. So grab your fluffiest scarf and let’s dive into the magic, charm, and endless cheer of the best Christmas hotels in NYC!
Happy Holidays and Travels!
Best Christmas Hotels In New York
The Plaza Hotel
Now, if you’re on the hunt for the absolute crème de la crème of the best Christmas hotels in New York City, look no further than the iconic Plaza Hotel.
Seriously, this place takes the classic holiday spirit to a whole new level.
This iconic landmark—yes, the very same one you’ve seen in all your favorite holiday movies—gets all decked out in truly breathtaking holiday attire.
Imagine waking up in a lavishly decorated suite or the Eloise Suite if you are bringing the kids, pulling back your curtains to reveal a snowy winter wonderland at Central Park.
Simply magical!
But the Plaza Hotel’s holiday charm doesn’t stop at luxury and gorgeous views. Here are some activities you could consider when visiting the hotel during the holiday season:
The Plaza Holiday Tree. The grandeur of the Plaza Hotel is taken to another level with the Plaza holiday tree. It’s a sight to behold and a photo opportunity not to be missed.
Afternoon Tea at the Palm Court. The Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel is renowned for its afternoon tea service. This classic tradition is filled with holiday-themed pastries and tea selections to warm your holiday soul.
Eloise at The Plaza. The Plaza Hotel is also famous for being the home of Eloise, the main character in a series of children’s books by Kay Thompson. The Eloise-themed tea at The Palm Court or a visit to the Eloise at the Plaza shop can be a fun activity if you’re visiting with children.
Shopping at The Plaza Boutique. The Plaza Boutique is a luxury shopping destination that offers a variety of high-end products, including fashion, jewelry, Eliose items, and gifts and home goods. During Christmas, you can find unique holiday gifts for your loved ones.
Dining at The Plaza Food Hall. The Plaza Food Hall provides a wide range of gourmet food and beverage options, from sushi and pizza to champagne and pastries.
The Champagne Bar. The Champagne Bar at the Plaza Hotel is a sophisticated spot to enjoy a glass of bubbly. It overlooks the famous Fifth Avenue, offering stunning views of the festive decorations that line the street during Christmas.
Wellness at the Guerlain Spa. If you’re looking to unwind amidst the holiday rush, you can book a treatment at the Guerlain Spa located in the hotel. It’s an oasis of tranquility and one of the best spa experiences in New York City.
Holiday decorations tour. The Plaza and the surrounding area, including Central Park, are adorned with beautiful decorations during the holiday season. Take a leisurely walk to enjoy the lights, window displays, and festive atmosphere. Book your tour here.
Attending a holiday event. The Plaza often hosts special events during the holiday season, such as live music performances, cocktail parties, and more. Check the hotel’s event calendar ahead of your visit.
Christmas Decorations in NYC: This guide will help you find the best New York Christmas decorations, sparkling lights, and Instagrammble spots. You can find the guide HERE.
Lotte New York Palace
The Lotte New York Palace shines as one of the best Christmas hotels in NYC and is known for its stunning Christmas decorations throughout the hotel, especially the staircase, and courtyard.
The Lotte New York Palace, with its history deeply rooted in New York’s architectural landscape, dons an enchanting holiday attire each December, transforming into a holiday dream.
The centerpiece of its decoration is the massive, ornately adorned Christmas tree that graces the hotel’s courtyard. This stunning spectacle of lights and ornaments rivals even the most iconic NYC Christmas displays, offering guests a private holiday experience within the hotel’s confines.
But the Lotte New York Palace’s seasonal appeal extends beyond mere aesthetics. Its proximity to famed landmarks, including St. Patrick’s Cathedral (be sure to grab a coffee at Ralphs Coffee) and 5th Avenue provides a strategic location for guests eager to immerse themselves in the city’s holiday decorations.
You can spend your morning exploring the city’s iconic sights, all within walking distance, then come back to Lotte Palace for an exquisite afternoon tea at Pomme Palais or a hand-crafted martini at the gorgeous Gold Room, an ode to New York Citys Gilded Age.
Christmas Decorated Restaurants in NYC: These are the most beautiful Christmas restaurants in New York City that go all out with menus, cocktails, lights and decorations HERE.
Best Place to Stay In New York For Christmas
Baccarat Hotel
The Baccarat Hotel is hands down one of the most beautiful hotels in New York City, and even more stunning during the holiday season, even the holiday garlands are draped in crystals.
This radiant NYC gem is where the enchantment of a timeless, classic Christmas meets the elegance of French-inspired luxury. The Baccarat Hotel’s interiors glisten with breathtaking crystal chandeliers, each strand catching the light to create a sparkling winter wonderland infused with sophisticated charm.
The Baccarat Hotel serves as an idyllic base for indulging in New York City’s famed holiday shopping.
What’s more, the Bacarrat takes the shopping experience to a whole new level with its private car service, offering a touch of comfortable extravagance to your holiday shopping adventures in New York City.
The Baccarat’s signature events provide immersive holiday experiences, with the exquisitely curated afternoon tea service as a seasonal highlight. Paired with a flute of champagne and served amidst the hotel’s luxurious decor of red roses, this tradition becomes a moment of timeless holiday magic.
St. Regis New York
With the arrival of the holiday season, the St. Regis New York transforms into a stunning holiday retreat that undoubtedly ranks among the best Christmas hotels in New York City.
An emblem of timeless luxury, this hotel stands proudly in Manhattan, embodying the magical charm of a classic New York City Christmas.
St. Regis takes holiday decorating to another level, filling its grand spaces with seasonal adornments, from the stately nutcrackers greeting you at the entrance to the elegantly dressed Christmas tree in the lobby to the ornate garlands and wreaths that grace its public areas. Every detail contributes to an atmosphere of warmth and cheer that permeates the hotel.
Choosing St. Regis for a magical Christmas stay in NYC is opting for a fusion of traditional holiday spirit, luxury, and convenience. The hotel’s ideal location, close to Fifth Avenue’s shopping delights and Central Park’s winter charm, makes it a favored choice for those looking to immerse themselves in New York City’s vibrant Christmas celebrations.
Christmas Tours in New York City: Looking for the best NYC Christmas decorations or want to head to Dyker Heights? We rounded up THE BEST Christmas lights tours in NYC HERE.
Arlo SoHo
Known for its chic design and friendly, inviting atmosphere, this Arlo Soho boutique hotel crafts a holiday experience that truly captures the essence of a vibrant, urban Christmas.
At Arlo Soho, holiday decorations seamlessly blend into the hotel’s minimalist aesthetic, creating a space that is both beautiful and stylish.
The real showstopper, however, is found atop the hotel. Here, the rooftop transforms into a charming Christmas village with an array of snug holiday cabins.
Each cabin, adorned with twinkling lights and cozy furnishings, offers a private and enchanting retreat with views of the city’s skyline, food, and cocktails.
Arlo Hotel’s location in the vibrant & trendy neighborhood of Soho places it near some of the city’s most exciting holiday destinations, and iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge or One World Trade. A stay at Arlo Soho offers not just a stylishly comfortable refuge from the winter cold, but also a genuinely distinctive, urban holiday experience right in the heart of New York City.
Waldorf Astoria
As Christmas lights start to twinkle across New York City, the Waldorf Astoria emerges as a holiday sanctuary among the city’s best Christmas hotels.
The Waldorf Astoria is a beacon of luxury and elegance and is also a magical place to spend Christmas. Here are some activities you might consider:
1. Admire the Holiday Decorations: The Waldorf Astoria decks its halls with classic decorations for the holiday season, including stunning Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and opulent garlands.
2. Dine at The Waldorf Astoria Restaurants: The restaurants at the Waldorf Astoria, such as Peacock Alley and Bull & Bear Steakhouse, typically offer special Christmas menus that can make for a truly memorable holiday meal.
3. Afternoon Tea: The Waldorf Astoria is known for its elaborate afternoon tea, and during the holiday season, it gets a festive twist. You can indulge in holiday-themed pastries and teas while enjoying the beautifully decorated surroundings.
4. Attend a Holiday Event: The Waldorf Astoria often hosts holiday events, such as tree lighting ceremonies, live music performances, and holiday parties.
6. Visit the Guerlain Spa: If you’re looking for a respite from the bustling city, book a treatment at the Guerlain Spa in the Waldorf Astoria. They may offer special holiday packages for an extra festive experience.
7. Enjoy a Cocktail at the Sir Harry’s Bar: End your day with a seasonal cocktail at the Sir Harry’s Bar, which offers a cozy atmosphere and a selection of holiday-themed drinks.
8. Explore the Surroundings: The Waldorf Astoria is located in Midtown Manhattan, a prime location to explore New York City’s holiday attractions. You’re only a short walk or cab ride away from sights such as the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating rink, the holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue, and the Winter Village at Bryant Park.
The Carlyle
The Carlyle Hotel, situated in New York City’s posh Upper East Side, epitomizes timeless luxury and elegance. Since its opening in 1930, it has been an emblem of sophistication, attracting celebrities, dignitaries, and discerning travelers alike.
Known for its Art Deco design, impeccable service, and the renowned Bemelmans Bar, The Carlyle stands as a beacon of old-world charm amidst modern Manhattan.
This Christmas season, immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of New York City’s renowned Carlyle Hotel. The famed white-gloved doormen in perfectly starched uniforms, welcome you into a holiday haven with dazzling décor – from the splendidly embellished Christmas tree in the grand lobby to the tasteful garlands gently draped around ornate balustrades.
Steps away from the hotel, Central Park transforms into a winter wonderland, while the elegant storefronts of Madison Avenue twinkle under Manhattans holiday lights. Select the Carlyle for its curated holiday events, such as intimate Christmas Eve dinners and New Year’s Eve galas.
Staying at the Carlyle is not just about choosing a place to rest; it’s about picking an experience that personifies the enchantment of a New York City Christmas – a timeless blend of luxury, tradition, and Manhattan’s unmatched holiday charm.
Ritz Carlton Central Park
The Ritz-Carlton Central Park offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of New York City, with panoramic views of the iconic Central Park. Since its inception, this five-star hotel has been synonymous with unparalleled opulence and service.
Each room showcases exquisite design, while its amenities, including a world-class spa and gourmet dining, cater to discerning travelers. Nestled amidst Manhattan’s bustle, it provides a serene haven of sophistication and timeless elegance.
Among the most sought-after hotels in New York for Christmas, this opulent holiday haven blends timeless elegance with enchanting holiday flair.
Within its grand walls, guests are greeted by a symphony of sparkling lights and ornaments, each detail meticulously curated to evoke the magic of the season.
Step outside, and there is Central Park and its snow-covered pathways, while Fifth Avenue’s iconic window displays are just moments away. Choosing the Ritz Carlton Central Park for a Christmas stay means indulging in an unparalleled blend of tradition, luxury, and the vibrant energy of New York City’s spirit.
Christmas Markets in NYC: The top Christmas Markets in New York City can be found HERE.
The Peninsula Hotel
The Peninsula Hotel New York stands as a beacon of luxury on Manhattan’s prestigious Fifth Avenue. Merging classic elegance with contemporary flair, this five-star establishment is known for its unparalleled service, lavish accommodations, and world-class amenities.
The Peninsula Hotel Christmas transformation is nothing short of magical. Every corner of the hotel is adorned with tasteful holiday decorations, from the grand lobby to the hotel’s private spaces.
The centerpiece of the decor is the magnificent Christmas tree, and the grand staircase is covered in classic twinkling lights and elegant ornaments, there is even a “sweet shoppe” for the little ones.
Guests can look forward to seasonal dining experiences, holiday workshops for children, and enchanting carol performances, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Choosing the Peninsula Hotel New York for a Christmas stay means immersing oneself in a holiday experience that blends luxury, tradition, and the quintessential New York City Christmas spirit.
Things to do In NYC With Kids. This family loves New York City and we have done all the fun things there are to do with kids while visiting the Big Apple. Your kids will love the excitement and the unique attraction NYC has to offer, find them HERE!
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