Enjoy the Christmas Season in Central Park NYC

Enjoy the Christmas Season in Central Park NYC

You've probably seen more than one Christmas movie that features a garland-strewn bridge or a shimmering Central Park, NYC, Christmas tree. If you're visiting the city for the holidays, you don't want to miss Christmas in Central Park! New York tourists love to admire the natural beauty and architecture of the park year-round, but it's especially charming and magical when blanketed by snow and decorated for the holidays. If you want to spend some time outdoors for Christmas, you should definitely make this stop a priority.

Things to Do in Central Park at Christmas Time

If you aren't sure what to do in Central Park at Christmas, try one of these activities to get in the holiday spirit and get yourself outdoors to enjoy the beauty of a wintry Central Park Christmas.

Hit the Ice for Some Skating
The Wollman Rink is really a photo-op waiting to happen, not to mention that the lines to skate here are usually a lot shorter than what you'll find at the Rockefeller Center ice rink. Tourists and natives stop by to enjoy the Wollman Rink during the holidays. This skating spot has been an NYC tradition since 1949. It includes a skating school, party facilities, ice hockey, and skate rentals. You don't need to bring much but a hat and mittens. You might also recognize this iconic location from the movie Home Alone 2. Marv and Harry, the villains of the film, stopped by here for some skating and plotting.

See the Bridge From Home Alone 2
Speaking of classic Christmas movies like Home Alone 2, you can take pictures at some of the landmarks from this and other movies, too. Central Park is home to the bridge where Kevin meets the pigeon lady: The arched stone bridge featured in the movie is none other than the Gapstow Bridge. The bridge is naturally beautiful with a rough stone design. It's a perfect place to snap some snowy selfies! Another bridge featured in the film is the Inscope Arch, which is similar in appearance and located nearby at East 62nd Street. But this is far from the only festive film featuring Central Park. Stop near Pine Bank Arch to throw a few snowballs, just like Buddy the Elf did in Elf! You'll also catch glimpses of Bethesda Terrace during the climax of this movie.

Tour the Park on a Carriage Ride
Rain or shine, the horses are out in Central Park, ready to give you a tour of the best sights in the area. Many Christmas songs mention horses and sleighs, so this might get you right in the spirit! The tours take you past some of the most popular sights, like Belvedere Castle, Bethesda Fountain, the lake, and Strawberry Fields.

Take a Spin on the Merry-Go-Round
This famous Central Park location offers another one of our favorite things to do in Central Park at Christmas time. Something about the music and the lights brings the holidays to mind. There's really no bad time to enjoy the carousel in the park, but it might be a little more magical at this time of the year.

Rent a Bike to Explore the Park
Need a great way to find these locations in the park? Get a set of wheels from Bike Rental Central Park! Our bikes are professionally maintained and can face any type of weather. If you're visiting Central Park for the holidays this year, bundle up and let us take care of the fun!