New York City is one of the best places to visit during the holiday season. The city is full of festive decorations, twinkling lights, and the smell of hot chocolate. I’ve lived here for years, and I still find this time of year special. You can go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, check out the holiday markets, or relax in one of the many NYC Christmas bars for a seasonal cocktail. The city really comes alive in winter.
One of my favorite things to do every year is visit the Christmas bars in NYC. These bars go all out with decorations, ornaments, and holiday lights. It really feels like you’re stepping into Santa’s living room.
In this guide, I’ll share my favorite places, from classic Irish pubs with string lights to fun holiday pop-ups. So put on your Santa hat and get ready to explore the 10 best NYC Christmas bars!
🌟 Check out Ultimate Guide to Best Hotels in NYC for Christmas blog post!
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Below are helpful resources to make your travel planning easier and stress-free:
Best Hotels in NYC for Christmas for All Budgets
Unique Experiences to Book in NYC for the Holidays
🌟 Check out Best Christmas Markets in NYC: Your Epic 2025 Guide blog post!
Why NYC Christmas Bars Are a Must-Visit During the Holiday Season
NYC Christmas bars are special because they do more than just serve festive cocktails. Most of them are fully decorated with ornaments, Christmas trees, and even bartenders in Santa hats. Even if you don’t drink much, you can still enjoy the atmosphere, try some snacks, and take lots of photos.
I also like the atmosphere in these bars. Locals and tourists come together over spiked hot chocolate or peppermint martinis, with Mariah Carey and Christmas music playing in the background. There are classic places like Pete’s Tavern and new holiday pop-up places near Bryant Park and the East Village. You can have a relaxed night or a full-on Santa’s Winter Wonderland experience.
10 Best NYC Christmas Bars to Visit
1 – Rolf’s German Restaurant (Gramercy Park)
If you’ve seen photos of a restaurant completely covered in ornaments and garlands, it was probably Rolf’s. This place in Gramercy Park is famous for its Christmas decorations, with lights, tinsel, and baubles everywhere.
Inside, it really feels like Christmas. You can try German comfort food, seasonal cocktails, and mulled wine while sitting under hundreds of lights. The place is small and always crowded, but that’s what makes it one of the most special NYC Christmas bars!
2 – Holly Jolly Holiday Pop-Up Bar (West Village)
If you’re in the West Village during the holidays, check out the Holly Jolly Holiday Bar at Mad Morton. It’s only open from late November to December, so don’t miss it!
The bar is transformed and decorated with huge ornaments, tinsel everywhere, and different themed rooms. When you book a 90-minute reservation, you get a welcome holiday drink. The menu has creative cocktails served in fun mugs. The drinks are not only delicious but also look amazing. It’s a fun place to spend an evening with friends if you want to get into the holiday spirit.
3 – Oscar Wilde (Flatiron District/NoMad)
Oscar Wilde is a Victorian-inspired bar that becomes the city’s most elegant Holiday pop-up. During the festive season, you’ll see garlands, vintage Santa mugs, and Christmas trees everywhere.
It’s a good place to stop after Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park’s rink. You can try a gingerbread martini or eggnog cocktail in a classic New York setting.
4 – Frosty’s Holiday Bar (Times Square)
Frosty’s Holiday Bar is right in the middle of Times Square and has several floors, each decorated with string lights and different themed rooms. It’s busy, full of energy, and probably the most popular pop-up Christmas bar.
Each floor has its own theme, like Santa’s Winter Wonderland or Cousin Eddie’s Living Room, with vintage decorations and festive photo ops everywhere. The lineup of holiday cocktails includes spiked eggnog, candy-cane shots, and other fun holiday drinks.
5 – Loreley Beer Garden (Lower East Side)
Loreley Beer Garden is one of my favorite outdoor NYC Christmas bars to visit in winter. There is a heated patio with string lights. You can try hot cider, peppermint hot chocolate, or their Coquito Ho Ho Ho cocktail. It’s a relaxed place that has plenty of seasonal craft beers, and you won’t have to deal with Midtown crowds.
This Heated Winter Wonderland pop-up lasts until early January.
6 – Pete’s Tavern (Gramercy Park)
Pete’s Tavern is a New York classic and one of the oldest bars in the city. In December, it’s decorated with garlands and lights, and it has a great holiday atmosphere.
I like the old-school charm here. There are cozy booths, friendly bartenders in Santa hats, and it feels like a real Irish pub. It’s also a good place for dinner before you visit the Union Square Holiday Market.
7 – The Lodge at Bryant Park (Midtown)
The Lodge at Bryant Park is inside the Winter Village and is a nice place to relax in Midtown. You can sit indoors or on the heated outdoor patio and look out at the skating rink and lights.
You can have mulled wine or spiked hot chocolate while you watch people skate. It’s a good stop after you visit the holiday market or the rink.
9 – Miracle on 9th Street (East Village)
Miracle on 9th Street is an iconic pop-up Christmas bar in NYC and truly embraces the holiday spirit. It’s full of festive decorations, vintage Santa mugs, and creative cocktails like Jingle Jangle and Cousin Eddie.
It’s on East 9th Street and is always busy and full of energy. If you want a fun night out with lots of holiday spirit, this is one of the most popular NYC Christmas bars to visit.
9 – The Dead Rabbit (Financial District)
The Dead Rabbit is near South Street Seaport and mixes Irish pub style with great cocktails. In winter, it’s decorated with garlands and Christmas lights, and it’s a cozy place to warm up.
You can order festive drinks like a hot toddy and an Irish coffee here. It’s a nice way to end your night after walking by the East River.
10 – City Winery at Rockefeller Center (Midtown)
City Winery has great views of the Rockefeller Plaza skating rink and the giant tree. It’s a relaxed place with private chalets, heaters, and holiday cocktails under the lights.
You can have mulled wine and look out at the Empire State Building and the skaters. It really feels like a Christmas movie.
Final Thoughts on NYC Christmas Bars
There’s no better way to experience New York City during the holiday season than by checking out these NYC Christmas bars. From classic spots like Pete’s Tavern to immersive pop-ups like Frosty’s and Miracle on 9th Street, each one has something unique.
Bring a friend, bundle up, and go explore. Because New York City really shines this time of year.
Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting New York City for Christmas
When is the best time to visit New York City for Christmas?
In my opinion, the best time to visit is from late November through the first week of January. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree usually lights up after Thanksgiving, and the city stays festive well into the new year. You also get to enjoy many of the best NYC Christmas bars.
Should I book NYC hotels early for the holiday season?
Yes, absolutely. Hotels in NYC for Christmas fill up fast, especially near Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center. I recommend booking as early as you can for the best prices and availability.
Where are the best areas to stay in NYC for Christmas lights?
The best area to stay is Midtown Manhattan, especially near Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue, and Bryant Park. You’ll be close to the main sights, window displays, and holiday markets.
How many days do I need in NYC for the holidays?
I recommend at least three to four days to enjoy the main attractions without rushing. That gives you enough time to see the lights, go ice skating, and explore different neighborhoods.
Is New York crowded during Christmas time?
Yes, it’s busy, especially around Rockefeller Center and Times Square. I usually go early in the morning or stay later at night, but it can still be crowded even then. Many of the NYC Christmas bars will open, but they will be busy. You just have to be prepared and be okay with that.
What’s the weather like in NYC during December?
It depends on where you’re coming from and how you handle winter, but it’s usually cold—between the mid-30s and 40s °F (around 2–8°C). Snow isn’t guaranteed, but it does happen sometimes. I always tell people to bring warm layers, gloves, and a good coat.
How to get around New York City?
In my opinion, the subway is the fastest and most affordable way to get around. If you’re visiting for a few days, get an unlimited MetroCard. I also suggest walking; it can be faster and more efficient, unless you’re uptown and want to go down by Wall Street. Taxis and Ubers work too, but traffic can be heavy during the holidays, especially in Midtown. Sometimes taxis may take you the long way.
Is New York City safe, especially around the holidays?
New York is a big city, and yes, there are pickpockets, especially during the holidays and in crowded areas. But because you’re in a touristy area, it’s generally safe. I used to work for years near Times Square and Rockefeller Center and never had an issue.
Just be mindful and use common sense. Don’t leave your bag open, wear a fanny pack or crossbody, and keep your cell phone on a string attached to your wrist. If you stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close, like I would in any major city, you’ll be fine.
How far in advance should I book afternoon tea or holiday experiences?
Many restaurants, rooftop bars, and experiences need reservations in December. I highly recommend booking everything in advance, especially festive dinners or holiday afternoon teas. Most places let you cancel for free up to a certain day or time, so there’s flexibility.
For popular spots like The Lotte New York Palace or The Plaza, I recommend booking hotels in NYC for Christmas as soon as reservations open. Around Christmas week, they can sell out completely.
Is it worth visiting New York after Christmas?
Definitely! The holiday lights and decorations stay up through the first week of January, but the crowds thin out. It’s a great time to explore at a slower pace. You can still enjoy the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, window displays, and ice skating without the long lines.
I hope this guide to the best hotels in NYC for Christmas helps you plan a festive and memorable trip. From luxury stays near Fifth Avenue to cozy spots by Bryant Park, there’s something for everyone. No matter when you visit, New York City during the holidays always feels magical.
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Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.