Best Christmas Hotels in NYC for the Holiday Season

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The holiday season transforms New York City into a dazzling winter wonderland. From spectacular decorations and iconic window displays to famous ice skating rinks and the Rockettes’ legendary Christmas Spectacular, NYC offers an unforgettable backdrop for your festive getaway. In this blog post, we’ll spotlight the best hotels in NYC for the holidays, showcasing those that offer unique holiday experiences and special events.

If you’re planning a holiday visit to New York City, book your accommodations early—rooms fill up quickly as December approaches.

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Lotte New York Palace

Where: Midtown Manhattan

Lotte New York Palace captures the holiday spirit like no other, with a stunning 30-foot Christmas tree in its courtyard and festive decor throughout, including a Gingerbread Palace. As the official partner of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, guests can enjoy exclusive perks like discounted tickets and special amenities. Don't miss their charming Letters to Santa program, where guests of all ages can send and receive personalized notes. Located steps from Saks Fifth Avenue’s light show, this hotel offers a convenient and magical NYC holiday experience.

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Refinery Hotel

Where: Midtown Manhattan

Refinery Hotel offers a cozy and festive retreat in Midtown Manhattan with its Winter Spectacular Stay Package. Enjoy a fresh, four-foot Christmas tree in your room, complete with lights and ornaments for a touch of holiday cheer. Indulge in seasonal room service featuring hot chocolate, holiday cookies, and a gingerbread house decorating kit. Plus, a complimentary hot chocolate cart is available each afternoon, perfect for warming up after exploring nearby Bryant Park Winter Village, just two blocks away.

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The Hoxton, Williamsburg

Where: Williamsburg, Brooklyn 

Celebrate the holidays at The Hoxton, Williamsburg, where the festive spirit meets Brooklyn’s cool vibe. Dine in heated, clear domes nestled in their courtyard, surrounded by a forest of Christmas trees and sparkling lights. Enjoy seasonal specials like candy cane ice cream and $1 hot cocoa, with proceeds supporting the Coalition for the Homeless. The Hoxton’s stylish decor and festive atmosphere offer a unique and memorable NYC holiday experience, perfect for those seeking something off the beaten path.

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The Standard East Village

Where: Downtown Manhattan

The Standard East Village embraces the holiday spirit with its vibrant ’70s-themed pop-up, Partridge. Decked out in shimmering tinsel and retro decor, the pop-up serves up seasonal delights like fondue and creative cocktails. Treat yourself to a festive menu with offerings such as snowball cocktails and spiced custard tart. With a location in the East Village, it’s an ideal base for exploring the nearby Union Square Holiday Market and downtown pop-up bars.

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The InterContinental New York Barclay

Where: Midtown Manhattan 

The InterContinental New York Barclay makes the holiday season truly special with a range of festive activities. Guests can enjoy personalized postcards from the Barclay elves, and join in ginger cookie decorating sessions with Chef Ruben for a sweet touch to their stay. The hotel’s lobby comes alive with holiday choirs performing seasonal melodies, ensuring you’re filled with festive cheer every time you return from your day’s activities.

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St. Regis New York

Where: Midtown Manhattan 

At The St. Regis New York, holiday elegance is on full display with timeless decorations and a touch of festive charm. Nutcrackers greet you at the entrance, and inside, garlands and ornaments enhance the hotel's classic sophistication. The holiday season brings special activities like gingerbread decorating and Afternoon Tea with Santa, alongside a sparkling transformation of the Cognac Room. Guests can also unwind with Astor Court’s Holiday Tea, where classic luxury meets festive cheer.

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The Peninsula New York

Where: Midtown Manhattan

At The Peninsula New York, the holiday season sparkles with luxury and festive cheer. The lobby is adorned with a towering Christmas tree and elegant decorations, while packages like the Nights Before Christmas offer fun for the whole family, including gingerbread decorating and scavenger hunts. For a touch of glamour, opt for VIP window display tours and rooftop cocktails with the Holly Jolly package. Besides the hotel's special offers, it's location near 5th Avenue makes it a prime choice for exploring the city's top holiday attractions.

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The Plaza Hotel

Where: Midtown Manhattan 

The Plaza Hotel is a quintessential Christmas destination, famously featured in Home Alone 2. This iconic Midtown gem dazzles with elaborate decorations, including a towering Christmas tree in every room. Experience festive magic with packages like the Home Alone 2-themed stay, Eloise-themed Afternoon Tea, and Santa meet-and-greets. The Plaza’s opulent charm makes it the perfect backdrop for a classic New York holiday.

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Ritz-Carlton Central Park

Where: Midtown Manhattan 

The Ritz-Carlton Central Park offers a sophisticated Christmas retreat with elegant décor inspired by its Central Park location. Enjoy classic holiday charm with a beautifully adorned lobby, festive menus at the hotel's "gastro lounge" Contour, and cozy cocktails. For the ultimate festive experience, book a Park View room to overlook the iconic ice skating rink and horse-drawn carriages.

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The Mandarin Oriental New York

Where: Midtown Manhattan 

The Mandarin Oriental New York shines brightly during the holidays with its festive décor and seasonal offerings. Stay in their “Home for the Holidays” suite, complete with a beautifully decorated tree and cozy touches. Enjoy holiday afternoon tea, visit with Santa, and relish in the festive ambiance. Plus, with its prime location near Lincoln Center, where you can catch the Nutcracker Ballet, and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market, you'll be perfectly positioned to soak up all the seasonal magic.

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Step 2: Add in restaurants, rooftops & other hidden gems ‍

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