It’s that time of year: the kids surely have their Christmas wish lists in order, and they’re ready to bring them to the big guy. Fortunately there are plenty of opportunities for pictures with Santa in NYC, and the little ones can get a few minutes to state their case for being nice all year. Santa is working overtime making appearances all over the city, from Macy’s Santaland to the Winter Village at Bryant Park and even the Plaza Hotel and Top of the Rock. Once this most important activity is sorted out, complete the holiday experience with a visit to see some holiday lights, a bit of sledding, ice skating or just snuggling up with some hot chocolate and a classic Christmas movie.
Where to take pictures with Santa in NYC
1. Santa’s Corner at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park
Santa comes to Midtown on select mornings in December from the 16th to the 22nd. While enjoying the winter village, you can visit with Santa and take a free photo with him. Borrow some Bryant Park props to make it extra festive! Photos are first-come-first-served, no reservations required.
2. Macy’s Santaland
Since 1861, families have flocked to Macy’s in Herald Square to venture through the whimsical, festive Santaland, and of course, snag some one-on-one time — and a photo — with the man in the red suit. Reservations are required and are available five days prior to each available date. Don’t want to brave the crowds? Santaland at home features a virtual visit with Santa that includes a selfie.
3. Holiday Time in PaleyLand with Santa
The Paley Museum holiday experience is a beloved annual event that features meet-and-greets with holiday characters like Frosty the Snowman and Snoopy, a stunning 7-foot menorah, classic holiday movies shown on a big screen and The Paley Express, the magical holiday train display. Santa visits and poses for photos on Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays through January 8, 2023.
4. Holidays at Hudson Yards
Head up to Level 4 of Hudson Yards, by H&M and Zara, to visit the winter wonderland on display. Santa will be making daily visits from November 24, 2023 to December 22, 2023. Say hello and take your own photos with Santa. Visits are first come, first served. On days when Santa is not in town, you can still take memorable holiday photos at the Sparkle Spot Selfie Station.
5. Selfies with Santa at Brookfield Place
The Winter Garden at Brookfield Place features an amazing display of colorful lanterns. The magical holiday experience also includes a waterfront ice skating rink. Selfies with Santa is a complimentary offering on select days through December 24. There’s even a special day for pets! Walk-ups are welcome and same-day reservations are available on-site.
6. Santa Claus at The Plaza
The iconic NYC hotel hosts Santa himself on select dates in November and December. Hotel guests and those with dining reservations can enjoy a visit with Santa at a special holiday-themed tea time, breakfast on Sundays, and story time in the Rose Club. Enjoy the fabulous tree and holiday decor while you’re there.
7. Santa at Top of the Rock
What could be better than gazing down on the magical splendor of holidays in New York from the Top of the Rock? The soaring observation deck is the perfect spot for a memorable holiday experience, made even better when Santa shows up. He’ll be posing for pictures and accepting wish lists through December 30. Given that tickets are required both to access the observation deck and get a photo, this one is a splurge but well worth it!
