Hop into a cosy, traditional rickshaw and experience the magic of New York City’s holiday season with a Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree Lighting Rickshaw Tour. Your expert guide will take you through the heart of Midtown Manhattan, highlighting the city’s most festive spots, with a special focus on the world-famous Rockefeller Centre and its iconic Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Your journey begins with a pick-up near Central Park, where you’ll get a chance to soak in the holiday magic as you roll through the park’s winter wonderland. If you’re visiting during the early season, you may even spot snowflakes dusting the trees, setting the stage for a festive evening ahead.
As you cruise down Fifth Avenue, witness some of the most stunning holiday window displays at famous department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, and Bergdorf Goodman. Your guide will share stories behind the elaborate decorations and tell you about how New York’s Christmas windows have become a tradition for both locals and tourists.
Your rickshaw ride brings you right into the heart of the festivities at Rockefeller Centre, where you’ll be treated to a close-up view of the world-famous Christmas Tree. As you approach the plaza, your guide will point out key landmarks, including the Prometheus Statue, the skating rink, and the tree itself, adorned with thousands of lights and a massive Swarovski crystal star at the top.
During the tree lighting ceremony (held annually in late November or early December), witness the countdown to the grand moment when the tree lights up in dazzling colours, kicking off the holiday season in New York City. While your rickshaw doesn’t take you directly into the centre of the crowded plaza, it allows you to get up close to this magical moment without the chaos. You’ll have time to snap some photos of the glowing tree and surrounding decorations.
After the tree is lit, the fun doesn’t stop. Your guide will continue the tour with a leisurely cruise through Midtown Manhattan, showcasing the dazzling holiday lights around Times Square, Bryant Park, and other holiday hot spots. You’ll get a glimpse of the Winter Village at Bryant Park and may even pass by the New York Public Library, with its festive decorations.
If you want to extend your experience, you can choose an optional add-on to skate at the Rockefeller Centre Ice Rink. Your rickshaw guide will drop you off at the rink entrance, where you can glide under the glowing tree and enjoy the ultimate NYC holiday experience.
End your tour with a stop at a nearby café or holiday market for a warm cup of hot chocolate, mulled wine, or a classic New York City treat.