Every winter, Fifth Avenue in New York City (NYC) transforms into one of the most magical places in the world. Glittering lights, ornate holiday windows, towering trees, and immersive decorations turn this iconic street into a festive wonderland that’s perfect for tourists and locals alike. If you’re planning a holiday trip, then here are the stops you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Download a printable version of a 5th Avenue Christmas Walking Tour guide here.
Must-See Christmas Displays in NYC
1. Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Light Show & Windows
49th–50th Streets, 611 Fifth Avenue
The crown jewel of 5th Avenue holiday magic is the Saks Fifth Avenue holiday light show display. Starting in late November and running through early January, the entire façade comes to life with a synchronized music-and-light spectacle every 10 minutes from 5 PM-11 PM. Whether you catch the lights or enjoy a cozy daytime stroll past the windows, this stop is a must.
Pro Tip: Cross the street to the Channel Gardens at Rockefeller Center to enjoy the best view of the light show with the tree in the background.
Another Pro Tip: If you’re visiting NYC the Sunday before Christmas, or for Christmas Eve, stop by St. Patrick’s Cathedral for Mass. You can also book a self-guided, hour long audio tour, check out details here. It’s next door to Saks, so you can enjoy the light show on the façade before or after attending; however, make sure to plan plenty of extra time (20-30 minutes) to get through the crowd on this block.
2. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree (Just Across the Street!)
30 Rockefeller Plaza (near 49th Street) Technically, this isn’t a store on Fifth Avenue, but you cannot miss it if you’re already exploring the holiday displays nearby. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic symbols of the season, glowing with tens of thousands of lights and crowned by a Swarovski crystal star. Surrounded by the festive Channel Gardens with their elegant angel sculptures, it’s one of the most photographed holiday spots in the city.
3. Cartier’s Festive Façade
653 Fifth Avenue (around 52nd Street)
Just a few blocks up the avenue you’ll find another classic Christmas stop — Cartier’s flagship store. The building is often wrapped like a giant gift box with dramatic lighting and elegant seasonal décor, making it a perfect photo op and a lovely slice of holiday glam.
4. Bergdorf Goodman Holiday Window Wonderland
754 Fifth Avenue (at 58th Street)
Fashion lovers will adore Bergdorf Goodman’s annual winter windows. Every season the store unveils a new themed display blending art, storytelling, and luxury that never fails to capture attention. These artistic windows — often inspired by NYC landmarks, cultural icons, or fantastical scenes — are a highlight of any 5th Avenue holiday walk.
5. Louis Vuitton & Other Luxury Flagships
Fifth Avenue & 57th Street
Luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Dior also join the holiday fun with beautifully curated displays and sometimes even nightly light shows on their façades. These elegant installations blend high fashion with festive cheer and add variety as you stroll northward toward Central Park.
A Few Honorable Mentions:
Anthropology
FAO Schwarz
Holiday Walking Tour Tips
• Start around 49th Street and make your way north toward Central Park. That 10-block stretch is where most of the magic lives.
• Visit after sunset — many of the light displays come alive when the sun goes down.
• Bundle up and bring a hot drink. Nothing pairs better with holiday cheer than hot cocoa in hand, so be sure to stop at Glace Rockefeller truck open 12-8 PM for the original “S’mores Hot Chocolate”. Check out their Instagram account for truly delectable hot drinks. If the line is too long, just grab a basic cup of hot chocolate from Cafe Grumpy on the Rink Level of Rockefeller Center, near the entrance to Top of the Rock.
• Expect big crowds. This is one of the city’s busiest seasonal destinations, especially near Rockefeller Center. For families visiting, keep your hands on your kids in this area. It’s so easy to get lost in the crowd, but everyone holding hands helps to not get separated.
From dazzling lights to couture window scenes and iconic holiday icons, a Christmas walk down 5th Avenue is one of New York City’s most unforgettable winter traditions. Whether you’re snapping photos, sipping something warm, or simply soaking up the season’s spirit, every block has something magical to offer.
Sincerely,
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