Light Shows
Untermeyer Gardens
This historic public park in Yonkers is the perfect, quaint garden that is open year-round. While this is a great place to stop by over the summer, they also host light shows in the winter! The gardens are free to the public from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the light shows going from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm. The light shows are also free admission with hot chocolate for sale!
Lumina at Harvest Moon
This enchanting light experience at Harvest Moon Farm in Croton Falls is definitely worth the visit! It’s open the rest of the month, except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and the cost for admission starts at $35. This location features magical, illuminated trails and synchronized displays!
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights
The Bronx Zoo also offers a light show experience all the way until January 4. The cost for admission starts at $27, and the tickets for the light show must be bought separately from tickets for the zoo. If you’d be interested in seeing illuminated animals in an immersive light festival, this spot is definitely for you!
Ice Skating
Ebersole Ice Rink
Ebersole Ice Rink, located in White Plains, offers ice skating to the general public throughout the break, with the exception of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Prices range from $7-12 and skate rentals are $6. Times vary, so check out their website for more information on that. For a casual ice skating experience close to home, this is the perfect place!
Playland Ice Casino
Playland Ice Casino is located in Rye and also offers ice skating to the public over the holiday break! It’s open every day of the week, with the exception of Mondays and Thursdays, until January 4. The Ice Casino is another great option within Westchester, with prices ranging from $6-21.
Nature Walks
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
For those who enjoy calm walks in a picturesque site, try Rockefeller State Park Preserve in Pleasantville. It is open 24/7 and costs $6 per car to get in. Scenic trails, historic carriage roads, a calm lake, and meandering streams make this location special.
Cranberry Lake
Cranberry Lake is a closer alternative to Rockefeller State Park Preserve. Located in West-Harrison, it is free to the public every day from 9:30am to 4:00pm. Calm trails with a view overlooking the water make Cranberry Lake the perfect nature escape.
Bear Mountain
If you’re willing to travel a little further, Bear Mountain is a stunning option located in Tomkins Cove, which is roughly an hour drive from Pelham. With scenic walking trails and breathtaking views of the Hudson River, Bear Mountain is definitely worth the trip.
Photos with Santa
Cross County Shopping Center
The Cross County Shopping Center, along with their small ice skating rink, offers the opportunity to take photos with Santa! They are available until Christmas Eve, with hours typically being from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. Book photos in advance, and depending on the package you decide on the prices will vary.
Westchester Mall
Additionally, the Westchester Mall also offers photos with Santa until Christmas Eve. Hours are usually between 9:00 am and 9:00 pm, and you must book your package ahead of time, just like the Cross County Shopping Center. This is a fun and festive activity, especially for kids, before Christmas!
New York City
Wollman Rink
New York City has various different ice skating rinks, but Wollman Rink is one of the best options. Located in Central Park South, this picturesque location makes this spot very special. Tickets during the holiday season are $40 per person, and ice skating rentals are $12. Definitely consider Wollman Rink if you want to get a classic New York City ice skating experience!
Bryant Park Winter Village
The Bryant Park Winter Village is a very popular option during the holiday season. The Winter Village is very accessible, as it is only an 8 minute walk from Grand Central Station. While it does get very busy during this time of year, it’s still exciting to check out the festive vendors, dazzling Christmas tree, and ice skating rink!
Union Square Market
The Union Square Holiday Market is a lively outdoor Christmas market that is perfect for both shopping and just wandering. It’s a less touristy alternative to the Bryant Park Winter Village, as it has a more local and creative vibe. The Christmas music and decorations will immerse you into the New York City holiday atmosphere!
