The 13 Best Holiday Window Displays in NYC
Planning a trip to New York City this winter? One of the best things to do during the season is explore the famous holiday window displays in NYC, where the city turns entire storefronts into glittering works of art.
From iconic department stores to small boutiques that go all out, these displays are one of the most quintessential parts of exploring New York during Christmas, and one of the best free things to do in NYC during the holiday season.
Whether you’re visiting for a quick weekend or spending the holidays in the city, this guide breaks down where to find the best displays, when to go, and how to make the most of this classic New York experience.
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The Best Holiday Window Displays in NYC
Before diving into the top holiday window displays in NYC, let's go over when and where you can find the majority of them!
When Do the Holiday Displays in NYC Go up?
The holiday window displays in NYC typically go up right after Thanksgiving. The last week of November the city turns into a total Christmas dream, and each of the big retail stores goes all out with their decor.
Macy's is one of the first ones each year to put up their decorations.
Where are the Best Holiday Displays in NYC Located?
There are incredible holiday window displays all over New York City! The biggest concentration of them are along 5th Avenue in Midtown, heading the the Upper East Side. We've pinned all of them on our NYC Christmas Map, along with 150+ other places!
In this guide, we're sharing the top holiday window displays in NYC, most of which are in the same area (we also have the addresses under each one below).
The Best Holiday Window Displays in NYC
Ready to explore all of the best holiday window displays in NYC? From the most iconic department stores to some of our favorite local finds, here are the windows you can't miss out on for the ultimate holiday decor.
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1. Macy’s Herald Square
Macy’s goes all out for the holidays, and truly is the number one destination for holiday window displays in NYC.
Each year the iconic department store comes to life with window that tell themed stories, filled with lights, characters, and moving decorations. Inside, the store continues the magic with an entire floor dedicated to holiday decor, brunches with Santa, and an entire Santa Wonderland.
You could easily spend hours enjoying Macy's holiday decor and activities. No visit to NYC is complete without experiencing Macy's, and they even have a day dedicated to their official holiday reveal.
Address: 151 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
Window Display Ceremony: November 20th
Store Hours: Monday–Thursday 10 AM to 9 PM/ Friday & Saturday 10 AM to 10 PM/ Sunday 11 AM to 9 PM
Website: macys.com
2. Dior
Dior’s Fifth Avenue boutique transforms into a glowing golden masterpiece every December. The building is wrapped in illuminated ornaments and elegant winter motifs, creating one of the most photographed storefronts in New York. It is luxury and holiday spirit combined perfectly, and always one of our favorite holiday window displays in NYC.
Address: 23 East 57th Street, New York, NY 10022
Store Hours: Monday–Saturday 10 AM to 7 PM/ Sunday 11 AM to 6 PM
Website: dior.com
3. Swarovski
Swarovski’s storefront shines brighter than ever during the holidays. Crystals sparkle from every surface, and the iconic Fifth Avenue location often features a giant star that mirrors the one atop the Rockefeller Center tree.
Not only is the storefront itself stunning, but every detail inside reflects the glamour of Swarovski, complete with shining decorations and a beautiful Christmas tree.
Address: 680 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Store Hours: Monday–Saturday 10 AM to 8 PM; Sunday 11 AM to 7 PM
Website: swarovski.com
4. Cartier
Cartier’s flagship is one of the most stunning Christmas displays in the city. The building has different themes each year, from being wrapped in a massive red ribbon that glows at night, to solar system decor. It is a true New York holiday icon, and a must-visit each year.
Address: 653 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
Store Hours: Monday–Saturday 10 AM to 7 PM; Sunday 12 PM to 6 PM
Website: cartier.com
5. Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton’s storefront always turns heads with creative, colorful designs that sparkle under the city lights. Each year’s theme is different, but the mix of fashion and holiday flair makes it a highlight along Fifth Avenue.
Last year they were under construction and made a trunk-themed cover, but this year they’ll be back to normal business, with some of the best holiday window displays in NYC.
Address: 1 E 57th St, New York, NY 10022
Store Hours: Monday–Saturday 10AM to 8PM/ Sunday 11AM to 7PM
Website: louisvuitton.com
6. Bergdorf Goodman
Bergdorf’s window displays are world famous and known for their breathtaking detail. Each window tells a story through fashion, fantasy, and glittering design. It is a must-see stop for anyone exploring the Fifth Avenue holiday route, and is definitely one of the most vibrant holiday window displays in NYC.
Address: 754 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Store Hours: Monday–Saturday 11 AM to 7 PM/ Sunday 11 AM to 6 PM
Website: bergdorfgoodman.com
7. Saks Fifth Avenue
One of the top activities during Christmas in NYC is to see the iconic holiday light show on the facade of Saks Fifth Avenue. Not only is it home to one of the city’s most iconic holiday light shows, but it also has some of the most fabulous window displays in the city, making it one of the best places in the entire city to enjoy during the holidays.
Give yourself time to enjoy all of the window displays, and also to catch the light show that happens each day throughout the evenings.
Address: 611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
Light Show: 5:00-11:00 pm every 10 minutes
Store Hours: Monday–Saturday 11 AM to 7 PM/ Sunday 12 PM to 6 PM
Website: saksfifthavenue.com
Saks Fifth Avenue has a free light show!
8. Bloomingdales
Bloomingdale’s always delivers as one of the top spot for holiday window displays in NYC, with creative, colorful displays full of imagination and joy. Each window is designed by artists and decorators to celebrate the season in a unique way, making it a favorite for families and shoppers alike.
Address: 1000 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10022
Store Hours: Monday–Thursday 10 AM to 8 PM/ Friday-Sunday 10 AM to 9 PM
Website: bloomingdales.com
9. Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren’s Madison Avenue store captures the feeling of a fancy winter lodge, with greenery, lights, and wreaths covering the facade in the Upper East Side. The classic design and the man playing piano once you walk in makes it one of the most elegant displays in the city.
Looking for one of the best Christmas restaurants in NYC? Nearby is Ralph's Cafe, with equally chic decor and winter coffee specialties.
Address: 888 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10021
Store Hours: Monday–Thursday 10 AM to 6 PM/ Friday & Saturday 10 AM to 7 PM/ Sunday 12 PM to 6 PM
Website: ralphlauren.com
10. Tiffany & Co.
Tiffany’s decorations are as elegant as the jewelry inside. While the exterior isn't as extravagant, head inside for the real magic. Expect shimmering snowflakes, glistening diamonds, and sparkling silver designs that perfectly capture the glamour of a New York Christmas.
Address: 727 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
Store Hours: Monday–Saturday 10 AM to 8 PM/ Sunday 11 AM to 7 PM
Website: tiffany.com
11. FAO Schwartz
Located right by Rockefeller Center, FAO Schwarz is a dream for kids and adults alike during the holidays. The window displays feature toys, lights, and plenty of holiday cheer. Inside, the store is just as magical with life-sized stuffed animals and interactive displays, making it one of the top stops for families with children.
Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
Store Hours: Mon–Sun 9 AM to 8 PM
Website: faoschwarz.com
12. Bleecker Street Boutiques
For a cozier neighborhood experience, take a stroll down Bleecker Street in the West Village to some of the most underrated holiday window displays in NYC. The small local shops decorate with wreaths, lights, and displays that feel straight out of a Hallmark movie. It is a great area for photos and unique holiday gifts.
Address: Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
StoreHours: Varies by shop
13. Sezane
This French boutique goes all out for the holidays, transforming its Nolita storefront into a winter dream filled with garlands and greenery. The exterior feels cozy and European, making it one of the most photogenic holiday stops downtown.
Address: 254 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012
Store Hours: Monday–Saturday 11 AM to 6:30PM; Sunday 12 PM to 6 PM
Website: sezane.com
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The Best Holiday Window Displays in NYC: Final Tips & What's Next
Exploring the holiday window displays in NYC is one of those simple experiences that ends up becoming a highlight of the season.
Whether you’re strolling down Fifth Avenue, detouring into Midtown, or checking out smaller shops that put just as much love into their designs, each display adds its own bit of sparkle to the city.
No matter when you visit, take your time, bundle up, and enjoy the lights, creativity, and festive energy that make New York one of the best places in the world for the holidays.
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What's Next?
What's Next?Now that you know the best holiday window displays in NYC, let's help you explore all more that the city has to offer!
Here are some other New York guides that we have for you:
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The Top Christmas Trees in NYC
The 8 Best Locations for Christmas Lights in NYC
Where to Find the Best Christmas Decorations in NYC
52 Fun Things to Do This December in New York
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10 Things to Do in NYC for Free
The Ultimate New York City Travel Guide
...and more coming each week!
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