Where to take pictures with Santa in NYC

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.

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.

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.

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 December 5 through December 16. 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.

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.

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.

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 23. Given that tickets are required both to access the observation deck and get a photo, this one is a splurge but well worth it!