What’s Open on Christmas Day 2024 in NYC

NEW YORK - The holiday magic of Christmas is alive and well, but if you’re planning a festive outing, need a quick bite, or have last-minute errands, it’s important to know what’s open on Christmas Day. While many major retailers and attractions will be closed, there are still plenty of things to do and places to visit in and around New York City.

Here’s your complete guide to what’s open on Christmas Day 2024:

Grocery Stores, Pharmacies, and Convenience Stores

While most major retailers like Target, Walmart, Trader Joe’s, and Costco will be closed, a handful of grocery and convenience stores will stay open:

• 7-Eleven: Open 24/7
• Wawa: Open 24/7
• Cumberland Farms: Open 8 a.m. to midnight
• CVS: Most locations open with reduced hours (check ahead)
• Walgreens: Limited hours (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.), with select 24-hour locations open
• Safeway: Select stores open, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Major Attractions Open on Christmas Day

Some of New York City’s most iconic sights are open to visitors on Christmas Day. From observation decks to dazzling light displays, here’s where you can go:

• Empire State Building
• Top of the Rock Observation Deck
• One World Observatory
• Edge at Hudson Yards
• Summit One Vanderbilt
• 9/11 Memorial (Museum closed)
• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree (lit for 24 hours!)
• Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
• Ice Skating Rinks (Weather permitting)
• Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours
• Bike Rentals and Tours
• Helicopter Tours

Museums and Broadway Shows

Most major museums, such as the Met, MoMA, and the American Museum of Natural History, are closed on Christmas Day, The following Broadway shows will be putting on performances on Christmas Day.

• Chicago
• MJ The Musical
• Wicked
• Gypsy
• DRAG: The Musical
• The Gazillion Bubble Show
• Big Apple Circus

Parks and Outdoor Activities

NYC parks will remain open on Christmas Day for a quiet stroll, with some of the city’s green spaces offering a peaceful escape:

• Central Park
• Prospect Park
• Brooklyn Bridge Park
• Van Cortlandt Park
• Flushing Meadows-Corona Park

Additionally, public hubs like Grand Central Terminal and the Oculus in Lower Manhattan are open for visitors.

Dining Options on Christmas Day

Many restaurants are closed on December 25, but you can still find great food across the region:

• Chinatown remains a popular destination for those seeking a Christmas meal, with many restaurants staying open.
• Tavern on the Green in Central Park typically hosts a festive four-course Christmas dinner.
• Denny’s (open 24/7)
• IHOP (hours vary, call ahead)

Fast food chains like McDonald’s, Domino’s, and Dunkin’ will have select locations open. Starbucks stores also remain open, though hours may vary, so it’s best to check in advance.

Transportation on Christmas Day

Public transportation in New York City, including buses, subways, and ferries, operates on a modified holiday schedule. If you plan to travel, check your specific subway line or bus route in advance for delays or changes.

What’s Closed on Christmas Day?

While there’s plenty to do, many services and attractions take the day off. Here’s what to expect:

• Most retail stores: Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, Target, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods are closed.
• National landmarks: The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island will be closed.
• Major museums: The Met, MoMA, Guggenheim, and National Museum of Natural History are closed.
• Government buildings: Post offices, banks, and libraries are closed.
• Shopping outlets: Woodbury Common and Empire Outlets are closed.