Have you ever spent Christmas in New York City? Or dreamed of being in NYC during one of the most epic and romantic times of the year? New York City and Christmas are just like gingerbread and cookies—they go together perfectly! That’s why so many of our favorite Christmas movies that take place in NYC feel extra magical and memorable.

New York City offers beautiful and special locations perfect for celebrating Christmas. From the Rockefeller Center to the Empire State Building, from sipping Serendipity’s Frozen Hot Chocolate to an epic snowball fight in Central Park, there are so many iconic locations and moments in the Big Apple that offer special Christmas magic—places we’ve seen in some of our favorite Christmas movies! 

When my parents lived in New Jersey, I felt blessed to get to visit Manhattan as many times as I wanted. And I just absolutely LOVE being in New York City during Christmastime! With the enchantment of Christmas decorations in windows, Christmas lights in stores and homes, and Christmas trees all about, New York sparkled with Christmas magic.

If you’re looking for New York Christmas movies, I’ve got a great list for you (in no particular order)! Here are some of the best New York Christmas movies of all time, filled with romance, family, lessons learned… and lots and lots of New York City!

17 New York City Christmas Movies to Celebrate Christmas in the Big Apple

1. You’ve Got Mail (1998)

You’ve Got Mail is one of my favorite Christmas films of all time and I watch it nearly every year! Set on the charming streets of the Upper West Side, this Christmas movie follows two rival bookstore owners who fall in love anonymously over email. The film is filled with cozy autumn and winter scenes, including a magical stretch of Christmastime in New York, with twinkling lights, decorated shop windows, and snow-dusted strolls through Riverside Park. If you’re looking for the coziest New York City Christmas movie, you’ve found it!

2. The Family Man (2000)

Set in both fast-paced Manhattan and a quiet suburban life, this film explores what might have been when a high-powered NYC businessman wakes up to find he’s living a completely different life. Christmas in the city serves as a turning point for self-reflection and second chances.

3. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

When Harry Met Sally is, in my mind, one of the best romantic comedies of all time. Not only that, it has several memorable Christmas scenes. This beloved romantic comedy isn’t a traditional Christmas movie, but its cozy winter scenes in New York—including a memorable Christmas tree shopping moment—make it a seasonal favorite. The film captures the magic of friendships and love growing over time, all set against a backdrop of Central Park and NYC in its festive glory.

4. Elf (2003)

Elf is one of the most iconic Christmas movies of all time and it’s hard to believe it came out over twenty years ago! Elf follows Buddy the Elf as he searches for his real father in New York City. The film is a whimsical love letter to NYC during the holidays, featuring unforgettable scenes at Gimbels, Central Park, and of course, Santa’s sleigh flying over Manhattan. Not only that, it’s a heartwarming tale between father and son, with a romantic comedy to boot.

5. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

Who doesn’t love the Home Alone series?? In Home Alone 2, Kevin McCallister takes on the Big Apple during Christmas and turns it into his personal playground. From the Plaza Hotel to Central Park and the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, this movie is packed with iconic NYC holiday moments.

6. Scrooged (1988)

A darkly funny and modern take on A Christmas Carol, this film stars Bill Murray as a cynical NYC TV executive haunted by three spirits. The gritty-yet-festive New York backdrop adds edge to this story of redemption. While this film is a little to cooky to be one of my favorites, many fans consider this film a Christmas cult classic!

7. Miracle on 34th Street (1994)

Miracle on 34th Street is another cult Christmas classic! Set around the iconic Macy’s on 34th Street, this remake of the classic Christmas tale blends childhood wonder with New York holiday tradition. It’s a story that reminds us to believe in magic—especially in a city that already feels magical during the holidays.

8. Serendipity (2001)

As someone who has been to the actual Serendipity 3 in New York City many times, I love this movie! Few movies capture the serendipitous beauty of Christmas in New York like this one, which begins in Bloomingdale’s and features Central Park, the Waldorf Astoria, and the famous Serendipity 3 restaurant. It also stars John Cusack and is just a genuinely delightful film. It’s a dreamy romantic Christmas movie wrapped in twinkling New York City lights and beautiful snow, making it one of the best NYC Christmas movies out there.

9. Eloise at Christmastime (2003, TV movie)

I have personally not seen this one yet, but it’s got positive reviews! Set in the luxurious Plaza Hotel, this charming children’s movie follows Eloise as she spreads holiday cheer (and a bit of chaos). It offers a whimsical look at Christmas from a child’s perspective in one of NYC’s most iconic hotels.

10. Little Women (1994)

This is one of my top favorite films of alllll time! Starring Winona Ryder, this precious movie is eye candy for old-fashioned America, filled with poignant and heartwarming scenes of family and friendship. While not set in New York City, there are some scenes of Jo March living in NYC as she is pursuing her writing career—and some are set during the holidays. It offers a nostalgic and literary New York feel that’s warm and inspiring.

11. Noel (2004)

Noel is a Christmas-themed drama, following several characters in New York City. This emotional drama intertwines several characters’ lives on Christmas Eve and explores themes of love, loss, and human connection in a city that never stops moving—even during the holidays.

12. Annie (1999, Disney TV movie)

While not technically a Christmas movie, Annie is a fun musical set in Depression-era New York City and includes strong holiday themes and scenes (especially the ending at Christmas!). The story of hope and family ties in nicely with the holiday season. The film’s backdrop of grand NYC buildings, bustling streets, and a rags-to-riches holiday feel makes it a sweet, family-friendly addition to your collection of Christmas movies that take place in NYC.

13. Silver Bells (2005, Hallmark)

This Hallmark NYC Christmas movie tells the story of a widower and his runaway son, both navigating life and healing during Christmastime in NYC. From Salvation Army bells to Midtown charm, it captures the heartwarming spirit of the holidays in the city.

14. It Came Upon the Midnight Clear (1984, TV movie)

Set during the Christmas season in NYC, this lesser-known gem tells a touching story. A retired detective goes to heaven but is granted the chance to spend one last Christmas with his grandson in New York. The snowy streets of New York lend an atmospheric beauty to this heartfelt tale.

15. Something from Tiffany’s (2022)

This recent romantic holiday film revolves around a mix-up at the legendary Tiffany & Co. on 5th Avenue. The trailer alone is absolutely adorable! With glowing shop windows, wintry city walks, and romance brewing in the holiday air, this New York City Christmas movie is pure Manhattan Christmas charm.

16. Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

Okay, admittedly, much of this film does not take place in New York City—but the iconic ending does! The movie opens at Christmastime and tells the story of a young boy tries to find a date for his widowed father. If you’re a fan of While You Were Sleeping or You’ve Got Mail, you’ll love this 90’s Christmas film! 

17. The Preacher’s Wife (1996)

This underrated Christmas film starring Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington is set in Harlem during the holidays. It blends gospel music, faith, and family—plus festive NYC church scenes that bring a unique angle to your list.

Celebrating Christmas the New York City Way

There’s just something magical about watching a NYC Christmas movie! Set against the backdrop of twinkling city lights, snowy sidewalks, and iconic landmarks, New York City itself becomes the focal point of holiday cheer. Whether you’re reliving your own memories or dreaming of visiting, these NYC Christmas movies offer the perfect escape into the festive holiday season.

From timeless classics to modern love stories, Christmas movies that take place in New York City capture the magic, romance, and wonder of the season in unforgettable ways. So, grab some hot cocoa, cozy up under a blanket, and dive into one (or all!) of these New York Christmas movies this holiday season. After all, there’s no place like NYC for Christmas!