The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is the ultimate symbol of the holidays in New York City and a must-see for any Christmas itinerary. Towering over the plaza, the tree is decorated with thousands of twinkling lights and crowned with a dazzling Swarovski star, creating one of the most photographed holiday backdrops in the world. While the area can be packed with visitors, timing is everything—arrive very early in the morning or late at night to enjoy the magic without shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. Pair your visit with a stroll past the nearby Fifth Avenue holiday windows or a skate on the Rockefeller Rink for the full Midtown holiday experience.