Thanksgiving in New York City 2025: Parades, Events, and Travel Tips
October 25, 2025 at 6:32:54 AM
New York City comes alive every Thanksgiving, attracting millions of visitors from across the country. Whether you’re drawn by the world-famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, festive holiday markets, or iconic city attractions, Thanksgiving in New York City 2025 promises an unforgettable experience.
This guide will help you navigate the city, plan your itinerary, and find the best deals on flights, hotels, and local experiences for your Thanksgiving weekend in NYC.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
No Thanksgiving in New York City is complete without the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, one of the oldest and most iconic parades in the United States.
What to expect in 2025:
Giant balloons of popular characters
Marching bands and performance groups
Celebrity appearances and live TV coverage
Tips for visitors:
Arrive early (at least 2–3 hours before the parade) to secure good viewing spots.
Consider public transportation to avoid city traffic—subway is the fastest option.
Bundle your parade experience with nearby attractions for a full-day itinerary.
Thanksgiving Weekend Events in NYC
Beyond the parade, the city offers a range of events and seasonal attractions:
Holiday Markets: Bryant Park Winter Village, Union Square Holiday Market, Columbus Circle Market.
Ice Skating: Rockefeller Center, Wollman Rink in Central Park, Bryant Park Rink.
Broadway Shows: Many shows offer special Thanksgiving weekend performances.
Museums: The Met, MoMA, and American Museum of Natural History often have extended hours.
Booking in advance for popular attractions is essential, as holiday crowds peak in late November.
Best Places to Dine on Thanksgiving
New York City has countless dining options for Thanksgiving 2025, from traditional turkey dinners to innovative seasonal menus.
Popular options:
Classic hotel restaurants offering Thanksgiving brunch or dinner.
NYC steakhouses with special holiday menus.
Local favorites in Midtown or the Upper West Side for intimate family meals.
For large groups, reservations should be made at least 4–6 weeks in advance.
Flights to New York City for Thanksgiving 2025
New York City is served by three major airports: JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR).
Tips for booking flights:
Book early (August–September) for domestic flights to secure the best deals.
Compare fares across all three airports—sometimes flying into Newark is cheaper than JFK.
Consider early morning or late evening flights to avoid peak holiday traffic.
Using fare alerts on Google Flights or travel platforms can help you find last-minute deals.
Hotels and Accommodations
NYC hotels fill up quickly during Thanksgiving, so early booking is crucial. Options range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays:
Luxury: The Plaza, The Peninsula, Four Seasons
Mid-Range: Hilton Midtown, Marriott Marquis
Budget-Friendly: Pod Hotels, CitizenM, HI NYC Hostel
Consider staying near subway lines for easy access to the parade and attractions. Booking platforms like PublicMinute or Kayak can offer bundled flight + hotel discounts.
Getting Around the City
New York City is best navigated by public transit during Thanksgiving weekend:
Subway: Fastest and most cost-effective way to get around.
Bus: Convenient for shorter routes and sightseeing.
Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance, especially in Midtown.
Taxis & Rideshares: Useful for late-night travel or areas not easily reached by subway.
Traffic can be heavy near the parade, so plan your routes in advance.
Additional Tips for Visiting NYC on Thanksgiving
Dress in Layers: Late November can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from the 30s to 50s (°F).
Plan Your Parade Spot Early: Choose streets like 6th Avenue or Central Park West for better viewing.
Book Attractions in Advance: Ice skating, Broadway, and holiday markets can sell out quickly.
Use Travel Apps: Google Maps, Citymapper, and subway apps help navigate efficiently.
Stay Flexible: Leave buffer time between events to account for crowds and security checks.
Suggested Itinerary for Thanksgiving Weekend in NYC
Day 1 (Thanksgiving Day):
Morning: Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade
Afternoon: Explore Bryant Park Winter Village and holiday shops
Evening: Thanksgiving dinner at a pre-booked restaurant
Day 2 (Friday):
Morning: Central Park walk and ice skating
Afternoon: Museum visit or shopping along Fifth Avenue
Evening: Broadway show or holiday lights tour
Day 3 (Saturday):
Morning: Optional ferry to Statue of Liberty or Brooklyn exploration
Afternoon: Lunch at local NYC eatery
Evening: Return home or enjoy nightlife depending on departure time
Conclusion
Thanksgiving in New York City 2025 is a magical mix of tradition, entertainment, and holiday excitement. By planning early, booking flights and hotels in advance, and prioritizing events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, visitors can enjoy an unforgettable long weekend in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
From festive markets and ice skating to iconic dining experiences and cultural attractions, NYC has something for every traveler this Thanksgiving.
