Christmas in New York: Santas Rickshaw Sleigh Ride

If you’re dreaming of celebrating the holiday season in the city that never sleeps, the Santas Rickshaw Sleigh Ride offers a lively, intimate way to soak up New York’s dazzling Christmas spirit. This 2-hour guided pedicab tour whisks you through Midtown’s most iconic holiday sights, from the towering Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the shimmering window displays along Fifth Avenue. It’s a cheerful, cozy way to see the city’s festive glow without the crowds or the hassle of navigating on your own.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the unique setting of a decorated rickshaw, designed to look like Santa’s sleigh, adds a playful touch that instantly transports you into holiday magic. Second, the insider commentary from your guide offers delightful stories and holiday trivia that deepen your appreciation for the city’s seasonal traditions. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the ride is outdoors and weather-dependent, so dressing warmly is essential.

This tour is well-suited for couples seeking a romantic highlight, families wanting a fun and cozy activity, or friends looking for a festive adventure. If you love holiday lights, iconic landmarks, and a bit of local storytelling—this is a lively, joyful way to celebrate Christmas in New York.

Key Points

• Festive Pedicab Ride: A cozy, decorated rickshaw designed like Santa’s sleigh, with blankets for warmth.
• Iconic Landmarks: See Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue’s window displays, Bryant Park, and more.
• Holiday Atmosphere: Enjoy cheerful music, holiday trivia, and views of the city’s Christmas lights.
• Flexible and Private: Usually available in the afternoon, evening, or night; perfect for private groups.
• Photo Opportunities: Plenty of chances to snap memorable photos at key sights.
• Optional Extra: Horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park for an added touch of tradition (additional cost).

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Santas Rickshaw Sleigh Ride Experience

Starting Point and Overall Experience

Your holiday adventure begins in the heart of Times Square, a spectacle of lights and oversized billboards that immediately sets a festive tone. The guide/driver expertly pedals the decorated rickshaw through the busy streets, blending the fun of a sightseeing tour with the intimacy of a small group experience. You’re wrapped in blankets, feeling the crisp winter air mixed with the warmth of holiday cheer.

The 2-hour duration flies by as your guide shares snippets of holiday trivia and insider stories, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The guided commentary adds a layer of authenticity, giving you context about each landmark and tradition along the route.

Landmark Highlights and Their Charm

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Rink

The tour’s highlight is undoubtedly the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Towering over the skating rink and decorated with over 50,000 lights, this is a true symbol of Christmas in New York. Your guide will ensure you have enough time to take photos—both of the tree and of your group smiling in front of this iconic backdrop. The site’s festive glow, combined with the sounds of holiday music, creates a magical moment.

Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Window Displays

Gliding down Fifth Avenue, you’ll see the elaborately decorated windows of Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and Bergdorf Goodman. These displays, often themed and imaginative, are a holiday tradition for over a century. The guide points out the finest details and stories behind each window, enhancing your appreciation for the craftsmanship and seasonal storytelling.

Bryant Park Winter Village

Next, a stop at Bryant Park Winter Village offers a cozy pause. The glittering Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and the lively holiday market provide a picture-perfect scene. If time permits, you might get a chance to snap photos of the skating rink or browse the festive stalls—perfect for holiday shopping or just soaking in the cheerful atmosphere.

Midtown’s Festive Lights and the Empire State Building

As you glide through Midtown, expect stunning views of the Empire State Building, lit up in red and green for the season. The guide shares fun facts about the building’s holiday lighting and how it’s become part of the city’s Christmas traditions.

Rockefeller Center and Its Surroundings

The tour culminates at the Rockefeller Center, where the massive tree and skating rink dominate the scene. This picture-postcard setting is often crowded during peak season, but the quiet glide of the rickshaw gives you a rare, relaxed vantage point. Your guide will help you get the perfect photos, with tips on the best angles and times for capturing the lights.

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Optional Horse-Drawn Carriage

For an extra touch of old-world charm, many tours offer the option to add a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park. While this is an additional expense, it’s often praised as a romantic, traditional way to end your holiday outing, especially if you’re celebrating with a loved one.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At $160 per person, this tour offers a personalized, fun way to see the city’s holiday sights. Considering the exclusive access, guided commentary, and the memorable photo ops, many travelers find the price reasonable, especially for a private or small group experience. It’s a good value for those who want an insider’s view of New York’s Christmas magic without the crowds.

When to Book and Weather Considerations

Tours are generally available in the afternoon, evening, and night, making it flexible to fit your schedule. Since the ride takes place outdoors, dress warmly—think layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes—as New York winters can be quite cold. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so be prepared for rain, snow, or wind.

Group Size and Accessibility

This experience is typically offered to private groups, enhancing comfort and flexibility. The wheelchair accessibility makes it suitable for a broader range of travelers, though it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

What’s Included and Not

Included are the guided rickshaw tour, fun facts, and stops at major holiday sights. You’ll also have the chance for Santa sightings and holiday-themed moments. Extras like a horse-drawn carriage or ice skating are additional costs.

What to Bring

Bring your comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and camera—you’ll want to capture the festive scene. Since it’s an outdoor activity, dress appropriately to stay cozy during the ride.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Many reviews highlight how stunning the holiday views are, especially around Rockefeller Center and Fifth Avenue. One reviewer sums it up: “We loved the way the lights and decorations came alive at night, and having a guide’s stories made it even more special.” Others appreciate the festive music and cheerful commentary, making the ride feel like a holiday celebration on wheels.

Some travelers mention that the weather can be chilly, so dressing in layers is crucial. A few noted that the riding experience is smooth and comfortable, even in winter coats, thanks to the blankets provided. The tour’s personalized nature and focus on iconic sights make it a memorable holiday activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This festive rickshaw ride is perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a cozy, joyful way to experience New York’s Christmas scene. It’s ideal if you want an up-close view of landmarks without fighting the crowds, especially at Rockefeller Center. Great for those seeking a photo-rich outing or a lighthearted, fun activity that captures the spirit of the season.

However, if you or someone in your group has back problems or mobility issues, you should confirm accessibility beforehand. Also, if you’re hoping for a very quiet, contemplative experience or prefer indoor activities, this lively outdoor tour may not be your best fit.

The Sum Up

The Santas Rickshaw Sleigh Ride offers an engaging, family-friendly way to experience the magic of Christmas in New York City. Its combination of stunning holiday lights, iconic landmarks, and entertaining commentary makes it a memorable addition to any holiday itinerary. While weather considerations mean you should bundle up, the warm blankets and festive atmosphere ensure you’ll feel cozy and cheerful throughout.

For travelers who love beautiful cityscapes, holiday traditions, and a bit of fun on the move, this tour delivers a joyful and authentic slice of New York’s Christmas celebration. It’s especially suitable for those who want a personalized, relaxed way to enjoy the city’s seasonal sparkle, far from the downtown crowds.

If you’re after a cheerful, picturesque adventure that captures the spirit of holiday cheer with a playful twist, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Many find it enjoyable for families, especially with the playful Santa-themed rickshaw. Dress warmly, and be prepared for outdoor exposure.

Can I book this tour as a private group? Yes, it’s designed as a private experience, perfect for families, friends, or couples.

What should I wear? Dress warmly in layers, including hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes, as the ride is outdoors in winter weather.

Does the tour operate in snow or rain? Yes, it runs in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly. The blankets provided help keep you cozy.

Are there any additional costs? Extras like a horse-drawn carriage or ice skating are available at additional expense. The tour price covers the ride, guide, and stops.

How long in advance should I book? It’s recommended to reserve early, especially during peak holiday season, but you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is wheelchair accessibility available? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

What is included in the price? The guided pedicab ride, fun facts, photo opportunities, and stops at major landmarks are included.

Can I customize the experience? The tour is generally fixed in route, but private groups may have some flexibility. Check with the provider for special requests.

This cheerful, festive ride captures the heart of New York’s holiday season, blending sightseeing with a playful, warm-hearted spirit. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a seasoned NYC fan, it’s a fun way to see the city’s most iconic Christmas sights in a relaxed, memorable style.

You can check availability for your dates here: