NYC Rockefeller Center Christmas Lights Ride Review

The NYC Rockefeller Center Christmas Lights Ride is a must-try holiday experience for visitors to the Big Apple. This enchanting tour offers a unique opportunity to marvel at the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and other dazzling seasonal sights from the comfort of a cozy horse-drawn carriage. Whether you’re a local or a first-time tourist, this festive excursion promises to capture the magic of New York City during the most wonderful time of the year. But what makes this ride truly special? Let’s take a closer look.

Good To Know

• The Rockefeller Center Christmas lights ride offers a unique and enchanting experience, with the iconic 70-foot-tall tree with 50,000 twinkling lights as a highlight.
• The private horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park provides a cozy and intimate setting, with plush blankets and the opportunity to interact with the horses.
• The tour includes stops at popular attractions like the Wollman Rink, Plaza Hotel, and renowned shopping destinations like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman.
• The carriage accommodates up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 4 children, ensuring a personalized experience for a range of travelers.
• While the tour generally receives positive reviews, some customers have noted occasional issues with punctuality, though most appreciate the overall cozy ambiance and photo opportunities.

Overview of the Experience

The article provides an overview of the private horse and carriage ride through Central Park, highlighting the key attractions along the route.

Riders can expect to see landmarks like the Wollman Rink, carousel, Plaza Hotel, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the renowned shopping destinations of Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tiffany & Co.

The ride also includes a stop at the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Cozy blankets are provided, and riders have the opportunity to feed carrots to the horses.

The experience is designed to offer a unique and memorable way to explore the sights and sounds of New York City during the holiday season.

Key Highlights of the Tour

One of the tour’s key highlights is the opportunity to witness the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Towering over 70 feet tall and adorned with over 50,000 twinkling lights, the Rockefeller tree is a must-see for any holiday visitor to New York City. Riders will also delight in seeing other iconic sights along the tour route, including:

Sight	Description
Wollman Rink	A popular outdoor ice skating rink
Plaza Hotel	A historic luxury hotel featured in many films
Saks Fifth Avenue	A renowned high-end department store
Rockefeller Center	Home to the famous Christmas tree and ice rink

Cozy blankets and the chance to feed carrots to the horses add to the enchanting experience.

Carriage Details and Amenities

Riders can enjoy a comfortable and cozy experience aboard the private horse-drawn carriages. Plush blankets are provided to keep warm during the chilly winter evening.

The carriages can accommodate up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 4 children under 12. Roof coverage is available for protection from rain.

The fully-guided drivers offer commentary and photo opportunities throughout the ride. Guests will have the chance to interact with and feed carrots to the friendly horses.

The carriages are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and service animals are welcome.

Group Size and Capacity

The private horse-drawn carriage rides can accommodate a maximum of 4 adults or 2 adults and up to 4 children under the age of 12. This group size allows for a cozy and intimate experience while exploring the highlights of Central Park.

Group Size	Maximum Capacity
Adults	4
Adults + Children	2 + 4
Children	Under 12
Total	6
Infant Seats	Available

The limited capacity guarantees a personalized tour and the ability to provide amenities such as infant seats for families. Ultimately, the group size caters to a range of travelers, making the Rockefeller Center Christmas Lights ride accessible and enjoyable for all.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Travelers meet at the designated location of 7th Avenue & West 59th Street, New York, NY 10019, where the carriages are parked across the street from 180 Central Park South on West Drive.

A text confirmation is received one day before the reservation.

After the ride, guests return to the same meeting point.

The tour is fully-guided, with a driver included.

Riders benefit from the cozy blankets provided for warmth and enjoy the breathtaking photo stops throughout the ride.

Accessibility and Additional Considerations

Along With the convenient meeting and pickup location, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Lights Ride offers excellent accessibility.

The experience is wheelchair accessible, with surfaces that accommodate mobility aids. Strollers are also welcome, and the tour can accommodate service animals. Infant seats are available for the youngest riders.

This inclusive approach guarantees that the magic of the holiday lights and sights can be enjoyed by all. The only limitation is the maximum capacity of 4 adults or 2 adults and 4 children under 12.

Pricing and Booking Options

With prices starting from $292.00 per group of up to 4 individuals, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Lights Ride offers a competitive rate for this unique holiday experience.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and a "reserve now, pay later" option provide added flexibility for booking.

While the tour has received generally positive reviews, some customers have noted occasional issues with timeliness and communication from the driver.

Reviewing the Service

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Lights Ride generally delivers a magical holiday experience, though a few customers have reported occasional issues with the service.

While the guided tour showcases the dazzling sights of Central Park and iconic landmarks, some reviewers noted that communication from the driver could be improved.

There were also a couple instances of the ride running late, which disrupted the experience for some guests.

However, the majority of customers rave about the cozy ambiance, breathtaking photo opportunities, and the chance to interact with the friendly horses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Safe for Young Children on the Carriage Ride?

The carriage ride is generally safe for young children, with infant seats available and wheelchair/stroller accessibility. However, parents should exercise caution and guarantee proper supervision throughout the ride.

Can People With Disabilities Easily Get on and off the Carriage?

The carriage ride is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with surfaces that are wheelchair-friendly. Travelers with disabilities can easily get on and off the carriage, and service animals are allowed.

Are the Horses Treated Well and Cared for Properly?

The horses seem well-cared for, with the provider noting they’re regularly checked by veterinarians. The experience includes opportunities to interact with and feed the horses, suggesting a focus on their welfare and comfort.

How Long Does the Entire Carriage Ride Experience Typically Last?

The entire carriage ride experience typically lasts around 60 minutes. The tour covers several iconic landmarks in Central Park, allowing riders to take in the sights at a leisurely pace.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs to Be Aware Of?

There are no additional fees or hidden costs for the private horse and carriage ride. The price listed covers the entire experience, including the guide, carriage, and blankets provided for warmth.

The Sum Up

The NYC Rockefeller Center Christmas Lights Ride is a magical experience that captures the essence of the holiday season. With a breathtaking view of the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, charming stops at landmark destinations, and the cozy comfort of a horse-drawn carriage, this tour offers an unforgettable way to create lasting memories during the festive period. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking to enjoy the enchantment of New York City’s holiday festivities.