Radio City Christmas Spectacular Show + 90-min Statue Cruise

Our review of this bundled experience offers travelers a chance to enjoy two classic New York holiday traditions in one go. Whether you’re visiting during the festive season or just looking for a lively, family-friendly outing, this combo promises a taste of the city’s holiday cheer.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a true New York icon, showcasing the world-famous Rockettes in a dazzling 90-minute stage show filled with holiday magic and inventive staging. Second, the 90-minute Statue of Liberty cruise provides an unbeatable perspective of Manhattan’s skyline and close-up views of Lady Liberty, perfect for snapping memorable photos.

A key consideration? The tickets can be tricky to access smoothly—the only review mentions difficulty with ticket scanning and the need to transfer tickets from Viator to Ticketmaster, which might cause some initial frustration. And, since the cruise is a harbor tour, it doesn’t land at Liberty Island or Ellis Island, so those hoping for a full excursion there might need to look elsewhere.

This experience will suit travelers who want a manageable, festive activity that combines New York’s holiday spectacle with scenic views. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a compact, yet memorable, holiday outing in the city.

Key Points

• Festive Entertainment: The show at Radio City Music Hall is a quintessential holiday event that features spectacular choreography and beloved characters.
• Close-up Views of the Statue: The cruise offers a rare opportunity to get within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty, perfect for photos.
• Convenient Combo: Booking both in one package saves time and offers a full afternoon of holiday sightseeing.
• Practical Concerns: Tickets might require some effort to scan, and the cruise does not land at Liberty Island.
• Weather Preparedness: Outdoor decks can be chilly, so bundling up is recommended.
• Limited Flexibility: Non-refundable tickets mean you’ll want to be sure of your plans before booking.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The first part of the tour takes you to Radio City Music Hall, home to the famed Rockettes and a festive stage show that’s become a holiday tradition for many. The Christmas Spectacular features over 140 performers, a lively musical score, and classic scenes like the Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and Santa’s journey to the North Pole. Audience members often talk about the show’s dazzling costumes and choreography, which are designed to evoke holiday wonder.

We loved the way the stage is transformed into a magical holiday canvas, with creative use of lighting and props that heighten the festive atmosphere. The show runs approximately 90 minutes, making it a manageable highlight of your day. The tickets are included, but keep in mind, your seats are assigned after booking, and no obstructed views are promised—so it’s a good idea to arrive a little early to soak in the pre-show excitement.

Some travelers, like Sherry, have run into trouble with ticket scanning at the theater. She shared that “the scan ticket sent by Viator will not scan at the show—we had to wait at the box office and transfer tickets to Ticketmaster,” which she found frustrating. To avoid such issues, it’s wise to confirm your tickets well in advance and follow the instructions about ticket pickup.

After the show, the adventure continues with a 90-minute cruise departing from Pier 78 at Hudson River Park. The cruise is narrated in English, highlighting major sights like the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, and Freedom Tower. The best part? You’ll sail within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty, offering excellent photo opportunities, especially for those who enjoy capturing iconic landmarks from a close vantage point.

The boat has both indoor and outdoor seating options, which is great for adjusting to weather conditions—though, as noted by travelers, the outdoor decks can be cold, so dressing warmly is a must. The cruise doesn’t land at Liberty Island or Ellis Island, but the proximity to Lady Liberty makes it worth the price for many visitors seeking a scenic, relaxed sightseeing experience.

While onboard, you can purchase drinks and snacks from the full bar and concession stand. The narration provides commentary on the skyline and harbor sights, making it an educational as well as scenic experience. The cruise departs at multiple times—10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm—so you can choose a slot that fits your schedule, but remember, your cruise ticket is valid for the same day as your show.

Practical Details and Tips

• Pricing and value: At $104.99 per person, this package offers a good value, considering it includes both the show and the harbor cruise. However, it’s worth noting that transportation to the starting points is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel there.
• Timing: Expect the whole experience to take around 3.5 hours, making it a nice afternoon activity. The show lasts about 90 minutes, and the cruise is 90 minutes, but travel and waiting time may extend this.
• Booking tips: As most travelers book about a month in advance, securing your tickets early is wise, especially during peak holiday season.
• Weather considerations: Dress warmly for the outdoor part of the cruise, especially during winter months.
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should check accessibility details beforehand, especially for theater seating and boarding the boat.
• Children: Kids under two can attend the show for free if they don’t occupy a seat, making it a family-friendly option.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re after a blissful holiday spectacle combined with scenic harbor views, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to experience a classic New York Christmas event without the hassle of planning multiple outings. Families will appreciate the show’s lively, kid-friendly atmosphere, while couples or friends can enjoy the magical sights and festive cheer.

However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth experience at Liberty Island or detailed historical tours, this might not fully satisfy those interests. Also, those who prefer flexibility or a more personalized tour should be aware of the non-refundable policy and potential ticket transfer issues.

FAQs

Do I need to print my tickets? No, your tickets are mobile, but be sure to download the app and have your QR code ready for smooth entry.

Is the ticket for the show assigned seating? Yes, your seats are assigned after booking; no obstructed views are guaranteed, so arriving early is recommended.

Can I choose my cruise time? Yes, there are multiple departure times available each day—10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm—matching your schedule.

Will I see the Statue of Liberty up close? Yes, the cruise passes within 100 feet of Lady Liberty, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Does the cruise land at Liberty Island? No, it does not land; it’s a sightseeing cruise with a close-up view of the statue.

Are food and drinks included? No, but there’s a full bar onboard where you can purchase snacks and beverages.

What should I wear? Dress warmly, especially for the outdoor decks, as it can be quite cold in winter.

Are children allowed? Yes, children under two can attend for free if they don’t occupy a seat.

Is transportation to the venues included? No, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to Radio City Music Hall and Pier 78.

Final Thoughts

This combined tour offers a lively holiday experience that blends the magic of the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular with scenic views of New York Harbor. It’s a strong choice for those wanting a festive, family-friendly outing in a manageable timeframe. The show itself is a celebration of holiday cheer, with bright costumes and spirited performances that will delight kids and adults alike.

The cruise adds a serene, scenic element, giving you the chance to snap photos of iconic landmarks with minimal effort. While some logistical hiccups—like ticket scanning issues—have been noted, these are relatively minor compared to the overall value.

For travelers seeking a cheerful, picture-worthy afternoon that captures the essence of New York during the holidays, this combo offers a solid, enjoyable experience. Just remember to dress warmly, arrive early, and be prepared for a fun-packed 3 to 4 hours of festive sightseeing.

This experience is best for families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager for a quick dose of holiday magic combined with scenic views. It’s a convenient way to tick two iconic holiday activities off your NYC bucket list, all in one afternoon.