There is no place quite like New York City during the holiday season. As winter settles across Manhattan, the city transforms into a glittering wonderland of brilliant lights, spectacular holiday window displays, and iconic seasonal traditions. From the magnificent Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center to the nostalgic hum of the Theater District, NYC at Christmas is an experience that belongs on every traveler's bucket list. For decades, Collins Tours has been helping Atlantic Canadians create unforgettable holiday memories in the heart of the "Big Apple," offering an effortlessly seamless and luxurious way to experience the magic of the city that never sleeps.
The Timeless Charm of New York City at Christmas
Few travel experiences compare to stepping out into Midtown Manhattan during late autumn and early winter. The crisp air carries the cheerful sound of holiday music, while world-famous department stores along Fifth Avenue reveal breathtaking, artistic window displays that enchant visitors from around the globe. Walking through these vibrant streets, guests on our tour are immersed in an atmosphere of pure festive celebration.
At the center of it all stands the legendary Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights and crowned with a brilliant star. Nearby, the famous ice-skating rink buzzes with activity under the watchful eyes of historic architecture. Beyond the bustling plaza, Central Park offers a serene escape with its frosty paths, iconic stone bridges, and peaceful winter scenery. Whether it is your first time visiting Manhattan or a cherished return trip, experiencing the city wrapped in its holiday finest is truly inspiring.
World-Class Entertainment and Legendary Performances
One of the ultimate highlights of traveling to New York City with Collins Tours is our carefully curated entertainment lineup. Holiday trips to the Big Apple should be filled with showstopping performances, and our itinerary delivers premium access to some of the most celebrated productions in theater history.
Our guests enjoy premium orchestra-level seating at Radio City Music Hall for the world-renowned Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes. This beloved holiday tradition combines precision dance, glamorous costumes, and joyful seasonal music inside one of America's most historic art deco venues. The sheer energy and precision of the Rockettes' high-kicking choreography set an unforgettable tone for the entire trip.
The theater magic continues on Broadway with included tickets to the award-winning phenomenon, The Lion King. Watching this magnificent production unfold live on stage in the heart of the Theater District is a breathtaking experience, complete with world-class puppetry, iconic music, and unforgettable stagecraft. Additionally, select early bookings include tickets to the hit production MJ: The Musical, celebrating the extraordinary artistry and music of Michael Jackson. Having prime theater tickets secured in advance ensures our guests experience the absolute best of Broadway without any hassle.
Guided City Exploration and Iconic Sightseeing
Navigating a city as vibrant as New York is best done alongside expert local guides who know its rich history, architectural marvels, and best photo opportunities. On our professionally guided motorcoach tours, guests enjoy comprehensive sightseeing across both Upper and Lower Manhattan.
In Upper Manhattan, our scenic route highlights historic brownstones, cultural institutions, and elegant avenues. Guests have the opportunity to take a memorable walk through Central Park to visit Strawberry Fields, dedicated to John Lennon, and admire the timeless sights surrounding the park. The journey continues past Grand Central Terminal, along famous Fifth Avenue, and through the vibrant neighborhoods of the Upper West and East Sides.
In Lower Manhattan, our local guide showcases the city's rich heritage and dynamic modern sights. Highlights include passing St. Patrick’s Cathedral, exploring the lively Chelsea Market area, and paying quiet respect at the moving 9/11 Memorial. We also visit the Financial District and Wall Street before taking in wonderful photo opportunities of the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park. To top off the adventure, an evening Manhattan Illuminations Tour gives everyone a front-row view of glowing skyscrapers and dazzling holiday displays after dark.
Comfortable Accommodations and Fine Dining
When traveling on an escorted tour, premium accommodations and central locations make all the difference. Collins Tours is proud to offer four nights in Midtown Manhattan at the 4.5-star Marriott Marquis Hotel, ideally located right in Times Square. Staying in this premier location allows our guests to step out of the hotel lobby and immediately immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of the city.
Throughout the journey, guests enjoy a thoughtful balance of included group experiences and leisure time to explore independent dining. A standout highlight of the trip is our included group dinner inside the hotel at Revel & Rye. Guests enjoy a sophisticated, served meal with a glass of wine or beer while taking in sweeping views overlooking illuminated Times Square. It is an extraordinary dining experience that perfectly captures the spirit of New York City.
To ensure a relaxed pacing, our itinerary also features comfortable overnight stays en route in Maine. Guests stay at quality properties such as the Courtyard by Marriott in South Portland on the journey south, and the Hampton Inn & Suites in Augusta on the return trip, where a warm farewell group dinner provides the perfect opportunity to share stories and celebrate with fellow travelers.
Seamless Travel and Signature Collins Tours Service
At Collins Tours, we believe that getting to your destination should be as enjoyable and stress-free as the vacation itself. Escorting group tours from Atlantic Canada for over five decades, we have refined every detail to ensure maximum comfort, safety, and convenience for our guests.
Our tour includes convenient pick-up points across New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, with comfortable motorcoaches and shuttles arranged for seamless travel. Border crossings into the United States are pre-registered with Customs and Immigration to minimize wait times, allowing guests to relax from the moment they step aboard. Every step of the way, our dedicated tour managers handle logistics, check-ins, and ticket distribution, complemented by signature baggage handling service that delivers luggage directly to hotel rooms.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Holiday Celebration
There is simply no better way to experience the holiday season than joining Collins Tours for our original New York City Christmas Lights tour. Combining world-class Broadway theater, luxury accommodations in the heart of Times Square, expert-led sightseeing, and warm Atlantic Canadian hospitality, this tour offers a festive getaway like no other. We invite you to explore the detailed itinerary on our website or contact our welcoming team today to secure your place on this incredible annual tradition.
