Ready to trade honking taxis for jingling sleigh bells? You don’t have to go far to find hidden holiday extravaganzas — we’re talking magical train rides chugging towards the North Pole, villages twinkling brighter than Rudolph’s nose and more cheer than Santa’s workshop.
So, grab your mittens, and head to some seriously cool family winter wonderland fun, all just a snowflake’s drift from the city’s festive frenzy.
Light the way
Cruise into a holiday spectacle at Westchester’s Winter Wonderland, a 1.2-mile drive-thru light show. Glide past mischievous elves Ned and Albert and be dazzled by grandiose angels and a 50-foot dove of peace. Weave through dancing trees and enormous glowing snowballs and steer down the vibrant candy cane lane. Drive under a mesmerizing 100-foot light tunnel and around Westchester’s colossal 40-foot Christmas tree.
This year brings fresh thrills with Snowball the Elf in the frosty Ice House and the awe-inspiring 175-foot Transporter Tunnel, complete with a stargate. You can also cruise along Rudolph’s Runway, leading to a North Pole extravaganza, and bask in the glow of the largest Christmas tree in Westchester. From $39.
1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla, NY.
Brick the halls
Legoland New York’s Holiday Bricktacular offers a festive extravaganza. The park transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with a 35-foot Lego tree made from Duplo bricks.
Meet beloved characters like Santa Lego Drumz and new friends like the Gingerbread Man and Snowman. Enjoy caroling, a dance party and the chance to help build a 66,000-brick Lego mosaic. Write letters to Lego Santa at the North Pole Postal Service and indulge in hot chocolate and s’mores on Brick Street. From $39.
Legoland New York, 1 Legoland Way, Goshen, NY
Secret Santa
With over 100,000 lights and 100 animatronics, Santa’s Village at the American Christmas store in Mount Vernon offers an immersive walk through nine themed areas.
Highlights include a behind-the-scenes look at New York’s iconic Christmas displays, opportunities to deliver letters to Santa and encounters with reindeer.
Visitors can also marvel at a dreamscape of sugar plum fairies, explore Santa’s Workshop and witness the Elves’ Quarters in full swing. The experience culminates in an Arctic wonderland with shimmering lights and icy displays. It’s a festive journey designed for family and friends. From $15 ($10 for kids).
Santa’s Village at American Christmas, 30 Warren Place, Mount Vernon, NY.
Frozen fun
Get ready to slide into fun at Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland. Zip around on ice with 45-minute sessions of bumper car madness, each offering two exhilarating 8-minute ride.
But there’s more — think open-air skating, a special synthetic rink for budding skaters and a slew of kids’ activities and games.
Unlimited train and carousel rides? Check. A peek at the zoo? You got it. Plus, chill out in the indoor/outdoor beer garden or feast at the food trucks. It’s winter magic with a twist. Tickets from $20.
Winter Wonderland, Van Saun Park, 216 Forest Ave, Paramus, NJ.
Tree-rific
Ready to channel your inner lumberjack? Cut your own tree, or pick a pre-cut one wrapped with a bow, at Maple Row Farm in Connecticut.
Hop on hayrides, tailgate and warm up with hot cocoa that’ll make you forget it’s cold. Snack your heart out and adorn your abode with wreaths, boughs and ornaments. From $128, including tree.
229 Stepney Road, Easton, CT.
