New York City transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, and the Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride offers a magical way to experience it. This enchanting tour takes guests through iconic landmarks, immersing them in the festive atmosphere. With a licensed guide, warm blankets, and driver-taken photos, the 45-minute ride provides an unforgettable experience for groups of up to four. While the $899 price tag may seem steep, the opportunity to create cherished memories with family and friends is priceless. But what makes this experience truly special, and why should you consider booking it?

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Christmas Experiences In New York City.

Key Points

NYC: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride - Key Points

  • Enjoy a 45-minute private group tour through iconic NYC landmarks during the holiday season, including the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and light show.
  • The carriage tour is equipped with an optional roof and warm blankets for weather protection, and a licensed guide provides commentary.
  • The tour starts in Central Park, proceeds down 59th Street to 5th Avenue, and returns via 6th Avenue showcasing landmarks like the Plaza Hotel and Tiffany & Co.
  • The experience captures the festive atmosphere of New York City, with a focus on customer satisfaction and memorable moments.
  • The tour is stroller-accessible and allows service animals, with a capacity of up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 2 children under 12.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Booking and Tour Details

NYC: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride - Booking and Tour Details

To begin, the NYC Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride offers a nostalgic and enchanting experience for visitors.

Priced at $899 per group (up to 4 people), the 45-minute tour takes guests through the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Plaza Hotel, Rockefeller Center, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Travelers can reserve the private group tour and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes a licensed guide, optional carriage roof and blankets, and photos taken by the driver.

Guests are advised to dress appropriately for the weather and note that infants must sit on laps, while service animals are allowed.

Itinerary Highlights

NYC: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride - Itinerary Highlights

The carriage ride starts at Central Park, proceeding down 59th Street to 5th Avenue.

Along the way, you’ll pass by iconic New York landmarks:

  1. The Plaza Hotel, a world-renowned luxury hotel.
  2. Tiffany & Co., the famous jewelry store known for its elegant window displays.
  3. Rockefeller Center, home to the iconic Christmas tree and light show.
  4. Saks Fifth Avenue, with its captivating holiday-themed light show and decorations.

You’ll also marvel at the grandeur of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Bank of America Tower as you return through 6th Avenue, soaking in the festive atmosphere of New York City during the holiday season.

Included Features

NYC: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride - Included Features

This NYC Christmas lights horse carriage ride includes several notable features.

Riders will be accompanied by a licensed guide authorized by NYC authorities, ensuring a safe and informative experience.

The carriage is equipped with an optional roof to provide protection from rain or sun, as well as warm blankets for the winter months.

The driver will also take photos of the group and provide treats for the horses, adding a personal touch to the tour.

Plus, live customer service is available should any questions or concerns arise during the experience.

Important Information

NYC: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride - Important Information

For this NYC Christmas lights horse carriage ride, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and there are options for alternative dates or full refunds if it’s canceled due to poor weather.

Infants must sit on laps, and service animals are allowed.

The carriage accommodates up to 4 adults, with 2 children under 12 counting as 1 adult.

Plus, the tour is stroller accessible, making it suitable for families.

  1. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.
  2. Infants must sit on laps, and service animals are allowed.
  3. The carriage accommodates up to 4 adults, with 2 children under 12 counting as 1 adult.
  4. The tour is stroller accessible.
More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Ratings

NYC: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride - Customer Ratings

Customers have rated the NYC Christmas lights horse carriage ride experience highly, with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 16 reviews.

They’ve praised the tour’s transportation, giving it 4.8 out of 5. The value for money has also been well-received, earning 4.5 out of 5.

Reviewers highlight the excellent guides and communication, which enhance the overall experience.

With a focus on customer satisfaction, this tour provides a memorable holiday adventure through New York City’s iconic landmarks and festive atmosphere.

Preparing for the Ride

NYC: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride - Preparing for the Ride

Preparing for the ride involves dressing appropriately for the elements. The tour operates year-round, so warm, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Layering is advised to stay comfortable during the 45-minute journey. Blankets are also provided on the carriage to keep you cozy.

Here are four tips to help you prepare for the ride:

  1. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
  2. Bring an extra layer, like a hat and gloves, for chilly evenings.
  3. Consider bringing an umbrella or rain jacket if there’s a chance of inclement weather.
  4. Bring a camera to capture the enchanting holiday lights and scenery.

Memorable Moments

NYC: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride - Memorable Moments

A truly enchanting aspect of the NYC Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride is the array of memorable moments it offers.

From the moment the carriage sets off, passengers are captivated by the twinkling lights and iconic landmarks that surround them. Passing the Plaza Hotel, Tiffany & Co., and Rockefeller Center evokes a sense of nostalgia and wonder.

Witnessing the Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show and the towering Rockefeller Christmas Tree is a truly breathtaking experience.

As the carriage meanders through the festive atmosphere of 6th Avenue, passengers can’t help but feel transported to a bygone era.

These magical moments create lasting memories that encapsulate the holiday spirit of New York City.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’re some commonly asked questions about the NYC Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride? Participants often wonder about a few key things:

  1. What if the weather is poor? The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. Options include alternative dates or full refunds if the ride is canceled due to inclement weather.

  2. Can I bring my stroller or service animal? The carriages are stroller-accessible, and service animals are allowed. Each carriage accommodates up to 4 adults, with 2 children under 12 counting as 1 adult.

  3. What’s included in the tour? The price covers a licensed guide, optional carriage roof and blankets, photos taken by the driver, and treats for the horses.

  4. Can I cancel my reservation? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

NYC: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride - Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Carriage Wheelchair Accessible?

The carriage is stroller accessible, indicating it can accommodate wheelchairs. Each carriage holds up to 4 adults, with 2 children under 12 counting as 1 adult, so a wheelchair user could likely join the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Riders can’t bring their own food or drinks on the carriage ride. The tour includes complimentary treats for the horses, but no other refreshments are provided. Passengers should plan to enjoy the scenery without consuming outside items during the 45-minute experience.

How Many People Fit in the Carriage?

Each horse-drawn carriage can accommodate up to 4 adults or 2 adults and 2 children under 12. The carriage is designed to provide a cozy and nostalgic experience for small groups visiting NYC during the holiday season.

Are the Horses Well Cared For?

The tour operator states that the horses receive care, such as complimentary treats, and that experienced, licensed guides are present. Customers have positively reviewed the horse welfare aspects of the experience.

Can I Request a Specific Route or Stops?

Customers can request specific routes or stops, though the overall itinerary may be adjusted based on traffic and weather conditions. The tour provider will work to accommodate reasonable requests within the allotted 45-minute timeframe.

Recap

The Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride in New York City offers a truly magical experience. Families and friends can enjoy a 45-minute tour through iconic landmarks, surrounded by festive cheer and cozy blankets. With free cancellation and positive customer ratings, this enchanting adventure is a must-try for those seeking to capture the holiday spirit of the Big Apple.

You can check if your dates are available here: