It’s no secret that New York City is home to an abundance of long-lived holiday experiences.
From the nearly 100-year history of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the origins of the Grand Central Holiday Market over 30 years ago inside Vanderbilt Hall, the holiday season in NYC is steeped in time-honored traditions. These cherished celebrations serve as a heartwarming reminder that the season is as much about wonder, connection, and joy as it is about lights and decorations.
Amid these iconic New York holiday landmarks, there’s a hidden gem that captures the spirit of Christmas all year long.
Christmas Cottage, the city’s oldest Christmas store, has been delighting generations with twinkling ornaments, cozy décor, and a timeless sense of holiday magic for over 40 years.
Despite its quaint interior, the store is described by its owners as “chock full of ornaments,” and it couldn’t be more true. The aisles are lined from floor to ceiling with endless decorations and trinkets. It’s a nostalgic paradise where ornaments can be found for every type of person and occasion.
Guests can browse a dazzling array of New York City-themed treasures, including Santa clutching the Big Apple, a festive holiday Statue of Liberty, and even ornaments that are pieces of cinematic history—like the iconic Turtle Doves featured in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.
The family-owned shop got its start in 1985, and was originally a seasonal pop-up that had locations around Rockefeller Center, Madison Avenue and Fifth Avenue. The permanent location was established in 1997 and has been a Midtown staple ever since.
Located right next door to Ray’s Pizza and just steps from Rockefeller Center and Radio City music hall, it’s truly in the center of holiday magic.
The store’s year-round open door gives travelers a unique opportunity to have a bit of Christmas in New York no matter where they wander, even if their trip isn’t during the holiday season.
To find out more and plan a visit for yourself, visit their official website.
🎄Know before you go
📍 833 7th Ave, New York, NY
🗓️ Daily
⏰ 8:30 am to 9 pm