NYC: Christmas Lights Tour and Dyker Heights

If you’re dreaming of a holiday experience filled with twinkling lights, giant Christmas displays, and stunning city views, the NYC Christmas Lights Tour and Dyker Heights might just be your perfect match. This four-hour adventure, offered by INTERTRAVEL NY, promises a lively dive into Brooklyn’s most decorated neighborhoods, combined with a scenic stop at DUMBO and iconic views of Manhattan’s skyline. While I haven’t personally taken the tour, I’ve sifted through detailed reviews, itineraries, and insider tips to give you an honest, practical look at what you can expect.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the opportunity to walk among houses decorated with thousands of lights, Santa figures, and festive scenes that create a truly magical atmosphere. Second, the chance to view the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge illuminated at night offers spectacular photo opportunities. Finally, the guides’ local knowledge and storytelling bring the neighborhoods’ holiday traditions to life — or at least, that’s what many reviewers have appreciated.

That said, one potential drawback is the group size and guide enthusiasm—a few travelers noted that their guides could be a bit more energetic or attentive. Still, the overall value for the price ($49) remains strong, especially given the included transportation and the chance to see Brooklyn’s holiday magic up close. If you enjoy festive decorations, city views, and lively guided tours, this experience should be on your list.

This tour suits families, couples, or solo travelers who want a hassle-free way to see some of NYC’s best Christmas displays without the stress of navigating on your own. Now, let’s explore what you’ll experience in more detail.

Good To Know

• Affordable price point offers good value for a guided Christmas lights tour.
• Visiting Dyker Heights provides a chance to see some of the most extravagant holiday displays in New York.
• Scenic views of Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge add a memorable visual element.
• Guides can vary in enthusiasm, but generally, the information about the neighborhoods is well-received.
• Tour duration is four hours, making it a manageable evening activity.
• Includes transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, easing the hassle of city transit.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour begins at the main entrance of the Manhattan at Times Square hotel, situated on 7th Avenue between 51st and 52nd Streets. This central location makes it easy for most travelers to reach, whether they’re coming from a hotel nearby or exploring the city beforehand. Meeting here also gives a practical start for an evening tour, generally scheduled in the late afternoon or early evening.

Bay Ridge and Dyker Heights: The Heart of Brooklyn’s Christmas Spirit

Once we’re on the bus, the first stop is Bay Ridge and Dyker Heights—famous worldwide for their over-the-top Christmas decorations. Expect to see houses adorned with thousands of lights, Santa figures, reindeer, and even elaborate Christmas scenes that look straight out of a holiday card.

Many reviews highlight the spectacular nature of these displays. One traveler from Greece shared that the houses were “all spectacular,” emphasizing the creative and festive decorations. Another reviewer from Brazil praised the tour as “tudo ótimo” (all great), underscoring the overall satisfaction.

Walking Among the Lights

The tour allows for walking the streets of Dyker Heights, so you can truly soak in the decorations up close. This is one of the highlights, as it offers a more intimate experience than just viewing from the bus. Be prepared—warm clothing and comfortable shoes are essential since you’ll be outside for a while, and the streets can be quite lively with other visitors.

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A Note on Guide Enthusiasm

While the decorations steal the show, some reviews mention that guide enthusiasm varies. One reviewer from Puerto Rico noted that their guide was “unenthusiastic” and suggested they could explore on their own. However, others appreciated guides like Augustin, who was described as “very knowledgeable, friendly, and entertaining,” making the experience more engaging.

DUMBO in Brooklyn: A Picturesque Christmas Setting

After exploring Dyker Heights, we head to DUMBO—a neighborhood famous for its cobblestone streets, trendy shops, and stunning views of Manhattan. During the holidays, DUMBO transforms into a magical winter scene with Christmas lights reflecting off the water and the city skyline in the background.

You’ll love the views of the Manhattan skyline and the illuminated Brooklyn Bridge, which many travelers find to be truly breathtaking. As one reviewer noted, the lights and the cityscape create a perfect holiday photo backdrop.

Final Stop: Manhattan Skyline and Brooklyn Bridge Views

The tour wraps up with viewing the Brooklyn Bridge lit against the night sky, a classic New York sight. The illuminated bridge and skyline make for memorable photographs, a favorite among many travelers who appreciate these iconic sights.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a significant plus during colder months or if you prefer a comfortable ride rather than walking long distances. The group size isn’t explicitly mentioned, but reviews suggest that the tour is well-organized, with enough space to keep everyone comfortable.

Timing and Duration

This is a 4-hour tour, generally scheduled in the late afternoon or early evening to maximize the holiday lights effect. Remember, traffic conditions can influence timing, but the operator makes efforts to keep to the schedule.

Accessibility and Weather Considerations

The tour runs rain or shine, which is perfect if you’re visiting during unpredictable winter weather. Travelers are advised to dress warmly, including thermal clothes, outdoor gear, and comfortable footwear, to enjoy the experience fully.

Real Experiences and Honest Feedback

While most reviews are positive, some travelers have shared honest insights that can help you decide:

• One traveler from Greece praised the guides’ knowledge about New York, which added layers of context that made the experience richer.
• A reviewer from Puerto Rico pointed out that the check-in process could be smoother, so arriving on time and prepared is advised.
• The price of $49 per person is considered reasonable given the included transportation and guided commentary, especially when compared to the cost of individual holiday outings or city tours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Christmas Lights Tour offers a great way to see Brooklyn’s most decorated neighborhoods without the stress of navigating on your own. The combination of extravagant house displays, scenic Brooklyn and Manhattan views, and a comfortable ride makes it a worthwhile holiday activity.

If you’re someone who loves festive decorations, iconic city photos, or simply wants to experience New York’s Christmas spirit from a cozy vantage point, this tour ticks many boxes. The price point makes it accessible, and the guided aspect ensures you won’t miss out on interesting tidbits or lose your way in the crowds.

However, if you prefer a highly energetic guide or a more personalized experience, you might find the enthusiasm variable. Still, the overall value and the festive atmosphere make this a popular choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a hassle-free way to enjoy Brooklyn’s holiday magic. It suits those who appreciate photo opportunities and scenic views but don’t want to spend hours walking or driving around alone. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a convenient, budget-friendly way to experience the best of Brooklyn’s Christmas decorations and New York’s iconic skyline during the holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making it comfortable and easy to get around Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is next to the main entrance of the Manhattan at Times Square hotel, located on 7th Avenue between 51st and 52nd Streets.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, usually in the late afternoon or early evening, to coincide with the best lighting conditions.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, including thermal and weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be outside walking through neighborhoods with festive decorations.

Are pets allowed on the tour?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the tour suitable if it rains or snows?
Absolutely, the tour runs rain or shine, so plan accordingly with weather-appropriate clothing.

To sum it up, the NYC Christmas Lights Tour and Dyker Heights provide a festive, scenic, and practical way to experience Brooklyn’s holiday magic. With stunning displays, spectacular skyline views, and a comfortable ride, it appeals especially to those who want to enjoy the season without the hassle of self-guided touring. While guide enthusiasm may vary, the overall value and visual feast make it a worthwhile holiday activity for any lover of Christmas traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: