Looking for unique, exciting experience gifts in New York State? Look no further! (Yes, we're gearing up for Christmas already. It's good to be prepared!)
It is a truth acknowledged by all New Yorkers that New York City is the most magical place to spend the festive season. The second truth – perhaps not acknowledged by all New Yorkers – is that there is a lot more to the state of New York than just the city so good they named it twice.
New York state is full of things to see and do outside of just New York City – even if The Big Apple draws the most tourists!
Whether you're looking for a fun Christmas gift for family or friends, or just an excuse to explore your state, we've compiled the top gifts in New York below.
Read on to find out our favorites, in NYC and beyond!
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight Over The Adirondacks - $325
We're starting off our Christmas gift guide with this gorgeous Hot Air Balloon Flight. Is there a Christmas present in the world that can top a hot air balloon flight at sunrise? We think not. This Upstate New York experience gift makes a romantic Christmas present to take part in with your partner – after all, it’s not without reason that hot air balloons are synonymous with romance.
There are few experiences as magical as hot air balloon flights. The sensation of floating beneath the clouds with nothing between you and the endless sky is truly unparalleled. Professional crew will explain the entire process and even let you get involved with the setting up and taking down, while giving you an entirely unforgettable aerial experience with views of the Vermont and Adirondack Mountains and Lake George.
If you're looking for a unique experience gift idea, it doesn't get much better than this!
Tomb Adventure Game in Buffalo - $64
Buffalo New York is widely considered to be one of the best cities in the state (sorry, NYC) and with so much to see and do, where do you start? If you’re buying a Christmas gift for a Buffalo local with a penchant for puzzles, this Tomb Adventure Game in Buffalo is a fun and unique choice.
Located in 15,000 square feet of interactive event space, your giftee’s team are tasked with solving puzzles, clues and physical tasks to complete the game. Computer technology follows their moves carefully, adapting the game to their success rate, and at the end of the challenge the team will receive a score!
New York City Global Cuisine Tour - $125
Explore the vibrant culinary fusion of Nolita, Little Italy, and Chinatown on this Tasty Global Bites walking food tour! Dive into a 3-hour adventure tailor-made for food enthusiasts eager to sample global flavors and uncover the delicious essence of NYC.
You'll indulge in 6 tastings showcasing the diverse palate of Spanish churros, French cheeses, falafel, Sicilian pasta, Onigiri, and delectable gelato. On top of this, those aged 21+ can elevate their experience with an optional wine tasting paired with a delightful pasta dish! What's not to love? Share the gift of delightful experiences with Tasty Global Bites—perfect for any occasion celebrating food lovers and the rich tapestry of New York City's cuisines.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Brooklyn Tour - $24
Like we said, there’s just something magical about New York at Christmas. Perhaps one of the biggest contributors to this festive atmosphere – besides the blanket of snow over the city – is the fantastic displays of Christmas lights that go up every year, competing against each other for the brightest house.
Exploring Brooklyn's Dyker Heights neighborhood by yourself is fun and all, but you get a much more enriching and entertaining experience with a guided tour from a knowledgeable local! Known as the “undisputed capital of Christmas pageantry”, Dyker Heights outdoes its Christmas lights decorations year on year, with some displays costing up to $20,000!
Visit the historic houses and learn about the impact, culture and community of the neighborhood – a unique experience gift for the holidays.
Sunday Gospel Church Service In Harlem - $30
Harlem is the home of gospel music, and this Sunday Gospel Church Service in Harlem will make a fun Christmas gift for any music fan.
During this New York Tour, your giftee will visit a local congregation for a Sunday worship service in Harlem with live Gospel Music. More than just an amazing fashion show, this Sunday tour is their chance to experience the culture of Harlem while learning about the history of the neighborhood and its houses of worship.
New York City LGBTQ Pride Walking Tour - $33
Manhattan has long been a significant location to the LGBTQ movement, home to many of the most prominent gay bars, historic landmarks and cultural monuments. Treat your lucky giftee to a tour of this hugely important place and its ongoing movement.
During their tour, they’ll discover the history of Pride and the many events that have shaped New York's gay scene, hosted by a highly knowledgeable local guide.
They’ll visit famous sites including the Oscar Wilde Memorial Bookshop, Julius Bar, the Gay Street sign, and of course The Stonewall Inn, plus many more locations that were key to the movement.
Champagne City Lights Cruise On The Motor Yacht Manhattan - $86
Whether you’re looking for a fantastic NYC Christmas gift, or a just a festive activity to take part in during the run-up, this Champagne City Lights Cruise is an excellent choice.
Getting the best views of the Manhattan skyline at night is on everyone's bucket list, so why not get the best seats in the house and relax on a 1920's style yacht while cruising down the Hudson River?
With a complimentary drink in hand and the lights of the city in front of you on full display, we can't think of a better way to spend an evening in the Big Apple.
Cruise past many of New York's most iconic landmarks and enjoy unparalleled skyline viewing.
Sunset Cocktail Cruise Aboard The Motor Yacht Manhattan In New York City - $94
Christmas is the season of the cocktail; from Christmas Day mimosas, to snowballs and the contentious eggnog, there's no shortage of famous festive cocktails to enjoy.
Cosy up on the yacht Manhattan with a loved one or a group of friends, and watch the sun set over the incredible city skyline while you fill your cup with festive cheer.
Enjoy light narration from the captain and cruise past many of New York's most iconic landmarks making this a unique first date idea, a fun happy hour for those working in Chelsea and a thoughtful Christmas experience gift for New Yorkers!
Classic Manhattan Helicopter Tour - $269
Buying for someone who's already seen all the sights Manhattan has to offer?
The next step is to tour New York City from above! This thrilling adventure is your lucky giftee's chance to get a bird's eye view of the Big Apple during a fifteen minute helicopter tour.
The tour takes off from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport and heads north, flying over the Hudson with views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and One World Trade Center.
As they pass over Lower Manhattan they will see Battery Park, Wall Street and the Brooklyn Bridge. Next, they will make their way through Midtown with views of the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, Times Square, Central Park and the U.S.S. Intrepid.
This Manhattan Helicopter Tour is one of the best things to do in NYC, and an incredible Christmas gift for adventurous types.
New York Christmas Markets and Lights Tour - $49
It's the most wonderful time of the year...
Immerse yourself in the singular joy of a New York City Christmas with this markets and lights tour.
With legendary traditions and twinkling landscapes galore, spending the holidays in NYC is at the top of many people's bucket lists.
During this four hour walking tour, discover the magic of the city at Christmastime as you visit three of New York's traditional holiday markets. Each one is filled with an incredible array of hand-crafted goods, local art, winter attire, traditional food, drink and more, so you will have no trouble getting your holiday shopping done as you discover a world of gifts and treats.
Along the way, marvel at dazzling Christmas light displays, spot iconic Christmas movie sites and charming holiday department store decorations, as your friendly guide enlightens you on the rich history of how New York shaped these wonderful traditions.
Thanks for reading!
Thanks for reading our Christmas Gift Guide for New York State.
We hope you’ve found a fun, festive experience gift from our list, but if you’re still looking, you can browse all our New York experience gifts here.
Got a question, or a must-do New York activity you think we missed? Feel free to leave a comment – we’d love to hear from you!
