Summary:

Many major retailers and attractions will be closed on Christmas Day.
Several grocery stores and pharmacies will have limited hours or remain open.
Iconic NYC attractions like the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center will be open to visitors.
Most museums will be closed, but some Broadway shows will have performances.
NYC parks and public transportation will be open, but with modified hours.

NYC Christmas Day 2024: What's Open & Closed?

While many businesses take a Christmas break, NYC still offers plenty to do. Here's your guide to what's open and closed on December 25th, 2024:

Grocery Stores & Pharmacies

Most major retailers will be closed, but several smaller options remain open:

7-Eleven: Open 24/7
Wawa: Open 24/7
Cumberland Farms: Open 8 a.m. to midnight
CVS: Most locations open with reduced hours (check ahead)
Walgreens: Limited hours (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.), with select 24-hour locations open
Safeway: Select stores open, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Major Attractions

Several iconic NYC attractions will welcome visitors on Christmas Day:

Empire State Building
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
One World Observatory
Edge at Hudson Yards
Summit One Vanderbilt
9/11 Memorial (Museum closed)
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree (lit for 24 hours!)
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Ice Skating Rinks (Weather permitting)
Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours
Bike Rentals and Tours
Helicopter Tours

Broadway & Museums

Most major museums will be closed, but several Broadway shows will have performances. Check individual show listings for details.

Chicago
MJ The Musical
Wicked
Gypsy
DRAG: The Musical
The Gazillion Bubble Show
Big Apple Circus

Parks & Outdoor Activities

NYC parks offer a peaceful escape on Christmas Day:

Central Park
Prospect Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Van Cortlandt Park
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park

Grand Central Terminal and the Oculus in Lower Manhattan will also be open.

Dining Options

Many restaurants will be closed, but options exist in Chinatown, Tavern on the Green, Denny's, and IHOP (check hours). Select locations of McDonald's, Domino's, Dunkin', and Starbucks will also be open.

Transportation

Public transport operates on a modified schedule. Check your specific route for details.

What's Closed?

Most retail stores (Macy's, Bloomingdale's, etc.), national landmarks (Statue of Liberty), major museums, government buildings, and shopping outlets will be closed.

Source: FOX 5 New York