Exploring New York City During the Holidays – A Closer Look at the Festive Trees and Treats Crawl
If you’re dreaming of soaking in the holiday magic without the hassle of guided tours or packed crowds, the Festive Holiday Trees and Treats Crawl in NYC might just be what you’re after. This self-guided adventure promises a relaxed way to enjoy the city’s most decorated spots and enjoy some seasonal treats — all on your schedule. While I haven’t personally done this exact tour, I’ve looked into what it offers, and it seems like a pretty charming way to spend a winter day in the city.
What I especially like about this experience are two things: First, it’s flexible — you set your own pace, which appeals if you prefer wandering at your leisure rather than sticking to a strict timetable. Second, the inclusion of cozy beverages and festive snacks means you’ll get that warm holiday feeling, whether it’s hot cocoa or a slice of NYC’s famed pizza. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that since it’s self-guided, you won’t have a dedicated tour guide to share stories or answer questions along the way, which might matter if you’re really into guided narration.
This experience is perfect for anyone wanting to blend sightseeing with food in a relaxed, personalized way, especially if you enjoy exploring at your own pace and love holiday decor. Families, couples, or groups of friends can all find value here, especially since the tour is private, giving a more intimate feel. Just be prepared for the costs of food and drinks, which are separate from the ticket price but generally quite reasonable.
Key Points
- Self-guided flexibility allows you to explore NYC’s holiday sights at your own pace.
- Includes a curated kit with scorecards, snacks, and a festive tote bag, adding to the fun of the day.
- Focus on holiday decor and treats makes it a cozy, festive experience rather than a traditional tour.
- Cost of food and drinks is extra, but the average is around $10-$20 per person, depending on what you order.
- Route features 8 top-rated holiday spots, including bakeries, hot cocoa stops, and classic NYC pizza places.
- No tour guide included, so it’s best if you’re comfortable navigating on your own or with a small group.
An In-Depth Look at the NYC Holiday Crawl Experience

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The Whole Concept
This is essentially a self-guided scavenger hunt around some of NYC’s most festive spots, designed to make your holiday exploring both fun and relaxed. Once you pick up your kit — which is included in the ticket price — you’ll receive everything needed to tick off locations, rate your favorites, and capture memories. The route covers eight highly-rated holiday spots, spread across iconic neighborhoods, and you’ll be able to start and end whenever suits you, giving you total control over your day.
What’s in the Kit and Why It Matters
The holiday crawl kit is a thoughtful touch. It contains scorecards that help you keep track of each stop, adding a playful element to your walk. Plus, it’s packed with snacks and beverages to keep you warm and energized, essential when wandering NYC’s winter streets. The included holiday tote bag lets you carry everything stylishly and makes for a nice souvenir.
The Route – What You’ll See and Do
Once you open your route, you’re in for a treat. You’ll visit 8 of NYC’s most highly-rated holiday spots, which might include bakeries, hot cocoa stops, and a pizza place (because what’s holiday cheer without pizza?). The stops are thoughtfully chosen, so you’ll get a good mix of decorated Christmas trees, seasonal treats, and iconic landmarks.
While the specific locations aren’t listed in detail, the description suggests a mix of food, drink, and festive decor. Expect to snap lots of photos of decorated trees, which are some of the city’s most Instagrammable sights during the season. The scoring system encourages a fun, interactive experience and helps you identify your favorite spots by the end.
Food and Drink – What to Expect
Food isn’t included in the tour price, but the average cost of items is $10-$20 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the usual NYC prices. You might find cozy hot cocoa at a bakery or a slice of pizza from a landmark pizzeria. Since you’re in charge of timing, you can choose to linger over your treats or keep moving.
The Experience – Pros and Cons
The biggest plus is the flexibility — you avoid the crowds of guided tours and can take your time soaking up the holiday atmosphere. You can also tailor the experience based on your interests; if a certain bakery or tree catches your eye, you can spend more time there.
However, a downside is the lack of a guide, which means you won’t get local stories or insights from someone knowledgeable about the city’s holiday traditions. If you’re someone who appreciates guided commentary, this might feel a little empty. But if you prefer wandering at your own pace, this is a real strength.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a personal, relaxed holiday outing. It’s a good fit for couples, friends, or families who don’t mind navigating on their own and enjoy discovering hidden gems alongside iconic sights. It’s also ideal for those who want to avoid the holiday crowds but still experience the festive spirit.
Practical Details and Tips
The tour runs from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, which is perfect for a morning outing. Starting at Columbus Circle puts you right in the middle of Manhattan’s holiday buzz. Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, making it more intimate and tailored.
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, so it’s accessible for everyone. The activity ends back at the starting point, so plan your day accordingly. Remember, most of the experience is about leisurely exploration, so dress warmly, and wear comfortable shoes.
Final Thoughts

If you love the holiday season and want an experience that combines city sightseeing, seasonal treats, and a bit of fun competition, this Festive Holiday Trees and Treats Crawl could very well fit the bill. The price point is fair when you consider the inclusion of the kit, tote bag, and the flexibility of a self-guided format. It’s a good way to see some of NYC’s best holiday decor without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
While it may lack the storytelling of guided tours, it compensates with freedom and personalization—a real plus for independent travelers or groups who prefer making their own discoveries. It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy the city’s holiday cheer in a fun, relaxed way, with plenty of opportunities for photos and tasty bites along the way.
If you’re into holiday decor, want some tasty snacks, and prefer exploring at your own pace rather than following a guide, this tour offers a balanced mix of both.
Festive Holiday Trees and Treats Crawl in NYC
FAQ about the Festive Holiday Trees and Treats Crawl in NYC

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided experience. You receive a kit with route instructions and enjoy exploring at your own pace.
What’s included in the kit?
The kit contains 23 items, including scorecards, snacks, beverages, and a holiday tote bag.
Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, you can choose your start time within the operating hours (8:00 AM to 11:00 AM), and you finish back at the same meeting point.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Are there any guided commentary or stories?
No, since it’s self-guided, there’s no guide to share stories or answer questions during the tour.
What is the cost of food and drinks?
Food and drink are not included in the price. Expect to spend around $10-$20 per person depending on your choices.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a relaxed walk, so it’s suitable for families, but consider your children’s interest in walking and holiday decor.
What locations will I visit?
You will visit 8 top-rated holiday spots, including bakeries, hot cocoa stops, and pizza landmarks, but exact addresses aren’t specified.
Does the tour require public transportation?
It’s near public transportation, making it easy to reach the starting point at Columbus Circle.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Thinking about a cozy, festive day exploring NYC on your own terms? This might just be the holiday outing you’re looking for.
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