Tour Dyker Heights and Christmas Lights

If you’re dreaming of experiencing New York City during the holiday season, a tour of Dyker Heights’ famous Christmas decorations might just be what you need. While we haven’t done this tour ourselves, we’ve looked into what it offers, and it seems like a solid way to enjoy some of the most festive sights Brooklyn has to offer without the hassle of planning everything on your own.

What’s great about this experience is that it combines a sparkling neighborhood tour with scenic views of the Brooklyn Bridge and a peek at some of Brooklyn’s illuminated streets. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option at $49 per person, making it accessible for most travelers. The highlight, of course, is the house decorations—think reindeer, glowing figures, and festive music—that turn the neighborhood into a Christmas wonderland.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is pretty straightforward and doesn’t include food or drinks, so if you want to grab a meal or hot chocolate along the way, you’ll need to plan for that separately. Also, while most travelers seem to find it fun, it’s worth knowing that this tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, visual experience rather than a deep dive into the area’s history or culture.

All in all, if you’re after holiday cheer, bright lights, and iconic Brooklyn views, this tour could fit the bill—especially if you’re traveling with a group or family that loves festive sights without the fuss of navigating Brooklyn on your own.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At $49, this tour offers good value for a guided experience of Brooklyn’s Christmas lights.
• Festive Neighborhoods: Dyker Heights is renowned for its elaborate holiday decorations, turning homes into Christmas displays.
• Scenic Stops: The Brooklyn Bridge viewpoint in Dumbo and Bay Ridge give you great photo opportunities.
• Limited Inclusions: No meals or beverages are included, so plan to eat on your own.
• Comfortable Transport: An air-conditioned vehicle takes you comfortably between stops.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 48 travelers, it’s not overly crowded, facilitating a more relaxed experience.

The Tour Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Timing

Kicking off at 4:00 pm at 790 7th Ave, the tour offers an early evening start, perfect for catching the house lights as they come alive. From here, the journey lasts about 4 hours, wrapping up in Times Square, which makes for a convenient end point if you want to continue exploring the city afterward.

Dyker Heights: The Christmas Star

The highlight of the tour, Dyker Heights, is where you really get to see the famous holiday displays. The houses are decked out with tons of lights, inflatables, reindeer, and animated figures, creating what many call a Christmas fairy tale. The hosts typically spend about an hour here, giving you plenty of time to stroll, take photos, and soak in the festive atmosphere.

As one reviewer mentioned, “The tour was actually really fun. My friend and I enjoyed the experience but wasn’t exactly what we were expecting.” That suggests that while the decorations are impressive, don’t expect a structured show—this is more about wandering and enjoying the sights at your own pace.

Dumbo: The Viewpoint

Next, you’ll stop at Dumbo, one of Brooklyn’s most popular photo spots, especially at sunset or dusk when the Manhattan skyline is especially striking. The Brooklyn Bridge views are iconic, and you’ll get about 20 minutes of free time to snap pictures. This is a good chance to capture some memorable shots, especially if the weather cooperates.

Bay Ridge: The Illumination Begins

Finally, the tour moves to Bay Ridge, a Brooklyn neighborhood known for its holiday displays, albeit less famous than Dyker Heights. You’ll spend around 15 minutes here, observing the beginning of the holiday glow-up.

Atmosphere and Group Size

The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, which keeps everyone comfortable, especially if the weather is cold. The group size, capped at 48, means it’s not too crowded, allowing for easier conversation and a more relaxed vibe.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $49, this tour offers a pretty decent deal for what’s included: transportation, guided stops, and a chance to see some of Brooklyn’s most festive neighborhoods. Keep in mind, it doesn’t include food or beverages, so if you’re hungry or want a warm drink, you’ll need to bring those along or plan to find something after the tour.

Considering the reviews, we see that most people find it fun and enjoyable. One reviewer simply called it a “fun time,” which is probably the best summary. The downside is that the experience might not be as immersive or detailed as you might hope, but if your focus is seeing spectacular holiday displays and capturing some iconic Brooklyn views, this will likely satisfy.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for holiday enthusiasts, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, budget-friendly way to see Brooklyn’s Christmas lights. It’s also well-suited for travelers who want a guided tour to avoid navigating Brooklyn on their own or those pressed for time but still wanting to enjoy the festive sights.

If you’re someone who values in-depth historical context or wants a full culinary experience, this might not be the tour for you. But if your goal is to simply enjoy the lights, take photos, and experience Brooklyn’s holiday spirit, you’ll find this tour quite fitting.

The Sum Up

In a nutshell, the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see Brooklyn’s most famous holiday decorations with minimal fuss. Its affordable price combined with comfortable transportation and scenic views make it a good pick for anyone wanting a festive sightseeing experience without breaking the bank.

While it’s not packed with extras like meals or detailed historical insights, it makes up for that with bright, cheerful displays and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The small-group setting helps keep it cozy and personal, perfect for holiday travelers or families who want to soak in the seasonal decor.

If you love Christmas lights, enjoy good photo ops, and want an easy way to see Brooklyn’s holiday displays, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to wear warm clothes and bring your camera—you’re in for a bright, festive evening.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-focused, the stops at Dyker Heights and Brooklyn viewpoints are generally family-friendly. Keep in mind that the walk-around time is flexible, and kids who enjoy festive lights will likely have fun.

What is included in the tour?
The tour price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided stops at Dyker Heights, Dumbo, and Bay Ridge, and a maximum group size of 48 travelers. Food and drinks are not included.

When does the tour start and end?
It begins at 4:00 pm at 790 7th Ave and ends in Times Square, making it convenient for those planning to continue exploring the city afterward.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4 hours, giving plenty of time to see the lights, enjoy the views, and take photos without feeling rushed.

What’s the best time to see the Christmas lights?
The tour is scheduled for early evening, so you’ll see the lights as they turn on and shine brightly against the night sky, ideal for photos and photos.

Are there any weather considerations?
Yes, this tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll get a full refund or reschedule.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour accessible for public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to reach without a car.

How many people typically book this tour?
Most travelers book about 21 days in advance, and the group size is limited to ensure a comfortable experience.

If you’re visiting New York during the holiday season and want a relaxed way to enjoy Brooklyn’s famous Christmas displays, this tour might just be the perfect, no-fuss option.