This is the definitive NYC Santa visit — the most elaborate in-store Christmas experience in the country, and it costs nothing but a reservation. The walk-through village is detailed enough to delight adults doing it ironically and kids doing it sincerely. Pair it with Macy's windows and the 34th Street holiday displays for a complete old-school New York Christmas morning.
What to expect
A timed-entry queue leading through the animated village — roughly 30-60 minutes end to end — finishing with a private moment and photo with Santa. Photo packages are sold, but visiting is free. Weekends near Christmas book out; weekday slots are far easier to grab.
Good to know
- 2026 dates not yet announced — based on the annual pattern (opens around the day after Thanksgiving, runs through December 24)
- Free, but timed reservations are required and are released on Macy's site in advance — Christmas-week slots go fast
- Enter at Macy's Herald Square (151 W 34th St) and head to the 8th floor
- Professional photo packages cost extra; your own phone photos are allowed
- Weekday mornings early in the season are the calmest slots
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Common questions
Is Santaland free?
Yes — visiting Santaland and meeting Santa is free, though you must book a timed reservation on Macy's website. Only the optional professional photo packages cost money.
When do 2026 reservations open?
Macy's hadn't posted 2026 dates at the time of writing. The attraction traditionally runs from around the day after Thanksgiving (Nov 27 in 2026) through Christmas Eve, with reservations opening on macys.com in the weeks before.
