Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour: Brooklyn's Over-the-Top Holiday Parade
Ride a luxury coach from Midtown Manhattan to Brooklyn for an hour-long guided walk through Dyker Heights’ legendary holiday displays. Expect life-sized Santas, synchronized reindeer, and skyline photo stops at Brooklyn Bridge Park and Rockefeller Center.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers and windproof outerwear
Evenings in late November–December get cold quickly; a warm shell and hat keep you comfortable during the outdoor walking portion.
Arrive early for better photo windows
Get to the bus meeting point near West 32nd St at least 15 minutes before departure to board quickly and snag forward seats for skyline views.
Carry a portable power bank
Phones drain fast in cold weather and on long photo sessions; a charged backup ensures you capture the lights and navigate afterward.
Mind private property and crowds
Stick to sidewalks and public viewing spots—residents appreciate respectful distance and minimal noise near decorated homes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fulton Landing in Brooklyn for an unobstructed skyline shot away from crowds
- •Local Italian bakeries in Bensonhurst for a quick espresso and pastry after the tour
Wildlife
- •Herring gulls near the waterfront
- •Eastern gray squirrels in neighborhood parks
Conservation Note
This is a residential neighborhood—respect private property, avoid flash photography on doorsteps, and pack out any trash; crowding can strain local streets, so follow guide directions to minimize impact.
Dyker Heights developed as an early-20th-century suburban-style neighborhood in Brooklyn; the holiday lighting tradition grew from community displays in the 1980s into today’s large-scale spectacle.
Photographer's Notes
- • Frontlines of 11th Avenue and 83rd–86th Streets where displays concentrate
- • Fulton Landing/Brooklyn Bridge Park for skyline backdrops
- • Washington Square Park arch framing the Village tree
What to Bring
Warm insulated jacketEssential
Keeps you warm during the evening walking portion and while waiting at photo stops.
Comfortable waterproof walking shoesEssential
City sidewalks can be slick; supportive shoes make the walk and standing more pleasant.
Portable phone chargerEssential
Ensures you can take photos and use transit apps without running out of battery.
Small camera or compact tripod
A compact tripod or stabilizer helps capture low-light shots without blur in crowded settings.
Common Questions
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour meets on West 32nd Street between 6th Avenue and Broadway behind Greeley Square Park; it ends near Rockefeller Center with drop-offs along the route back to Manhattan.
Is the walking portion strenuous?
No—the guided walk in Dyker Heights is about one hour on mostly flat, residential sidewalks, suitable for most fitness levels.
Are restrooms available during the tour?
Public restrooms are limited; plan to use facilities before boarding. Guides may stop near cafes or parks on the return leg if time allows.
What is the weather cancellation policy?
Tours operate in most weather but may cancel for heavy snow or hazardous conditions; full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours prior.
Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?
The tour is stroller-accessible, but crowded sidewalks can be tight; contact the operator ahead if you require wheelchair assistance to discuss logistics.
Are tripods allowed for photography?
Small, inconspicuous tripods are acceptable, but larger equipment may be impractical on crowded sidewalks; be mindful of other visitors and local property.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Brooklyn, NY
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light fitness—comfortable standing and short walks; suitable for families and most travelers
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