Manhattan Christmas Trees

•    Rockefeller Center

The signature New York Christmas tree lives up to its hype. The ice rink below, the graceful architecture above and the magnificent multi-colored light-laden tree captures a city moment that is hard to match

•    American Museum of Natural History Origami Tree

A feast for the eyes with its artistic origami ornaments. It's more of a nature lover's tree with all those animal connections. The clean, uncluttered ensemble reflects an Asian influence.

•    Cathedral of Saint John the Divine Peace Tree

Set amidst the grandeur of the Cathedral, the annual Peace Tree provides a great place to take a break and reflect on the importance of peace in our daily lives and in the larger context of the world. Hundreds of white origami cranes create an ethereal wintry look. Indirect lighting sets off the entire tree, located in the Narthex (entry foyer) of the Cathedral.

•    South Street Seaport Chorus Tree

A stunner of a tree augmented by the hustle and bustle of the Seaport, Santa's Story Hour on Saturdays, the Big Apple Chorus and the brand new ice rink (now scheduled to open in mid-December) makes this 50 foot white lighted tree a must-see.

•    Charles A. Dana Discovery Center

The indoor live tree is decorated with hand-made children's ornaments such as birds, crystals, stockings, bells, bulbs and other decorations. Think simple but sweet. Welcoming you to the Center is a big wreath, spiced up with multi-colored lights.

•    The Park Avenue Memorial Trees

These trees are located on Park Avenue, from East 97st Street to East 48th Streets in Manhattan. The sweeping totality of 50 blocks of the Park Avenue Memorial Trees makes Park Avenue feel like your own elegant driveway. The affect is pleasing to the eyes and the soul. It's about beauty and remembrance and the best that the holidays have to offer. This effort was started way back in the 1940's as a way to remember our fallen war heroes.

•    Metropolitan Museum of Art

Perhaps the most classical, old-fashioned tree in Manhattan with its delicate gossamer ornaments and Neapolitan baroque crèche, the Met's annual presentation is very moving. The special shows with lighting and singing create special Christmas moments Friday and Saturday nights.

For more great Christmastime events in Manhattan, check out Manhattan Event Listings.