Best Places to Take Pictures with Santa in NYC

When it comes to Santa, my children have been around the block once or twice. Yup, they've sat on the laps of just about every Santa in town, making googly eyes, whispering sweet nothings into his ear, as if he's the only one true Santa in their hearts, when, really, they've got a different Santa in just about every neighborhood that they're selling the same line to. Poor guy, he just eats it up.

So if you want to know where to get your picture taken with Santa in NYC, you've come to the right place. Here's the skinny on the fat man:

ABC Carpet and Home
The Santa at ABC Carpet and Home is a lavish, Victorian affair, draped in velvet and surrounded by sumptuous housewares. ABC's Santa has gotten more popular in the last few years, but if there is a line to see Santa, it moves fast.

Photo Tip: You can take your own photos, but the lighting is not the best so bring a camera that's good in low light.

Freebies: a small, but stylish ornament.

When: Weekends. Noon to 5pm.

World Financial Center
Christmas and Hanukkah with one stop shopping; it doesn't get more New York than this. Visit Santa and get a photo taken, then stick around for some fun, foot-stomping Klezmer music.

Photo Tip: $10. The proceeds go to charity.

Freebies: If you go on Sunday, December 14th, don't miss the free concert featuring Margot Leverett and the Klezmer Mountain Boys.

When: Santa is only at the World Financial Center Winter Garden Friday through Sunday, December 12-14 from 10am- 1pm and 2pm -7pm. In the Winter Garden.

South Street Seaport This wandering Santa can be found handing out candy canes around the Seaport, but to catch a posed picture with him go to the 3rd floor food court during specified times. Big plus: you'll have this guy all to yourselves. No lines here.

Photo Tip: Free. Bring your own camera.

Freebies: Every Saturday, Santa Lunch takes place at noon and Santa Story Hour at 1pm on Pier 17 3rd Floor Atrium.

When: Visit Santa on Pier 17 Tuesday-Friday, 1-4pm or 12-2pm and 5:30-7:30pm on weekends.

NYC Fire Museum
For the most off the wall visit to Santa, you have to check out the Annual Santa Rescue at the NYC Fire Museum. At this event, Santa gets stuck in the chimney and the firefighters have to get out the hook and ladder to rescue him. Families look on as Santa is saved by the firemen, then everyone goes in to celebrate with hot dogs and hot chocolate. Kids can get their pictures taken with Santa.

Photo Tip: Bring your own camera.

Freebies: Hot dogs and hot chocolate.

When: Sunday, December 14^th, 2008 at 12 noon at the NYC Fire Museum located on 278 Spring Street, New York NY.
The Museum has a suggested admission: Adults - $5, Students and Seniors - $2, Children under 12 - $1.

Santa in Central Park Santa will be taking up residence in Belvedere castle (mid-park at 79th st) to grant children's wishes and kids can participate in an activity to learn about Saint Nicholas.
Photo Tip: Free. Bring your own camera.

Freebies: Children's activity ongoing to learn about Saint Nicholas.

When: Sunday, December 21, 11am-1pm

Still Hip
Lots of neighborhood boutiques will have their own Santa's in residence so check your favorite local shops. (Marc Jacobs used to have a great one, but not this year) One worth popping in to will be Still Hip in Fort Greene's Santa seating. A great professional photographer will be on hand to take pictures and they promise there's another surprise in store...hmmm.

Photo Tip: $10 for great professional photos.

Freebies: Surprise!

When: December 6 and 7, 3-6pm, by appointment. Limited space for drop-ins. Call 718-398-0008

SantaLand at Macy's
OK, I can't totally knock Santaland at Macy's. It is perhaps one of the hugest productions you can see with kids in New York for free. You'll not only see Santa, but a whole North Pole Village, an enchanted forest, a train display and there's a puppet show for a small fee. Be prepared for lines. Best to go on a weekday either early or late in the afternoon.

Photo Tip: Purchase professional photos.

Freebies: Kids go home with awe and an elf hat.

When: Daily 9am-9pm at Macy's in Herald Square. Pay for photos and $5 for the puppet show.

SantaCon
For a little something different why not try a picture with the Santa's of SantaCon? You have to time it right, but you can pretty much catch this rowdy crowd of naughty Santas all around NYC. I know they head to the South Street Seaport usually around late morning and you can find them in Union Square and the other usual spots. Could make for a great Christmas card!
Photo Tip: Take your own camera and your chances!

Freebies: You're better off not taking anything from these guys.

When: Saturday, December 13. Sign up for text messages to catch them in action.

Get in the spirit with these favorite Christmas books. I especially recommend this version of The Night before Christmas illustrated by Jan Brett.

Find more Holiday Activities like these in our Holiday Guide.