dyker heights walking tour map

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Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

When people think about Christmas lights and holiday decorations in New York City, they usually think of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and the lavish store window displays of Midtown Manhattan.

But some of the best lights and decorations to be seen are in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.  

And we should know. We lead daily walking tours here during the Christmas season.

And below, you can watch Katherine, a tour guide for us, Free Tours by Foot, explain how to get here and give you a tour of the area.

The trip to the lights will vary depending on where you are starting from but expect 45-50 minutes by subway from Times Square.

The Dyker Heights lights generally start to appear the day after Thanksgiving, which is the third Thursday in November.

B ut if you want to ensure that you see the most number of lights, go mid-December through December 31st.

This post goes into more detail on how to visit the Dyker Heights, whether on your own or on an organized tour and has been updated for 2023.

• Introduction
• On Your Own
• Tips for Your Visit
• Guided Tours
• Notable Homes
• Christmas in NYC

Starting in the 1980s, Christmas started getting bigger and brighter in this neighborhood with each passing year.

There is an unspoken competition among the homeowners in the neighborhood, so some have added huge lawn ornaments and motorized displays, making for a lavish holiday spectacle.

M ost of the displays are not actually done by the homeowners, but rather by local professional decorating companies.

In 2023, expect to see massive, professionally done light displays (some costing upwards of $20,000!).

Dyker Heights has truly become a “must-see” for many people during the holidays.

You will see visitors walking through the neighborhood as well as people in their cars rolling by at a few miles per hour all around the area.

Below we explain how to get here and the best times to go .

We also share some insider tips so you can have a fantastic experience!

If after reading this post you don't want to visit on your own, there are 2 bus tours and a walking tour .

• Also, check out our free  Holiday Lights of Manhattan Tour .
• You may also be interested in On Location Tours Holiday Lights & Movie Sites Bus Tour. Receive an online discount here .

Since you will be in NYC for the holidays, please take a look at our definitive post on things to do in NYC  and consider some of our pay-what-you-wish walking tours .

And if you are considering visiting at least 2 of NYC's most popular paid attractions, then you can save at least 15% - 50% off on ticket and admission fees with a tourist attractions discount pass.

HOW TO GET TO THE DYKER HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

The best lights are on 11th Avenue to 13th Avenue and from 83rd to 86th Street.

We've made a self-guided Google Map you can use on your smartphone to find your way through the neighborhood. You can also take our self guided audio tour of Dyker Heights!

Most people see the lights on foot but it is possible to see them from your car if you have one.

Getting to Dyker Heights from Times Square takes roughly 45-50 minutes of travel time on the subway plus 15-20 minutes of walking from the subway station to the neighborhood.

There are three subway lines (the R, N, and D trains), that can get you to the neighborhood.

Each line goes to a different station, so you need to pay attention to which train you take. 

Regardless of which subway you take, you will still need to walk 15-20 minutes as the main concentration of homes is about a mile (1.6 km) from each subway station. 

You can take a bus or an Uber from the subway if you'd like.

Be sure to use our Google Map for directions to the Dyker Heights Christmas lights  to see the fastest route for you.

We recommend taking the R train to 86th Street Station in Brooklyn (it's the station with the red arrow in the image above). Here is a Google Maps link to help you.

When you are finished, you can either retrace your steps back to the R train or walk through the neighborhood and take the D train back, or vice versa.

If you are unfamiliar with the NYC Subway, then read our tips on navigating the system and choosing a MetroCard .

Driving and Parking

For those with a car, you may be wondering if you can see the lights from inside the warmth of your car. The answer is: yes.

But many locals choose this option which is why you will find yourself in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

If you are considering driving to Dyker Heights and then exploring on foot, know that parking is very hard to find.

Your best chances to find parking are between 79th to 86th Street.

However, we recommend public transportation to avoid any vehicular hassles.

BEST TIME TO SEE THE LIGHTS

The Dyker Heights lights start to appear the day after Thanksgiving, which is the third Thursday in November.

By then, most homeowners will have flicked the switch! The lights and decorations are generally gone after New Year's Day.

Starting at dusk every day (4:30/5-ish), the lights are turned on. Most are turned off by 10 pm. As for the best days of the week, if you want to avoid large crowds, go on a weekday. But even on weekdays, you will be among many other folks who have come to see the lights.

T IPS FOR YOUR VISIT

Here are some tips for your visit to make sure you have the jolliest time possible!

We also have a section on where to eat and a section covering other area attractions .

DYKER HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TOUR

We are happy once again to offer our very own walking tour of the Christmas lights in Dyker Heights Brooklyn.

W e also list two well-reviewed bus tour operators below.

Or you can take our self guided audio version if you want to tour Dyker Heights on your own.

Here is how it works:

• Purchase an audio tour below.
• Get a confirmation email with .mp3, .pdf, and embeddable Google Map
• Enjoy the tour(s).

For our walking tour, meet your tour guide in Brooklyn, where we will take the subway as a group to the main "show".

There, your tour guide will show you all the important light displays and tell you the history behind each of them.  

It's a great experience and a great way to make some new friends.  

Searching Availability...

GUIDED WALKING TOUR OF THE LIGHTS 

Reservations:  Required. 

Duration:  Tour is 2 hours (4 hours total if coming from Midtown Manhattan). In total, you can expect to walk approximately 3 miles (4.8 km).

When:  Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 7:15 pm

Cost:  $25/person (48 hours notice needed for refund)

Where:  Meet your guide outside the Taco Bell on 4th Ave and 87th Street in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. ( map ).

DYKER HEIGHTS BUS TOURS

We are also partnering with our friends at A Slice of Brooklyn Tours and Tour America to offer a guided bus tour of the Dyker Heights Christmas lights displays.

These excursions are part bus and part walking, but the tours are guided throughout. 

Some even make bonus stops at the Brooklyn Bridge and/or the Brooklyn Heights Promenade and DUMBO.

Be sure to also read our comparison and review posts on NYC bus tours .

A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours

With an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor, it's safe to say that this company offers excellent bus tours.

Reviews for their Dyker Heights trip are especially positive, as most customers agree that the experience was wonderful.

Guests appreciated their fun and informative tour guides, indicating that they provided a lot of significant details about the light show and the neighborhood.

GUIDED TOUR OF THE LIGHTS

Reservations:  Reservations are required.  Book Now .

Where:  The tour begins at Union Square. The exact location and directions are provided upon booking.

Duration:  Approximately 3.5 hours.

When:  Every day from December 1 - 30, 2023. Multiple departures daily from 5 pm to 8 pm.

• Priority Adult: $75
• Priority Children: $65
• Standard Adult: $65
• Standard Children: $55

Blackout dates – Dec 24 and Dec 25 as well as Dec 31st and January 1st.

BOOK THIS TOUR .

TOUR AMERICA

In addition to the services listed above, this company also provides a Dyker Heights Christmas Lights bus tour.

Clocking in at roughly 3 ½ hours, this outing should give you plenty of time to see the beautiful holiday lights in this Brooklyn neighborhood.

As you drive past notable sites, a tour guide will provide narration and point out some of the more magnificent displays.

Once you reach the area, you'll be given 45 minutes to walk around and see the lights up close.

At the end of your trip, you'll have the option to stop at Rockefeller Center and join the ice skaters in front of the iconic Christmas tree.

They also offer this tour  en Espanol .

• Ticket Prices: $60 for Adults | $50 for Children
• Duration: 3 ½ hours
• Availability: Dec 1st - Jan 1st @ 5 pm and 6 pm
• 45-minute stop in Dyker Heights for a closer look at the lights
• Stop by Rockefeller Center and join the ice skaters
• Click here for more information .

Overall ratings for this bus tour are very positive ( read reviews here ).

Most customers agree that Tour America runs an excellent service, indicating that they actually provided a lot of useful information about the city while driving toward their destination.

Guests were pleased that they had the opportunity to hop off for 45 minutes and walk around Dyker Heights to see the lights up close. 

DYKER HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Like Tour America's bus tour above, the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights (DHCL) tour provides round-trip transportation to see the lights.

You depart from Midtown Manhattan and enjoy Christmas tunes, free Wi-Fi, and TV on the bus ride to Brooklyn.

Upon arrival in Dyker Heights, you have exclusive access to the Dyker Lights Lounge to warm up or use the restrooms before heading out for your guided walking tour of the holiday displays.

Before boarding your bus back to Manhattan, you will again stop at the lounge for a complimentary cup of hot chocolate and a treat.

The drop-off location is at Bryant Park in Midtown so if you want to enjoy more of the holiday season you can go to the Christmas market which is open until 10 pm.

Reservations: Required. Book here . 

Duration:  Tour is 4 hours including bus travel time from Midtown Manhattan. Expect to walk approximately 3 miles.

When:  5 p.m. (17:00) every day from November 28, 2023 - to Jan. 6, 2024 (closed December 24, 25, and 31)

Cost:  $95/person 

OTHER DYKER HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TOURS

Groupon often offers promotions on some Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tours. Be sure to look at the Groupon site for savings on tours.

WHERE ARE THE MOST LIGHTS

The best blocks to visit in Dyker Heights are 83rd Street and 84th Street between 10th Avenue and 12th Avenues.

We've made the below map for you to use on a self-guided tour of the lights.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Walking Tour Map

Spata House

1152 84th St ( map ) 

Lucy Spata started decorating her house in 1986. If this house doesn't get you in the Christmas spirit nothing will!

She decorates her house (well, her half of a duplex) with all sorts of holiday objects, from reindeer to toy soldiers to Santas.

The Polizotto House 

1145 84th Street ( map )

Alfred Polizzotto first decorated his house more than 20 years ago as a way to celebrate some pretty great news: Polizzotto’s cancer had gone into remission.

He hired a Brooklyn local to deck out his lawn in thousands of lights, several one-ton mechanical horses, and automatronic toy soldiers.

Though he passed away several years ago, Polizzotto’s family has kept the tradition alive.

The holiday lights have not only brought joy to family and neighbors, but they also deliver happiness to the thousands of children that visit each season.

And the patriarch’s contribution to the hood was not forgotten. The year Alfred Senior passed away, all the Dyker Lights went dark for one night.

Visitors can make donations to the National Cancer Society by way of donation boxes set up all over the Polizzotto’s lawn. 

Saita House

1135 84th St ( map )

One of the most interesting houses on this street is the Saita House, an architectural gem that is listed on the National List of Historic Places.

The house is one of the few original houses still remaining when the neighborhood was designed to be a wealthy suburban enclave.

Sam the Greek  

71st Street and 14th Avenue ( map ).  

Located about 10 blocks from the Spata home, Sam Livos (Sam the Greek) owns a 3 story house decorated with approximately 300,000 lights.

A few houses down are giant Nutcrackers.

Let us also not forget about the twin houses, one decked out in red and another in green with lighting completely enveloping the homes and even running 20 feet into the air into the trees.

Oh, and depending on the day and time, there is a DJ spinning Christmas music right at the corner of 84th Street and 12th Avenue. It's a fun time even for the tour guides.

WHERE TO EAT IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Should you get hungry after your tour of the neighborhood or want to grab a snack beforehand, there are plenty of places to get food in the area.

There are many fast food chains like Chipotle and Starbucks along 86th Street between the subway and the beginning of the Christmas Lights houses.

If you like Italian food you are in luck! It's the cuisine that Dyker Heights is best known for! Here are some of the best places to go.

La Bella Marketplace at 7907 13th Avenue ( map )

A fantastic Italian supermarket. The prepared food section has savory Italian meat dishes, and all sorts of pastas, and vegetables. 

Open Mon-Fri 7:30 am - 8 pm, Sat 7:30 am - 7 pm, Sun 7:30 am - 6 pm

Krispy Pizza at 7112 13th Avenue ( map )

Yummy pizzeria to sit down or take out. Also serves salads, calzones, and Italian appetizers.

Open M–Th: 11 am–11 pm,  F–Sa: 11 am–12 am, Sun: 12 pm–11 pm.

Lioni's Italian Heroes at 7803 15th Avenue ( map )

An Italian deli with over 150 different sandwiches! Meats, cheeses, vegetables, you name it, they’ve got it!

Open Monday-Sat 8 am -7 pm Sunday 8:30 am-2:30 pm.

Tasty Pastry Shoppe at 8216 13th Avenue ( map )

Makes delicious Italian baked goods to go.

Open Tuesday– Saturday 6:30 am - 8 pm, Sunday  6:30 am - 5 pm. Closed on Mondays

Twist Coffee at 7824 13th Ave ( map )

Sit-down cafe with every kind of warm drink under the sun. Plus shakes, cold drinks and a selection of pastries and cookies.

Open daily 8 am - 6 pm.

OTHER THINGS TO SEE IN DYKER HEIGHTS

While a primarily residential area, there are a few sights to see in the area if you like history.

New Utrecht Reformed Church at 1827 84th Street ( map )

This is the 9th oldest church building in New York City, built in 1828 in the Georgian Gothic style.

The congregation is the 4th oldest Reformed Church in America, serving the Brooklyn community since 1677.

Harbor Defense Museum at 230 Sheridan Loop ( map )

Admission is free at this unique museum. See artifacts and historical items from the old Fort Hamilton, completed in 1831.

Today, Fort Hamilton is the only active-duty military base in the greater New York City area. About half of the original fort has been demolished.

Objects at the museum include army weapons, uniforms, small arms, and cannons, from the 18th century to the present. 

See exhibits about the Battle of Brooklyn, World War I, World War II and more.

Open Tuesday - Friday 10 am to 4 pm.

Related Posts

• Christmas in New York
• Manhattan Lights Tour
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How to see the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: 2022 map and best tours!

• Posted by by Elle-Rose
• Updated: November 28, 2022
• 7 minute read

Are you looking for more information about how to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights? If so, keep reading!

The iconic Dyker Heights Christmas lights are one of the must-see places in NYC during the festive season.

If you’re in NYC over the Christmas period, trust me, you’ll want to make sure you make time to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights.

The Dyker Heights Christmas lights are one of the MOST festive things you can do in NYC in December…. And not to be missed!

However, the Dyker Heights Christmas lights aren’t necessarily easy to find from central Manhattan !

Hopefully this post (and map) of the Dyker Heights Christmas lights will help guide the way to this magical NYC experience!

But what is the best way to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights? Hopefully, this guide to seeing the Dyker Heights Christmas lights will answer all your questions!

Read more about visiting NYC:  42 festive things to do in NYC at Christmas!

Why visit Dyker Heights Christmas lights in NYC?

Ummmm…. Because the Dyker Heights Christmas lights are incredible!! That’s why!

If you love Christmas, love festivities, and love the magic of this kind of year… then the Dyker Heights Christmas lights are a must-see in the city.

There’s nothing quite like them… The Dyker Heights Christmas lights in NYC are so unique. And they’re such ana amazing way to spend a few hours over the festive period.

Basically, Dyker Heights Christmas lights are a neighborhood of houses that go all-out for the festive season, decorating their homes to the absolute max.

You won’t have ever seen anything like the Dyker Heights Christmas lights before – it’s like something from the movies! In fact, it has been featured in some movies!

The Dyker Heights Christmas lights displays are just amazing, beautiful, magical, memorable … you name it. The houses are huge, and the decorations are out of this world !

Read more about visiting NYC at Christmas: What restaurants are open on Christmas Day in NYC?

How to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights

If you’re planning to visit the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, you’ll want to make a plan.

The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights aren’t located on Manhattan Island, so you’ll need to prepare for a little bit of travel to get there.

Unlike other NYC attractions during the Christmas period, the Dyker Heights Christmas lights aren’t as easy to reach or walk to.

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights are located in the Brooklyn suburbs – so it’s a little further than most tourists venture when visiting the city!

If you’re a tourist in NYC, you have three main choices for seeing the Dyker Heights Christmas lights. These are…

• Get an Uber to and from the Dyker Heights Christmas lights
• Take public transport to and from Dyker Heights Christmas lights
• Take a tour of Dyker Heights Christmas lights (usually a bus or coach, that picks you up from Manhattan and take you over to the neighborhood)

Whichever option you choose for seeing and enjoying the Dyker Heights Christmas lights, this guide will hopefully help you figure out which option is best for you.

Read more: What’s open on Christmas Day in NYC? Here are 14 things to do on Christmas Day in NYC!

Taking a tour of Dyker Heights Christmas lights

The first option we’ll discuss when seeing the Dyker Heights Christmas lights, is taking a pre-arranged tour.

To be honest, this is likely the most enjoyable option for visiting Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, because your tour guide will know exactly where to take you, and exactly where all the best lights are found.

Taking a guided tour of Dyker Heights Christmas lights is a great option if you want a hassle-free way to see the neighborhood.

You’ll get picked up from a pre-agreed collection point in the city (usually in a well-known tourist spot to make it easy – or sometimes your hotel).

The Dyker Heights Christmas lights aren’t necessarily hard to find, but taking a tour of the Dyker Heights Christmas lights will make it all much easier, and take any stress away from the situation.

Especially if navigation isn’t your thing!

Your ticket to Dyker Heights Christmas lights tour will give you a spot on the tour, and you’ll visit the neighbourhood with an expert guide who can take you through all the best-decorated streets and the most amazing houses.

It’s the best way to guarantee you see all the best bits of Dyker Heights – it’s surprisingly a big place, so this is really helpful!

There are several different Dyker Heights Christmas lights tours available, so choosing the best one for you and your budget is important!

Read more about visiting NYC at Christmas: What stores are open on Christmas Day in NYC?

Here are the top Dyker Heights Christmas lights tours I recommend:

4-hour dyker heights holiday lights bus tour, (picking up from manhattan), click here to book tickets.

This amazing Dyker Heights Christmas lights tour lasts 4 hours, and picks up from 566 10th Avenue.

You’ll be taken over to Dyker Heights on a super comfortable bus, where your tour guide will take you to all the best dazzling light displays int he neighborhood.

The tour guide on this tour knows everything there is to know about Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, and you’ll not only get to see the best there is to offer at Dyker Heights, but you’ll learn loads too.

Once you arrive in the right place to enjoy the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, you’ll even be able to hop off the bus and follow your guide to the two most illuminated streets in the area.

These are the places you don’t want to miss!

On the way back to Manhattan, you’ll also stop off at the Brooklyn Bridge in DUMBO/Brooklyn Heights – so you can soak in the amazing skyline during the nighttime!

Read more about NYC during winter: When does Christmas season start in NYC?

Dyker Heights Holiday Bus Tour

This tour is a great option if you fancy heading directly over to the Dyker Heights Christmas lights in a comfy coach, with a tour guide in tow.

The tour starts at 6pm at night, and lasts for 3.5 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore Dyker Heights Christmas lights when your tour arrives at the iconic Christmas location.

This particular tour takes you via Bay Ridge and Dyker Heights (two amazing neighborhoods) as well as Italian-American sections of Brooklyn where you will find tree-lined streets and beautiful private residences decorated for the Christmas holidays.

This is a really festive way to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights.

Read more about NYC at Christmas: 12 awesome pizza places open on Christmas Day in NYC

NYC Holiday Lights Tour by Private Limousine

This is a slightly more luxurious option for seeing the Dyker Heights Christmas lights!

It may seem expensive compared to the other tour options, but if you’re visiting NYC in a big group, this works out as a really affordable way to see the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights!

If you’ve got the budget, this is a pretty amazing way to see the amazing festive neighborhoods, and the perfect night out.

This amazing 3 hour tour of festive holiday lights, begins in Manhattan and then winds it’s way to Brooklyn and the incredible Dyker Heights Christmas lights displays.

Your driver will know all the best places to stop and take photos, and you’ll get to enjoy complimentary champagne during the tour too!

It’s such a special way to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights display.

Read more about visiting NYC:  The ultimate guide to spending Christmas in NYC

Read more about NYC during winter: Does it snow in NYC during January?

Getting an Uber to Dyker Heights Christmas lights

Getting an Uber (or taxi) to the Dyker Heights Christmas lights is another great way to see the neighborhood as you can get the Uber to Dyker Heights Christmas lights from right outside your hotel.

You’ll be able to go there on your own time schedule and leave when you’ve seen it all.

Uber cost to Dyker Heights: Approx $65 – $85 each way.

So approx around $150 in total.

This is a great option for seeing the Dyker Heights Christmas lights, if you want to explore the neighborhood on your own, and the cost of the Uber isn’t too off-putting.

If budget isn’t an issue, then this is a good option for seeing the Dyker Heights Christmas lights. But bear in mind – you won’t have a guide to show where the best houses are!

A negative of this option is that you may not see all the best houses and you might not know the show-stopping houses for the Dyker Heights Christmas lights, and you might not know which ones are the best houses to look out for.

Taking a tour of the Dyker Heights Christmas lights (mentioned above) will ensure you see all the best houses in the neighborhood and visit all the best streets!

It’s also very easy to get lost in this part of Brooklyn, so a tour guide is pretty useful for that reason too!

Read more about NYC during winter: 8 of the best Christmas trees to visit in NYC

Taking public transport to Dyker Heights Christmas lights

Your last option for getting to Dyker Heights Christmas lights displays is to venture out on public transport!

This is a little more tricky (especially if you’re not used to using the New York Subway system, but it’s completely doable, so don’t be too scared!

It’s definitely the most budget-friendly choice for seeing the Dyker Heights Christmas lights.

In terms of time, it takes about 60 – 65 minutes to reach Dyker Heights Christmas lights from Times Square. Maybe a little less if you’re a fast walker.

Most routes to Dyker Heights Christmas lights will include a subway ride into Brooklyn, and then a 15 – 25 minute walk at the other side.

If you’re a little nervous about getting lost on the way, I would recommend a tour group (like the ones listed above), because you can just enjoy the experience, rather than worrying about taking a wrong train or a wrong turn on the way to the Dyker Heights Christmas lights.

I hope this guide to seeing Dyker Heights Christmas lights in Brooklyn has been helpful!

I hope this guide to seeing Dyker Heights Christmas lights has helped you figure out how you can see this amazing part of New York!

There are loads of Dyker Heights Christmas lights tours you can book onto – and honestly, it’s the tours that will give you the best experience!

Anyone visiting NYC during Christmas should make the time to visit Dyker Heights Christmas lights!

It’s just amazing!

Read more about NYC at Christmas: 18 Christmas-themed restaurants in NYC! With festive decor!

Read more about NYC during winter: 15 perfect winter getaways from NYC

Read more about visiting NYC at Christmas time: Top 20 restaurants for New Year’s Eve dinner in NYC

Read more about visiting NYC: 34 things to do in NYC when it rains

Elle-Rose is the owner and editor of The World and Then Some! She has been a professional travel writer for over 12 years, writing for many different publications, including this one. Elle-Rose is a city break expert, and she specializes in popular locations such as NYC, London, Las Vegas and Dubai, regularly visiting to stay on top of new attractions, restaurants and hotels. Elle-Rose is super active on TikTok (@theworldandthensome), and loves filming video content in the cities she visits - so go and say hello!

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Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

DHCL is a tourism company created by residents of Dyker Heights offering our guests the best experience imaginable. Our bus tour includes pick up in Manhattan just steps away from the Winter Village at Bryant Park. After traveling in style with our tour guide, guests will arrive in Dyker Heights and be chaperoned on a walking tour to the most celebrated homes ensuring a magical stroll through the prime viewing area where homeowners take holiday decorating to a whole new level. Our world-famous tour is guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit and have you coming back yearly to see the beautiful Dyker Heights Christmas Lights!

Pic of the Week

ig @kiariladyboss @newyorkcity4all

Submit your photo, testimonials.

“I had the time of my life; I told everyone about how wonderful this tour is and most importantly that it is run by locals that give back to the community. Until next year (yes, I plan on making this a tradition) continue to spread the joy and kindness.”

“Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. This is one of the best New York attractions during the holiday season. The Dyker Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn is home to the most over-the-top Christmas light decorations. Watch more in my IGTV. Thank you @dyker_heights_christmas_lights for the tour. Check out this company for their wonderful guided tour of the light displays originating from Manhattan. ”

Noel Y. Calingasan

“Back in NYC just in time for the holidays! I’m very excited to be taking the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour in Brooklyn, NY. This area has the best Christmas decorations, each house has a different theme. Unfortunately, it can be a major drag to get here since it’s not quite accessible by subway. This tour can take you from midtown Manhattan to South Brooklyn in comfort and offer you a walking tour and take you back. No need to find an Uber for the same price, well worth it – had a great time!”

“Congratulations to Steven, for taking the lead role to create Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. It was a magical walk through the neighborhood seeing the amazing Christmas decorations. Plus, topping off the evening with delicious Brooklyn pizza, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa made it so special. We look forward to coming back! ”

Myra Lemberg

“Such a wonderful experience! If you’re wanting to view this neighborhood during the holiday season, you must go on this tour! Steven is a great host and tour guide. He is a local, so he knows the area well plus the history of this Brooklyn Christmas tradition. 10/10!”

Amanda Marie Medrano

“I have booked a tour with DHCL and we had a blast! The tour operator was so sweet and he was giving us a little historical explanation about the place! We started the tour in the local Church and the tour guide showed us the best way to walk in order to see the best Christmas decorations! Definitely worth it to book it with DHCL!”

Sisi Bolatini

“ Absolutely brilliant, even better than I expected, it’s breath taking and so dramatic! The tour is worth every penny and the surprise at the end is a fantastic bonus. Loved every bit of it! ”

“Beautiful Place! My 2nd year going. Like it more than Rockefeller decorations. You really get into the Christmas spirit here.”

Mathys Oliviery

Read more testimonials.

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Visit Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: All The Info

You’ll be blown away by the stunning Christmas lights and decorations in Dyker Heights! A beautiful neighborhood with amazing houses located in Brooklyn. Over 100,000 people visit Dyker Heights each year to see the most over-the-top Christmas decorations.

A must for NYC Christmas visitors and locals! You’ll see inflatable Santas, snowmen, carols, musical accompaniment, motorized Christmas decor and more! Absolutely amazing!

WATCH THE VIDEO: DYKER HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS 2016

Tips to Visit to Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2020

COVID-19 UPDATE: The Christmas Lights at Dyker Heights are already ON this year. They will be lit despite the pandemic. It’s a full outdoor experience. Remember to stay safe, wear a mask and keep practicing social distancing to keep you and everyone safe 🙂

• Dress warmly! December can be very cold. Bring your winter coat, gloves, scarf, beanie, etc.
• Depending on the weather and mainly on weekends, there will be vendors selling snacks and drinks. But don’t go expecting you’ll find food trucks. It’s a neighborhood with just houses! You won’t easily find restaurants just by “casually” walking there and there aren’t any yellow taxis so plan ahead your return!
• Keep in mind that if it’s very cold, your phone might turn off & you use more battery when shooting many pictures and videos 😉 So go with a charger and knowing how to go back to Manhattan or wherever you have to go in case your battery dies!
• There are a couple of restaurants you might want to take note of in case you really need to get inside to warm up or just eat something or charge your phone: Burger place at 86th St & 7th Ave. and a Chinese Restaurant next to this one! You’ll also find a few spots at 13th Ave. & 78th St.
• There are more restaurants and food shops along 13th Ave. between 79th & 70th Streets where you can charge your phone if needed.
• There are usually plenty of police cars in the neighborhood so if you need something they’ll be there!

When is the Time to Go to Dyker Heights?

Starting the weekend after thanksgiving through new year’s eve..

Some houses in Dyker Heights hang their Christmas decorations starting the weekend right after Thanksgiving Day.

Many houses will remain lit and decorated through January 4th.

Best Time to Go to Dyker Heights

From mid-december through new year’s eve..

If you go too early, some houses may not be fully lit and decorated yet.

It’s being said that the best displays are usually on weekends than weeknights.

Crowds are thinner after Christmas Day .

Best Hours to See the Christmas Lights at Dyker Heights

5pm to 9pm..

Many houses turn their lights on at 5pm after dusk. At 9pm, some houses start turning their lights off when they go to sleep.

It’ll always be crowded, especially in the most famous Christmas houses. You’ll find fewer crowds at around 8pm.

Where to Go in Dyker Heights to See the Best Christmas Lights?

From 83rd to 86th streets between 11th & 13th ave..

Make sure to see those streets and avenues.

Feel free to explore more! There are stunning decorations at 10th Ave. too! And the blocks between 10th & 11th Avenues as well.

MOST POPULAR CHRISTMAS HOUSES IN DYKER HEIGHTS

Most popular streets : 83rd & 84th Streets between 11th & 12th Aves.

THE SPATA HOUSE

1152 84th St. between 11th & 12th Ave .

Packed with all sorts of holiday objects: toy soldiers, Santas, snowmen, nutcrackers, reindeers, angels, choir girls, etc. The house has more than 20,000 lights!

THE POLIZZOTTO HOUSE

1145 84th St. between 11th & 12th Ave .

Decorated with a pair of 29-foot (8.8m) high wooden soldiers that wave their arms.

SAM THE GREEK

71st St. & 14th Avenue .

A 3 story house decorated with thousands of lights. About 10 blocks away from the Spata house.

HOW TO GET TO DYKER HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

4 ways to get there:

• Taxi:  Uber or Lyft

Check on Google Maps your best options! There’s also a Public Bus (the X28) that takes you right there! Just 2 stops away from Battery Park in Manhattan to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn! To come back, you may have to take the R Subway walking to the 86th St. Station in Brooklyn (about 8/10 blocks from the Christmas Lights) or taking a bus to the subway station (check on Google Maps and put your departure time to see what buses are running when you’re planning on heading back).

TRANSPORTATION TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Pros of taking the subway or a taxi compared to the Bus Tour:

• You can choose to go on a different day if it rains.
• You can stay there as long as you want and take your time with each house, street and avenue and not feel rushed.

TAKING THE SUBWAY

The subway station is a little far from the best Christmas houses in Dyker Heights. It’s a 20′ minute walk from the subway station to the houses at 84th St.

Nearest Subways:

D/M trains to 18th Ave. in Brooklyn (& 86th St).

R train to 86 St. in Brooklyn (& 4th Ave.).

You can put on Google Maps the destination address “Dyker Heights Christmas Lights” that will take you to the area from the subway station to the decorations.

• Travel time by subway: an hour from Manhattan.
• It’s the cheapest option but the slowest one.

You can also take the X28 Public Bus from Battery Park to Dyker Heights (it’s more of an express bus because it’s just 2 stops away and it takes about 25 min!). You can also take this bus from City Hall Park in Financial District .

TAXI (UBER or LYFT)

• Travel time by taxi: half-hour drive from Lower Manhattan and 40min from Midtown.
• It’s the fastest option.
• It’s cheaper than the bus tour if you are 2 or more. Click here to get a promo code.

A few tips to consider

Taking the taxi from Lower Manhattan is cheaper than taking it from midtown or Upper West or East Side. If it’s only you, I’d recommend to take the subway to Financial District and request a car from that location.

There aren’t yellow taxis in Dyker Heights. You’ll need to request a taxi from your phone (plus it’s cheaper than Yellow Cabs) to go back to Manhattan. Make sure to bring your charger if by any chance you run out of battery.

The recommended bus tour  A Slice of Brooklyn  takes people every night in December through Jan. 4th, excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. Book your tickets in advance because this tour always sells out early!

• Tickets: it’s a bit pricey! Adults: $50 – Children under 12: $40. Book your tickets here .
• Tour length: about 3 and a half hours.
• Cons: it feels a bit rushed.

I would recommend avoiding the bus tour because you’ll feel rushed, you’ll always have many people (everyone from the tour!) to every house you go and it can be harder to take cleaner pictures & videos. You won’t be able to explore on your own more streets and avenues.

GETTING HERE WITH YOUR CAR

It’s not recommended to bring your own car due to traffic along the streets of Dyker Heights and parking.

Parking is easier on the avenue blocks and after Christmas Day.

MORE ABOUT DYKER HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Some homeowners decorate their own houses but many of them are done by professional decorating companies.

The cost of installing, serving, removing and storing those Christmas decorations by a professional company is between $3,000 and $6,000. In addition to the cost of the decorations itself and electricity.

Most people wonder how much these houses spend on electricity with so many lights on. There are rumors that some houses end up paying a $10,000 electric bill in December! Crazy, right?

The Spata House and the Polizzotto House were among the first families to begin the tradition of decorating their houses in the neighborhood in the 1980’s for Christmas season.

Enjoy the photos below!

You might want to check out:

Best Christmas Trees in NY .

Top Things to Do at Christmas .

Follow me on Instagram here !

Happy holidays!

@NewYorkerTips

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NewYorkerTips

Hi there :) I'm Jess and I came to NYC to pursue my dream and I feel I'm living it every day. New York is magical and you have to be open to everything because you never know who is sitting next to you on the subway or behind you in the line of the supermarket. I decided to create this blog about NYC because I realized how many powerful tips would have helped me if I knew them before coming to the city from someone who was living in NY! So I thought that it would be awesome to share with you some tips about New York from a New Yorker. I'm going to keep updating this blog so stay tuned :)

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The Ultimate Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour from Manhattan

LAST UPDATED: February 26, 2024

This post contains affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you book or purchase through these links. You can read my full disclosure policy  here .

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

One of the top experiences of all New York attractions , it is THE top Christmas lights excursion in the city. Honestly, I would argue one of the best displays of Christmas light decorations in the entire United States .

What makes this tour so special? The rich history of the houses and the residents who call Dyker Heights home. Yep, the Brooklyn Dyker Heights Christmas lights are all about its people and the annual traditions they keep! 

History of the Dyker Heights Lights

This affluent residential neighborhood dates back to the 1800s when founder Walter L. Johnson set out to create luxury housing on his family’s land. He named the division Dyker Heights since the land overlooked what is now known as The Dyker Beach Park and Golf Course.

While there is speculation and many versions of how the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights started, they all seem to involve the Spata family. Believed to have started in the 1980s when she moved to Dyker Heights, Lucy Spata decorated her entire property with NO inch to spare. The Spata family has continued the tradition ever since adding more each year!

As you can imagine, not everyone was on board at first. However, the tradition did catch on and now many (not all) homes participate creating a spectacle that draws people from all over the world!

I love it! I love the festive nature, I love the energy and the patience (neither of which I possess). But, I do have one question for Ms. Spata. Where DOES she park her car during December? 😱

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour

So, with the creation of the Christmas lights in Dyker Heights (I so love that it rhymes 😁) came the need for….tours, right? Well, of course!

There are many ways to go about the ultimate Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour. Whether you create your own or go the organized route, a Brooklyn Christmas lights tour of Dyker Heights will be a lasting memory of your trip to New York City during the holiday season!

While there are different types of tours available (self-guided, guided walking, virtual , private, etc), the one I took and will discuss in this post is the bus tour from Manhattan.

Bus & Guided Walking Tours from Manhattan

Most tourists visiting NYC during the holiday season will stay in Manhattan since that is where “all the things” happen. Good news! Some tours pick up and drop off in midtown Manhattan .

Personally, I feel this is the best option because who wants to rent a car in NYC or pay for an Uber? If you opt for your own, self-guided tour (free apart from train fare), then the train (metro if you aren’t from New York) is your best option. More on that later.

On our tour, we were picked up and dropped off a block from Bryant Park (across from the New York Public Library). The tour included round-trip transportation in a heated bus with a very informative tour guide.

Once we arrived in Dyker Heights, the buses parked in their designated area and we walked to the houses. The tour guide again gave us information as well as a little bit of free time.

We had fun marveling at the sheer amount of work and creativity (not to mention the power bill 😳) that goes into displays of this nature!

TIP: Many houses have a way to “tip” posted in their decorations and some are in the form of charity donations. Consider tipping to help out with the enormous power bills (it isn’t cheap in NYC) if you would like to help!

When it was time to go, we followed our guide back to the bus and returned to midtown Manhattan. Depending on the time and your drop-off location, this is a great time to explore Bryant Park’s Winter Village, Times Square, or Rockefeller Center!

You might also like: CHRISTMAS IN NYC: THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GUIDE

Location of the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Screenshot from Google Maps

Located in the borough of Brooklyn, Dyker Heights is not far from the famous Verazzano-Narrows Bridge. This southwestern Brooklyn neighborhood is (basically) bordered by 62nd Street (north), 14th Avenue (east), Poly Place (south), and 7th Avenue (west).

When to Visit the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Note: Dates are subject to change.

Typically, the lights are up right after Thanksgiving with tours starting the very next week. Offered daily throughout December, these tours fill up quickly in advance. I missed out on seeing them in 2021 because I waited too late. I learned my lesson and saw these Christmas lights in 2022!

As far as how long the tours run, the residents usually keep their decorations up through the first weekend in January. The booking calendar does a good job of showing the dates along with what is available and what is booked!

TIP: As soon as you know your trip dates, book your tour and then plan around it!

How to Get to the Lights of Dyker Heights

There are MANY different tours to choose from. We did this bus tour and it was fantastic. However, there are less expensive ones (looks like the difference is no snack/water) for a more budget-friendly approach. NYC isn’t cheap especially during the holidays!

If braving it on your own, the R train gets you closest to Dyker Heights. Access to the R train renders many possibilities depending on where you are in the city. Ultimately, you want to get off at 86th Street and it will take around 1 hr 15 min (during slow hours 😳) to get there one-way. Afterward, there is still nearly a one-mile walk upon arrival at 86th Street.

Google Maps of Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Houses of Interest

Where to Stay in Manhattan for Dyker Heights Bus Tour

While NYC is very easy to get around if walking or taking the train, if you want to center yourself near the Manhattan pickup/drop-off destination at Bryant Park, consider staying at the first option. However, if you want Christmas decorations and all the luxurious holiday bliss, consider the second and third options.

Hilton Garden Inn Times Square Central

The Hilton Garden Inn Times Square Central is my best recommendation as it is located right in the heart of Times Square and only half a block from Bryant Park. I’ve stayed here MANY times and my favorite is during the holidays, especially New Year’s Eve (prime accommodations to watch the ball drop without the crowd )!

It’s always a plus when staying near major train stations (like all the major 42nd Street locations) AND in walking distance of SO much!

TIP: Don’t get it confused with the Hilton New York Times Square that’s a block down the street. While still a good location, it’s much noisier/busier outside, and it’s NOT the location for the ball drop or half-block from Bryant Park.

The Peninsula New York

Located on the famous Fifth Avenue, The Peninsula New York is gorgeous at Christmastime. They have everything inside and out decorated to be sure your stay is pure holiday joy!

The Plaza Hotel

Famous itself, The Plaza Hotel needs no introduction. Here, guests receive five-star treatment on Fifth Avenue at Central Park. The stunning Christmas tree in the foyer draws in thousands of visitors each season. Also close by are the famous Bergdorf Goodman window decorations!

What to Wear for Christmas Dyker Heights Lights

One of the photo opportunities they had set up!

Something WARM! Though the bus is well-heated and very warm, the guided walking part of the tour is not. NYC gets quite cold so I highly recommend something like fleece-lined leggings for the ladies, Ugg boots , a packable down coat , a scarf, and a warm beanie. For the guys, I mostly saw jeans, sweatshirts, sweaters, warm coats, and beanies.

TIP: This is a SUPER casual event. If comfort and style don’t translate into the same outfit for you, I highly recommend prioritizing comfort for this tour!

Tips for Visiting Dyker Heights Lights

• Remember to be respectful. These houses are people’s private residences. • Tours are approximately 4 hours round-trip. This time can change depending on NYC traffic. • No food or drinks are allowed on the bus. •There is usually (check to be sure) a restroom on the bus and that is the ONLY access to restrooms you will have on the tour. • Not recommended for physical disabilities due to the amount of walking involved. • Some (not all) tours offer a treat and water on the way back. Otherwise, there are typically food trucks in Dyker Heights selling (expensive) holiday treats and hot cocoa. • Dress warmly and comfortably. It can get quite cold in NYC in December. • Tours happen rain or shine so come prepared. It drizzled on our tour!

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights FAQs

Q: Can you visit Dyker Heights without a tour? A: Absolutely! The neighborhood is free to access and walk around if you go on your own. Q: Where are Dyker Heights Christmas Lights? A: In NYC’s Brooklyn borough in the neighborhood of Dyker Heights. Q: Are Dyker Heights Christmas Lights free? A: If taking an organized tour, obviously they aren’t. However, if you are going on your own there is no entry fee to walk the neighborhood. Some residents have ways you can tip or donate posted among their decorations. Q: Are Dyker Heights Christmas Lights worth it? A: YES! Or else I wouldn’t be writing this article. 😜 Q: How long does it take to walk through Dyker Heights Christmas Lights? A: Outside of a guided tour, I would allow no less than an hour. If you want to truly take your time getting ALL the good photos (including standing in line for some opps), give yourself around 1.5 hours. If you have a bigger party, add 30 minutes to each allotment. *These times all depend on variable numbers of visitors on any given night. Note that weekends and weeknights after school lets out will likely have higher volumes. Q: Can you drive through Dyker Heights Christmas Lights? A: Not advised. The buses park a little ways out and everyone gets out to walk. Due to so many people in the streets, it’s hard enough for the residents to get in and out. Q: Are there food and drink options available? A: Yes. A few food trucks offer holiday treats and beverages (hot chocolate anyone?) scattered along the most popular sections of the light displays. Full disclosure: prices are a little high. Q: Can you do a private tour? A: Sure can! See how to take a private tour .

See? Isn’t it magical? It’s the perfect way to get out of Manhattan for a bit and see the calmer side of residential New York City. I truly enjoyed this Dyker Heights Christmas lights tour and hope you do too!

Have you taken a tour to see Dyker Heights’ Christmas lights? If so, was it organized or did you go on your own? Have any secrets or tips to add to help others? Share down below, please, and thank you!

‘Til next time…

Trimm Travels,

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The Christmas Lights at Dyker Heights look spectacular! Thank you for sharing your wonderful photos and great tips for the hotels and tours. Prices for the hotels you recommended are very resonable. Now New York City is on the top of my bucket list. Looking forward to read more articles about your experience in NYC.

Hi Natalia-Aww, thank you! Dyker Heights needs no help from me. It’s absolutely gorgeous and one of my fave NYC Christmastime activities. Hope you get to see it one day! NYC is my fave city especially at Christmas so I hope when you go you get to go then! Thanks for reading! 🙂

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Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Guide (Tips for 2023 by a Local)

Ever heard of the Dyker Heights Christmas lights in Brooklyn? Maybe not, but you have heard or know by now that New York City is one of the best holiday destinations in the world from Thanksgiving to New Year’s.

As a matter of fact, Brooklyn is pretty special during this time of year and the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights is what brings people from Manhattan to Brooklyn to see the spectacle of lights!

One of the best local spots that are catching on with popularity over the years are the famous Dyker Heights holiday lights in Brooklyn! This residential neighborhood takes Christmas pageantry to a whole new level, just like something you’d see in one of your favorite holiday movie classics!

Each year, since one resident started the tradition over 30 years ago, the giant, beautiful homes of Dyker Heights deck out their homes with over-the-top Christmas and holiday displays in an unspoken, friendly competition bringing holiday cheer to everyone who visits NYC in December .

The Dyker Heights holiday light displays attract around 100,000 visitors a year and while that seems like alot, many people are discouraged to visit because of how far away this Brooklyn neighborhood is from the other famous things to do in NYC at Christmas like the best Christmas window displays in NYC department stores to all the other fun festivities that make this city so special during the season.

That’s where this guide to visiting the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights comes in handy because we will cover everything you need to know about visiting and creating your own DIY Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour, or if you rather have someone show you we have that option at the end of this guide as well!

Seeing the Dyker Heights lights is easily one of the best things to do in Brooklyn in the winter ! So grab your winter gear and plan your visit to this seasonal attraction, especially on top of running around to see all the best Christmas lights in NYC and the best Christmas trees in NYC !

If you’re looking for more fun winter activities around Brooklyn don’t miss ice skating at Prospect Park or these Brooklyn ice skating locations!

Oh, and if you need help planning your holiday visit to the city, use our New York City Christmas itinerary for all the top attractions, places to eat, and things to see this magical time of year in the city!

Dyker Heights Holiday Lights Guide

History of the dyker heights holiday lights.

The beginning of the decked-out-to-the-max Dyker Heights holiday lights tradition started back when Lucy Spata moved to the neighborhood in the 1980s. She wanted to remember her mother’s holiday tradition of decking out the house by being as festive as possible!

(Although, some of this history is contentious as some argue homes started doing this before…however, many online sources say that this is when many homes started decorating thus starting the tradition.)

The Spata House is one of the main attractions and must-see houses when touring the Dyker Heights Christmas lights at 1152 84th Street. Each year since the 1980s this house is one of the most decorated and the angels in the front of the house and yard are to commemorate her mother’s tradition she brought with her here.

It is said at first the neighborhood and neighbors weren’t huge fans of the first Dyker Heights lights at Lucy Spata’s house but eventually that would change and it would become an unofficial annual decorating contest between the neighbors, just like in some of those classic holiday movies we all rewatch every winter.

Word got around, and now over 100,000 people gather to come see the millions of Dyker Heights Christmas lights every year!

Some homes in the neighborhood even hire professional Christmas light decorators to help them install their displays, when you walk around you’ll even see signs advertising these services! Some of the homes lavish decoration set ups are rumored to cost around $20,000! Look what Lucy Spata started!

When to See Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

The Dyker Heights Christmas lights are on display starting the day after Thanksgiving, which is always the third Thursday of November through New Year’s Eve.

The lights are visible every day of the week starting at around dusk when the neighborhood turns on their lights until around 10 pm.

If you come after NYE, you may still see a few homes that still have their displays up! However, the best window to see them all is Thanksgiving through NYE.

Some of the homes don’t always have their Dyker Heights Christmas lights on display right away, so some argue that the best time to go to see the most homes decked out with holiday cheer is after the first week of December up until Christmas.

Something important to consider though is that mid-December through New Year is the busiest time to enjoy the Dyker Heights Christmas lights, so if you’re okay only seeing some of the Dyker Heights lights, it can be a more enjoyable experience if you want to see all the decorations and brightly lit homes without as many people.

This is also a great time if you’re hoping to get one of the most coveted New York City Christmas photo spots without people in them.

And one of the best traditions, if you’re looking for things to do on Christmas Day in NYC is to come on the 25th to see the lights!

How to Get to the Dyker Heights Holiday Lights

Many people wonder how the best way to get to the Dyker Heights lights is as it’s a bit further than the normal holiday festivities sightseeing route in the rest of the city like all the famous stops in Midtown.

You can expect to prepare to spend around 60 minutes or more commuting from Manhattan to Dyker Heights, being conservative depending on the route you take and less from other spots in Brooklyn depending on your starting location.

The quickest option to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights is usually always the subway.

Getting to Dyker Heights via the Subway

Wondering how to get to Dyker Heights Christmas Lights on the subway? It’s easy peasy.

There are two main subway stops we recommend taking to get to the Dyker Heights holiday lights, 86th Street Station (R train) or 79 Street Station (D train). Both of these options will require a 10-15 minute walk to get to the main area.

Both of these stations will most likely require you to pass or transfer to the D or R subway line at Atlantic Avenue Station in Downtown Brooklyn.

From this point in your journey, you have around a 20-minute ride on the subway until you reach the nearest subway stops in Dyker Heights before needing to walk an extra 15-20 minutes.

Getting to Dyker Heights Christmas Lights by Taxi/Rideshare

This is a great option for getting to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights if you aren’t comfortable navigating the subway and don’t mind spending for convenience.

Depending on your starting point and time of day, taking a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft or a taxi can vary from 40-60 minutes from different locations in Manhattan and anywhere from 20-40 minutes from various points in Brooklyn. This is assuming you’re not attempting to get a ride at rush hour.

When you are trying to leave the Dyker Heights lights you will have trouble finding a taxi, if this is what you want to take to and from, you will most likely need to order an Uber or Lyft ride to return.

Since the streets with the Christmas lights are going to be packed, it’s easiest to walk a few blocks away from the crowded streets so your driver can reach you.

Driving to Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Another option for getting to the Dyker Heights holiday lights is driving if you have your own car. If you’re not used to driving in the city, expect traffic and delays on your way to and once you’re at the lights.

The huge downside to driving your own car is that it’s very difficult to find parking and almost impossible to drive up and down the streets where all the Dyker Heights Christmas lights are as people are in the streets oohing and ahhing at the lights. It’s super congested and can be a very frustrating experience.

Unless completely necessary, we wouldn’t advise taking your own car just because the parking is hard to find and it could dampen your experience.

Some people prefer to see the lights from their car, if you do this, plan to be sitting bumper to bumper at the most popular spots, especially between 11th & 12th Avenues. You will want to do this part by foot!

We have never done this way as we live in the city without a car, however, one helpful commenter noted that the best chances of parking is between 79th – 86th streets.

Where are the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights?

The best streets for viewing the Dyker Heights lights and creating your own DIY Dyker Heights lights tour is on 83rd Street and 84th Street between 10th and 12th Avenues . These are where you can find the main homes, however, there are plenty of other streets nearby where you can find more Dyker Heights holiday light displays that we will cover next.

Between 83rd Street and 84th Street between 10th and 12th Avenues you can find four of the most popular Dyker Heights Christmas light displays including the original, the Lucy Spata House at 1152 84th Street.

Next, there’s the Polizzotto Home at 1145 84th Street (former home of the famous giant 15 ft Santa Claus and large display of moving animatronic decorations) This home is now decorated differently as the house passed ownership recently.

Another notable stop on your DIY Dyker Heights Christmas lights tour is the Forest of Lights at 1134 83rd Street. This fun stop is literally what it sounds like, a forest of lights! This home on the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights trail has a good amount of trees and they decorate them from the ground to the top with colorful lights making them a forest of lights!

Another one of our favorite homes is 1023 83rd Street, this home belongs to the family of. Frank Mangano and they have a magical, over the top display that is one of our top picks and must-see sights at the Dyker Heights holiday light display! They also have an Instagram account you can follow for behind the scenes @1023XMAS.

The Let It Snow House at 8401 10th Avenue has become a favorite the last few years, not only is the entire side of the house dripped with colorful lights but on the corner of 10th Avenue they have SNOW all the time! They have a creative snow machine that brings the magic of a White Christmas every night to Dyker Heights!

Another over the top home is 1270 84th Street, they go above and beyond with their themes for their holiday display, from gold fish, Super Mario, pandas, and more with this over the top LED and light display!

Pay attention to other details at the house, if you’ve got a keen eye you might even spot a Santa surprise in the window! This is also one of the many homes that has a charity you can donate extra change to if you’re in the Christmas spirit and are able to help a great cause.

Most Popular Dyker Heights Lights:

• Lucy Spata House (1152 84th Street) – The original house to start the Dyker Heights lights tradition
• Polizzotto Home (1145 84th Street) – The original owners have sold and moved on, the new owner now decorates though too! Still an impressive home
• Forest of Lights (1134 83rd Street) – Trees decked out with lights making an actual forest of lights!
• Frank Mangano House (1023 83rd Street) – Decked out home with Believe and Joy signs and tons of lights!
• Let It Snow House (8401 10th Avenue) – Where you’ll find snow all holiday season and really fun decor!
• Wild Holiday House (1270 84th Street) – this is not the official name but WOW, you’ll see why I called it that! There’s no other quite like it.

More notable spots for lights and our personal favorites include:

• House on the corner of 10th Ave & 84th Street, peek up on the side of the house for a Santa surprise in the window!

So now that you have the most popular Dyker Heights lights locations, you can see on a map quickly they are all right next to eachother. Don’t stop now though, there are so many more lights to look at if you’re up for it!

There are a few sections of Dyker Heights holiday lights to see. See the streets listed below:

• 84th Street between 7th Avenue & 13th Avenue (this is also where you will pass the Lucy Spata & Polizzotto Home)
• 83rd Street between 7th Avenue & 12th Avenue (this is where you will see the Forest of Lights)
• 82nd Street between 10th Avenue & 13th Avenue (generally no lights between 11th & 12th Avenues)
• 81st Street between 7th Avenue & 13th Avenue (generally no lights between 11th & 12th Avenues)
• 80th Street between 10th Avenue & 11th Avenue 
• 79th Street between 11th Avenue & 12th Avenue
• 12th Avenue between 77th Street & 76th Street

Tips for Visiting Dyker Heights Holiday Lights

Here are some essential tips for enjoying your DIY Dyker Heights lights tour or just visiting the area in general for holiday viewing!

You will be walking a lot, especially if you’re coming from the subway (remember there’s around a 15-minute walk to the Dyker Heights lights from the nearest subway stops and a 15-minute walk back).

If you plan on seeing all the homes that participate in the Dyker Heights Christmas lights decorating you could be walking alot of blocks, come prepared wearing comfortable shoes.

Don’t forget to layer up if it’s cold out too! Once you’re on the trail of all the Dyker Heights holiday lights there is nowhere to warm up! Dress for the weather so you can stand being outdoors for at least 60-90 minutes so you can leisurely enjoy all the festive homes without being uncomfortable.

We love getting hand warmers for those, especially cold winter days!

The best time to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights is after dusk , so in late November through early January that can be as early as 5:30 (and earlier closer to the holiday around winter solstice). You have a few hours to come and see all the Dyker Heights lights as the homes typically start turning off their lights before bed around 10:00 pm and sometimes as late as 11:00 pm.

The weekends are typically more crowded and the closer to Christmas and New Year’s, the more crowded the Dyker Heights Christmas lights get.

Also, the earlier you go around Thanksgiving the less lights will be on display, some decorators don’t get them up that early so keep that in mind if you’re hoping to see everything.

Some of the homes have a money drop or box for various charities using the visitation to see the lights at their homes as a chance to give back. If you’re wanting to participate, don’t forget to bring some extra cash or change.

If you want to walk around with a hot drink, Twist Coffee at 7824 13th Avenue closes either 7 or 8 PM (depending on the day) and has hot drinks! Or you can grab a thermos and bring your own hot cocoa or if you’re boozy like me, some mulled wine (if you’re not driving of course).

Near Twist Coffee is also the INCREDIBLE Italian Bakery, Tasty Pastry Shoppe at 8216 13th Avenue that sells gingerbread starter kids, holiday cookies, and classic Italian desserts! Stop in here for a sweet treat! This is one of our picks for best Brooklyn bakeries too! They stay open until 8 PM all days except Sundays when they close at 5 PM.

One commenter and local noted that Lioni’s Italian Heros is another great spot if you’re looking for a bite to eat from a local eatery! Just note they close around 7 PM and are more of a deli, take-out but they have insanely good sandwiches if you want to have dinner on the go.

And for a great sit-down restaurant and one of the best Christmas restaurants in NYC , make your way to Skinflint’s in Bay Ridge for a pre or post Dyker Heights Christmas lights meal! I love their decor and every visitor we had during the holiday season we brought here afterwards.

Skinflints is far enough away that you may want to take a rideshare here unless you’re up for a 20 minute walk!

Also, if you’ve already been to see the Dyker Heights Christmas lights you may want to go again because like snowflakes, each year its a little different and unique!

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tours

If all of this information on how do your own DIY Dyker Heights Christmas lights tour is overwhelming and you prefer to have someone else show you around, then we recommend joining one of the Dyker Heights lights tours available!

Keep in mind, the weekend before Christmas and the days leading up to Christmas is PACKED and the tours are also packed. This is just a memo for those who don’t like crowds!

This 1.5-hour Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour starts at Mocha Mocha Coffee Shop just outside of the 86th Street Subway stop and requires you to get to Dyker Heights on your own. This Dyker Heights lights tour includes a knowledgeable guide who will take you to see the most impressive homes and the history behind this holiday tradition. Book your tickets here.

This 3.5-hour Dyker Heights Lights tour includes transportation from Manhattan and is the perfect addition to all the holiday sightseeing in the city! Your driver will pick you up from Midtown and drop you off with your guide in Dyker Heights where you will check out all the festivities. Before you finish, this Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour has a bonus stop at the Brooklyn Bridge so you can get a photo of the city skyline twinkling at night before ending your magical evening! Book your tickets here. 

What’s even more fun is that the Dyker Heights Christmas lights also make an appearance in movies and television! Get inspired and check out these best Christmas movies set in NYC to get you in the holiday spirit before or after your visit!

You have got to love the holiday season in the city! If you’re looking for the perfect gifts for any NYC or Brooklyn lovers be sure to check out our guides to the best New York City ornaments for gifting, the best New York City souvenirs & gifts , and the best Brooklyn gifts !

Oh and if you do happen to be visiting earlier or later in the holiday season, be sure to check out all the best things to do during Thanksgiving in NYC and how to celebrate New Year’s in NYC !

The closest subway to Dyker Heights Christmas lights in Brooklyn is the D train to 71st Street Station or R train to 86th Street Station in Brooklyn and then walk around 15 minutes to the residential neighborhood to see the holiday light displays.

The Dyker Heights Christmas lights usually come on at dusk, around 5 or 6 PM, and stay illuminated until around 9 or 10 PM each evening during the holiday season. However, specific hours may vary among different displays which go up after Thanksgiving and stay up until New Year’s Day.

A typical walk through Dyker Heights Christmas lights can take 1 to 2 hours, but it depends on how much time you spend admiring the displays and the size of the area you choose to explore.

Yes, the Dyker Heights Christmas lights are free to visit, visitors have an option to donate to various causes at some of the homes that pick a charity of choice.

The Dyker Heights Christmas lights in Brooklyn are typically on display from late November to early January, with the most elaborate displays shining brightest in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

The best way to see Dyker Heights Christmas Lights is by walking through the neighborhood, particularly in the early evening when the lights are on. Many guided tours are available for a comprehensive experience that includes transportation from Midtown.

To get to Dyker Heights Christmas lights, take the D train to 71st Street or R train to 86th Street in Brooklyn. From there, it’s a short walk to the residential neighborhood. Alternatively, you can use a car or a guided tour for convenience.

From Manhattan, take the subway (D train to 71st Street or R train to 86th Street) in Brooklyn. Then walk around 15 minutes to Dyker Heights, or consider a car service or guided tour for a convenient trip to enjoy the Christmas lights that includes transportation.

Yes, you can drive to Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. The neighborhood is accessible by car, and many visitors choose to drive to view the holiday displays, making it very congested with vehicles and foot traffic.

There is on-street parking available around Dyker Heights, but it can be limited and competitive during the holiday season due to the high number of visitors. Plan to arrive early to secure parking on nearby streets.

Some of the best houses for Christmas lights in Dyker Heights are along 84th Street, from 10th to 12th Avenues. These blocks often have the most extravagant and well-known displays.

Found this easy to follow guide to the Dyker Heights Christmas lights helpful? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest!

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18 Comments

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this was great info but I am traveling from CT and would like to drive down instead of public transportation due to COVID to get to Brooklyn. I am afraid of the parking. IS there anywhere to park for a period of time? A restaurant we could dine at and park for the duration. Parking on the street? thanks

Parking is easier this year as there are less visitors. We recommend going on a week night if you can. There are many restaurants in the neighborhood, there are multiple dining options in Dyker Heights on Fort Hamilton Parkway and 13th Ave as well as tons of options in Bay Ridge next to Dyker Heights.

This is so helpful – thank you so much! Apologies if this is a silly question or not but we’re planning to drive – do you think Christmas eve (12/24)/tomorrow night will be busy? If so, do you think Monday wont be as bad or worse as its between Christmas & New Years? Thank you so much!

It’s hard to say as this year has been less crowded in our experience, but I imagine that today would be more crowded. Now that it is the holiday break, I would imagine that it will be busier than it was earlier in December. If you’re flexible, try a weekday between Christmas and NYE earlier in the evening around dusk!

FIRST OFF THE PEOPLE IN DYKER WERE PUTTING UP XMAS LIGHTS LONG BEFORE THE SPATAS MOVED THERE. SECONDLY THERES NO MENTION THAT THE HOUSES ON 84 th STREET BETWEEN 11 th n 12 th Aves ARE THE WORST BLOCK TO GO DOWN IF UR DRIVING. BE PREPARED TO BE IN BUMPER TO BUMPER TRAFFIC ALL AROUND THE AREA. HERES A GREAT TIP TO USE. DRIVE TO 15 th or 14 th AVES AROUND 79 th to 86 th STREETS N PARK THERE. THAT WAY U CAN WALK DOWN TWO OR THREE BLOCKS AND HAVE A PLACE TO LEAVE UR CAR SAFELY. IF U GET TO THE AREA BEFORE 5 pm GO VISIT THE LIONIS ITALIAN STORE FOR GREAT ITALIAN FOOD. OR NEXT DOOR TO THE ROMEO MEAT MARKET FOR GREAT MEATS A MUST BUY FOR ALL IS THE MOZZARELLA FROM LIONIS. NOTHING LIKE IT ANYWHERE ELSE.

Thanks for the additional tips you think will be helpful to our readers.

I’m interested in visiting Dyker Heights this upcoming 2021 holiday season around Dec. 20th or Dec. 21st

We are coming from NJ and debating if we should take subway from Manhattan, take an UBER from Manhattan or drive from NJ? The area you suggested to park back in Jan of 2021, would you recommend that this year as well? I am not familiar with this part of Brooklyn and figured it would be hard to park. Unlike Manhattan there aren’t parking garages in residential areas of Brooklyn. “HERES A GREAT TIP TO USE. DRIVE TO 15th or 14th AVES AROUND 79th to 86th STREETS N PARK THERE. THAT WAY U CAN WALK DOWN TWO OR THREE BLOCKS AND HAVE A PLACE TO LEAVE UR CAR SAFELY. “

We anticipate it will be back to its busy visitation this season (especially as it gets closer to the holidays it gets more crowded) so a car might be difficult, I would best recommend coming by subway and walking the last bit, but that’s just my personal preference. Also, if you do take an Uber you will probably want to walk a few blocks out to get a car on the way home – it can be gridlock down the main streets that have alot of displays. Hope that helps!

Could you please let me know when this ends ? Is it open in January 1st week ?

That’s answered above in the section “When to see Dyker Heights Christmas Lights” – I am sure a few homes still have lights up but typically people stop visiting after NYE and holiday decorations come down.

82nd street between 11 th and 12th ave has 2 houses in particular with cool displays. On is the old Santa on the front lawn and the neighbor has a Grinch setup. Kids love it.

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Excellent reading the only problem for me is, I live on Long Island and would prefer tour transportation without going into Manhattan. Would love to see the displays.

We are visiting this winter and I noticed some car services offer a private tour. Does anyone have any experience doing this? Would you recommend it?

Hi Robin, my friend runs this company, she focuses on private photo tours but she may do Dyker Heights tours too. I’d reach out! https://nycphotojourneys.com/

These crowds need to be controlled and a stop time needs to be inforced at night noises and crowds sometimes till 1-2 AM and also trucks selling foods outside this is not Times Square !

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 100+ Things To Do in Brooklyn 

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Where to See Brooklyn's Amazing Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Organized vs. Self-Guided Tours

Where to go, how to get there, christmas lights tours.

While most Christmastime tourists to New York City flock to Rockefeller Center , locals know that the city's biggest holiday light show is actually in the outer-Brooklyn neighborhood of Dyker Heights.

Every year, local residents in Dyker Heights outdo one another with over-the-top Christmas light decorations. It is estimated that more than 100,000 visitors from across the city and the country come to see this neighborhood's outpouring of creativity and fun, as light displays spill over their homes, roofs, and gardens. Kids will be awed by the sheer amount of holiday decorations that typically include brightly lit rooftop Rudolphs, Santas on the lawn, and entire homes ablaze with lights.

Dyker Heights is one of the few neighborhoods in New York City with single-family homes instead of the typical apartment buildings, and the Christmas light display is notable for not being just one street or a couple of blocks, but the entire neighborhood. You can walk around on your own or join a guided tour, but definitely don't miss this holiday tradition.

If you're visiting Dyker Heights on your own for a self-guided tour, then the excursion is practically free apart from your subway trip or bus ride. It can be hard finding inexpensive outings in New York , especially in December when it's often too cold to be outside. But as long as your equipped with a metro card, seeing the Christmas lights in Dyker Heights is truly one of New York City's best seasonal activities .

But if you don't mind the extra cost, joining an organized tour is a more comfortable way to enjoy the display. The journey from Manhattan or other parts of Brooklyn to Dyker Heights is a trek on public transit, but bus tours provide roundtrip transportation. And even though there's an undeniable charm to walking around all bundled up with hot chocolate in hand, it's also nice to have a heated bus nearby for defrosting on particularly cold nights.

The most dazzling lights displays are concentrated in the heart of Dyker Heights, between Seventh and 13th avenues from west to east and 76th Street and Bay Ridge Parkway from south to north. As long as you're within this area, walk around and you're guaranteed to see lights.

If you're taking a self-guided tour, however, there are a few homes you don't want to miss.

• Lucy Spata's Home : The house of Lucy Spata is purportedly the home that started the holiday tradition in Dyker Heights, and every year she adds more so it continues to be one of the best. Her house is located at 1152, 84th Street.
• Polizzotto Home : The Pollizzoto's home, also known as Toyland, is another house that claims to be the first. Regardless of who started the tradition, Toyland is another worthwhile stop that specializes in animatronic characters. The house is at 1145, 84th Street.
• Forest of Lights : This home has many trees in the front yard, and each one is covered from roots to every branch tip in colorful lights. The Forest of Lights is at 1134, 83rd Street.
• Community Mayor's Home : While most homes go over the top with lights, this home goes over the top with giant inflatable characters. The yard has an army of festive balloons and is always a favorite. It's located at 8312, 12th Avenue.

If you need to get energized, the most options for places to grab a snack or hot drink are around the 86th Street subway station. You'll find plenty of familiar chains as well as local Brooklyn eateries, such as Cocoa Grinder coffeeshop or Annabelle's Pastaria for homemade Italian fare (Dyker Heights is one of Brooklyn's most Italian neighborhoods ).

The neighborhood's light displays typically go up after Thanksgiving, but there's no official date and it's up to each individual home to decide when to start decorating. The best time to go is in mid-December when all the lights are up, although this is also the busiest time of year. Most neighbors keep their decorations up until New Year's Day, which is the unofficial end of the light season in Dyker Heights.

The lights go on at dusk and stay on until about 9 p.m., although some families may choose to leave theirs on later.

To avoid the biggest crowds, go in early December or during the week between Christmas and New Year's. Weekends in December are the busiest days, so visit on a weekday if you want fewer people around.

If you're coming from Manhattan, it's a long ride on the bus or subway to get to Dyker Heights, but the trip is direct and doesn't require many changes, if any. If you're coming from the northern neighborhoods of Brooklyn, such as Williamsburg or Greenpoint, or Queens, it's usually faster to travel into Manhattan first and then take transit from there.

Coming from Manhattan, the bus is one of the most direct ways to get to Dyker Heights. The X28 bus runs all the way through Midtown and stops near major attractions like Grand Central Station and Union Square. The bus stop to get off at is 86th Street/Seventh Avenue, right in front of the Dyker Heights Golf Course. The total bus ride is about an hour from Manhattan, depending on where you get on.

Regardless of which train you take, you'll need to walk at least a few blocks to reach the holiday lights. The D train to 79th Street Station is one of the fastest options since it's an express train and skips a lot of the intermediary stations, taking about 40 minutes from Washington Square Park. You can also take the R train to 86th Street Station. It's a shorter walk from the station to the lights, but the local R train takes longer to reach Dyker Heights, taking about 45 minutes from Union Square.

If you're going by car or taxi , be aware that the drive time fluctuates dramatically based on traffic. In ideal conditions, the drive takes roughly 30 minutes from Manhattan. However, between weekday rush hour and frequent traffic jams of holiday visitors, the time in a car can easily jump to over an hour. If you're driving, you will need to be patient and allow for extra time to see the sights—and be aware of delays in case you're taking a taxi and running up the meter.

Depending on the weather, one of the best ways to see this stunning display of festivities is by taking a walking tour or bus tour of the holiday lights. There are several options to choose from.

A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours

The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Tour is available every night in December (except for Christmas Eve and Christmas), with buses that conveniently pick up and drop off tourists at Union Square in Manhattan. Tours are three and a half hours long and start every hour on the hour from 5–8 p.m.

Royal City Tours

This Dyker Heights Christmas Tour is offered in both English and Spanish. Passengers are picked up from and dropped off at Times Square, which is a convenient meet-up point for visitors staying in Midtown. The tour lasts three and a half hours and includes a stop under the Brooklyn Bridge on your way back.

Brooklyn Unplugged Tours

This Brooklyn Christmas Lights tour is shorter than the others at an hour and a half long because it doesn't include transportation, but it is also more cost-friendly. Tours are held almost every day throughout the holiday season, and you can choose between a public walking tour or a private tour with a vehicle.

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The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2023 guide

If you want to see spectacular holiday decorations, you must visit the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2023 display.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Christmas in NYC

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When can I visit the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2023?

Most of the homeowners—and professional decorating companies—hang their Christmas lights and decorations the weekend after Thanksgiving . However, the best time to see the lights is mid-December through New Year’s Eve . We suggest going anytime between dusk and 9pm if you plan to travel by foot. Most of the houses turn their displays off after 9pm but some leave theirs on later (depending on their bedtime). 

They decor usually stays up until the end of the first week of January.

Where are the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2023?

You’ll see breathtaking light displays from 11th to 13th Avenues (also known as Dyker Heights Blvd) from 83rd to 86th St in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.

How do I get to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2023?

If you’re traveling by subway, take the D Train to 79th St and New Utrecht Ave, Brooklyn. However, you’ll have to walk 15 minutes to get to the houses (and the terrain is a bit hilly). Word to the wise: Traffic, as well as parking, is generally lousy, so you might want to leave your car at home, or leave enough time to sort the car.

Is it worth going to Dyker Heights to see the lights?

The display is truly extraordinary. But keep in mind it can be hard to get to via transit (depending on where you live) and difficult to find parking if you're driving, so be prepared. Also make sure to keep an eye on the weather, so you're not freezing cold or sweating through your parka.

One more tip: It's a very residnential neighborhood, meaning it's tough to find bathrooms nearby, so prepare accordingly.

Are there tours for the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights 2023?

Yes, bus tours are back from A Slice of Brooklyn , Dyker Heights Christmas Lights and  many more . There's even a Spanish language tour —vamos!

Is there anything else I should be aware of for the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights   2023?

If you are heading to Dyker Heights this year, be sure to respect the neighborhood like it's your own, starting with keeping properties clean of trash in the name of respect and sanitation. There will be extra receptacles in the area. It should go without saying, but be respectful of people's privacy and don't get too close to anyone's home.

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Brooklyn Christmas Lights Tour (at Dyker Heights)

Public - This tour is held at 5:00pm and 7:30pm, plus some other possible times too. It's conducted from December 1 until December 30, 2022. It is a walking tour. The length is 90 minutes and the price is $25. This tour is included with the Sightseeing Pass, New York Pass and Go City Pass.

Private - This tour is offered for private or groups. It can be a walking tour, or driving/bus/step-on tour. We can provide a vehicle or we can guide the tour with your bus. Even if there is a vehicle, it is necessary to conduct most of the tour on foot (because of police restrictions). Walking distance is approximately 6-10 blocks. Please scroll lower down on this page for pricing.

Groups / DMC's / Tour Operators - Please scroll lower on this page for more information.

Description:

Prepare to see astonishing holiday light displays on a visit to Brooklyn's Dyker Heights neighborhood, which has become world famous for the incredible decorations planned by its highly competitive residents. See it all for yourself, learn the story behind it, and discover how the tough attitude of one woman has led to a long beautiful tradition.

Have your camera ready for this Christmas lights excursion. You will be presented with the top homes and lighting displays in Brooklyn. You will learn about the growth of this holiday phenomenon in the Dyker Heights neighborhood, including two neighbors who fiercely stake a competing claim. Find out how one of them has put nearly 1 million dollars on the line! Also discover the unwritten codes which are followed religiously by the residents of this Brooklyn neighborhood.

Take this tour in Brooklyn to view some of the most impressive residential holiday light displays in the world, or simply to soak in a unique magical Christmas atmosphere!

Walking distance: approx. 2 miles / 3 kilometers.

Private Brooklyn Christmas Lights Tours

This tour is also offered for private groups.

It's perfect for families, friends, etc.

Please note that with all options, it is necessary to walk a large amount of the tour (because of police restrictions).

There are 3 options:

Option 1) Private walking tour - meet by subway station in Brooklyn.

Tour costs:

1-5 people: $170

6-15 people: $210

16-31 people: $270

32-49 people: $330

Option 2) Private driving tour - meet by subway station in Brooklyn. Cost: same as Option 1, plus 2 hours of vehicle time. Vehicle costs are listed below.

Option 3) Private driving tour - vehicle pickup in Manhattan (or at a location of your choice). Cost: same as Option 1, plus 3-4 hours of vehicle time. The exact cost will depend on how long the drive will take. You should tell us where you want pickup/drop off and we will tell you how long we think the drive will take.

Vehicle costs: 1-5 people: $65 per hour. 2 hour minimum. 6-15 people: $135 per hour (approximately). 4 hour minimum. 16-35 people: $160 per hour (approximately). 4 hour minimum. 36-50 people: $185 per hour (approximately). 5 hour minimum.

Groups / DMC's / Tour Operators

We can provide this as a walking tour, or driving/bus/step-on tour. We can provide a vehicle (please see vehicle costs above) or we can guide the tour with your bus. Even if there is a vehicle, it is necessary to conduct most of the tour on foot (because of police restrictions). Walking distance is approximately 6-10 blocks.

We offer tiered pricing and net rates for travel trade. All rates listed above are retail rates. Please contact us for details.

More about our group tours

Contact Us or Make a Reservation

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7 Top Tips For Experiencing Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

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Who doesn’t love glitzy, glamorous lights at Christmastime? There’s no better place to see the lights than New York City. 

Everyone knows about the lights the city is famous for, like those in Rockefeller Center or on Saks Fifth Avenue. But if you want a different way to experience the lights of New York at Christmastime, I suggest going to the Dyker Heights neighborhood of Southwest Brooklyn for an unbelievable display. 

What began in the 1980s with a couple of houses donning Christmas lights during the holiday season has grown into a friendly contest of one-upmanship with no neighbor wanting to be outdone by another. This neighborhood pulls out all the stops, and the homeowners here are famous for their tremendous Christmas decorations. This is a definite only-in-New-York experience that’s more than worth the trip.

Depending on your starting point, you may not immediately see what all the hype is about. However, once you get into the heart of the displays, you’ll be amazed. Twinkling blue lights, huge animated bears, toy soldiers — some of which are so big they had to be brought in with a crane — and giant snowmen are just some of the spectacular sights you’ll see in this holiday wonderland. As you stroll through the neighborhood, you’ll see house after house on block after block decorated in their Christmas best. With towering evergreens and sparkling white lights, candy canes, and shimmering garland surrounding the doors to each house, it’s a magnificent scene. Everything in the neighborhood is aglow with holiday lights.

Some say it’s the best holiday light display in the whole New York City area. You can decide for yourself. After seeing the wonderful Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, I think you’ll be just a little happier than you were before — your smile will be a little brighter, and you may even feel like a kid again. One thing’s for sure: There’s no way you won’t be in the Christmas spirit after touring Dyker Heights.

1. Choose Your Transportation Wisely

The Southwest Brooklyn neighborhood of Dyker Heights is about 8 miles from Lower Manhattan. It is a predominantly residential, traditionally Italian-American neighborhood full of brownstones and brick houses. The best light displays are in the more exclusive area of Dyker Heights, located between 14th Avenue and Fort Hamilton Parkway. 

To start with, decide whether you want to view the lights on your own or with a tour group (more on tours below). If you go on your own, you will need to determine how you get to and from Dyker Heights. If you go on your own, two of the most common transportation options are taking the subway or driving your own car. Keep in mind that if you take the subway, you’ll still need to walk about 20 minutes from the closest subway stop to the decorated streets of Dyker. And you’ll have to walk back to the subway stop after viewing the lights. If you drive yourself, the traffic is heavy, and the parking is very limited in the neighborhood, so you’ll have to take this into account to make your decision. 

If you don’t want to drive or take the subway, other options are to take another form of public transportation like Uber, a taxi, or my favorite option, a bus tour.

2. Choose The Best Tour For You

If you’d like to go on a Christmas lights tour through Dyker Heights, there are a few bus tour options that depart from NYC. You’ll meet your tour group at the pre-destined spot and take the bus from there. Book early because bus tours are very popular and will most likely sell out. 

My favorite bus tour is the original, authentic tour from A Slice of Brooklyn . It proves to be very engaging and authentic as the tour guides are Brooklynites, complete with the accent you’d expect; and the tour owners actually know some of the families that live in the neighborhood, including some of the families that actually started the light displays back in the day. You’ll be getting the real deal along with the inside scoop on the history of the display with this Dyker Heights Christmas lights tour. 

The bus tour is offered every night beginning December 1 through New Year’s Eve, except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tour times are 5, 6, 7, and 8 p.m. nightly. The tour meets in Union Square and goes to Dyker Heights from there, for a 3.5-hour tour. On the bus, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, heated ride to and from Dyker Heights. Along the way, you’ll enjoy vintage movies and hear traditional Christmas carols. Once you arrive in Dyker Heights, your guided tour will begin! The tour is less than $60 per person for adults unless you’d like priority seating, which is a little more. For kids 12 and under, the tour is less than $50.

Another tour option is a guided tour on foot . You’re responsible for getting yourself to and from Dyker Heights, but once you’re there, you’ll be escorted around by a knowledgeable tour guide who will take you to the best houses and provide you with the history of the area. At around $20, this walking tour is a lot less expensive than the bus tours, but it’s also a lot shorter, at about 2 hours. You’ll walk about 3 miles. And remember, December can be cold, rainy, or snowy. It just depends on the type of tour you’re looking for.

3. Know When And Where To View The Lights

Some houses are decorated right after Thanksgiving, but not all homes are decked out that early in the season. For prime viewing, I’d wait until December so you can make sure you see all the decorations. The best time of the day to go is the evening between 5 and 9 p.m. Most houses aren’t lit until everyone gets home from work between 5 and 6 p.m. Some families start turning off lights around 9 p.m. for bedtime. 

The best viewing is between 83rd and 86th Street between 11th and 13th Avenue. The most popular houses are the ones that started the tradition, including the Spata House and the Polizzotto House on 84th Street.

4. Dress Warmly And Bring A Thermos

It’s cold in New York in December, so remember to dress warmly. If you’ve opted to take the subway and walk to Dyker Heights, dress especially warm because it’s a good 20-minute walk. Also, think about bringing a thermos with something hot to keep you warm. There may or may not be any local vendors selling hot drinks in the neighborhood, so if not, you’ll be all set with your own thermos. 

If you’re bringing kids, make sure you bring along easy snacks and drinks for them, as there are no restaurants extremely close to pop into.

5. Bring A Portable Phone Charger

Even if you have the latest iPhone, do yourself a favor and bring a portable charger. You will be taking a lot of videos and photos, so your phone battery may not last like you’re used to. If you have a portable charger, you won’t have to worry about your phone dying just before you get that perfect shot. And if you’re not taking a bus tour, you’ll most likely need to use your phone to make arrangements to get back, so it’s doubly important to make sure it’s charged up for you.

6. Be Polite And Respectful, And Plan For Crowds

Keep in mind that this is a neighborhood. You’re not in Times Square. You’re in someone’s neighborhood where families live. So keep the noise level down, pick up your trash, don’t block driveways, and just be courteous overall. 

Also, remember, there are no public restrooms in the neighborhood, so make sure you use the facilities before you get to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. Be patient, as there will be a lot of excited kids running around and a lot of babies being pushed in strollers up and down the sidewalks. So don’t be in a hurry. Just relax and take in the surroundings.

7. Don’t Forget Cash

Many families collect money for various organizations and will have a box at the end of their driveway or near their display so you can slip a $1 or $5 bill in. Sometimes, people have small tables set up around the neighborhood where they’re selling hot chocolate or tea, and you’ll need cash to pay for a drink.

No matter which option you decide on, checking out the Christmas trees and holiday lights in Dyker Heights will be a highlight of your holiday trip to NYC. And since Dyker Heights is so close to Manhattan, you can pretty easily make time in your itinerary for this fabulous, over-the-top slice of cheer to get you into the Christmas spirit.

To complete your New York City Christmas trip, check out:

• 10 Magical Christmas Window Displays To Visit In New York City
• 6 Incredible Christmas Markets To Visit In New York City

SJ is a professional travel writer based in the Midwest. She has a background in credit card points and miles, having spent years working on loyalty campaigns for various financial institutions. She has a B.A. in history and is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association, the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, and the International Travel Writers Alliance. SJ specializes in writing about travel, food, and wine.

Tour Details

Moscow metro tour: architectural styles of the subway.

Duration: 2 hours

Categories: Culture & History, Sightseeing

This metro tour of Russia’s capital and most populous city, Moscow, is your chance to get a unique insight into the beautiful and impressive architecture of the city's underground stations. Admire their marble walls and high ceilings representing Stalin's desire for glory after World War 2, and see first-hand how the interiors change with the rise of new political eras. Your guide will lead you through the complex network, which is one of the most heavily used rapid transit systems worldwide, with over two billion travelers in 2011.

Opened in 1935, Moscow’s underground system, now 190 miles (305 km) long with 185 stations, is today one the largest and most heavily used rapid transit systems in the world. On this Moscow metro tour, discover the impressive architecture of Moscow’s underground stations and learn how they reflect the Soviet era.

Getting around by metro, your local guide will take you through parts of Moscow’s infamous history. Stop at stations built during the time of the USSR (Soviet Union) that are praised as one of the most extravagant architectural projects from Stalin’s time. After World War 2, he was keen on establishing Stalinist architecture to represent his rising regime and a recognized empire. Learn how when his successor started the de-Stalinization of the former Soviet Union in 1953, the extravagancy of the architecture was toned down.

Discover how the unique character of each station reflected several different eras. While stations like Kievskaya and Slavyansky Bulvar have pompous halls and high stucco ceilings brimming with extravagant decorations, those built later, like Volzhskaya, are lightly adorned with sparse furnishings. Architect Alexey Dushkin and painter Alexander Deyneka were just two of the many artists who made these magnificent landmarks possible.

Revel in Moscow's glory days, as well as the years of scarcity, on this fascinating Moscow metro experience. Conclude your tour at one of the central stations in Moscow. If you're lucky, you may even find the secret entrance to the unconfirmed Metro-2, a parallel underground system used by the government -- a mystery which has neither been denied nor confirmed today.

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Culture Shock Rating

We have a wide range of tours designed to give you an insight into the destination you're travelling in and there is something for everybody. The culture shock ratings considers the destination visited, transport used, activities undertaken and that "Wow, I'm really not at home now!" factor. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our gradings is as follows…

This is the least confronting of our tour range. Transport used on the trip is either private or a very comfortable public option, the activities included are usually iconic sites and locations that are not all too confronting.

The tour can include a mix of private and public transport providing a level of comfort that is slightly below what you would experience at home. Sites visited are usually iconic sites, tours can also include market visits, visits to communities etc that provide the traveller with a fantastic insight into destination.

Expect to rough it for parts of this tour, whether it's a packed public bus where you are forced to stand, a visit to a local market, a local community, you are sure to have an experience that is very different from what you're used to at home.

The comforts of your home town and the environment you are used to are more of a rarity. Expect some challenging transport options, visits to local sites and areas that don't resemble anything at home.

You're out there in the global community! You are likely to be exposed to the elements, travel in whatever means of transport is available and basically take it as it comes, whatever comes! It can be tough.

Physical Rating

Our physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the tour. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our gradings is as follows…

These tours have very limited physical activity. Usually climbing in and out of the transport provided, walking through sites, markets etc included in the itinerary.

These tours have a bit of physical activity but nothing that should challenge you too much. This could be climbing on and off public transport through to a walk through the destination you're travelling in, they can include walking only tours or a combination of walking and transport.

These tours involve a bit of physical activity from walking up and down hills in the destination you're travelling in or the surrounding areas. Climbing on and off local transport or riding a bike up to 30 kms along predominantly flat terrain or jumping in a kayak for a gentle paddle on flat water.

These Tours will provide you with some solid physical activity. Whether its bike riding, walking, trekking, kayaking or riding on public transport you will need to have a good level of fitness to enjoy this tour.

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. These tours are our most challenging and involve some serious walking, hiking or bike riding. Can involve step climbs by foot or pedal and some challenging public transport options in the destination you are travelling.

Luxury Rating

Some trips are like a stroll on the beach, while others have you trekking alpine passes. Some of you thrive on camping out on the savannah, while others may prefer a hot shower and a comfortable bed in a lodge. Follow the grading systems below to find the right trip for you.

To help you choose the trip that's right for you, we've broken all of our trips down into four service levels. Measuring the comfort level of the accommodation and transport. So whether you're travelling on a budget and want to save money by using public transport, or prefer upgraded accommodation and are happy to pay a little more, then we have a level for you.

This is grassroots travel at its most interesting

Authentic experiences with some of the comforts of home

For those who like to travel in comfort

All the unique experiences wrapped up with a gold ribbon

Olkhovaya metro station

Metro lines via olkhovaya, other stations nearby.