Christmas in New York City is a magical time. From the beautifully adorned trees in Rockefeller Center and other locations to the Christmas windows of Macy’s, Bergdorf’s and Saks Fifth Avenue, the city is alive with the festive spirit and energy. However, nothing really says Christmas like Dyker Heights. Today, it is perhaps most famously known for its incredible lights displays, which usually arrive in late November and draw travelers from across the world thanks to their colorful holiday cheer. According to locals, residents have been decorating their homes—personally and professionally—since the 1980s, making it a true New York City winter wonderland. This picturesque residential neighborhood is located in the heart of southwest Brooklyn between Bay Ridge, Bensonhurst and Gravesend Bay. Originally founded as a luxury housing development in the late 1800s, the first house in this iconic neighborhood was built in the late 1820s. Dyker Heights was originally praised for its public transit access to Lower Manhattan, thanks to early ferry services, as well as its ritzy country club and well-established Episcopal Church. Like Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst nearby, Dyker Heights is an Italian-American neighborhood today. The best way to enjoy this tour is by bus since the closest subway station is over a mile away, and during Christmas time climate conditions could be adverse. Plus, you will have the benefit of a knowledgeable, live tour guide. On your tour, you'll drive from Manhattan to Brooklyn and see lights from both on the bus and off, as the guide will escort you through the areas. (Note: buses are not allowed in Dyker Heights because of the narrow streets. Your guide will escort you to the two most illuminated streets and orient you and you will have about an hour to explore and take pictures on your own.) You'll see Lucy Spata's house, the house that started the tradition of Dyker Lights back in the 80's. On the same street, there is the Polizzotto home, featuring the largest Santa in the neighborhood at 15 feet tall. Next stop on the tour will be at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge in the DUMBO/Brooklyn Heights area of Brooklyn. You will have about 25 minutes to take pictures of the breathtaking Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. Then you will return to Manhattan via the Manhattan Bridge. The tour ends at Bryant Park where you can admire the famous winter market or take a spin on the Ice Rink.