Why You NEED to Visit This Charming Brooklyn Neighborhood During the Holidays

POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara
POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara

The magic of visiting New York City only grows when you go during the holiday season. The entire city lights up, people are a little happier, and there's no shortage of sightseeing that's extra special during this time of year. Sure, you could visit traditional places like Rockefeller Center or walk down Fifth Avenue, but real New Yorkers have a secret spot that tops the rest — it's called Dyker Heights.

This neighborhood at the edge of Brooklyn is a literal home to some of the craziest and most intricate light displays. Some are interactive and others have so many details you'll need to stare at for least five minutes to take it all in.

The lights are on display from 11th to 13th Avenues and 83rd to 86th Streets and usually go off by 9 p.m., reports TimeOut. A pro tip: seeing the lights is only part of the visit; there are plenty of vendors selling roasted chestnuts, popcorn, hot chocolate, and other treats. Visiting Dyker Heights is perfect for families or couples who need a cute date idea.

See photos of some of our favorite houses and their decorations ahead. It'll leave you in awe and full of the Christmas spirit!

How many nutcrackers can you spot?
Flickr user wonggawei

How many nutcrackers can you spot?

This place looks like a real-life gingerbread house.
Flickr user 8467120@N08

This place looks like a real-life gingerbread house.

You almost wish you could live here.
POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara

You almost wish you could live here.

At this house, it's always snowing.
Flickr user idovermani

At this house, it's always snowing.

This house is well protected by angels and nutcrackers.
Flickr user 11710709476

This house is well protected by angels and nutcrackers.

Snowmen everywhere!
Flickr user kamekame

Snowmen everywhere!

It's not just the houses that are lit up — the trees are, too!
POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara

It's not just the houses that are lit up — the trees are, too!

A train set lights up this tree.
POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara

A train set lights up this tree.

Some houses go heavy on the lawn ornaments.
POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara

Some houses go heavy on the lawn ornaments.

Nothing like a Winter wonderland of lights and garland.
POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara

Nothing like a Winter wonderland of lights and garland.

This house is simple but regal in its holiday lights.
POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara

This house is simple but regal in its holiday lights.

The trees in this neighborhood get decorated just like Christmas trees.
POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara

The trees in this neighborhood get decorated just like Christmas trees.

The tiny icicles are a lovely touch.
POPSUGAR Photography | Ann-Marie Alcántara

The tiny icicles are a lovely touch.

So if you're visiting New York City this holiday season, don't miss out on walking through this Winter wonderland! Check out more must-see Christmas destinations.