Best time to visit New York: A New Yorker’s Tips by month and season

Almost daily, I get emails from readers asking me what is the best time to visit New York City? Even though I prefer the Spring, Summer and Fall seasons, there is something beautiful about spending the winter holiday season in New York….watching the snowflakes fall over Central Park, visiting the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center and admiring a snow-covered Empire State Building….these images may be iconic but are even better experienced in person.

New York City often feels like the capital of the world! From the diversity, culture, entertainment venues and a plethora of things to see, eat and do, there is something for everyone – and that’s at any time of year!

New York has a distinct allure, so why decide when to visit? Better to decide how often you can visit. Here is a seasonal Travel Guide to the best time to visit NYC!

where to stay in new york city

Wondering where to stay while visiting New York City? Finding a great deal on a hotel in New York City can be challenging. As a Native New Yorker, I am going to include some suggestions below that I usually recommend to friends and acquaintances who are visiting NYC for the first time or who prefer to stay in a good location close to Manhattan.

• Budget: The Row | The Jane | Pod 39 |
• Mid-Budget: The Hudson | The James Soho | The Renwick | The Redbury
• Luxury: The Bowery | The Dominick | The St. Regis | The Plaza

For more in-depth information about the best NYC neighborhoods to stay in, and the hotels in those areas, read this complete guide on Where to stay in New York City.

best time to go to new york

Best Time To Visit NYC: New York in Spring

One of the most popular destinations in the world is New York City. And springtime is a perfect time to visit. The flowers are blooming in glorious colors, butterflies, birds and bees are having their fun, so why shouldn’t we join them?

Visit the Botanical Gardens (there’s one in Brooklyn and the Bronx), Museum Mile in Manhattan, or go to Times Square. There are many art fairs, outdoor markets, free concerts, Broadway openings, Gotham comedy shows and more. If you time your visit right, you can attend the Easter Parade, seek out the city’s tastiest dishes, or make up any excuse for just relaxing and people watching.

You may not know that if you come to New York during Memorial Day weekend, most of the locals are away and you will have the City all to yourself. Unique time to experience the City when it’s a little bit quieter. Personally, I believe it is the best time to visit New York.

Suggested reading: The best pizza in Manhattan suggested by a New Yorker

Hint: The weather can be unpredictable in NYC at this time. Usually, you can use a lighter jacket although at night time it might get a little cooler. Light layering is the way to go. Scarves can do double duty for warmth and to transform your outfit!

Of course, wear comfortable shoes (get ready to walk a lot) for daytime and heels/dress shoes for evening – especially if visiting any of our amazing rooftop bars (many with skyline views) or dance clubs. There may be a dress code, so call ahead.

You might also like: A New Yorker’s Guide to the Annual Spring Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Best Time to Visit NYC: New York in Summer

Summer is a very popular time in NYC, when everyone is out and about. For me, one of the best times to visit New York. I love the summer! Warning: The streets are full of tourists (LOL).

Sometimes it is extremely hot and humid. The Summer time is nice to just fully explore Central Park, rent a bike, join a walking tour or simply lay on the grass to catch some rays and people watch. There are tons of free summer concerts in Central Park and on Governor’s island.

You can also head to Bryant Park to watch a free movie on the main lawn every Monday. Might be a good time to interact with many locals.

If you head to the Statue of Liberty or take a boat tour, try to purchase tickets in advance (the less time on lines the better). There are tours for just about anything: craft beer, wine tasting, chocolate tasting and more! I

t is also the perfect weather for eating outdoors, so take advantage. Walk along the High Line and enjoy the beautiful views. We also love the Meat Packing District with its plethora of bars (several rooftop) and nightclubs, you just can’t go wrong.

Need a break from humans? Visit one of our zoos (Central Park or the Bronx Zoo). Both have lots of fun activities, so go to their websites for more information.

Insider Tip for saving money in activities and attractions in NYC: If you’re only in New York for 24 or 48 hours, I would suggest the New York CityPASS, since you can use this pass to visit six top attractions, including the Top of the Rock, the Statue of Liberty and the 9/11 Museum. On the other hand, I would recommend The New York Pass, especially if you are visiting my dear city for three or more days.

Recommended: Local Guide to the best views of NYC for free – Chasing the Manhattan Skyline!

The Long Island City waterfront in Queens is gorgeous.  Walk along the water, or if you prefer, there are many places where you can sit and have a drink while enjoying the Manhattan skyline.

You can also venture into Brooklyn and go to Dumbo (one of my favorite neighborhoods) where the picturesque views will take your breath away. There you will find many small restaurants, local bars and coffee shops. It is a great place to go for a  unique experience.

Another jewel of Brooklyn is Williamsburg, with lots of great restaurants, bars, ambiance and, of course, great views. Basically, you will never be bored in NYC during the summer months with all of the activities available.

Best time to visit NYC: New York in Fall

The weather in New York can be quite mild until the middle of October, which is when some rooftops start to close, although there are some that are heated or have retractable roofs. October is a great month to visit because of the beautiful foliage.

As the leaves start changing colors, everything looks so ethereal (Perfect for laying on the grass). Sometimes it is very hot during the day and cool at night, much like the spring.

The weather is often ideal at this time of year, making it perfect for walking, hiking and exploring in general. There are always various festivities around the City. Halloween is a big celebratory time, where there is a parade in the village and everyone goes bar hopping or to various parties around the City.

Definitely a different vibe as apposed to the massive influx of tourists that pour in during the summer months. Although, there are tourists all year round, November is usually colder but a great time for a scenic road trip to upstate New York (a quick drive to Bear Mountain). There’s nothing like a hot toddy in front of a roaring fire – very romantic!

RECOMMENDED: The Best Hikes in The Adirondacks, New York

Best time to visit NYC: New York in Winter

If you are fortunate enough to be in New York after a fresh coat of snow, you will see just how charming the winter can be in this City. It might be cold, but it is a winter wonderland, especially around the holidays. We do not always get a white Christmas, but you never know. Start planning now!

Christmas is a particularly good time of the year to visit New York City. Once the famous tree at the Rockefeller Center is up it’s a must see! Then you can ice-skate there, or go to the ones at Bryant Park or Central Park.

There are also many Christmas markets in NYC for fun shopping, especially for personalized gifts. Along with the shops, there are hearty street food and lovely music.

There is always plenty of entertainment for the whole family, even as you ride the subway. You can find singers, dancers, clowns, musicians and even magicians –  just an average day in NYC!

Another Favorite: The Best Christmas Markets in New York City

In summary, New York City has it all! From the most amazing views, great restaurants, plenty of events and things to do, broadway shows, museums, shopping, bars and nightclubs. I hope that this seasonal guide of the best time to visit New York was helpful to you. Come visit, and fall in love with NYC!

Here is a downloadable pocket guide to NYC in partnership with Expedia. You welcome!

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Are you ready to visit New York for the first time? You should also check out this amazing guide on everything you need to know for your first visit to New York City!