The Best Time to Visit New York City

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What is the best time to visit New York City?

The most suitable times to visit New York City rely on individual preferences concerning climate, planned activities, and calendar events. In my view, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) present mild temperatures alongside numerous cultural occasions and outdoor options for enjoyment.

Spring brings pleasant temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10 to 21 Celsius), and the city awakens with flowering trees and blooms. Events such as the Tribeca Film Festival and the Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden occur during this season.

Autumn is another great time to visit, with comfortable temperatures ranging from the 10 to 21 degrees Celsius. The changing hues of the foliage in Central Park and the excitement of events like the New York Film Festival and the New York City Marathon make this season particularly appealing.

Winter (December to February) can bring cold weather and snow, but it’s additionally a magical time to visit, with festive ornamentation, ice skating rinks, and the famous Times Square celebration welcoming the New Year. Keep in mind lodging prices can be higher during holiday season.

During the months of June through August in New York City, the weather can be very warm and damp, with temperatures ranging from the low 70s to high 90s Fahrenheit (21 to 32 Celsius). However, this time of year also brings many outdoor events and activities like open-air concerts, Shakespeare in the Park, and different food festivals. Expect to see more crowds at popular attractions during this season.

a crowd of people standing near a body of water

Weather: The best times climate-wise for sightseeing and outdoor activities are spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), with temperatures averaging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10 to 21 Celsius). These seasons provide agreeable conditions climate-wise.

Exploring the Sights: Spring and autumn provide nice weather for sightseeing around landmarks and attractions like Central Park, the High Line, and the Statue of Liberty, allowing a comfortable experience. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid but offers longer days with more daylight for touring.

Museums: New York City’s museums can be visited year-round, but winter (December to February) is a favorable time to explore them as the cool temperature makes indoor activities more appealing. Additionally, winter months often have less crowds in museums compared to peak travel seasons.

Shopping: New York City provides excellent shopping opportunities year-round. However, the months of November and December see a festive atmosphere with holiday decorations and store window displays ideal for gift finding. Post-holiday January sales can also yield great bargains.

During the Christmas season which spans from late November through December, New York City takes on a magical atmosphere. Decorations adorn the city and memorable events can be experienced like the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, ice skating in Central Park or Bryant Park, and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular performance.

Reducing Crowds: To avoid large numbers, think about visiting New York City in the shoulder periods (April to early June and September to November) when conditions stay pleasant although visitor figures drop. Winter can too have lower crowds, yet the holidays (late November through December) generally see more tourists.

New York Travel Seasons

  • Peak Season (June-August & November-December): Families vacationing and European travelers enjoying extended holidays make the summer months one of the busiest times to visit New York. Many local residents depart the city during this time, however, which means that it can feel less crowded even while tourism is high. The period around Thanksgiving through New Year is a huge draw for tourists, festivity is abundant and the city is at its most packed. During both of these busy tourism periods, expect airfare and lodging rates to be at their highest and availability to be low. Book well in advance. See Also: Where to Lodge in NYC
  • In-Between Season (March-May & September-October): While tourism is not at its peak during these months, they continue to be extremely popular times to visit New York City. Pleasant weather makes the spring and autumn seasons perfect for exploring the city on foot, whether against a backdrop of blossoms and open markets in springtime or observing the changing hues of Central Park trees in fall. Expect prices for flights and lodging to be high with low availability.
  • Low-Activity Season (January-Early March): New York City experiences its quietest stretch during these cold midwinter months, when snow regularly falls and the mercury hovers between -1°C and 4°C. Hotel room occupancy drops below 90%, and restaurant reservations and theater tickets become easier to obtain. The drop in temperature causes airfare and lodging rates to decline as well, rendering this an excellent time to visit the city if you don`t mind some chill.

New York City Weather by Month

Monthly High Temperatures in New York City (in Celsius)
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New York Rain by Month (mm)
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  • New York City Weather in January: January is New York’s coldest month. Temperatures range from -12°to 4°C, generally hovering around 3°C. Snow is likely around this time, quickly becoming slush on sidewalks and street corners – warm clothes and waterproof boots are a must. (Average Max Temperature: 3.1°C. Average Precipitation: 81mm.)
  • New York City Weather in February: During February, temperatures continue to be cold, with average daytime highs rising to around 7 degrees Celsius. Snowfall still common at this time, and daylight hours remain brief – in New York City, sunset occurs around 17:30 in February. (Average Maximum Temperature: 4.2°C. Average Precipitation: 77mm.)
  • New York City Weather in March: The weather in New York City during March can be somewhat unpredictable, with conditions occasionally resembling winter yet at other times feeling more like spring. Cold temperatures and snowfall are still common though less likely toward the end of the month. Travelers will want to bring warm clothing but may find they aren`t always needed. (Average Max Temperature: 8.9°C. Average Precipitation: 91mm.)
  • New York City Weather in April: Snowfall in April is unusual in New York City, though still potentially possible – especially around the beginning of the month. Any snow the area gets won’t persist for long, however. Average temperatures range from 7 to 18°C, spring rain showers are commonplace, and flowers are in full bloom and visible by the end of the month. (Average Maximum temperature: 14.6°C. Average Precipitation: 99mm.)
  • New York City Weather in May: May represents one of New York City’s most lovely months. Temperatures range from 10-26°C, usually warm but not hot, and without the moisture found during summer. Flowers are blooming, trees are leafing out, and it’s a wonderful time to explore the city’s many parks. (Average Max Temperature: 19.8°C. Average Precipitation: 96mm.)
  • New York City Weather in June: As June progresses, days become warmer with summer approaching, yet heat and humidity usually do not prevent comfortably enjoying outdoor activities. Shorts and sandals are appropriate clothing options during this month. The long daylight hours (sunset around 8:30pm) are perfect for attending an outdoor concert or baseball game at Yankee Stadium – barring occasional rainstorms. (Average Maximum Temperature: 25°C. Average Precipitation: 92mm.)
  • New York City Weather in July: The hottest month of the year, expect temperatures ranging from 21-35°C, with an average high of 28.2°C. The humidity is also on the rise especially as August approaches, though ample shade from trees and tall buildings usually means it’s not so uncomfortable that you can’t enjoy a walk in the park or lunch or dinner at a sidewalk cafe. Expect quieter streets as locals head for cooler coasts. (Average Max Temperature: 28.2°C. Average Precipitation: 97mm.)
  • Weather forecasts for New York City in August: While July averages as the hottest month, August brings increased humidity, often resulting in late afternoon/early evening thunderstorms that pass quickly. Interior temperatures like those found on the subway can exceed outside highs by 10°C, so travelers may find taxis preferable when moving between air-conditioned attractions. (Avg. High: 27.7°C. Avg. Rainfall: 87mm.)
  • September Weather in New York City: September marks a transitional phase for New York`s climate. Until mid-month, temperatures range from 21-27°C with humidity typical of summer. Later in the month, cooler air moves in as October nears. Even the warmest September days offer ideal conditions for outdoor adventures around the city thanks to lower humidity left from summer. (Average Maximum Temperature: 23.9°C. Average Precipitation: 84mm.)
  • Weather in New York City During October: Traditionally October sees the driest conditions throughout the year in New York with mild to cool temperatures under pleasant autumnal skies. Temperatures generally range between ten to twenty degrees Celsius, so light outerwear is advisable – though not always necessary. The changing fall foliage and accommodating temperature range influence many visitors to experience this as an ideal time to explore New York. (Average Maximum Temperature 18.2°C. Average Precipitation: 73mm.)
  • New York City Weather in November: During this month, the days become shorter, cooler, and wetter. Wearing a jacket is essential, and a hat as well as gloves are wise choices. Sometimes snow flurries can be seen by month`s end, even though accumulation is improbable at that point. (Average Max Temperature: 12.1°C. Average Precipitation: 92mm.)
  • New York City Weather in December: Winter takes hold in New York, with frigid temperatures, snowfall, and bustling holiday crowds. Blustery winds and chill can sting. Days shorten – the sun is expected to set around 4:30pm mid-month – allowing sightseers ample time to admire the city’s twinkling seasonal decorations. (Average Max Temperature: 5.9°C. Average Precipitation: 87mm.)

New York City Events and Festivals

January in New York

  • Winter Jazzfest NYC — Features over 100 musical performances spread across 11 indoor and outdoor venues in and around Greenwich Village.

    • Tawaraya — Hotel phone: +81 75 211 5566

  • NYC Restaurant Week — Three-course meals for lunch and dinner at over 300 of the city’s top eateries.

February in New York

March in New York

  • St. Patrick’s Day Parade — Groups, bagpipers, and politicians march up Fifth Avenue past Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in this 250-year-old annual celebration of Irish heritage.

April in New York

  • Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival — An casual Sunday Easter celebration of fancy headgears and outrageous extras. Fashionable and festive people stroll Fifth Avenue from 49th to 57th, and the rest of us experience some excellent crowd observing.
  • Tribeca Film Festival — An esteemed ceremony and competition for independent films that includes panel discussions, a family street fair celebrating the neighborhood`s culture, and thousands of screenings of documentaries, foreign films, and independent creations across lower Manhattan.

May in New York

  • Ninth Avenue International Food Festival — This event features ethnic cuisines, international music and dances, and attracts over a million hungry visitors to the Hell’s Kitchen area between 42nd and 57th Streets in New York City.
  • At the Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit hundreds of local and international artists vend their merchandise at this substantial sidewalk art fair during Memorial Day weekend.
  • Argosy Holiday Ship Pageant – Enjoy on board or ashore as a flotilla of illuminated and choir-transporting ships check neighborhood waterfront networks for caroling and bonfires.

June in New York

  • Belmont Stakes — Annual equestrian contest that comprises the final leg of the Triple Crown series. Situated at Belmont Park, around 14 miles east of Manhattan.
  • TAIWANfest – One of the world’s largest Taiwanese expressions and culture occasions outside of Taiwan, this yearly three-day festival is held in early September and celebrates Taiwanese culture, including lots of live music, cinema, culinary representations and more.
  • Shakespeare in the Park performances (June/July) — Entrance is complimentary (2 per person), but you’ll have to line up at the box office before midday to reserve seats for these incredibly popular Public Theater shows at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park.

July in New York

August in New York

  • New York International Fringe Festival — A 16-day long performing arts festival featuring 1300 presentations by over 200 multi-cultural groups across more than 20 venues in midtown Manhattan.

September in New York

    The Roku Hotel contact number: +81 75 320 0111

  • Vancouver ECO Fashion Week – During this eco-friendly week in mid-April there is a panel discussion with eco-conscious designers, a vintage runway show and other fashion events.
  • Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit — Hundreds of local and international artists and artisans promote their goods at this massive street-based art fair during the Labor Day weekend.
  • Broadway Week — tickets for over 20 popular Broadway shows at a reduced rate.
  • New York Fall Fashion Week — The fashion industry comes together at Lincoln Center, where the best designers in the world showcase their spring collections through a week of by-invitation-only exhibitions and parties.
  • New York Film Festival (September/October) — The Film Society of Lincoln Center’s annual autumn celebration of cinema, displaying critically acclaimed international works and Hollywood first showings at various Lincoln Center event halls.

October in New York

  • Columbus Day Parade — New York’s yearly homage to Italian-American heritage, with decorative floats and musical bands making their way along Fifth Avenue from 47th to 72nd Streets. Observed the second Monday in October.
  • Open House New York – A weekend event exploring architecture and design, Open House New York provides tours inside over 300 historical sites and buildings of structural importance that are usually inaccessible. Generally free of charge, though some locations may require preregistration or a small fee to enter. Events are held across all five boroughs of New York City.
  • Village Halloween Parade — Annual nightfall festival and procession on Halloween, featuring floats, circus performers, musical acts, massively oversized puppets, and over two million annual spectators. Traverses along 6th Avenue, from Spring to 16th streets in Greenwich Village.

November in New York

  • New York City Marathon — The largest annual marathon event attracts more than 50,000 runners from around the world who traverse through all five boroughs of New York City on the first Sunday of November.
  • Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade — Over 3 million spectators line the streets as hundreds of intricately designed floats, marching bands, dancers, celebrity guests, giant character balloons, and of course Santa Claus usher in the holiday season travelling up Central Park West and through Midtown Manhattan.
  • Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony — After an entertainment-filled holiday show and in front of thousands of onlookers, Rockefeller Plaza’s iconic Christmas tree is illuminated. Held the Wednesday following Thanksgiving.

December in New York

  • Ice Skating Circles — The Cycle at Rockefeller Focus is the most iconic and has the longest queues. Wollman Rink in Core Park is the largest and has the best view. The cycle at Bryant Park is complimentary (with skate rental fee) and adjacent to the park’s festive vacation market.
  • Holiday Window Displays – Major department stores on and around Fifth Avenue get decorated for the holidays starting in mid-November, and stay dressed up through the New Year. Best seen after dark for maximum festive effect.
  • The Nutcracker — There are many productions to choose from. You can see either the classic George Balanchine version performed by the New York City Ballet, Alexei Ratmansky’s contemporary take with American Ballet Theatre, or any of the dozens of other traditional and creative renditions shown annually around the city.
  • Radio City Christmas Spectacular — The Radio City Rockettes headline in this ultimate and iconic holiday extravaganza, a New York City tradition since 1933. Shows run from mid-November through New Year’s at Rockefeller Center’s Radio City Music Hall.
  • New Year’s Eve at Times Square — Two performance stages and periodic fireworks displays entertain the reveling crowds from 6pm until midnight when the famed ball descends, located on Broadway between 40th and 53rd Streets).
  • New Year’s Eve Fireworks — Be amazed by the grand display in Central Park (ignited near Bethesda Fountain), or head east to Brooklyn’s Prospect Park to join the more relaxed crowd. Both locations commence live music around 10pm, with fireworks ushering in the New Year at midnight.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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