Best time to visit New York is now! New York reveals a new side of itself with every passing month, drawing millions of visitors to its diverse hills, islands, forests, lakes, and lively festivals.
Some people go hiking in the Adirondacks or the Catskills, while others visit Niagara Falls to hear its loud roar or relax by the Finger Lakes. Some love the beautiful beaches of Long Island, and others visit the fancy Hamptons.
No matter when you visit, each season in New York has something special. Summer is perfect for hiking in the woods or playing on the beach. The fall season is for those who are looking for cozy expirences.
Winter season is great for skiing and sitting by a warm fire, while spring brings flowers and nice weather for exploring historic places. So there’s no bad time to visit New York – here’s a complete guide to when it’s the best time to visit New York!
Planning to visit New York?
Table of Contents
June to August is the best time to visit New York for outdoor activities.
Summer in New York is all about embracing the outdoors. It’s the season of long days spent hiking the Adirondack trails, kayaking on the Finger Lakes, or relaxing on Long Island’s sandy beaches. With temperatures hovering between 70°F and 90°F, it’s perfect for water sports, camping, and family road trips.
Key Events:
- Belmont Stakes (June)
- NYC Pride March (June)
- Shakespeare in the Park (June)
- Metropolitan Opera in the Parks (June–July)
- July Fourth (July)
- New York International Fringe Festival (August)
September to November is the best time for seasonal celebrations with beautiful scenery
As the air turns crisp and the trees burst into fiery hues, fall unveils New York’s most picturesque side. Leaf-peeping becomes a cherished pastime, drawing visitors to the Catskills, Hudson Valley, and Adirondacks. The colors are especially dazzling from mid-September to late October, but fall isn’t just about the scenery.
Festivals like the Naples Grape Festival and the Hudson Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival celebrate the season’s bounty, while apple-picking and pumpkin farms offer family-friendly fun. Don’t miss the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, where thousands of intricately carved pumpkins light up the night in stunning displays.
Check out the best places to visit in New York.
Key Events:
- New York Film Festival (September-October)
- Haunted Halloween Carnival (October)
- New York City Marathon (November)
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (November)
- Lighting at Rockefeller Center (November)
December to February is the best time for snow adventures and holiday cheer
Winter transforms New York into a wonderland. Winter season snow transforms the upstate regions like Lake Placid and the Catskills into a playground for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Meanwhile, New York City dazzles with its iconic holiday displays, from the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the sparkling windows along Fifth Avenue.
Check out the best places to eat in New York in 2025.
Holiday magic is everywhere, especially in New York City, where Rockefeller Center’s ice rink and Fifth Avenue’s festive window displays draw millions. After the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Times Square, January and February bring quieter crowds and more affordable hotel rates, perfect for those who don’t mind bundling up in the chill.
Key Events:
- Times Square New Years Eve (December)
- Westminster Kennel Club Show (February)
March to May is the best time for blossoms and new beginnings
Spring in New York feels like a fresh start. As gardens burst into bloom and temperatures rise into the 50s and 60s, the state welcomes visitors to enjoy its quieter, less crowded attractions and it’s the perfect time to visit Niagara Falls or explore the Hamptons.
Events like the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival and St. Patrick’s Day Parade showcase the state’s lively spirit, while April showers bring stunning May flowers, making gardens and parks a must-visit. Spring also offers excellent deals on accommodations, especially during March and April when the weather can still be unpredictable.
Key Events:
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March)
- Easter Parade (April)
- Burt’s Bees Earth Day (April)
- Ninth Avenue International Food Festival (May)
- Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit (May)
