visit nyc in september

The Very Best Time to Visit New York (by a local!)

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When’s the best time to visit New York? New York experiences all four seasons, and often temperature extremes — but I think the best time to visit New York is in the fall from September to November.

That said, that’s just one small part of the year — and it could be completely different for you. You might hate that time of year if you came for festivals, or outdoor dining, or the cheapest prices. (And if you have kids or work in education, you might not be able to come then at all.)

So I set out to create the best guide on the best time to travel to New York, completely with temperature, atmosphere, crowd level, and event information.

I lived in New York for several years until recently, and living there was one of the great joys of my adult life. I know the city extremely well, and this guide is full of tidbits that you only get after living awhile in New York.

Like just how hot the 96th St. 1-2-3 platform gets in August. Or just how bad the crowds are on Fifth Avenue in December.

Or the incredible feeling you get when taking part in an activity with a huge crowd of strangers, whether it’s a rare eclipse or a surprise Janet Jackson concert in your neighborhood.

In short — New York is a one-of-a-kind city, and you are going to have a wonderful time here, not matter what time of year you decide to go to New York. Let’s get to the guide!

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit New York

The best time to visit New York is during the fall months: late September, all of October, and early November. This is for three main reasons:

The weather is fantastic. Nice, warm and cool temperatures that are perfect for strolling around outdoors. Some days you need no jacket; some days just a light jacket is perfect. One big difference from spring is that it doesn’t rain as often during the fall.

Crowds have thinned out. New York’s busiest seasons are from June through August and Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Kids are back in school and many families are averse to traveling so early in the school year, and families comprise a decent percentage of New York tourists.

Prices have dropped. New York is always expensive, don’t get me wrong, but hotel prices are much lower in the fall lower than during the summer months and the peak season between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.

And a bonus reason: fall colors. That’s just a bonus, in my opinion! You see the best fall colors in New York from mid-October to early November, peaking in late October. Don’t miss the fall foliage in Central Park, Prospect Park, and Fort Tryon Park and the Cloisters.

I recommend visiting New York during the fall months , from late September through early November. May and June are nice, too.

In my opinion, the best month to visit New York is October , for beautiful weather and gorgeous fall colors.

There’s lots to do in New York year-round, but we love September for family trips because most kid-friendly Big Apple attractions are empty.

In the winter temperatures are frequently below freezing, especially in January , but usually hover between 28-45 F (-2-7 C).

Festivals occur year-round in New York but there are many great ones in the summer, especially June , as well as between Thanksgiving and New Years’.

New York Weather

New York gets every kind of weather you can imagine . It experiences all four seasons and the weather fluctuates throughout the year. 

In the winter you have plenty of subzero days and major snowstorms; the spring growsinto warmer and warmer temperatures, but with decent rain; summer is very hot with high humidity, and the fall is warm-to-cool with mostly clear skies.

There are pros and cons to each season in New York. Let’s break down each season one by one.

New York in Spring

Spring in New York is absolutely beautiful and a great time to visit . As long as you come during actual spring: early April through early June. March is still very much winter temperatures here.

Yes, New York has cherry blossoms, and they tend to bloom at the end of March or the beginning of April. They symbolize the beginning of warmer months ahead with their bright spring colors. Some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in New York are Central Park, Roosevelt Island, and the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, which has a cherry blossom festival in April.

One of my favorite things to do in New York in the spring is to wake up early and take a long, leisurely walk through Central Park, enjoying the fresh cool air and the dogs enjoying off-leash hours.

It can be a cheerful time to visit after a cold winter, but many days can be rainy. The temperature is comfortable for walking around and not too hot or too cold. It’s good to have a light jacket and umbrella with you.

Also, you have those exceptionally warm days that pop up every now and then, usually in mid-April. I live for the first hot day of the year in New York because everyone empties into the parks and enjoys the glorious sunshine!

If you have a genie and can predict the future, THAT is the best time to go to New York — the first hot day of the year. But if you’re feeling lucky, aim for the last week in April.

New York in Summer

Summer weather in New York is very hot and humid, which can be glorious, but also difficult to handle. Ah, New York in the summer is quite the contradiction.

On one hand, summer is when New York explodes into festivals and events, from Pride to the Mermaid Parade to the Jazz Lawn Party on Governor’s Island. There’s outdoor dining, rooftop parties, street festivals, and even time on the beach at Jacob Riis or the Rockaways.

On the other hand, summer can be miserable. The smell of garbage is particularly pungent in New York at this time of the year. Waiting for the subway can be on a platform 10+ degrees hotter than the temperature outside. And subway cars that have lost AC are their own brand of hell.

Honestly, I’m a big summer fan, but in New York I spend a lot of time visiting museums and doing indoor activities. I recommend doing the same, finding lots of places you can escape to if it gets too hot.

One of my favorite things to do in New York in the summer is to take the Staten Island Ferry. It’s the best free activity in New York City, and standing outdoors on the ferry will give you some lovely breezes.

New York in Fall

Fall is a spectacular time to visit New York. It’s the best of every world, as I mentioned above: comfortable temperatures for walking around and exploring; mostly clear skies and limited rain; colorful fall foliage; and smaller crowds and lower hotel prices than peak season.

One thing I’ve noticed in my years as a travel writer is that September and October are MAGICAL. This is when kids go back to school and parents don’t want to travel that early in a new school year — so places are marvelously empty of kids.

Every fashionista knows that fall is the best season of the year for fashion — and New York is one of the most interesting fashion cities on the planet. Whether you go to Bryant Park for the shows or stroll through the streets of SoHo, fall is THE time for exploring fashion in New York.

One of my favorite things to do in New York in the fall is to get out my camera and explore different neighborhoods and their local cuisines: Prospect Heights for Caribbean curries; Flushing for Hong Kong egg tarts; Arthur Avenue in the Bronx for Albanian burek.

(Pretty different than the Times-Square-Empire State Building-Brooklyn Bridge-High Line tourist attractions route, don’t you think?)

New York in Winter

When you live there, winter in New York sometimes feels eternally long and bleak, but there’s nothing like the city under a fresh snowfall.

New York gets several major snowstorms during the winter months, most of them between early January and late March. (Though it’s not unheard of to have a snowstorm in December or even as early as November.)

This is absolutely gorgeous — New York under a fresh snowfall is so lovely to photograph, especially Central Park and any neighborhood with brownstones. But that only lasts a few hours, and if the snow is deep, the city can grind to a halt.

Should you visit New York in the winter? I always say that you should only come here if you know what our winters are like. If you’re from Chicago or Minnesota, come on in! You know what you’re getting into. Good winter boots are BEYOND essential.

But if you’re from Florida or Texas, I strongly urge you to come at another time. On the NYC subreddits there are always posts by travelers from warm climates who don’t know how to deal with the cold and aren’t enjoying their trip. (If this is you, go to Uniqlo or H&M and buy a bunch of winter gear. It will make it easier.)

Winter is also the cheapest time of year to visit New York — specifically early January through late March.

One of my favorite things I’ve ever done in winter is the no-pants subway ride! This event in January is organized over social media. Groups of participants ride a set route of the NYC subway together in full winter gear except pants, ending up in Union Square. Somehow it always ends up being the coldest day of the year, but that adds to the fun.

High Season and Low Season in New York

Generally speaking, high season in New York is during the summer months, from June through August. This is when you have the biggest crowds and the highest prices. There is also a second high season in New York between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, when New York goes all out for Christmas and the holiday season.

Some peak days in New York, when accommodation is at its most expensive, are New Year’s Eve, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

There are also some paradoxes during high season. On Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day, the city empties out as New Yorkers head for the beach. This can be a very pleasant time in local neighborhoods that don’t get a lot of tourists.

Low season in New York is from January to March. During this time you have winter weather and lots of unpredictable snowstorms. If you’re used to cold winters, this can be a great time to visit, as you’ll be able to enjoy lower hotel rates, visit uncrowded museums, and get cheap Broadway tickets.

Best Month to Visit New York

What’s the best month to visit New York? Usually I say October, but that’s not the whole story.

It depends on who you are and what kind of trip you want to have.

I’ve broken down every month in New York into atmosphere, weather, and events.

New York in January

January is the coldest month in New York and other than New Year’s, it’s not a busy time to visit. After the holiday season, prices drop and it’s one of the cheapest times of the year.

The average temperature in New York in January can range from 27 to 39 Fahrenheit (-3 to 4 Celsius). You can also expect snow in January, and likely multiple major snowstorms, in between a variety of sleet, rain, and wintry precipitation.

Events in New York in January include the Three Kings Day Parade in East Harlem, the world-famous Westminster Kennel Dog Show , and Broadway Week , when Broadway shows have 2-for-1 tickets.

New York in February

February is a slow month in New York and one of the cheapest months out of the year. The cold, snowy weather of February keeps tourists away.

Average temperatures in New York in February range from 28 to 41 Fahrenheit (-2 to 5 Celsius) and you can expect a few major snowstorms, along with various other wintry weather.

Events in New York in February include the Lunar New Year Parade in the city’s numerous Chinatowns, the beginning of the multi-month Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Gardens, and NYC restaurant week , when restaurants offer low-priced specials.

New York in March

March is the last of the cold months in New York and much more winter than spring. It’s still a cheaper time of year with fewer tourists because it’s too cold for spending much of the time outdoors.

You can expect average temperatures in New York in March to be 36 to 50 Fahrenheit (2 to 10 Celsius). There is usually at least one snowstorm in March as well, sometimes more than one, and the weather still feels like winter through the end of the month.

Events in New York in March include the St. Patrick’s Day Parade along Fifth Avenue, the New York International Children’s Film Festival , and the Macy’s Flower Show in their flagship store on 34th Street.

New York in April

April is when New York starts to awake into spring, which makes it a lovely time to visit New York. In the early days of April, you can find cherry blossoms blooming and colorful flowers all around. Temperatures are moderate, though you may have a few cold and hot days mixed in.

Weather-wise, it can be a bit all over the place — some rainy days, some sun, some foggy mornings, a lot of cloudiness — but the weather is warming up and spring has sprung.

Average temperatures in New York in April range from 45 to 61 Fahrenheit (7 to 16 Celsius), though you’ll probably enjoy one or two super-warm days near the end of the month!

Events in New York in April include the New York Easter Parade along Fifth Avenue, Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden , and Earth Day , which brings in a variety of events.

New York in May

May is a great month to visit New York, especially if you like flowers. Spring is in full effect, the flowers are lovely and temperatures are comfortable for being outside. It’s just before summer begins and tourists make their way to the city, so May is the perfect time to beat the major crowds.

You can expect the average temperature in New York in May to be around 54 to 72 Fahrenheit (12 to 22 Celsius).

Events in New York in May include Bronx Week , celebrating everything about the northernmost borough; NYCX Design , showcasing interesting designs of all kinds, and the Ninth Ave International Food Festival in Hell’s Kitchen.

New York in June

June marks the start of summer in New York, and if you have your heart set on a New York summer trip, we recommend June over hotter, more humid July and August. Early June is much more spring-like and you’l experience more rain, but by late June, sizzling summer has set in.

You can expect temperatures in New York in June to be around 64 to 79 Fahrenheit (18 to 26 Celsius), and for it to be much warmer toward the end of the month than the beginning of the month.

Events in New York in June include NYC Pride , a full and boisterous celebration of all things queer; the costume-filled Coney Island Mermaid Parade , and the New York Jazz Age Lawn Party on Governors’ Island.

New York in July

July is the hottest month in New York, and there are plenty of tourists in the city at this time. You can expect humid, sticky weather that can get uncomfortable for spending much of your time outdoors.

The average temperature in New York in July ranges from 68 to 84 Fahrenheit (20 to 29 Celsius), and the humidity can make it feel even hotter.

Events in New York in July include the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island; Shakespeare in the Park , with performances in Central Park, and Harlem Week , a monthlong celebration of New York’s coolest neighborhood.

Read More: 100+ Best Things to Do in Harlem

New York in August

August in New York is another hot and humid summer month. It’s also a month when many New York’s escape the city, so it might have a less-crowded feel in less-touristy neighborhoods. Tourist crowds begin to slowly disperse by the end of the month.

The average temperature in New York in August can range from 68 to 82 Fahrenheit (20 to 28 Celsius).

Events in New York in August include the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival on Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows in Queens, the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival in the East Village and Harlem, and the US Open in Flushing Meadows, Queens.

New York in September

September in New York marks the start of fall and is one of the best months of the year to visit NYC. The air is a comfortable temperature, there are fewer tourists in the city, and the leaves start changing color. It’s a wonderful time of year and when New York is at its best.

Average temperatures in New York in September range from 61 to 75 Fahrenheit (16 to 24 Celsius). Early September is much more like summer than fall.

Events in New York in September include the Festival of San Gennaro , the patron saint of Naples, in Little Italy; the Armory Show , one of the world’s major contemporary art shows; and the fall edition of Broadway Week , when Broadway shows have 2-for-1 tickets.

New York in October

October is the best month to visit New York: full stop. It’s at the peak of fall, the leaves are all different colors, and everyone seems to be in a great mood. Prices and tourist levels begin to slowly drop and it’s the perfect weather for walking around outdoors.

You can expect average temperatures in New York in October to be around 50 to 64 Fahrenheit (10 to 18 Celsius).

Events in New York in October include the New Yorker Festival , where intellectual leaders come to give talks; New York Comic-Con , celebrating all things geeky; and of course Halloween, including the world-famous NYC Village Halloween Parade .

New York in November

November in New York is very much an in-between time of year. Fall is ending and winter is just beginning. You won’t really need to worry about snow at this point, unless there’s a rogue flurry, but it will start cooling down fast.

November can be a good time of year to visit New York because it’s not quite too cold to spend time outdoors. The Thanksgiving holiday, however, brings peak crowds and pricing.

You can expect the average temperatures in New York in November to range from 41 to 54 Fahrenheit (5 to 12 Celsius).

Events in New York in November include the New York City Marathon , which draws runners and spectators from around the world; the NYC Comedy Festival , which draws tons of big names; and of course the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade .

New York in December

December in New York is cold, but rarely very snowy. Some people think the best time to visit New York is during the Christmas season, so get ready for high prices and huge tourist crowds! If you enjoy the holidays, it can be a great time to visit New York, but it will be too cold to spend all of your time outdoors.

You can expect average temperatures in New York in December to be around 32 to 43 Fahrenheit (0 to 6 Celsius).

Events in New York in December include the Rockettes’ Radio City Christmas Spectacular ; the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting ; and New Year’s Eve in Times Square .

Best Festivals in New York

New York throws some great festivals, especially in the summer and during the holidays. People from all over visit New York just to experience some of the festivals that take place each year.

Honestly, there are so many different festivals that we couldn’t possibly include them all in this post. Instead, here’s an overview of the best and biggest events of the year:

NYC Pride : In June, millions of people take place in NYC Pride, a series of events celebrating the LGBTQ community, culminating in a parade through downtown Manhattan. Nobody does pride like New York City!

Halloween: The New York City Village Halloween Parade takes place on Halloween night, October 31st, each year in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Lower Manhattan. It’s a great opportunity to get creative and dress up in costumes and enjoy the parade and parties all around New York. 

Jazz Age Lawn Party : Located on Governors Island in June, this weekend-long event celebrates New York City’s prohibition era. It’s a fun opportunity to travel back in time, dress as someone from the 1920s, and enjoy an exciting and informative event related to American history. 

Coney Island Mermaid Parade : Held in June on Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York, the Mermaid Parade is the largest art parade in the United States. It’s an unforgettable event and a great place to let loose and discover your inner sea creature. 

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade : Occurring on the fourth Thursday in November, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the world’s largest parade and famous for its enormous balloons and performances on parade floats.

Christmas: New York gets into the holiday spirit from Thanksgiving to New Years’ Day. Around Thanksgiving, you can find Christmas markets, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, shows, lights, and displays throughout New York. (Pro tip: the best place to see Christmas decorations is Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. They go ALL OUT.) The events that take place make it an exciting time to visit.

Best Time to Visit New York with Kids

Is New York a good destination to visit with kids? Absolutely. New York is one of the safest big cities in the US and it’s unparalleled in terms of fun kid-friendly activities. If you take your kids here, they will remember it forever.

The great thing about New York is that it can be fun to visit any time of year! The best time to visit with kids is either in the spring or fall when the weather isn’t too hot or too cold and there are fewer tourists.

Here’s a New York family travel hack: if you homeschool or follow a non-traditional school schedule, September is when the rest of the world is back at school. Get ready to enjoy kid-friendly attractions without the crowds.

Cheapest Time to Visit New York

The cheapest time to visit New York is during the winter months: January, February, and March. Accommodation are at their lowest prices. Flights and trains tend to be cheap, too, outside of holiday weekends like Martin Luther King Day. And a lot of Broadway shows have cheap tickets available (nope, not Hamilton so much, but pretty much anything else).

However, keep in mind that New York is cheap for a reason: winters here are harsh. As I wrote in my What NOT to Do in New York post, if you’re from Minnesota, you know what you’re getting into. If you’re from Texas, you’re going to struggle.

Overall Best Time to Go to New York

Overall, I think October is the best month to visit New York — but if you have leeway, late September, all of October, and early November are the best time to go to New York. You will absolutely love the big city at this time of year.

Planning a trip to NYC? Let me help!

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See all New York posts here .

Have you been to New York? What time of year do you think is best? Share away!

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Things To Do In New York In September

Best september new york city activities, check the nyc insider guide september events calendar, things to do in new york in september with family, indulge in the nyc fair & festival scene, labor day weekend in new york city.

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30 Must-Do Activities to do in September - Enjoy every moment in NYC

Are you planning a trip to New York ? Well, now that the heat of the summer is behind us, it is much more pleasant and comfortable to go out for a stroll around the city in September; thus, Things to do in New York for first-timers, then you should make the most of this season. Find out what there is to do in New York in September, have a good time at baseball games, soccer matches, and tennis matches, or enjoy art festivals, photography, and more.

September is the perfect month to take advantage of the chance to see New York City's most beautiful streets and landmarks. The heat won't be as much of an issue anymore, and the harsh cold has not yet come, so the weather is just right. Due to this fact, many significant and much-anticipated activities will occur during this glorious period.

Here are the Best New York September Events and What to Do in New York in September

You can participate in any of the city's many festivities, including various festivals, sporting events, and art exhibits—things to do in NYC in September. You only need to be aware of what they are to make a decision, or you can even test out each one individually if you have the time. You will get a description of How to plan a trip to New York and the most well-known and fascinating ones here to compare them and ensure you don't overlook the ones that grab your attention.

1. Enjoy the Rhythm of Music at the Summer Stage Festival in New York City in September

Summer Stage Festival is a series of free musical concerts held from June to August, and it’s one of the best things to do in NYC this summer. Locals and visitors can enjoy free open-air musical concerts in Central Park and other large public parks. Famous singers, bands, and vocal artists perform live shows on the summer stage, featuring their favorite music genres like Jazz, Hip Hop, Latin, Global, Salsa, Afrobeat, Soul, Pop, and modern dance performances for their fans and followers. Some rules apply for the public to enter free concerts with few restrictions. Still, it’s the best entertainment and one of the most exciting things to do in new york in October for everyone, with high musical energy, dance, and fun in the summer and fall seasons.

2. Enjoy the Best Food with Ocean Waves at the NYC Dinner Cruise

Enjoy buffet dinners, delicious international cuisines, music, dance, and fun with the beautiful ocean waves at the NYC Dinner Cruises. Hooping around the city’s skyline and sightseeing with the cool ocean breeze on the cruise deck are the ideal activities to do in September in NYC. Some fantastic dinner cruises in NYC are Spirit Dinner Cruise, Bateaux Dinner Cruise, Circle Line Dinner Cruise, New York Dinner Cruise, Manhattan by Sail Cruise, Classic Harbor Line Cruise, Live Jazz City Lights Cruise, City Cruise, and La Barca Dinner Cruise. It’s one of the most fascinating things to do in New York in November.

3. Taste the Dynamic Cuisines at the Famous Uptown Night Market in New York City

Food Lovers can enjoy the multicultural event and taste the variations of international dishes at the fantastic Uptown Night Market in Harlem and Washington Heights in September, NYC. The delicious flavors of tasty meals, Hot, Chilly, Spicy, and Honey Sweet desserts, and drinks in this open-air market from various vendors are available at minimal prices and hot deals. The food festival has multiple other attractions like live music and dance performances, honoring the diversified cultures in New York City. This event continues from March to October on weekdays, and you can enjoy the festival with your friends, kids, and family.

4. Enjoy the Flavorsome Dishes at the Bronx Night Market in NYC

Taste the various flavorsome meals, snack bites, coffee, latte, ice creams, desserts, cakes, pastries, shakes, juices, drinks, and much more. Enjoy the food festival with affordable prices, various deals, and discounts at the Bronx Night Market, NYC. It’s a remarkable event and one of the most exciting September things to do in the borough of the Bronx for food lovers.

5. Pay The Tributes in Light to the Victims of the 9/11 Attack in September, NYC

September eleven is a dreadful day commemorating the terrible incident of 9/11 at the World Trade Tower in NYC. Several innocent people were poorly injured and dead. Ground Zero is the memorial spot for the victims of the terrorist attack. Their names are read loudly to pay tribute to those who passed away. The site where this incident happened, and the twin towers existed, is marked as The Tributes in Light. It’s a unique light monument with eighty-eight light beams illuminating it at night. They are visible from a hundred miles away. Locals and visitors must know the facts and history of this dreadful incident and visit the monument to pay tribute to the innocent people of the nation in September in New York.

6. Enjoy the Fabulous Scene at the Hudson River Flowing Waters on Little Island at Pier 54, NYC

Little Island at Pier 54 in Meat Packing District is a unique public park like a tulip-shaped floating island on the Hudson River, portraying a beautiful natural scene of an urban oasis. People can walk, jog, exercise, do yoga and meditation, and play while enjoying the refreshing water waves on the Hudson River on Little Island. Watch the beautiful sunset while standing on the island, getting some cool clicks, tasting the snack bites and grabbing some drinks, meditating in the refreshing air on the flowing water, or reading a thrilling story or a novel at the lavish green park. Never miss the chance to visit this fascinating scene in NYC in September.

7. Enjoy the Bryant Park Picnic Performances in September in NYC

Bryant Park is one of the largest and most famous public parks in NYC. It's the favorite picnic spot for locals and visitors in the summer, spring, winter, and fall. The Summer Stage music concerts, free movie nights, open-air festivals, yoga classes, and other activities happened in the park. The lavish tall trees, beautiful fall foliage around the sidewalks, and refreshing air keep you calm and relaxed in the soothing atmosphere of this large public park in September.

New York has multiple events, festivals, and attractions for the fall season in Bryant Park, and it's the best city to visit in September.

8. White Le Diner En Blanc at the Battery Park in NYC

Enjoy the delightful dinner in the exclusive White Le Diner En Blanc in 2023 at Battery Park is the ideal attraction of the fall season in NYC and the great things to do in December . The outstanding dine-in spot at the lavish green waterfront park and all things in White! The dress code is white, table clothes, chairs, plates, dinnerware, lights and lamps, flowers, and flickering white candle flames look awe-inspiring soft, and calm ambiance at the unique spot. Never miss the chance to reserve a table at this fantastic place in New York City in September.

9. Explore the Skyline through Waterways and Free Kayaking on the Hudson River in NYC

Fall and Summer season has various attractions and people bursting outdoors in these busy times in NYC. Explore New York City's fascinating skyline through waterways and enjoy free kayaking at the Hudson and East Rivers. It's one of the most fascinating things to do in NYC in September.

Grab a free kayak from the Manhattan Community Boathouse or the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse at the Hudson River. Enjoy the exciting water picnic while hooping around the city's skyline in the Kayak.

10. Enjoy the Greatest Free Fun Event in Fall Season, Curtain Up Broadway Festival, NYC

Curtain Up Broadway Festival in Fall 2023 offers free entry for Broadway fans. It's one of the most remarkable fun and the best things to do in New York City in September. The public can enjoy music, live performances, sing and dance at the outdoor event freely and participate in the event to kick start the Broadway season in the city.

11. The Remarkable Entertainment and Fun at the Electric Zoo Music Festival in NYC

The Electric Zoo Music Festival is held in September. It's a three-day music event at Randall's Island, near Queens, NYC. Live performances and various remarkable musical genres, famous artists, and singers perform at the event. The festival brings super electric musical energy, the upbeat rhythm of electronic musical instruments, highly energetic dance performances, and exciting thrills and chills in the fall season in NYC. It's one of the most fun things to do in New York in September.

12. Enjoy the Free Movies at the Seaport Cinema in NYC

New York City has plenty of free events, festivals, and remarkable picnic spots to entertain locals and visitors with exclusive fun and amusement in all seasons. Free movies at the Seaport Cinema, Downtown, on the East River, are one of the most exciting September events in NYC.

Watch a free movie at the Seaport Cinema and grab snack bites, popcorn, beers, cocktails, and drinks at the waterfront open-air cinema. You can enjoy the event once a month and only get a seat if you arrive earliest at the cinema. It's the most fabulous unique spot for an open-air picnic with the fresh breeze and sparkling skyline views under the Brooklyn Bridge.

13. Explore the Art and Cultural Armory Show NYC

Explore the art and cultural fair in Chelsea, the famous Armory Show NYC, one of the most sophisticated and exciting things to do in New York in September. The vast art collections of paintings exhibited at the Javits Center are from the world's most fabulous artwork. The exhibition holds two hundred seventy art galleries, exclusive art collections, and contemporary styles. It's a fantastic art collection that marks the world's grand city to attract tourists and visitors and explore the iconic art in this exhibition worldwide.

14. Enjoy the Best Entertainment and Fun Festivals of Hispanic Heritage Month in NYC

Celebrate the Latin Community of America and Hispanic Heritage Month NYC events in September. Explore the Latin community stories, history, art & craft, cultural shows, storytelling activities, literature, photographs, drawings, paintings, dances, music, dresses and costume show, films and movies, and more.

15. Enjoy the Delightful Brunch at the National Pancake Day in NYC

New York City celebrates various national days for fantastic things, but National Pancake Day is a sugary treat for everyone. Get the best brunch on pancake day with chocolate cream pancakes, maple syrup, banana pancakes with vanilla cream, or strawberries and vanilla cream pancakes with drinks and cocktails. Explore the best brunch restaurants, cafes, or cruises and celebrate pancake day with your friends and family. Pancakes at the brunch are the best things to buy in September to celebrate National Pancake Day in NYC.

16. Entertainment and Fun for Jazz Fans, Enjoy the Jazz in Times Square, NYC

Jazz, Blues, Pop, and Rock music are extremely popular in NYC. Jazz fans can access jazz music from various jazz clubs, restaurants, musical concerts, bars, and cruises. For those seeking things to do in Times Square, if you want the ultimate jazz performance in the fall season, join the Lincoln Center in Times Square's exclusive jazz event for absolute jazz music and live performances. It's one of the outstanding NYC September events for jazz musical concerts.

17. Taste the Italian American Flavors at the Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy, NYC

Little Italy is a remarkable iconic place to explore the Italian culture, food, and accessories in New York City. The small Italian community residing in Little Italy offers the best products for locals and tourists. Suppose you're visiting New York in September. So, you must join The Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy, the utmost fun experience for delicious Italian cuisines, cultural and art shows, eating contests, dances, and musical concerts. This exciting festival honors the patron saint Gennaro, the Bishop of Benevento in Italy.

18. Enjoy the Diverse Culture and Cuisines and Celebrate Oktoberfest in NYC!

Oktoberfest is a delicious event and food festival held at the renowned German Tavern in Bushwick. The food festival is organized at Greenpoint, Brooklyn, from September to October in the fall season. Zum Schneider, a Bavarian Bar, offers a delightful menu of Bavarian flavorsome meals, snack bites, desserts, beers, wines, and cocktails. If you're a food lover looking for what to do in NYC in September, check out the Bavarian food festival and enjoy the delicious German food.

19. Explore the Amusement and Fun to Join the Annual German American Steuben Parade in NYC

The Annual German American Steuben Parade is held in Upper Eastside, Manhattan. It's a remarkable event for the American German community to celebrate their historical heritage in New York City. The Fascinating cultural event presents traditional costumes and dresses, dance performances, music, march with bands, and colorful floats in the parade. It's an outstanding event for September activities in NYC from the German community.

20. Explore the Great Smithsonian Museum in September, NYC

New York City has a rich history, ancient architecture, monuments, artifacts, art collectibles, and museums. Like other fantastic events, NYC offers a Smithsonian Museum Day to explore the most significant museums of the city for free entry for the public. Everyone can get free access on Saturday in September, but one person can access only one free ticket on one email id. People enjoy their favorite museums, learn history and cultural art, and get the perfect photo ops for the social sharing scene. It's one of the most fabulous things to do in September.

21. Attend a genuine musical show on Broadway itself.

Although they are not inexpensive to attend, well-known musicals on Broadway are an experience that should be noticed. Make sure that you take advantage of the unique Broadway Week if you want to give yourself the impression that you have seen a production of this sort.

During that week, which extends for more than 7 days, the general public may take advantage of a unique promotion at many movie theaters. Because this only occurs twice yearly, you can't afford to pass up this deal, which is suitable for September.

This entails the purchase of two tickets for the price of one standard ticket, saving the buyer money. This will save you fifty percent of the money that you would have spent on purchasing the two tickets at their actual price.

The following is a list of what to do in September for some of the finest musicals that are currently playing on Broadway:

• Pretty Woman
• The Phantom of the Opera
• The Lion King the Lion King

22. Don't miss out on any of the baseball action!

If you go to New York in September, you will still have the opportunity to see a baseball game at one of the city's stadiums. Even if the month of October marks the conclusion of the games season at that location, you will still have the opportunity to go. Because it is such a popular sport throughout the country, the arenas almost always have standing room only.

Even if the intensity of the game weren't enough to keep you on the edge of your seat, the atmosphere inside the stadium is fantastic. By going to cheer for one of the teams, you may share the excitement, the yelling, and the pleasure of eating fast food with the other fans. Again, you have a choice between two teams that are based in New York; you may go with either the Mets or the Yankees.

The amount of money you will spend will be determined by the location you choose to sit in and the items you purchase inside. As a result, you can choose, within the confines of the financial plan that you have devised, where you will spend your time watching the game and cheering for your team.

In any event, if you are unable to afford a ticket to a game, another option is to go to either Yankee Stadium or Brooklyn Nets Stadium and its one of the Things to in New York in June as well.

23. See a historical museum's art display

You shouldn't consider leaving New York without first going to the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), which is recognized all over the globe. The expansive collection here includes over 2,000,000 individual items, some of which are over 5,000 years old. Why in the month of September? Because the peak season of July and August has just finished and visitors are taking a break in locations as packed as this museum, which may also be a wonderful sanctuary on the rainy days that are getting more common as the year goes on.

Therefore, it is quite possible that you will need to pay for the location many visits before you can completely appreciate it. This multi-genre museum of art is located in a metropolitan area and, as the name implies, displays a variety of artistic mediums.

There are pieces in a variety of forms and sizes with a variety of various themes, including Asian, Oriental, Egyptian, Islamic, American, and Medieval. Therefore, make sure that you adhere to the MET New York Guide. If you have an appreciation for the Best Things to do in NYC , such as art, then you really must watch this.

24. Feel the excitement of a real NFL game in person.

Visit New York City in September if you think soccer is one of the most exciting sports and if you share my opinion that it is one of the most thrilling sports. This month marks the beginning of the new National Football League (NFL) season, giving you the opportunity to watch one of the exciting games. The best thing is to get the ticket a month ahead which could be one of the Things to do in New York in August.

Experience the thrill and excitement of witnessing a sporting event in life and in person. Join the New York Jets supporters or the New York Giants fans since the city has two teams - you select which one to support to ensure that you win and celebrate success. The city is home to both the New York Jets and the New York Giants.

25. Savor the high life with a weeklong fashion extravaganza.

Do you prefer to keep up with the latest fashion trends by reading publications such as Vogue, Elle, and Marie Claire? If this describes you, then attending the illustrious Fashion Week in the world's most recognized fashion city will be an experience you will remember. There are only two times every year that it takes place there, and the first one is during the first 15 days of September, and it is known to be the best tourist attractions in new york.

As a result, over that time period, several exclusive fashion displays, remarkable events, and glitzy parties that you will adore will be arranged. The Big Apple plays host to many prominent designers, celebrities from over the globe, models, and journalists during this event.

Therefore, right now is a fantastic moment to be in this significant fashion capital of the globe.

26. Participate in a free showcase of photography.

Do you think photography deserves to be recognized as an artistic medium? Participating in Photoville, a festival that features several workshops, evening storytelling sessions, artist presentations, and demos, is entirely free.

Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine thanks to the event's location at Brooklyn Bridge Park , which is just under the world-famous Brooklyn Bridge. You'll be able to get a good sense of what they have to offer in terms of showcasing the work of artists from all around the globe there. The fact that they are not well known does not take away from the quality of their work, which has an allure that cannot be denied.

This festival uses commerce containers to create picture galleries, which is one of the most distinctive aspects of the event. Come and enjoy a pleasant day in the fall gazing at these photography pictures that have deep meanings. If you are still interested in learning more, it is also Things to do in New York in May.

27. Here's your chance to finally celebrate Labor Day.

Labor Day is commemorated in a grand fashion on every first Monday of the month, regardless of the month. September is when this takes place in New York, but it is a holiday across the United States. It is generally accepted that this event or holiday serves as the unofficial marker of the beginning of the fall season.

On this day, you are likely to see a large number of people strolling around the parks and other open spaces. But the most significant part is that many different shops will have bargains, deals, offers, discounts, and promotions for you to take advantage of. Believe us when we say that if you find the thought of going shopping in New York appealing, this is one of the perfect days to do it without going overboard with your spending.

28. Watch the tennis finals and have fun.

An additional significant athletic event is the last tournament of the Grand Slam, which brings an end to the tennis season. It takes place in New York each year in the month of September, more precisely at the beginning of September. The event occurs at the well-known Flushing Meadows Park, located in the northern section of the borough of Queens.

Take full use of your trip to a city with skyscrapers if you count yourself among the group of individuals who like participating in these best activities to do in new york. You may use the event to have the rare chance to see world-famous professional tennis players in action, and you should take advantage of this opportunity. Naturally, it would be best if you made haste to get your ticket since we anticipate selling out quickly.

29. Spend the day to the fullest at a park with exciting activities.

It's a fantastic idea to go to a park in New York City in September and take advantage of the great weather that the city enjoys at that time of year. There are amusement parks with a variety of attractions, such as towering roller coasters that you will most certainly want to ride at some point. There are also carousels, boardwalks, and zip lines, in addition to those which are often the primary ones. It’s also one of the Things to do in New York in April.

There is obviously a great deal more, and this is because new kinds of attractions are constantly being included in the park. On the other hand, you will like theme parks tremendously if you are a fan of certain well-known movies or television programs. Being in one of them will be very similar to getting inside the books that you like so much and experiencing life as it is described in those tales.

30. Admire artworks at an outdoor gallery.

One more absolutely free event may be checked off the list of things to do in New York City during the month of September. It is known as the Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit , and it is held over the course of not just one but two consecutive weekends. This art show focuses mainly on the areas around Washington Park, particularly the streets in that area.

Because of this, people refer to it by the name that was just stated. The event brings together many artists from various locations around the United States, including those from the New York metropolitan region. You could even run across well-known artists from other countries who have consciously decided to participate in this vibrant and laid-back art event.

Jackson Pollock is credited with having the concept that led to the creation of this event, which took place around the year 1931. It is still going on at this very moment, and there is no admission fee to see any of the artworks in this relaxed setting. Obviously, if you want to bring one back with you as a memento from your trip, you will have to pay for it.

And of course, it is the places to visit in new york, and the art can be found at every single one of New York City's museums, which can be found all across the city. If you want to concentrate your time in New York on art and culture during your trip, the following article lists the city’s most excellent museums.

Frequently Asked Questions

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9 Great Things to Do in New York in September

While most of the month is still summer, September’s events in New York show that fall is on its way.

Throughout the state, you can celebrate the early bounty of the season at an apple festival, Oktoberfests, and even a moose festival. So, no matter your interest, there really are a lot of great things to do in New York in September.

(Article updated August 14, 2023 for events in September 2023.)

US Open in New York City – August 28 – September 10

The US Open, one of the world’s biggest tennis tournaments, returns to New York this month.

Held annually at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, it features all of the top mens and womens tennis players in the world. Over the course of two weeks, they will compete in several categories to see which athletes come out on top.

For more information and tickets, visit USOpen.org .

I Love Barbeque Festival in Lake Placid – September 1-3

If you love barbeque, you won’t want to miss the I Love Barbeque Festival held in Lake Placid this Labor Day Weekend.

This event, which is organized by USA Luge and benefits the Shipman Youth Center, will be held at the North Elba Show Grounds and will feature dozens of professional barbeque teams from around the country.

In addition to eating great barbeque, visitors can enjoy professional wrestling, craft beer, live music, and much more.

For information, visit the event’s website .

Hop Harvest Festival in Mumford – September 2

Celebrate New York’s hop crops & brewing tradition this September at the Hop Harvest Festival at the Genesee Country Village and Museum near Rochester. Festival goers can learn all about the history of one of New York state’s first cash crops as well as sample beers brewed from historic recipes & tour the only working 19th-century brewery in the United States.

In addition to locally brewed beers, the festival also offers live music and hop-inspired food & snacks. Although you must be 21 years old to sample the libations, this hop-forward festival is a family-friendly event. You can also tour the historic site, including a working early 19th-century brewery.

For more information, visit the festival’s website .

National Buffalo Wing Festival in Buffalo – September 2-3

No visit to Buffalo is complete without eating some Buffalo wings , and this September, there’s no better place to do that than at the National Buffalo Wing Festival at Highmark Stadium.

The festival will feature a variety of competitions including best sauce and, of course, Best in Show Wing. Visitors can try as many wings as they want throughout the day, and there will be other types of food and drink available as well.

In addition to eating over 100 varieties of Buffalo wings, there will be live music, wing-eating contests, and a visit from championship eater Joey Chestnut.

For more information, go to BuffaloWing.com . 

Hudson Valley Wine and Food Festival in Rhinebeck – September 9-10

The 23rd annual Hudson Valley Wine and Food Festival will be returning to Rhinebeck this month.

This two-day event will feature some of the best wineries in the region, along with some fantastic food. And, for those that prefer other types of adult beverages, there will also be breweries, cideries, and distilleries on site as well.

In addition to eating and drinking, visitors can browse local vendors, watch cooking demonstrations and seminars, and enjoy live music.

The Feast of San Gennaro in New York City – September 14-24

One of the most unique events of the year is happening in New York City’s Little Italy this September: The Feast of San Gennaro.

San Gennaro was a priest from Naples who was martyred in the 4th century, and this festival honors his life to this day with many fantastic events including a parade, live music, food-eating contests, special guests, and much more.

Come see why this is called “The Feast of all Feasts.”

For full information, visit the event’s website .

21st Annual Niagara Celtic Heritage Festival and Highland Games in Lockport – September 16-17

This year’s Niagara Celtic Heritage Festival will be held at the Niagara County Fairgrounds in Lockport. This two-day festival attracts thousands of visitors each year. Highlights of this year’s festival include demonstrations and reenactments from 13th-century Europe, the incredible Highland Games, and a visit to the festival’s traditional Wishing Tree.

There will also be incredible live music, food, craft vendors, and much more.

Find out more on the festival’s website .

Adirondack Balloon Festival in Queensbury – September 21-24

This four-day festival held in the Adirondacks has been a tradition in the area for the past 50 years. This not-for-profit event is open to the public free of charge. As a result, this colorful festival draws in tens of thousands of spectators every year.

Festival goers are treated to live musical performances, a craft fair, kids’ activities, balloon rides, and various food vendors. But the highlight of the festival is the daily flight of balloons that takes place each morning and evening of the festival (weather permitting).

Find more information at www.adirondackballoonfest.org .

The Great Adirondack Moose Festival in Indian Lake – September 22-24

The Great Adirondack Moose Festival is your chance to catch a glimpse of the elusive moose of the northern forests in New York and to participate in a lot of moose-related activities.

This festival features a moose calling contest, an antique car show, and kids’ activities. Perhaps the highlight of the event though is enjoying a guided habitat excursion for a chance to see a moose in the wild.

Looking for more events in New York? Check out our picks for the  top things to do in New York in August and our picks for things to do in New York in October .

Do you have a favorite thing to do in New York in September that isn’t on this list? Let us know in the comments below.

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Jim Cheney is the creator of Uncovering New York. After spending 5.5 years exploring Pennsylvania, Jim discovered a love for New York and is excited to spend time exploring this great state and uncovering the best things to do here.

2 thoughts on “9 Great Things to Do in New York in September”

Jim, There is a fabulous artist festival at Letchworth State Park. The park is gorgeous in the fall. Years ago I went to this and would love to plan a trip from Michigan around this festival this fall. I wonder if you know when it is ? They also have tube rides down the falls and a park for picnics too! Great adventure with the kids .

There’s an arts and crafts show over Columbus Day Weekend. Not sure if that’s the one you are talking about or not.

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September in NYC: Things to See, Do, and Eat

September is a lovely time of year to visit New York City. The city boasts numerous outdoor attractions like its parks and outdoor events as well as a myriad of new restaurants to visit on your trip to the city. It’s impossible to be bored in NYC. If you’re planning to travel to the city this September, here are some must-see events and new eateries you don’t want to miss.

Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit (September 4-6 and 11-12)

Visit Greenwich Village to enjoy the annual  Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit . This arts festival includes both arts and crafts, including oil paintings, sculpture, jewelry, fiber, ceramics, and more. The exhibit is the perfect place to pick up a special souvenir to commemorate your visit to NYC. Each year, the festival attracts a wide range of art lovers, including locals and tourists alike. 

Coney Island Mermaid Parade (September 12) This has recently been canceled 🙁

If you’re in town on the 12th, you don’t want to miss one of the city’s most eclectic celebrations– the Coney Island Mermaid Parade. Head to Surf Avenue dressed as a mermaid, sailor, pirate, or your favorite sea creature to celebrate along with the rest of the crowd. Even if you don’t choose to dress up, you can come to watch and enjoy the parade and other attractions of Brighton Beach.

Update: As of September 4th this has been canceled.

Feast of San Gennaro (September 16-26)

Visit Little Italy for its annual fair known as the  Feast of San Gennaro . During the twenties when Italian immigrants celebrated this saint’s day, the feast lasted for just a single day. Now, the celebration continues for longer than a week. If you love Italian food, this fair is a must-visit attraction with its cannoli-eating contests, pizza, and rich religious and cultural history. 

Shukette (Chelsea)

Head to Soho to enjoy Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes in an ambient setting where you can relax with your partner or friends over delectable cuisine. As the sister restaurant of Soho’s Shuka, Shukette offers a more laid-back experience. Enjoy specialties like the squid kabobs, fish in a cage, or succulent lamb gyro. 

Hancock St. (Greenwich Village)

Hancock St. boasts a swanky ambiance and an upscale, white-tablecloth dining experience. This neighborhood bistro is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner date. Its menu features seasonal dishes like summer vegetable pot pie as well as classic bistro favorites like steak au poivre, roasted chicken, and slow-roasted short ribs. 

Sydney’s Five (East Village)

Some might call the fare at Sydney’s Five bar food, but that hardly does it justice. This bar and eatery is the perfect place to hang out while enjoying unusual bar eats like andouille sausage corn dogs. In addition to popular menu items like the lamb burger and green curry mussels, there’s also a raw bar and refreshing appetizers like gazpacho. 

New York offers attractions and cuisine for people of all ages and tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for hot dogs near Central Park or gourmet faire after a day of sightseeing in Manhattan, you’ll find that The Big Apple is your oyster when it comes to food and entertainment. If you’re visiting NYC this September, be sure to keep these attractions in mind.

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The 43 Best Things to Do in New York in September

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New York in September is a beautiful time of year to enjoy the last rays of sunshine and explore the city in the mild weather that follows the summer heat in August. The city doesn’t ever get boring and there many events to visit & things to do in September in NYC. It’s a perfect time to visit as the weather is still good enough to attend all of the outdoor events.

SummerStage Festival: One of my favorite things to do in September in NYC

Other Events in Midtown Manhattan

Our Highlight

At this event you can visit over 100 concerts & shows for free in many parks all over New York. It’s one of the most popular summer events in New York and a MUST DO for locals. If you’re in New York this summer, be sure to check out one of the shows!

My tip: these are all summer festivals in NYC this year.

Have a good time on a Dinner Cruise

Cruise in Chelsea

We have already tested many dinner cruises in New York for you. One that we have liked the best of all so far is the Bateaux Dinner Cruise. With a glass roof, the ship heads towards the Brooklyn Bridge. Especially when the weather is nice in the summer month of July, the wine or prosecco tastes especially good on the outdoor area of the boat.

You can find more unique dinner cruises in NYC . fantastic brunch cruises , lunch cruises and jazz cruises  in this overview.

Enjoy the great weather and the views while sailing into the sunset

The sailing cruises are back to the rivers of New York City. Sailing in New York City is one of my favorite things to do during September. There’s nothing better than watching the sunset and enjoying a glass of wine onboard. Here are some amazing options that are taking place right now, with safety measures of course:

My tip: these are the best cruises to enjoy the sunset in NYC .

NYC Summer Restaurant Week 2022 (September 6 – 25 , 2022)

Attention food enthusiasts: NYC Restaurant Week will be back in August, meaning you can look forward to enjoying cheap meals all over the city. Thousands of travelers and locals look forward to this event every year because it’s a great opportunity to try new cuisines or simply enjoy top-notch meals at decent prices.

What is NYC Restaurant Week?

NYC Restaurant Week is a bi-annual event that takes place every summer and winter since 1982. Back then only a few restaurants participated in the promotion, whereas this year’s event counts over 380 participating restaurants . Over time, the length of the promotion has been extended, so that now we can enjoy almost a full month of great, affordable food instead of just one week.

The 26 Best Broadway Shows in September 2022 in New York

Broadway Show in Theatre District

The answer to whether you should or should not see a Broadway show when visiting New York in September is crystal clear: YES, it absolutely belongs on your bucket list! What is not always as clear, however, is which show to pick.

In order to help you out, we’ve created an overview of the absolute best Broadway shows in NYC in September !

The Whitney Biennial 2022 (Through September 5, 2022)

Museum in Meatpacking District

In addition to regularly changing exhibitions, there is one Whitney Museum of Art event that tops them all: the Whitney Biennial. It’s been around since 1932, making it the longest-running exhibition of American art and the museum’s signature event.t

To get tickets check the website here .

Labor Day in New York City (September 5, 2022)

Other Events in Crown Heights

Labor Day is a national holiday in New York that is celebrated on the first Monday in September and marks the unofficial end of the summer season. If the hustle and bustle of the city are too much for you, then a trip to Central Park is the perfect way to end the summer. Sports fans: Labor Day also marks the start of the football season.

The New York Giants and New York Jets are back in action. Due to it being a national holiday NYC can get quite busy so make sure to make plans ahead of time if you want to eat at a nice restaurant or see a show etc.

Here you can find our Best Things to Do in NYC on Labor Day .

The Tributes In Light (September 11, 2022)

Building in Financial District

September 11th is a time for reflection and remembering those who passed away during the terrible terrorist attacks in 2001. Ground Zero is the place of mourning and commemoration for many of the victims’ relatives and a tribute service takes place at the scene of the attacks where the names of those who passed away will be read.

The places where the twin towers once stood are marked by “The Tributes In Light”, a light monument created by 88 lights that are beamed into the night sky. This light monument can be seen up to a distance of 100 kilometers. All in all, it is a sad day in an otherwise lively and vibrant city. Everything you need to know about the 9/11 National Memorial can be found in our  9/11 Memorial Guide .

Visit Little Island at Pier 54

Other Attraction in Meatpacking District

Photo credit Michael Grimm

Not far from the Meatpacking District and the High Line, Little Island is one of the newest attractions in New York and is something very special: a park on 280 beautiful tulip-shaped concrete stilts in the Hudson River!

Besides the view, you can visit the  Storytelling Festival (September 7 – 18, 2022). Click here for the Little Island event calendar.

The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)

Bryant Park Picnic Performances

If you’re in New York this September, be sure to add the Bryant Park Picnic Performances to your itinerary! These free concerts bring together many of the things I love about New York: great surroundings, cool events, and you’ll be among locals.

The Bryant Park Picnic Performances are part of the free concert series that happens every summer in New York.

Free Kayaking on the Hudson River & East River

Pier in Dumbo

This is a really cool event that can be booked several times a month: discover New York from the water – and even better: from a kayak! You can start at the Manhattan Community Boathouse (Pier 96 at the Hudson River) or at the Brooklyn Bridge Park between Pier 1 and Pier 2 (every Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday until the end of August). 

Seats are limited, so be quick to secure your preferred date – here for the Manhattan Community Boathouse and here for the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse.

Pizza Wine Movie Nights at Rooftop Reds: a very romantic event in September in NYC

Other Attraction in Dumbo

On a roof of the Brooklyn Navy Yards you can sit in a real winery: Rooftop Reds grows wine here, which you can taste and enjoy at their Rooftop Red Tours & Tastings!

In September you can watch movies with a view of the skyline and a glass of wine in your hand. Tickets are available here .

The US Open

Sport Events in Flushing

Whether you’re a local New Yorker or visiting from out of town, the buzz around the US Open is one of the best parts of being in New York during the summer. The biggest stars in professional tennis compete at one of the most iconic tennis venues (and the largest tennis stadium in the world), Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The 2022 tournament starts August 29th through September 10th.  Tickets are available here .

Electric Zoo Music Festival (September 2 – 4, 2022)

Other Events in Upper West Side

Labor Day Weekend hosts the annual Electric Zoo Music Festival in New York. The Electric Zoo Festival is a three-day music festival that takes place on Randall’s Island, which you can walk to if you’re in Astoria , Queens. Electric Zoo brings in some of the top performers in the house and dubstep genre. Some of the past performers include the late Avicii, Steve Aoki, Benny Benassi and much more. There are a bunch of ways to get to Randall’s Island: the closest subway station is “125 Station”. Your best bet is either by taking the NYC Ferry or an Uber. Also, if you’re in Astoria, you can walk across the RFK bridge. That bridge will lead you right into the island. Tickets are sold out quickly and should be ordered online in advance.

The NFL kicks off!

Sport Events in Outside of New York City

Football is New York. Whether it’s a game of the  New York Giants  or the  New York Jets , both American Football teams are definitely worth checking out (ok, I do prefer the Giants 😉 )

New York Fashion Week (September 9 – 14, 2022)

Other Events in East Village

This is probably one of the most interesting Things to Do in February in New York. Whole streets are closed off and intersections become catwalks. It’s one of the biggest fashion events of the year. For a week, twice a year, influencers, celebrities, editors, photographers and fashionistas from all over the world will make their pilgrimage to New York City to see the new collections from their favorite designers and brands. 

JAZZ in TIMES SQUARE

Other Attraction in Theatre District

Every Thursday, Times Square Plaza will introduce you to young jazz bands from New York City. At the concert you can enjoy wonderful jazz sounds in the spectacular surroundings of Times Square with its typical New York sounds. The whole event is presented by Jazz at Lincoln Center – an institution for artists in NYC.

• September 1: Tatiana Eva Marie: Djangology
• September 8: Liany Mateo Quintet
• September 15: Zwelakhe Duma Bell-Pere Quartet
• September 22: Jonathan Michel Quintet
• September 29: Fernando Saci: T.E.N.S (Black Sound From Brasil)

On the official website you can find the line-up.

The Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy (September 15 – 25, 2022)

Other Events in Little Italy

The annual Feast of San Gennaro attracts both New Yorkers and visitors to Little Italy in September. Why? The 11-day long festival will spoil you with Italian specialties, parades, eating contests, and free concerts.

The festival celebrates the life of San Gennaro of Naples, who was once the Bishop of Benevento in Italy. He died a martyr’s death in A.D. 305. The next Feast of San Gennaro in 2022 will mark its 96th anniversary in Little Italy. Besides a church service, there is a parade in honor of the patron saint, a meatball eating competition, a zeppole eating competition, and the festival’s highlight: the cannoli eating contest.

Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit (Labor Day Weekend September 3 – 5 and September 10 – 12, 2022)

Other Events in Stuyvesant Town

If you’re in the East Village area, make sure to check out the Outdoor Art Exhibit. Here, all of the small streets and sidewalks will turn into an art exhibit. 

Picnicking in Central Park

Picnicking in Central Park is always a must-do activity during the summer. There are countless large and small lawns that invite you to relax, making for quite a few spots that are suitable for picnicking in the park, not just the popular Sheep Meadow.

The largest lawn in Central Park is the Great Lawn , where the popular Central Park Concerts are held. The Great Lawn is a large, green space and is a wonderful spot to relax and have a picnic in the park after a long walk. For the athletes among you, there are even some baseball fields on the green, oval area. You’ll find the Great Lawn in the middle of the park at the 79th to 86th street level.

Another picnic option is East Green . Here you can sit on a blanket between the trees and enjoy your meal. The East Green is located on 5th Avenue between 69th and 72nd Street.

The most romantic picnic spot in Central Park is definitely Cherry Hill by the Bow Bridge . It has been the backdrop for many Hollywood movies, such as You’ve got Mail . You can make yourself comfortable on a small slope and enjoy the beautiful view of the lake and the bridge. The bridge is located in the middle of the park around 72nd Street.

Spend your evening at one of the rooftops of New York

Rooftop Bar in Lower East Side

For me, the cloudM Rooftop Bar is one of the most beautiful rooftop bars not only in the Lower East Side, but in all of New York. It is located on the roof of the citizenM New York Bowery Hotel and offers everything that makes a good rooftop bar: a great view, beautiful design and relaxed atmosphere.

My tip: these are the  best rooftop bars in NYC .

Discover New York from an observation deck

Building in Midtown Manhattan

You know what’s really unique about New York? The view of the (most likely) snow-covered Central Park from one of the observation decks! With the Top of the Rock , The Edge Hudson Yards and the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt you have three to choose from! And then there’s the One World Observatory and the Empire State Building . You will love it!

If you want to visit several observations deck, attraction and tours in New York, check out the New York sightseeing passes. You can save up to 60% on the ticket price!

To find out which New York Pass is the best for you, check out my New York Pass Comparison .

Annual German-American Steuben Parade (September 17, 2022)

Other Events in Upper East Side

For many years, Germanic heritage and culture have proudly been on display in New York City. The Steuben Parade is one of a kind and has grown into the largest German events in the United States. Enjoy colorful traditional costumes or Trachten, singers, dancers and marching bands. The Steuben Parade is known for its great entertainment, so you shouldn’t miss it if you’re in the area.

The Hamptons, Sag Harbor & Outlet Shopping Day Trip from NYC

Day Trip in Long Island City

July in New York can get really hot and humid. Want to escape the heat of the city? There are many destinations near New York City that you can reach perfectly with a day trip from New York in the summer. What do the perfect weekend getaways look like for me this summer? Being by the water, enjoying nature and taking advantage of the good weather to explore major cities like Boston and Philadelphia.

Here you find the  Best Summer Weekend Getaways from NYC

Enjoy the Sunset in Williamsburg

Park in Williamsburg

This beautiful park opened up in Williamsburg in 2018. It’s called Domino park because the former Domino Sugar factory was located at that very spot. Now, it’s filled with greenery, food vendors and a playground for kids. It is located directly on the East River and you have a great view of the city from here. The park invites you to play volleyball or have a picnic.

Smithsonian Museum Day (September 17, 2022)

Other Events in Hell’s Kitchen

New York City has an incredible number of great museums, ranking among the best cities in the world to visit to take in history, art, culture, and more. So what could be even better as a visitor to NYC than access to all of these world-class museums?

On Smithsonian Museum Day in NYC, that’s exactly what happens. Today, we’re sharing all the must-know information about this yearly event so you can make the most of your time in New York.

Experience New York like a local: Willy Wall!

Cruise in Lower Manhattan

The Honorable William Wall, affectionately called “Willy Wall”, is the floating clubhouse of the Manhattan Yacht Club. The clubhouse is anchored in New York Harbor north of Ellis Island from May to October. What is so special about it? It’s definitely an insider’s spot, which not only gives you a great view of Ellis Island and of course the Statue of Liberty – you can also enjoy the sunset from here.

BEAST Speedboat Ride

Cruise in Midtown Manhattan

Probably the most popular boat tour in New York in the summer is the fast ride on the speedboat “The Beast”. It is an extremely thrilling experience that you should not miss out on. This custom-built, 70-foot speedboat speeds in the direction of the Statue of Liberty at 45 mph! Make sure you are ready to get splashed with water because this is not an easy ride! Definitely a must for all of the adrenaline junkies out there!

Smorgasburg

Food Market in Midtown Manhattan

Smorgasburg Food Market is one of the hottest open air food markets in New York City. People come here to meet, eat, drink and enjoy the view of the Manhattan skyline on the East River Waterfront during the warmer months. Smorgasburg means “a mixture of food” and offers a huge selection of small stalls. It takes place in Central Park during all of the Summer Stage Events from May to September.

Shakespeare in the Park

Other Art & Culture in Upper West Side

A really great summer tradition is Shakespeare in the Park. The free event features classic plays by William Shakespeare every summer at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. Outdoors, the play is really a great experience. The Delacorte Theater is located pretty much in the middle of Central Park next to Turtle Pond.

Visit Governors Island

Other Attraction in Outside of New York City

When the weather is beautiful in New York City and you want to escape for a moment from the noise, the hustle and bustle, then a trip to Governors Island is something to consider. The Governors Island Ferry will take you across the East River for $2 with the Governors Island Ferry until the end of September.

Since 2021 Governors Island is open all year round!

Every Friday once a month: Free Admission at The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (September 30, 2022)

Museum in Hell’s Kitchen

One Friday per month, The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum will open its doors to the public for free. Free Fridays will take place on:

• September 30, 2022

For more information on these special nights, please click the link here .

Walk the High Line

Park in Meatpacking District

The green terrace in the middle of Manhattan is a great experience in fine weather. The decommissioned freight rail track was once overgrown completely as it fell out of use. Based on the plants that grew there, a park was built in homage to the interesting plants that flourish in the city.

Walk from the Meatpacking District (Gansevoort Street) on the High Line towards Uptown and enjoy the beautiful spring weather. Since 2014,  Manhattan has been enjoying this highlight and attracts countless visitors every day. There are many lovely cafés, galleries and great bars – and with Gallow Green one of my favorite rooftop bars in the city.

My tip: these are the best spots along the High Line for me.

Spend some time in Little Italy, SoHo and Chinatown

Walking Tour in Hudson Square

Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan ‘s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.

New York for First Time Visitors: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip (70+ pages)

Spend the day at the pool

Hotels & Accommodations in Williamsburg

This is amazing: Lying by the pool in the summer and looking at the New York skyline! The best hotels with a pool in New York will take you to Brooklyn, Soho, the Meatpacking District and Central Park. It’s hard to believe there are so few.

Enjoy really cool waterfront restaurants

Sea Food Restaurant in Tribeca

Visit this celebrated oyster bar aboard the historic wooden schooner, Sherman Zwicker right on the Hudson River. Hudson River Park was able to set up a pretty sweet deal for the Grand Banks, which now has a row of tables for two running along the south side of the pier. By doing so, they are now able to serve drinks within that space.

This is my favorite spot in New York City!

My tip: these are the best waterfront restaurants in NYC right now!

Spend the day in one of the best museums of NYC

Museum in Upper West Side

The season is perfect for a museum visit to New York, and the Big Apple really doesn’t lack choices. After the theatrical release of “The Night of Museum” series, (The first movie took place in the New York Museum of Natural History) you really feel like going to the place of the event? In the footsteps of dinosaurs, aborigines and many other historical creatures, the Natural History Museum on Central Park West is always a good idea for a museum outing.

My tip: These are the 36 Best Museums in NYC

Enjoy a summer night in one of the amazing bars and clubs on Bleecker Street

Other Attraction in Greenwich Village

Bleecker Street is a pleasant change from the turbulent Herald Square or 5th Avenue. It is considered one of the best shopping streets in the world. Why? There are many small and hip designer stores, record stores and second hand stores and lesser known retail brands.

Fotografiska NYC: Visit one of the best art exhibitions in town

Museum in Gramercy

Fotografiska New York is a wonderful museum in NYC for all art and especially photo art enthusiasts. Originally founded in Stockholm in 2010, the museum also exists in Tallinn (Estonia) and since 2019 in New York.  It is located in a beautiful building from 1892 and extends over 6 floors. In addition to changing exhibitions, there is a restaurant and cocktail bar to round out your visit.

My tip: These are the best art exhibitions in NYC . and here you find my complete (!) guide to Contemporary Art in New York .

Spend a Day at the Beach

Other Attraction in Coney Island & Brighton Beach

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and spend a relaxing day on Brighton Beach in Coney Island. If you don’t want to be in Coney Island, you can also check out some of our favorite beaches in New York here .

Summer on the Hudson

Summer on the Hudson is Riverside Park & West Harlem Piers Park’s annual outdoor arts and culture festival. Between 59th and 153rd Streets on the Hudson River, you can experience live DJs, exhibits, special shows for kids, and of course, the outdoor movies. And the best part? All the events are free! 

Cool off on a jet ski

Other Tours in Outside of New York City

New York in September can still be hot! So why not cool off by jet skiing on the Hudson and East River? If you take a jet ski tour you will be guided along many of New York’s famous landmarks. A guide is always there and brings you to the locations where you’ll have the best views. The jet skis pick up speed, which can go up to 55 mph. At that speed, you’ll fly over the water. Fun and action are guaranteed, just make sure you’re safe! There are several providers of these tours. Take a look at Jetty Jumpers or Rockaway Jetski !

Superhero Festival

Other Events in Williamsburg

Not officially announced, yet!

The Superhero Festival is organized by the organization “New York State of Mind” (NYSoM) now for the 4th time and is a great free event in autumn (not only) for kids. Here they can create their own superheroes, participate in races (“The Flash vs. Sonic the Hedgehog”) and a scavenger hunt.

Here you will find everything you need to know about the Superhero Festival NYC .

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Free Things To Do In NYC In September In 2024

Anyone who’s ever been to NYC, and probably even those who know it by reputation only, could tell you that there are plenty of things to see and do in the city. Seasonal events, year-round activities, popular tourist hubs, etc.

But today I want to take a more seasonal approach to things, and talk about free events that you can enjoy in the month of September. And, if by the end of this post, you’re interested in hearing about even more activities in NYC, then be sure to check out my article on the best things to do in NYC in September !

Table of Contents

24 Free Things To Do In NYC In September

In the first part of my best list you will find wonderful sights and places that I can recommend to you. Further down you will find free (walking) tours and free events in NYC in September .

Brooklyn Flea (Every Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm)

For almost 10 years, tourists and locals alike have been making the pilgrimage to Brooklyn to visit one of the most famous flea markets in New York. Antique household goods, vintage furniture and clothing, jewelry and all sorts of other knick-knacks are sold by the 60 vendors of the Brooklyn Flea market. Of course, Brooklyn Flea also has food! From Hong Kong Pork Buns to waffles, you’ll find everything here. Here is a little tip from us. Take a few minutes and just chat with the sellers. They often tell their own personal stories, how they put their ideas into practice or why they love New York. You meet a lot of great and creative people at the flea markets in New York!

• When? The Brooklyn Flea is happening every Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm!

Take A Ride On The Staten Island Ferry

Probably one of the most iconic free activities in NYC is riding the Staten Island Ferry, which as the name suggests, takes you on a round trip from Manhattan to the island.

From this ride, you can see a lot of popular sites. Such as… the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and even a bit of Brooklyn. Plus, the ferry is operational during all hours of the day, meaning that you can even take a night ride if you prefer.

This activity is perfect for September because it’s no longer the heat of the summer, but there isn’t a winter chill in the air either.

Free Kayaking

This is a really cool event that can be booked several times a month: discover New York from the water – and even better: from a kayak! You can start at the Manhattan Community Boathouse (Pier 96 at the Hudson River) or at the Brooklyn Bridge Park between Pier 1 and Pier 2 (every Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday until the end of August). 

Seats are limited, so be quick to secure your preferred date – here for the Manhattan Community Boathouse and here for the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse.

Visit the Uptown Night Market (September 14, 2023)

New York City’s largest festival of cuisine, culture and community is back for the third time! This year, the Uptown Night Market will take place on the second Thursday of each month in West Harlem from May through October. Celebrating diverse cultures from around the world, the festival will feature a variety of performances and activities for the whole family.

Unique and tasty foods from around the globe are offered by numerous food vendors. This festival is a MUST for all food lovers!

Enjoy the view from the FREE roof terrace of Time Out Food Market

The “Food Market” concept proves to be a great success in New York City. In May 2019, the Time Out Market opened in Dumbo: and offers around 20 different vendors, 2 bars, a rooftop with an additional 4 restaurants. The food market in Dumbo on 55 Water Street is expected to be just as successful as its other chains such as the one in Lisbon. The absolute best thing about the location is the view from the balcony. It provides unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline as well as the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge.

Visit Central Park

Central Park is a popular place to visit in NYC at any time of the year, but in September specifically, a walk through this area can be really enjoyable. This is due to the aforementioned warm, but not hot, weather that September brings.

You could even take some supplies out with you and have a picnic! Or you could simply explore, take some pictures, and even see if there are any events happening that you could take advantage of.

See The Empire State Building

And speaking of iconic sites in NYC, the Empire State Building is definitely a must-see for many tourists. It’s a destination that needs no introduction and can be spotted from many different places in the city, although nothing compares to seeing it up close and personal.

Keep in mind though, that although you can take in the building from up close and explore the first floor for free, you will need a ticket to visit the observation decks that reside higher up.

Check Out Times Square (by night)

If you don’t mind being around crowds, Times Square is a place you need to experience once in your life. After all, there’s a reason why every NYC tourist drops by the area (usually more than once).

And while it may seem like there’s not much to do other than people watch, you’ll probably be surprised with how many places there are to explore when you’re in and around Times Square. Plus, some of them are even completely free!

In fact, there are people who spend days of their vacation just in Times Square. Although, you can of course just drop by for a quick visit if your itinerary is already packed.

Spend Some Time In The New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is perhaps one of the most well known libraries in the world, and should definitely be on your list of places to visit while in NYC.

It’s completely free to go inside, and you can check out books once you’re there just like any other library! And it goes without saying that there are plenty of options to choose from. But even if you just want to snap a few pics of the architecture, it’s still worth a quick visit.

Drop By The Rockefeller Center ...

The Rockefeller Center is another well known spot in NYC, and consists of twenty acres worth of commercial buildings! So if you’re looking for a place to hang out for the entire day, this could be a contender.

There are shops, eating establishments, and even a lot of free events that regularly pop up in the center. And all of this makes every time you visit a little bit different!

Plus, even though the iconic Christmas tree won’t be up and running quite yet if you do visit in September, you can take advantage of potential Labor Day activities.

... and then experience Saint Patrick’s Cathedral

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is a stunning piece of architecture as well as an active church, so it’s a popular site to check out while you’re in the city. Some people choose to not even go inside, and simply take pictures of the building’s impressive exterior.

There are no tours of the building (except for a self guided audio one), but you can go inside for free. Just make sure to properly respect the site, as it is a religious area.

Explore The New York Botanical Gardens

Circling back to activities that are great to enjoy when the weather is cool, exploring the New York Botanical Gardens is another free thing to do in NYC in September; since most of the summertime plants are still in bloom, but you don’t have to deal with the summer heat.

It takes about three hours to make your way through the entire garden, but it’s time well spent. And of course, you can gain free admission to these gardens at any time!

Go Inside The Grand Central Terminal

The Grand Central Terminal is yet another popular spot among tourists, either because they’re quite literally using it to travel or just because they want to experience the building in person.

While you’re there, you could grab something to eat, take a tour, or simply enjoy well known sites like the ceiling of the building.

And to make things even better, there are a lot of other activities close by Grand Central! Which makes it easy to pack multiple activities in one day.

Head To Governors Island (ok, almost FREE)

Governors Island is a destination that differs from other spots in NYC, because it’s less highly trafficked. So if you aren’t a big fan of crowds, this could very well be one of the best items on this list.

It’s not far from Manhattan, and not only are there tours of the area, but you can also just explore yourself if you think you’d enjoy that more! There are great views and plenty of activities to try out on the island.

Walk Around Greenwich Village and take photos of the Friends-Apartment

Greenwich Village is a very special part of NYC, and has been known for many years as a place where artistic and unique people reside and where people can feel free to be themselves.

So it’s a great place to spend a couple of hours, or even all day! There are places to eat and shop, parks to explore, and the iconic Friends apartment exterior is even in the area. Plus many different sites that relate to the beginnings of the LGBTQ movement.

Relax in Bryant Park and enjoy FREE Picnic performances, yoga classes and more!

Bryant Park takes up almost 10 acres, and within all that space is a lot for you to explore. Plus a lot of free activities that are going on at any given time. For instance, you could join a yoga class, enjoy some live music or other types of performances, have a picnic with your friends, play some BINGO, go bird watching, or take in a movie night.

It’s no exaggeration to say that you could spend all day at the park and not get bored. And the September weather will make the outdoor activities even better!

My tip: Here you find all Bryant Park Events in September .

Free Tours To Take In NYC In September

Walk the high line with the free guided walking tour.

The High Line is a unique park in NYC that’s literally elevated from the ground, which allows you to see a panoramic view of the city. And it also features an old rail trail that was built in 1934, so there’s a historical aspect to the site as well.

There are tours of this area for the public that you can take for free, but this also means that if you want to take the free tours then you’ll need to arrive at the park early so that you’re first in line!

Tour of the Brooklyn Bridge

This tour is about three hours long and runs all year, but keep in mind that it does start pretty early in the morning.

Throughout this free walking tour, you’ll get to experience the following iconic sites of NYC… the Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights, and DUMBO (which is a ferry landing area that lies under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). Just remember that because these are popular sites and the tour is free, it might be quite busy at times.

Select Date & Time here

Free Walking Tour of New York

Lastly, we have the free walking tour of NYC, which takes about two and a half hours to complete. Throughout this tour you’ll get to see Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial, and Battery Park (a place that has great views of none other than… the Statue of Liberty).

You do need to book this tour two days ahead of time, because the spots fill up fast and without a reservation you won’t be able to take the tour.

SELECT DATE & TIME HERE

Free Events In NYC In September

Hot 97 labor day shutdown (september 4, 2023).

For those of you that enjoy music festivals, the Hot 97 Labor Day Shutdown is a great free event to check out in NYC during early September. It’s described as a Caribbean party experience, and features the following types of music… Afrobeats, Amapaino, Kompa, Reggae, Soca, and hip hop. So if any of that sounds like your jam (pun intended) then plan to visit on Labor Day weekend.

And although you can pay for upgraded service, as long as you RSVP by a certain time, you’ll have no problem getting into the event for free.

Attend the FREE Curtain Up Broadway Festival (September 8 - 10, 2023)

Broadway fans take note: there’s a great and free event you won’t want to miss! From September 8 – 10, you can experience the Curtain Up Broadway Festival at the Theatre District!

Table of Silence Project 9/11 at Lincoln Center (September 11, 2023 at 8:10 am)

Join the crowd at the iconic Lincoln Center as they team up with Buglisi Dance Theatre to bring you the poignant “Table of Silence Project 9/11”, an initiative of the Arnhold Dance Innovation Fund. Every year, this powerful performance stands as both a moving tribute and a resounding call for peace. Created by visionary choreographer Jacqulyn Buglisi in 2011, it serves to remember those we lost and celebrate the indomitable spirit of those affected by acts of terror, war, and assaults on freedom.

This year, expect an unforgettable showcase featuring the artistic prowess of Buglisi Dance Theatre’s Co-Founder and Principal Dancer, Terese Capucilli. The soundscape will be elevated by Composer and Violinist Daniel Bernard Roumain, alongside the enchanting notes of Conch/Flute by John Ragusa. All of this will be captured and streamed by the acclaimed Nel Shelby and her production team. Don’t miss it!

Movie Night McCarren Park (September 6 + 13, 2023)

Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, McCarren Park is a vibrant urban oasis offering a refreshing blend of leisure and recreation. For film aficionados, the Free Paramount+ Movie Nights are a highlight, bringing a cinematic experience to the heart of Brooklyn on warm summer evenings – so don’t miss these to free events in September:

• September 6: “Everything Everywhere All at Once”
• September 13: “The Big Lebowski”

Free Summer Movie + Watercolors on the Waterfront at Gantry Plaza State Park

There are several free events at Gantry Plaza State Park that you won’t want to miss. HPPC’s CinemaLIC Returns film series has its final screening of the year on September 9, 2023 – Aladdin will be shown (8:30 pm).

Another event is Watercolors on the Waterfront that will take place on September 7 and September 21, 2023. Find out more here .

Met Opera Opening Night 2023: Dead Man Walking (September 26, 2023)

For 17 years now, there has been a tradition popular among New Yorkers: the Metropolitan Opera shows its opening opera on the big screens of Times Square – live and free! This year, Jake Heggie’s “Dead Man Walking” will be shown. The pre-show begins 6:00 pm, and the performance begins 6:30 pm.

Attendance is free and no tickets are required. Free seating is available in Duffy Square and the Broadway Plazas between 43rd and 44th Streets and 46th and 47th Streets, respectively.

More information can be found on the Times Square Alliance website .

Visit Hip Hop Til Infinity for FREE on September 14, 2023

Hip Hop Til Infinity is an immersive digital installation that takes its guests through the different realms and eras of hip hop. In collaboration with innovative partners, Hall des Lumières’ state-of-the-art audiovisual technology illuminates the fascinating history of hip hop. The exhibition will also feature an interactive program with virtual concerts, listening parties and much more. Hip Hop Til Infinity will take place at Hall des Lumières from August 2 to September 17 , 2023.

On September 14 from 10 am to 10 pm, the Hip Hop Til Infinity exhibit is FREE to the public.

Exclusively for Mastercard holders, there will be unique after-hours events on four dates where visitors can explore the exhibition while enjoying free food & drinks.

• Tuesday, August 22
• Wednesday, August 30
• Wednesday, September 6
• Wednesday, September 13

Brooklyn Museum Free Admission Saturday

The Brooklyn Museum contains a lot of historical art that relates to various cultures, such as: African, Egyptian, etc. And all in all, it contains over a million different art pieces!!

Unfortunately, you usually have to pay to enter, but on September 2nd… the Brooklyn Museum will have a day of free admission. So if you’re already in NYC and have always wanted to go, then is your chance!

My tip: Here I have the complete list of free museums in NYC .

Museum of Chinese In America Free Admission

The Museum of Chinese in America is a beautiful museum that highlights the history of Chinese individuals in America, talking about their culture and experiences in order to raise awareness.

And according to their site, they’re currently allowing free admissions in honor of a donation to their museum. This runs until late September, so if you’re visiting around that time then you don’t have to worry about making reservations before a visit.

West Side Fest (September 30, 2023)

West Side Fest is an all-day, free event taking place in NYC for the first time this year. The festival is hosted by the West Side Cultural Network, a collaboration of more than 19 museums, parks, and performing arts & cultural facilities centers, all located within a mile of historic New York.

Visitors can explore participating museums and cultural institutions with free admission and participate in numerous free activities .

Participating Organizations

• Atlantic Theater Company
• Center for Art
• Research and Alliances
• Chelsea Factory
• Dia Chelsea
• Hudson River Park
• Joyce Theater
• The Kitchen
• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center
• Little Island
• NYC AIDS Memorial
• Poster House
• Print Center New York
• Rubin Museum of Art
• West Village Rehearsal Co-Op
• White Columns
• Whitney Museum of American Art

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

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Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

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Visiting New York in

What to expect, getting around.

• Things to do

New York City in September is a time of transition. It's still technically summer until around the 21st, but the city takes on an autumn frame of mind after Labor Day. Most New Yorkers are home from vacation, and the number of tourists in town is dwindling. NYC weather in September is pleasant and brings a bit of autumn color to Central Park and other green spaces, and a certain excitement is in the air as everyone looks forward to fall and September events in the city.

• Average Daytime Temperatures: 77F (25C)
• Average Overnight Temperatures: 60F (16C)
• Sunny or partly sunny days: 21
• Rainy days: 7-9, 2 with significant rainfall

What to wear

• Pack sweaters or a light jacket for the evenings
• Short sleeves will work during the first part of the month
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, closed toe shoes and water resistant, so you can enjoy your walking tours, as well as something a bit more fanciful for the nightlife.
• If you love the beach, throw in a swimsuit, water is particularly warm in early September

New York Prices in September

Hotel prices begin to inch up slightly as the peak visitor season starts, but with so many free things to do in New York in September, you'll barely feel the blow.

Book your flights and accommodation in advance for best prices, midtown & times square are the most popular choices, but there are plenty of other options, especially in Brooklyn with convenient transport options to Manhattan attractions.

Planning your trip is a key to a balanced budget, use free online resources like our maps & guide or the itinerary tool, if you are going to visit some iconic attractions, get a sightseeing pass, it will easily save you 50% on regular admission prices – see more

New York is easy to navigate, but if you can't walk to your destination there are plenty of options

The quickest way to travel around, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from as low as $2.75 per ride, with stops usually every 8-10 blocks.

If the top taxi number is illuminated it's available, minimum metered fare is $2.50, which increases 50 cents every fifth of a mile or every minute.

Hop on, Hop off Buses

These buses connect major attractions all over the city and provide many photo opportunities, it's also a good way to catch a break or eat your sandwich while still sightseeing.

New York Travel Tips

• New York City Subway Map

New York Tourist Map

Things to do in September

Check out the following list of ideas for fun things to do in new york in september:, 1. new york city parks.

One of the most beloved Labor Day events in New York is the annual Carnival held in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. The main event is the West Indian Day parade with around three million participants. Held on the Eastern Parkway, the day-long march is one big colorful party with crazy costumes, nonstop music, and Caribbean eats. Since Labor Day weekend of 2009, the Electric Zoo has been one of NYC's largest music festival. Some top names in electronic music that have performed at the 3-day festival include Above & Beyond, Armin Van Buuren, and Zedd. The festival is held at Randall Island Park centrally located in New York City along the East River. Amenities at the festival include an open bar, shaded seating area, and locked cell phone charging stations.

2. Rockaway Beach

September is a good time to squeeze in a beach trip before the end of the season, and the perfect place is Rockaway Beach. Located on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, this is one of the quieter beaches and known for good waves and surfing. Play along the surf, walk the boardwalk and relax during the last warm days of summer.

3. Governors Island

This former military quarters in New York Harbor has been turned into a park, and September is the last month of the season you can go there. It's a pleasant place to spend a day in September, a good place to gaze on Lady Liberty in the distance. Rent a bike and explore old military sites, and check out the hammocks to loll around in at Hammock Grove. You will find lots of food and drink options on the island. Catch the ferry to the island from 10 South Street.

4. San Gennaro Festivals

This is a lively festival that takes place on the streets of Little Italy for 10 days around mid-September. It's a very old festival, and the crowds are loyal. Play carnival games and sample delicacies like deep fried Oreos, sausage and pepper sandwiches, and tasty Italian treats. Look for the Gennaro Festival on Mulberry Street between Canal and Houston Streets.

5. 9/11 Museum and Memorial Sites

Take some time to pay tribute to the strength and resilience of New Yorkers. Visit the 9/11 Museum and Memorial site. The atmosphere here is sad yet special. Keep in mind that the purpose of the museum is to recognize and honor triumph over human corruption. On September 11th, the Tribute in Light is lit after the sun goes down. The illumination takes place near where the Twin Towers once stood. Many people around the neighborhood light candles. It is a touching, solemn sight.

6. Oktoberfests

This popular event is so beloved New Yorkers can't wait to get started. Hence the official beginning of Octoberfest is near the end of September. The idea is, well maybe to make the most of September weather, but it could be people just can't wait to sample all the best beers in NYC along with plenty of traditional German dishes. Look for celebrations all around the city from the best beer gardens to the parks with trees tinged in autumn color.

Rainy Day Options in New York

Broadway shows.

Taking a Broadway show will chase away any rainy day blues during your visit to New York City. It might not be possible to get last minute tickets to every show, but you can find something a couple of hours before the show starts by visiting the box office of the theatre.

NYC Museums

Your weather app says it’s going to be raining the whole day? Head over to one of the best NYC Museums. Whether your interest is in art, science or city history, there’s something for everyone in just about every neighbourhood. Pick from MoMA, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Whitney Museum of American Art, Museum of the City of New YorkorEl Museo del Barrio.

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September in New York City: Weather, What to Pack, and What to Do

The weather is warm and the crowds are thinner.

TripSavvy / Ashley Nicole DeLeon

September is one of the best times to visit New York City. By then, the weather has cooled off from summer, but it's still warm enough to enjoy being outside. At the beginning of the month, the beaches and pools are still open. And with kids back in school, there aren't as many tourists in the city, meaning you'll have shorter lines for attractions and an easier time getting reservations. Plus, there is a ton going on in September from Labor Day parades, fashion shows, and Italian feasts.

New York City Weather in September

September in New York City averages high temperatures of 76 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) and the average low temperature is 61 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius). You'll want to wear cool clothes during the day but bring a jacket for when it gets chilly in the evening. It will get colder as the month goes on and while early September still feels like summer, late September is considered the official start of autumn.

September is also a relatively dry month with only seven days of rain on average. Still, you'll want an umbrella and a rain jacket if you happen to be in the city during those days. At this time of year, you'll start to notice that the days are getting shorter, but can still enjoy anywhere between 12 and 13 hours of sunlight.

What to Pack

Packing for September in New York is all about layering. For the day you should have summer clothes: shorts, t-shirts, and dresses, but mornings and nights can be cool, so don't forget to bring a light jacket and pants with you. You'll also want an umbrella, rain jacket, and waterproof shoes for rainy days. The streets are full of puddles when it rains, especially on the street corners, so you'll want to make sure your feet stay dry.

September Events in New York City

With summer vacation over, there is a range of annual events that span different industries and interests. Many are held outside, letting you enjoy the last weeks of summer. Some of these events may be canceled or held virtually in 2020, so be sure to check the organizer's website for more details.

• Labor Day : Labor Day is a federal holiday that is always observed on the first Monday of September and while many New Yorkers leave the city for the three-day weekend, you can attend events in towns, such as the West Indian Day Parade , sometimes called the Labor Day Carnival.
• New York Fashion Week: During the second week of September, New York City streets fill up with models, designers, bloggers, fashion editors, and other style enthusiasts. Many of the runway shows and pop-up exhibits are open to the public and you can find tickets on the event's official website .
• NYC Broadway Week: Every September, Broadway shows become much more accessible with two-for-one tickets during NYC Broadway Week.
• The Vendys: This is an annual street food competition that pits the best street food vendors in New York City against each other in a delicious competition on Governors Island.
• Feast of San Gennaro: You can't walk through Little Italy in September without running into the Feast of San Gennaro. Here, you can gorge yourself on authentic Italian treats and learn more about Italian-American culture.
• US Open Tennis Championship: You can buy tickets online to this grand slam tournament that attracts the world's top tennis players to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens during the first week of September.

September Travel Tips

• If you are traveling to New York City over fashion week, Labor Day, or the US Open, book your hotel early to avoid sell-outs. Hotels are more expensive during those times so consider staying in Queens or Brooklyn as a cheaper alternative.
• On Labor Day museums and attractions are open, but government agencies including banks and libraries aren't.
• September is a month in-between seasons, so if you're traveling in the first half of the month, pack for the summer. If you're traveling in the second half, pack for the fall.

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The Family Vacation Guide

New York Weather in September: What To Expect On Your Vacation

posted by Caitlin Lloyd on July 18, 2022 // last updated on July 18, 2022

You may know it as the Big Apple or the City that Never Sleeps, but no matter who you are, you have probably dreamed of going to New York . The city remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with travelers flocking to the majestic metropolis from across the globe.  

September remains one of the best months to visit New York. Many tourist attractions are in full swing during the waning days of summer and the beginning of autumn, and you will find no shortage of things to do. But what sort of weather should you expect on your September vacation to New York. We will look at everything you need to know about the weather and how best to dress for the occasion.

What Should You Pack To Wear in New York During a September Vacation?

Frequently asked questions, what is new york weather like in september.

New York is a city with cold and wet winters and humid summers. Meteorologists define the climate as being humid subtropical and humid continental. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service (NWS) monitor the weather in New York primarily from Central Park. 

Meteorologists have collected climate data in Central Park since 1821, and NOAA has opened new monitoring stations at JFK Airport and LaGuardia Airport. 

Before looking at specifics, it is important to remember that New York’s weather is often extreme. Many days will be normal, but a day with precipitation or winds could perhaps see massive downpours or gale-force winds. When traveling to New York, you should prepare for the weather to change quickly and potentially turn hostile. 

Temperature

September represents the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. The fall equinox occurs on September 22, so expect temperatures to likely be more moderate at the end of September than at the beginning of the month.

The average high temperature in New York in September is 76.2 degrees, according to NOAA . The average low comes in at 62.7 degrees, and you can expect the average temperature to hang around 69.2 degrees.

The highest temperature meteorologists recorded in New York during September was 102 degrees in 1953. The coldest it has ever gotten was 39 degrees more than 100 years ago. For more contemporary data collected in the past 30 years, the highest recorded temperature was 89 degrees, and the coldest temperature was 50.2 degrees. 

Compared to the rest of the state, New York typically has milder temperatures during the four seasons. The Atlantic Ocean balances the weather, which keeps temperatures from fluctuating too much.

As September still falls in the wet and rainy summers, you can expect to see some rainfall during your trip to New York in that month. Rainfall is not as consistent as it is in the rest of the summer months, but September averages almost nine days of precipitation.

In a year, New York sees an average of 49.52 inches of precipitation, of which 4.31 inches come from September. The wettest September on record was in 1882 when the city saw 16.85 inches of rain for the month. Two years later, the city had its driest September with only 0.21 inches of precipitation.

The humidity in New York is quite high in the summer, and September offers little relief for travelers and locals alike. The average humidity is around 73 percent for the month, leading to muggy days and nights. While not as oppressive as higher humidity levels, 73 percent is enough to cause discomfort. If traveling to New York in September, be ready to sweat throughout the trip.

For those worried about the snow, you can rest easy that September is still too early for any snowfall in the city. While New York sees plenty of snow in the winter months that lead to a picturesque cityscape, it rarely snows outside of the coldest months of the year.

It has never snowed in New York during September, and the earliest you can expect to see snow in the city is in October. October only has 0.1 inches of snow on average as well, so it is nearly impossible to see any snowfall during your September trip.

Daylight and Sunshine

September is the final month of the year when there are more daylight hours than nighttime hours. Once the autumnal equinox occurs on September 22, the nights begin to be longer than the days. But for most of September, visitors to New York will get to enjoy an average of 12.4 hours of daytime daily.

As far as sunshine, September has the least amount of the summer months, with only 8.9 hours of sun per day in New York. June has 9.8 hours, July has 10.5 hours, and August has 10.4 hours on average. While it may be lower than the dog days of summer, there is still enough sunshine available on any given day for plenty of New York’s outdoor activities.

Ocean Temperature

The temperature of the Atlantic Ocean begins to cool substantially in September, and you likely will not want to do more than dip your toe in the ocean when visiting New York. The average ocean temperature in September for the city stands at 70.2 degrees. While it is still warm enough that it is safe to swim in, most will find it far too cold.

The winds during New York summers are often not very strong and won’t be noticeable most of the time. They tend to dramatically increase in speeds during the autumn and winter months, though they are still mostly mild. 

In September, the city sees an average wind speed of 7.3 miles per hour. In essence, you shouldn’t worry too much about the wind while planning your trip to New York in September. 

Cloud Cover

Knowing the cloud cover gives you a strong idea of how much you will have to deal with direct sunlight and how much sunscreen you will need to pack. For September, New York has a cloud coverage percentage of about 34 percent. This means there will be direct sunlight for about 2/3 of any given day. 

UV Index is a simple number meteorologist assigns to areas that combine several statistics. It gives travelers a single number that represents how hazardous the area is concerning ultraviolet radiation. The scale begins at one, which represents low risk. Any UV index above 11 is extremely dangerous, and anyone in the area should take extra precautions.

In September, New York has a UV index of six, placing it in the middle of the scale. This represents a high risk; when traveling to New York, you should prepare to take precautions against the sun, such as wearing long-sleeved clothes and applying sunscreen.

Now that you know the general weather trends of the city, we can look at a few items you should bring with you during a September trip to New York. Of course, much of this is up to preference, as what might be considered a hot day to some may feel more moderate to others. However, these are some recommendations for what to wear.

Shirts and Tops

With the summer heat still permeating the city for most of September, short-sleeve shirts are a great choice to pack with you. Something made of a breathable fabric like cotton is likely to keep you cool during the hottest parts of the day. If you plan to take part in outdoor activities during the day, you can’t go wrong with a t-shirt.

Alternatively, if you want to protect your skin from the sun or plan on staying indoors for the day, a long-sleeve shirt will also work. Just make sure it is also a lighter fabric so you do not overheat during the times you are outside. Bringing both styles of shirts will also give you flexibility with the varied temperatures of September.

If you are taking part in the city’s famous nightlife, you should pack some form of jacket or outerwear. As daily low temperatures average around 62 degrees, keeping a jacket handy is a good idea to avoid getting too cold when out and about at night.

Bottoms are another choice that is up to preference. Depending on your heat resistance, you can pack shorts or long pants like jeans or leggings. If you intend to take in an afternoon baseball game or spend a lot of time in Central Park, both activities that may involve sitting in direct sunlight for hours, having a pair of shorts or a skirt will be valuable.

Wearing jeans or leggings will protect your legs from overexposure to the sun, and having them on hand for cooler nights is always a good idea. While this is up to your preference, having both styles of pants on hand will give you options to deal with temperature fluctuations.

Wearing a hat is a great way to protect your head and face from the sun. While not required, a hat will help keep you cooler and safe from the ultraviolet rays . Anything from a bucket hat to a baseball cap will suffice to keep the sun out of your eyes and off your head.

Accessories

While it may sound obvious, bringing sunscreen is a must when visiting any place that is warm and filled with sunshine. September in New York still has enough sun that keeping yourself protected from it is a must. Pack sunscreen and apply it frequently when outside. With so many activities to do outside and the ability to walk almost everywhere, you will likely spend plenty of time on the streets of the Big Apple, necessitating sunscreen use.

We will look at a few questions people typically have about visiting New York in September.

Is September a good time to visit New York?

Yes! September is an excellent time to visit the city. The summer warmth has cooled down, and the days are mostly pleasant.

Is it too hot in September?

The temperature is mostly mild in September, and most visitors will find it comfortable on most days. It will occasionally get too hot for some, but intelligent packing will leave you with enough change of clothes to withstand the temperature fluctuations.

New York remains a tourist capital of the world, and September is a perfect time to visit the city. While you will have to deal with the occasional very hot or very wet days, the summer heat will have died down, and you will have a comfortable vacation. 

If you’re heading to New York for a family vacation, check out our guide exploring the best kid-friendly restaurants in Times Square.

More about our TFVG Author

Caitlin Lloyd

Caitlin is one of The Family Vacation Guide's long standing contributors. She enjoys taking vacation to busy, vibrant cities and has stretched her traveling legs out towards Europe in recent months, enjoying new experiences in Barcelona in Spain, and Nice in France.

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What to Do in September in New York City

This post lists the many great things to do in NYC in September 2024, including free, family-friendly, and nighttime activities and events.

Let's dive in!

• Free Things to Do
• Nighttime Activities
• Family Friendly
• How's the Weather
• Free Tours By Foot

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER

This is our list of the ten best events and things to do in NYC in September. For even more suggestions, see our comprehensive guide to things to do in NYC .  

Several of the items below are already included for free with the purchase of a  tourist concession pass .

For tips on the most popular activities in NYC, check out the following posts:

• Walking Tours
• Boat Cruises
• Top NYC Attractions

Keep in mind that Labor Day, a public holiday falls on the 1st Monday in September so some activities may be affected that day.

1. See a Sports Event! 

This month you have a bunch of different options to see a sports event. Baseball is still going strong and the football season kicks.

The U.S. Open Tennis Tournament is finishing up this month.  A soccer match is also an option.

Note that the classic tour of Yankee Stadium is available with both the  New York Pass  and the  Explorer Pass . For more information, check our post about  New York tourist passes

• New York Mets
• New York Yankees

Football   

Games are played at MetLife Stadium. For instructions on how to get there, click  here .

• New York Jets
• New York Giants
• Rutgers Scarlett Knights

The US Open runs from August 26th -September 8th, 2024

• U.S. Open Tennis Tournament

Soccer (Football)

The NYC FC plays at Yankee Stadium, and the NY Red Bulls play at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ.

• New York City FC
• New York City FC II
• New York Red Bulls
• New York Red Bulls II
• Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party | September 30th

Sports events are a great way to spend an evening and also a family-friendly activity .

2.   Attend a Concert 

Music is all around the NYC area in September!

You can hear diverse music in a variety of settings -- from iconic Madison Square Garden to the outdoor Jones Beach Amphitheater.

• Bruce Springsteen | September 1st, 3rd
• Foreigner | September 3rd
• James Taylor | September 3rd, 4th
• Sting | September 8th
• Arctic Monkeys | September 8th, 9th
• Squeeze | September 8th, 10th
• Aerosmith | September 9th
• Beck | September 9th
• Lynyrd Skynyrd/ZZ Top | September 10th
• Peter Gabriel | September 18th
• Dead Cab for Cutie/The Postal Service | September 19th, 20th
• Maneskin | September 21st
• Duran Duran | September 22nd
• Tedeschi Trucks Band | September 29th
• Electric Zoo | Randalls Island Park | September 1st | lineup TBA
• Sea.Hear.Now. Festival | North Beach Asbury Park | Sept 16th-17th | The Killers, Greta Van Fleet, Nathaniel Rateliff, and more
• Outlaw Music Festival | Forest Hill Stadium | September 17th | Willie Nelson, Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, and more
• Sound on Sound Festival | Seaside Park CT | Sept 30th-Oct 1st | Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Mayer, Alanis Morissette, and more

For even more concerts in and around the NYC area in September,  visit Stubhub .

TIP: Madison Square Garden offers All-Access Tours so you can see how this iconic arena has become a world landmark.

3. See a Broadway Show

When in New York City, you should try to get to a Broadway show. Some great ones are on this month. 

See what is playing when you are here or take a look at our select shows below.

These are some of the popular musicals playing in September 2024:

• The Lion King
• The Book of Mormon
• MJ the Musical
• Six the Musical
• Moulin Rouge
• Sweeney Todd
• Funny Gir l
• &Juliet

Click here to find other September shows .

Make sure to read our Broadway Week Guide and find out how to get cheaper Broadway tickets .

4. Enjoy a Salsa Dance Festival

The annual New York International Salsa Congress returns to the city in September.

At the festival, you'll find dance companies and salsa dancer performances, live music, and workshops conducted by pros.

You'll also get to dance yourself and practice your salsa steps. It's sure to be a colorful and exciting event.

The festival takes place August 31st - September 4th at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square.

For more information, visit the New York International Salsa Congress website.

5 .  Take a Walking Tour 

September is a really nice time of the year to take a walking tour. Temperatures are comfortable both day and night.

We offer pay-what-you-wish walking tours in several neighborhoods throughout the city, including a  Brooklyn Bridge

• Lower Manhattan
• Greenwich Village
• Central Park

Check our schedule of pay-what-you-wish walking tours .

6. See New York City from the Water  

This month is a fine time to see the skyline of the city from a deck of one of the many  NYC boat tours and cruises .

You can also take the free Staten Island Ferry  or ride on the East River Ferry which costs the same as a subway ride but with a prettier view!

7. San Gennaro Festival in Little Italy

For over 90 years, the Feast of San Gennaro, is still going strong. It exists in celebration of a Bishop who was martyred in 350 A

Activities include a processional with floats; cannoli, pizza, zeppoli, and meatball eating contests; live music; and fantastic Italian food from local vendors.

The festival takes place in Little Italy and runs from September 14th - September 24th.

For more information, visit the San Gennaro website.

Tip: if you want to experience more New York food, then why not join us for one of our pay-what-you-wish food tours ?

Both the San Gennaro festival and our pay-what-you-wish food tours  are family-friendly activities.

8. September 11th Tribute in Light  

From dusk through dawn every 9/11, two massive beams of light are projected into the sky as a tribute to the Twin Towers. 

The 9/11 Memorial can be visited at any time of the day or night. Use our guide to the 9/11 Memorial Plaza  to plan your visit.

If you would like to learn more about the memorial and the historic events of 9/11, check out anytime GPS audio tour .

We also offer several pay-what-you-wish tours that include the 9/11 Memorial. Check out our schedule . 

9. Walk Over the Brooklyn Bridge - Day or Night

The Brooklyn Bridge can be walked over 24 hours a day. There's so much to know about this iconic bridge and the views from it.

You can use our  guide to walking the Brooklyn Bridge  to make the most out of your experience. Or try our  GPS-enabled audio tour  of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Be sure to consider our  daily guided tour  or if you'd like to see the bridge at night, join us for our combined  911 Memorial and Brooklyn Bridge Night Tour .

10. Utilize a Tourist Attraction Concession Pass

If you're looking to see and do as much as possible, using a New York City tourist attraction concession pass can help you save money and time. 

Attractions Available on Concession Passes Include:

• Museum of Modern Art
• Empire State Building
• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Madame Tussauds
• 9/11 Memorial and Guided Tour
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Madison Square Garden All Access Tour

These passes save you money by bundling dozens of popular attractions and tours into one lower price ticket (up to 55% off).

They can also save you time by allowing you to skip the ticket lines and numerous locations. Read our post comparing your options .

For more ideas for any time of year, be sure to read our master post on things to do in NYC .

FREE THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER

Below are just a few of the many, many free things you can do in NYC in September. Be sure to read all sections of this post, as there are other free activities throughout.

For year-round free things to do see our comprehensive post about  free things to do in NYC .

Ride the Free Staten Island Ferry

Take a free ferry ride from Manhattan to Staten Island and back again.

Whether you ride it during the day or at night, you will get spectacular views of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. 

Our guide to  riding the Staten Island Ferry  should come in handy. 

Attend the West Indian American Day Carnivale & Parade

On September 4th, things are getting hot, hot, hot with the colorful, flavorful, and lively parade in Crown Heights, Brooklyn at the largest Carribean Carnival in North America.

There will be floats with fantastic dancers shaking their stuff to the sounds of Caribbean music. 

Grab a Ginger Beer and a Jamaican Beef Patty and you are all set! 

Find out more information on the WIADCA website.  

NOTE:  This parade can get pretty wild and extremely crowded. If you do not like crowds, you should skip this event, and it's best not to bring the little ones! 

Find Art at the Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit 

For decades, the streets surrounding Washington Square Park have been the home to this art show with more than 100 artists displaying their works. 

It is held two weekends this month:

• September 2nd - 4th
• September 9th - 10th

Get the details at the Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit website.

Tip: Learn more about this neighborhood or combine your visit to the exhibit with one of our  Greenwich Village Tours . 

Attend Museum Day Live  

On September 17th, 2024 many Smithsonian museums offer free admission.

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum  is included. It normally costs $33 and up.

If you cannot get tickets on Museum Day Live, read our post on  cheaper tickets to the Intrepid . 

For a list of museums that are free or almost free year-round, click  here .  

Watch the African-American Day Parade

On September 15th, 2024, at 12:30 pm in Harlem, you can find the festive African-American Day Parade .

The parade is the largest of its kind in America and is now celebrating its 54th year.

It showcases African-American culture and heritage, with more than 200 participating organizations from all over the world.

While in Harlem, take some time to stroll the neighborhood and see historic sights and popular sites.

We have a GPS-enhanced Audio Tour , as well as a pay-what-you-wish   Harlem walking tour .

You can also use our guide to Harlem to discover this interesting neighborhood.

Go to the German-American Steuben Parade New York

For over 65th years the German-American Steuben Parade has taken place.

There are decorated floats, over 50 dance groups, folks dressed in traditional costumes, music, and much more.

The parade starts on the east side of Central Park, at 64th St. on 5th Avenue - heading north to 86th St.

Several groups from Germany come in for the event each year, and it's truly fun for all involved.

For more information, visit the German-American Steuben Parade website.

Afterward, if you feel like trying some German foods, consider joining one of our food tours .

Attend another Art Fair

Known as the “Anti-Fair for Independent Artists”, the Clio Contemporary Art Fair has received rave reviews from the 'establishment' art world. 

The Clio Art Fair is held in Chelsea and runs September 7th-10th.

Tip: If you decide to go take a look at our post on the High Line Park which is located in Chelsea.

We also run several different tours of Chelsea and the High Line as well.

THINGS TO DO AT NIGHT IN SEPTEMBER

Below are just some of the ideas for things to do in September in NYC at night.

Some of the events and things to do in the other sections of this post are also great nighttime activities, so be sure to read this post in its entirety. 

For even more ideas, see our post about  things to do in New York City at night .

See a Free Concert at Central Park’s Summerstage

Summerstage is a summer series of (mostly) free performances that have been held in Central Park since 1986! 

The concert line-up has everything from pop, alternative rock, jazz, soul, avant-garde, and good old rock and roll. 

The series starts in May but wraps up in September. You can see shows until the end of the month.

Check our  Summerstage guide for information on this year's performances, maps, and more.

Take a Night Walking Tour 

New York is really two cities - one by day and a very different one by night.

Temperature-wise, September is an ideal month for taking a night tour .

We offer several pay-what-you-wish night tours including:

• 911 Memorial, and Brooklyn Bridge
• Midtown Manhattan
• Ghost Tours  
• Dark Side of the High Line

Enjoy Free Admission to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

On September 27th, 2024 this engaging museum is free to enter between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

It's one of the most popular attractions in NYC , but is usually $33 and up to visit. Take advantage of this freebie!

This museum is housed on an aircraft carrier and some of its exhibits are a Concorde, a space shuttle and more.

This is also a kid-friendly activity. Get details  here .

Attend Picnic Performances at Bryant Park

Throughout the summer Bryant Park offers free access to their performance series in Bryant Park.

Over 25 live music, dance, and theatrical events will take place, all with the help of some of New York's best performaing arts institutions.

Bring food and drink, or purchase it once you are there. Blankets and chairs are free for the borrowing or you can bring your own.

2024 schedule is yet to be announced. Last year schedule included:

• Sept. 1st | The Classical Theatre of Harlem:  Langston in Harlem Sept. 7th | American Symphony Orchestra:  American Expressions Sept. 8th | New York City Opera:  Romeo and Juliet Sept. 9th | Drom:  Gaye Su Akyol (U.S. debut) Sept. 14th | Harlem Stage:  40th Anniversary Concert

See the Metropolitan Opera Summer HD Festival  

In the past, you have been able to see an amazing performance by this world-famous opera on a huge HD screen in the heart of Lincoln Center's Plaza.

The Met Opera Summer HD Festival is free to attend and there are more than 3,000 seats as well as additional standing room.

Dates haven't been released yet but it usually runs through September.

If you are interested in seeing what goes on behind the scenes at Lincoln Center, you can take a tour. Find out more  here . 

Tickets can be purchased here. There are only 2,800 seats and it's first come first serve.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN SEPTEMBER

Here are just a few fun activities that will keep the kids and adults amused. 

Many events listed above are family-friendly, such as the San Gennaro Festival. 

You can find even more information about visiting New York with kids at Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in New York City  as well as our  3-day itinerary for families . 

Visit Governors Island 

Governors Island is a small, recreational, vehicle-free island just 7 minutes by ferry from Lower Manhattan.

You can rent bikes, kayak for free, picnic, visit the various playgrounds, and try out the longest slide in NYC — three stories high and 57 feet long! 

Read our post on  Governors Island  for information on ferry hours, how to get there, and what activities are offered.

Visit the Bronx Zoo 

The Bronx Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country and September is the best month to visit as the animals are more active this time of year.

The Zoo's Harvest Festival throughout the month allows kids to participate in apple tasting, to learn about composting and how to press flowers.

Find out the details from the Zoo's  website .

Be sure to see our post on ways to get price cuts on tickets to the Bronx Zoo ! 

Attend the Autumn Moon Festival   

The fall equinox occurs in September. This year September 29th is the Autumn Moon Festival.

Traditionally, Chinese families go outside to admire the big autumn moon and light paper lanterns.

Here in NYC, you can be part of the Autumn Moon Festival  in the heart of Chinatown .

There will be traditional Asian music and dance, food, and even storytelling for kids.

In September there is a parade and festival celebrating the Lunar New Year, also in Chinatown.

Find out more about the festival here . 

Take a Superhero Tour

Not just for kids, our self-guided Super Hero tour takes you all over the city to the sites of many movie scenes filmed here. 

You'll see locales of memorable scenes from X-Men, Spiderman, the Avengers and many more. 

Kids might really like our  self-guided Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles tour  that includes some popular destinations around the city that Ninja Turtles fans might enjoy.

Be sure to read our post on the best things to do with kids in NYC.

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Lori Pickhardt

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Best Time to Visit New York City - Full Month by Month Guide

New York is one of the world's most iconic cities – with its instantly recognizable views, world-famous museums and galleries, colorful neighborhoods, countless events, and the beautiful open spaces of Central Park. With so many sights and things to do, it is important to know the best time to visit NYC.

The best time to visit New York is from April to May or September to November. The weather is perfect for exploring Manhattan on foot or walking through Central Park, and there are plenty of events and festivals. It's also not as expensive as the peak summer months.

Whether you want to deep-dive into the city's impressive museums, hit the fabulous foodie scene, or immerse yourself in an unforgettable Broadway experience, keep on reading to find out more about what makes each season in New York so special and to help decide when to take your trip.

When should you go to New York City?

New York is a popular destination all year round, and you'll find plenty to enjoy whatever time of year you visit. The major attractions remain accessible, with dozens of festivals and other events, meaning that you can look out for new experiences even if you've visited the city before.

The seasonal weather changes and the busy peak season can make for a very different experience throughout the year. The city is cheaper and less crowded in January and February, and you can take advantage of 2-for-1 tickets to some attractions and shows, too. Many visitors prefer to wait for warmer spring days, though, when you can spend more time outside.

Fall is a popular time to visit as the weather stays relatively warm through October, and you can combine visits to city attractions with walks through Central Park in its stunning seasonal foliage.

From Thanksgiving to New Year, visitors flock to NYC's festive parades and events. The city is packed full of festive decorations, and you might also get lucky and catch Central Park in the snow for the ultimate in seasonal charm.

It's also a really popular destination during the summer vacation – this is more because it's a convenient time to travel than anything else – unless you want to see a specific seasonal event, then there's no particular reason to visit in the hot, humid NYC summer.

When to visit New York City - Summary

Best Time for Good Weather: Spring and fall see the best weather for exploring the city. Both seasons are mild, so it's no problem to spend time outdoors - although rain is possible throughout the year - and you can often enjoy bright spring blossoms or glorious fall colors under a beautiful blue sky. In contrast, the city can feel very hot in summer, amplified by the intense humidity New York is famous for. It often snows in NYC between December and February, and low temperatures mean you'll have to wrap up warm, so this won't be everyone's preferred time to visit.

Best Time for Saving Money: If you're willing to brave the wintery weather, you can save money on a January trip. Thanks to NYC Must-See Week and NYC Broadway Week, you can get 2-for-1 tickets to top attractions and shows. NYC Restaurant Week also takes place in January, so you can enjoy fixed-price menus at some of the city's top establishments. Hotels and flights are often at their cheapest in January, too. If the cold puts you off, Broadway Week returns for a second run in September!

Best Time for Restaurants: NYC Restaurant Week in January cuts the cost of touring some of the city's top establishments, so it's a great time to visit if you don't mind wrapping up warm. Later in the year, there's also the International Food Festival in May, which takes place on Ninth Street, the Big Apple BBQ Party at Madison Square Park in June, and a big Oktoberfest celebration. Don't worry if you can't make it to the city for any of the main foodie events - there's never really a bad time of year to indulge in New York's culinary scene, and any time between April and October, you can also head across to Brooklyn to visit Smorgasburg, the huge weekly open-air food market.

Best Time for Families and Kids: If you're on spring break in April, then NYC is a great destination, as the weather should be good enough to spend time outside. The spring flowers in Central Park will be blooming, so head there to run off some energy and check out Central Park Zoo. The holiday season in November and December can also be a fabulous time for families to visit. Book a trip to Santaland at Macy's, where you might be lucky enough to get a slot to meet Santa himself. As we've mentioned, summer gets extremely hot, so it's not the ideal time to bring young children to New York, but you can enjoy the 4th of July fireworks or fit in a day trip to the beach at Coney Island or Jersey Shore - perfect if you need a break from quieter indoor attractions.

Best Time for Concerts and Live Music: In early summer, you can enjoy a huge range of outdoor concerts, including a free series by the New York Philharmonic in June, plus Shakespeare in the Park. There's a varied program of events at Summer at Lincoln Center in July, plus Broadway in Bryant Park performances. Highlights at other times of year include military bands and other live events at the Intrepid Museum during May's Fleet Week, with the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival taking place in August.

Best time to Avoid Crowds: January and February are the quietest times to visit the city. If you'd prefer to get the best combination of weather and crowds, then early May or November might be better. They're still popular times to visit the city, but just outside the main visitor peaks.

Best time to visit New York City

One of the great things about New York is that you can shape your visit to suit you and your travel companions. Whether you're in the city to shop, sightsee, or check out some of the world's coolest bars, there's something for everyone in NYC.

Best time to visit New York City for shopping

NYC is legendary for its department stores and boutiques, so whenever you visit, you can shop until you drop. On certain days in August, Summer Streets sees closures on Park Avenue, making it easier to enjoy this shopping mecca on foot.

For a different experience, seasonal farmers markets spring up across the city in October, including New York Botanical Gardens (Wednesdays) and the organic rooftop farm at Brooklyn Grange (Sundays).

Shopping in New York's huge department stores can be a spectacular experience in the run-up to Christmas. Macy's Herald Square puts on an unforgettable display, including beautifully dressed windows and the lavish Santaland.

Wrap up your day with a trip to Bryant Park Winter Village, where you'll find more than 100 kiosks showcasing small makers and boutique brands, followed by a spin on the iconic ice rink in Bryant Park.

Roll forward a few weeks, and many of the major department stores have huge sales as they head into the new year. Led by the big stores, big sales usually run at other points in the year, aligning with major holidays, including Memorial Day weekend (late May), Independence Day (4th July), Labor Day (early September), and of course Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

Best time to visit New York City for museums

New York is home to some of the world's best museums, with extensive and varied collections that you can often explore on an informative guided tour if you want to learn a little more about what you're seeing.

The downside to this is that they can often be very crowded since New York residents, tourists, and school groups all visit in high numbers. With fewer people visiting the city in January and February, the museums are usually a little quieter, and they're a great way to escape the cold.

Several museums also participate in January's NYC Must See Week, including MoMA and the Solomon R Guggenheim Museum - check online for details of 2-for-1 tickets.

For another chance to visit for free, head to the Upper East Side Museums in June for the Museum Mile Festival. For one night only, Fifth Avenue museums, including the Met, the Jewish Museum, the Smithsonian Design Museum, and the Africa Center, open up for free.

It's only a short event, so you won't be able to see any of the museums in depth, but with live music and other entertainment in the surrounding streets, it's an interesting way to get a taste of some of the world's best museums.

Come September, when the summer vacation period ends, many museums, galleries, and theaters launch new exhibitions, events, and shows after Labor Day. If you want to be the first to see new displays or catch the informative events that often accompany the opening weeks of an exhibition, then this is a great time to schedule your trip.

Best time to visit New York City to explore its neighborhoods?

Manhattan is famous for its diverse neighborhoods, which include Midtown, the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Hell's Kitchen, Greenwich Village, the Meatpacking District, and Chelsea. Plus, there are some great places to explore in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.

NYC is a great place to explore on foot - you can really feel the differences between the neighborhoods this way - so we'd suggest visiting during spring and fall when the weather is best for spending time outdoors.

Throughout the year, events take place that let you experience a neighborhood at its best, and these are also great times to visit. In June, you can see the Coney Island Mermaid Parade - a really unique celebration - or catch the annual Pride March at the end of the month.

You'll also find a host of linked events taking place across Greenwich Village. Later in the summer, Harlem Week is a 10-day event in August that includes live music and varied events to celebrate the neighborhood's multicultural community.

Little Italy is a must-see in September, when San Gennaro Festival brings elaborate parades, live music, foodie celebrations and even a meatball eating contest.

Head back to Greenwich Village at Halloween for the biggest Halloween parade in the world. Come in costume, and you can join in – no registration is (currently) required.

Best time to visit New York City for events and festivals?

New York City is famous for its parades and multicultural events – with so many taking place throughout the year, you have a good chance of being able to see one during your trip.

The festival year kicks off in late January or February with Lunar New Year. Events take place across Chinatown and the spectacular parade runs between Mott Street and Manhattan Bridge.

You can also see colorful parades if you're visiting over St Patrick's Day in March or Easter, when a parade of beautiful bonnets heads along 5th Avenue towards Central Park.

The city's large Mexican population celebrates Cinco de Mayo in style in May. There are celebrations across the city, but one of the main events is the parade, which runs near the northern end of Central Park.

If you're in the city over the Memorial Day holiday at the end of the month, head to Flushing, Queens, for the largest Memorial Day celebrations.

Held in Brooklyn in September, there's a huge celebration of Caribbean culture to coincide with Labor Day, which includes the famous West Indian Day Parade. And, of course, to round up the year, you have the huge Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, which is always a major event in the city.

There are several arts festivals throughout the year for a culture fix during your trip. Some of the biggest are the Tribeca Film Festival in April, the Queens World Film Festival in June, and September's Brooklyn Book Festival.

Best time to visit New York City for sightseeing?

We've already mentioned the hot-and-cold New York climate, which can really impact your sightseeing experience. For most people, a trip to New York will be packed full of unforgettable experiences despite the season, so it's often a case of packing for the time of year.

Even so, you can enjoy some parts of the city more easily at certain times of the year. Central Park is stunning in the spring and fall, when you can enjoy long, relaxed walks, stop to watch a street performer in the sunshine, and enjoy iconic views of the city and its famous green space.

To appreciate the Manhattan skyline at its best, an evening boat trip is an amazing addition to a city break, but visit in late spring or early fall so that the temperatures stay pleasant even after sunset.

Worst time to visit New York City

As you've already discovered, July and August are hot, humid and crowded, plus you'll run the gauntlet of sudden summer rain storms.

Since it's such a popular destination for families during the school vacation, hotel rates, and flight prices are even higher than at other times of the year. You're likely to pay a premium if you opt to stay in one of the few hotels, especially if you are after one with a pool.

We'd recommend taking a trip at other times of the year if you have the option, but if you do find yourself heading to the Big Apple in the hot summer months, you'll still be able to enjoy all of the city's main attractions. Just make sure you add in extra stops to cool down and stay hydrated.

New York travel seasons

High Season for Tourists

Summer is peak season in New York, but although there are plenty of festivals and events to enjoy, it's not necessarily the best time to visit the city if you have other options.

The heat and humidity can get in the way of enjoying the city at its best; many of the attractions are very crowded, and hotel prices are at their highest.

Shoulder Seasons

Shoulder seasons are spring and fall, which, in our view, are the best seasons to visit NYC. Temperatures in April and May, and from September to November, are perfect for exploring the city. Plus, crowds are lower, and there are sometimes better prices on hotels.

Low season is January and February, mainly due to the colder weather and the fact that all the fabulous holiday displays have just closed down for another year.

It's the cheapest time to visit the city, and you'll still have a great time, but you'll be able to enjoy more of the city's outdoor attractions at other times of year.

Weather in New York City across the year

Average monthly temperature and rainfall for new york, new york city weather by month.

• New York City weather in January: January is the coldest month of the year, with temperatures dropping as low as 26 degrees Fahrenheit. There are an average of 4 snowy days throughout the month, with over 8 inches of snow expected. It's down to luck whether it's heavy enough to turn the city into an Insta-friendly winter wonderland. The average high temperature is a chilly 39 degrees Fahrenheit so pack accordingly.
• New York City weather in February: February sees the least rainfall, on average, but makes up for that by being the snowiest month in NYC. Heavy snowstorms are possible, and if you're not used to these conditions, it's important to check for local advisories. Even if it doesn't snow, February is cold, with average lows of 29 degrees. In fact, it's possible for temperatures to drop much lower throughout the winter – so check the forecast before you travel in case you need to pack extra layers for a super-cold snap.
• New York City weather in March: The temperature starts to rise in March, with average highs up to 52 degrees Fahrenheit and average lows now hovering just above freezing. There's still a small chance of snow, but you're much more likely to encounter rain. Between March and December, average rainfall sits consistently between 4.1 and 4.6 inches.
• New York City weather in April: Although there's still a very slim chance of snow if you catch a late cold spell, April is usually a much warmer month. The average high temperature is 64 degrees, but if you're lucky, it can peak at around 10 degrees higher still. The nights will still feel much cooler, so pack accordingly.
• New York City weather in May: May is usually one of the best times to visit NYC for the weather. The average temperature is a very pleasant 72 degrees, which you can often enjoy under a clear blue sky. It's still a little unpredictable – there are often cooler days and, as summer approaches, higher temperatures are possible too.
• New York City weather in June: By June, the NYC summer will be starting to take hold. The temperature sits around 80 degrees Fahrenheit but can feel much warmer when you factor in the warming effect of being in such a built-up environment. Thunderstorms are possible, but so are cooler periods when the temperature drops.

• New York City weather in July: July is hot and humid in NYC, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees. If a heatwave is going to hit, it's most likely to be in July, so be prepared for several days of non-stop sweltering weather. Across the month, there's an average total rainfall of 4.6 inches, but the daily rainfall is very small – it's the chance of a sudden and heavy thunderstorm, which increases the average!
• New York City weather in August: The average August temperature remains around 84 degrees, which can still feel very uncomfortable. Fortunately, the chances of a heatwave are lower in August compared to July. Night-time temperatures stay high, which can make it difficult to sleep if you're staying in accommodation without air conditioning.
• New York City weather in September: As fall approaches, temperatures decrease during September. The average daytime high is 76 degrees Fahrenheit, but this will be closer to 70 degrees by the end of the month, and summer thunderstorms evolve into a few days of persistent rain. Night time temperatures will be much more comfortable by the end of September.
• New York City weather in October: With an average daytime temperature of 64 degrees, October can be a very pleasant time to visit New York. The evenings are cooler, as you might expect, but rarely fall below 50 degrees. There's a much higher chance of rain getting in the way of your plans, and with the falling temperatures, rainy days will feel much cooler at this time of year.
• New York City weather in November: Daytime highs of 55 degrees Fahrenheit mean you can often enjoy time outdoors all through November. There's a very low chance of snow, although early wintery spells can make the temperatures drop much lower.
• New York City weather in December: The weather in December is variable so it's best to plan for some indoor activities during your stay. Some days will be bright and mild, with temperatures occasionally reaching well beyond the average high of 44 degrees. There's also a chance that you'll end up visiting during an early cold spell - temperatures can fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly later in the month, and there's the first significant chance of snow.

New York City events and things to do by month

January in new york city.

• Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden : This enchanting show features model trains navigating through a miniature landscape of over 175 New York landmarks, all made from natural materials like bark and leaves.
• Winter Jazzfest : A musical extravaganza that showcases a wide array of jazz talents, this festival spans multiple venues and features both established jazz icons and emerging artists.

February in New York City

• Broadway Week : Occurring twice a year, this event offers theater enthusiasts two-for-one ticket deals to some of the most famous Broadway shows, making high-quality theater more accessible.
• New York Fashion Week : Also happening biannually, this prestigious event in the fashion world brings together designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts to showcase the latest trends and collections.

March in New York City

• St Patrick's Day Parade : This vibrant parade celebrates Irish culture and heritage, featuring marching bands, dancers, and floats, and attracts millions of spectators each year.

April in New York City

• Tribeca Film Festival : Renowned for its diverse film programming, this festival celebrates independent filmmaking and features screenings, panel discussions, and artist talks.

May in New York City

• Ninth Avenue International Food Festival : A culinary delight, this festival offers a taste of international cuisines from local restaurants along Ninth Avenue, along with music and entertainment.
• Bronx Week : This week-long celebration highlights the culture, history, and community spirit of the Bronx, featuring concerts, parades, and various community events.

June in New York City

• Museum Mile Festival : This cultural festival offers free access to some of the world's most prestigious museums along Fifth Avenue for an evening of art, music, and entertainment.
• NYC Pride Month : A month-long celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, featuring parades, parties, and educational events, culminating in the famous Pride March.
• Queens World Film Festival : Celebrating independent filmmaking, this festival showcases a diverse range of films and filmmakers from around the globe.

July in New York City

• The Giglio Feast : A traditional Italian festival featuring religious processions, live music, and a variety of food, celebrated in honor of Saint Paulinus.
• Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks : One of the nation's largest Independence Day fireworks displays, set against the backdrop of the New York City skyline.
• US Open Tennis Championships : A major event in the tennis world, attracting top players from around the globe to compete in one of the sport's most prestigious tournaments.

August in New York City

• Harlem Week : A celebration of Harlem's rich culture and history, featuring music performances, art exhibitions, and educational events.
• Lincoln Center Summer Festival : An arts festival showcasing a variety of performances, including music, dance, and theater in the heart of New York City.

September in New York City

• Feast of San Gennaro : An 11-day street fair celebrating Italian-American culture, featuring religious processions, food vendors, and live music.
• New York Fashion Week : The second occurrence of this world-renowned fashion event, showcasing the latest collections from top designers.
• Brooklyn Americana Music Festival : A festival dedicated to Americana music, featuring local and national artists performing folk, country, blues, and roots music.
• Broadway Week : The second occurrence of this biannual event, offering two-for-one ticket deals for Broadway shows.

October in New York City

• New York Comic Con : A major pop culture convention that draws fans of comics, movies, and TV shows, featuring panels, exhibits, and celebrity appearances.

November in New York City

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting : A celebrated holiday tradition marking the start of the Christmas season with the lighting of a massive, beautifully decorated tree.
• Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade : An iconic holiday event featuring giant balloons, floats, marching bands, and performances, celebrated on Thanksgiving Day.
• New York Marathon : One of the world's largest marathons, this event takes runners through all five boroughs of New York City.

December in New York City

• New Year's Eve Ball Drop Times Square : An iconic global celebration, this event features the famous ball drop, live entertainment, and a massive crowd counting down to the New Year.

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When is the best time to visit New York City in 2024?

Mar 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Figure out the best time to visit New York City with this guide © Anthony Nazario for Lonely Planet

Pride parties dancing through the streets in the summer, Broadway shows bringing the magic of the stage in the fall, holiday lights and magic in the winter, cherry blossoms galore in the spring…there’s no such thing as a bad time to visit New York City .

This abundance of seasonal activity means it’s hard to decide when to plan your trip. So whether you’re looking to nab a deal, go ice skating in Central Park, avoid the crowds or join them, here’s our guide to the best times to visit New York. 

December to February is a holiday season like no other

During the holiday season, New York City is a beautiful sight covered in twinkling lights. Instead of snow-capped mountains or wooden ski lodges, visitors can enjoy the magnificent Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree , plus a mixture of goodwill and retail madness – Fifth Ave department stores (as well as Macy’s ) create festive, elaborate tableaux within their storefront windows. You don’t have to look far to find a concert or religious service packed with holiday tunes. The downside to all this festive cheer is that hotel prices skyrocket to summertime levels.

However, if you don’t mind risking a winter blizzard, there are deals to score during the long, cold winter months of January and February. Though the winter doldrums arrive after the frenzy of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, New Yorkers take advantage of the frosty weather, with outdoor ice skating and weekend ski trips to the Catskills . The odd blizzard and below-freezing temperatures make February a good time to stay indoors nursing a drink or a warm meal at a cozy bar or bistro. The fashion industry A-list descends on Manhattan for New York Fashion Week , while (most years) Lunar New Year celebrations make the city’s Chinatowns (there are many!) the places to be. 

March to May is a great time for budget travelers  

Springtime is another great season to try to score hotel deals. The summer crowds have yet to descend and the weather is generally pleasant this time of year (but there are no guarantees). The odd warm spring day appears and everyone rejoices – though that’s usually followed by another week of subzero dreariness as winter lingers on. Wearing green is essential on St Patrick’s Day, when a huge parade makes its way through Midtown.

Spring finally arrives in April, and the city’s new outdoor dining program officially opens for the season. Tree pits, window boxes, squares and parks abound with bright tulips and cherry trees start blooming – a spectacle you can enjoy at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden , on Roosevelt Island and throughout Central Park.

The weather becomes warm and mild, usually without the unpleasant humidity of summer – May is perhaps the best month for New York City weather. Broadway perks up again as shows open in advance of the June Tony Awards. In late May, uniformed sailors fan out on the town as Navy vessels dock on the Hudson for Fleet Week .

Check out these other budget-friendly tips before you book

June to August is the perfect time for enjoying the outdoors

There’s nothing like summertime in New York City. While the weather often gets hot and sticky, the city also comes alive with a host of festivals, parties and events throughout the five boroughs. There’s the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island , the Puerto Rican Day Parade and the Pride March in Manhattan and the US Open in Queens . This is also the ideal time to check out the local beach scene .

The warm temperatures in June tempt New Yorkers out of their office cubicles and WFH setups to lie out in the city’s green spaces. Parades roll down the busiest streets and portable movie screens are strung up in several parks. SummerStage offers exciting programming after dark in Central Park all season long.

As the city swelters in July, locals escape to Long Island  or to beaches just a subway ride away . Still, it’s a busy month for tourism, as vacationing North Americans and Europeans fill the city. The Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks dazzle, while Shakespeare in the Park serves up some drama – for free.

Thick waves of summer heat generally set in between the skyscrapers in August as everyone heads to the seashore or gulps cool blasts of air-conditioning. Myriad outdoor events and attractions add life to the languid urban heat. The US Open kicks off at the end of the month. Hotel prices are at their highest in the summertime as the streets fill with tourists from all over the globe. If the humidity becomes a little too much, you can always take a day trip to recharge and renew – before heading out for another night on the town.

Where Locals Go: NYC locals share their favorite nearby vacation spots

September to November is the best time for cultural events and openings

After Labor Day, New Yorkers return to the city en masse and the city is abuzz with events, Broadway openings and new art exhibitions. Revelers dance down Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn in the West Indian American Day Parade , and festival-goers eat up sausage and peppers at Little Italy ’s Feast of San Gennaro . Hotel prices might dip a bit from the summer’s peak but don’t expect incredible deals.  

As the season progresses and “sweater weather” sets in by October, the air gets crisper and the leaves start to turn. Brilliant bursts of color blossom across the city's parks as temperatures cool, ushering in one of the most pleasant and scenic months to visit NYC. Cultural delights continue, Comic Con invades the Javits Center and normally private sites open their doors for one weekend only during Open House New York . The Village Halloween Parade closes out the month with a creative bang.

As the leaves tumble, light jackets are replaced by wool and down. The headliner NYC marathon is tucked into the final days of pre-hibernation weather before families gather to give thanks – and perhaps watch the giant balloons pass by at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Ready to plan your trip to NYC?

• Add these top experiences to your itinerary
• Find out which NYC neighborhood fits your vibe
• Start crafting your budget with these tips
• Navigate NYC like a local with our transportation guide

This article was first published Mar 12, 2021 and updated Mar 22, 2024.

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EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER IN NYC

September in NYC is a great time to enjoy the city because it’s cooling down, school is back in session, and it’s just after the peak summer season.

For tourists, prices creep up for hotels around the big events happening during September in NYC unless you planned well in advance. If you spent a lot of your budget on accommodation, don’t worry. There are plenty of opportunities for free things to do in NYC  not to mention many of the best things to do in NYC in September are completely free to enjoy too as you’ll learn further on in this guide.

Here’s a great article for helping you plan  New York City on a budget  as you can find hotel deals and enjoy some of the  best things to do in NYC  from attractions, tours, and popular restaurants without the crowds.

This guide will cover some of the best things to do in New York City in September including some of the best outdoor activities in NYC to enjoy this beautiful time of year. From events and festivals like the U.S. Open, Labor Day weekend yacht parties, music festivals, and all of our personal favorite thing to do this beautiful September in New York – enjoy outdoor movies!

NEW YORK IN SEPTEMBER WEATHER

NYC weather in September is mild! Averaging 77F (25C). This is great news, the only catch is all the locals who summer in the Hamptons are back (typically after Labor Day) and trying to enjoy the mild weather as well. 

There are usually only 7-9 days of rain on average during the month, with only two being actual showers. The others are typically scattered. But you still might want to pack a small umbrella.

Other things you might wanna bring are a light sweater or jacket for the evenings, and of course, it is New York, you’ll probably walk more than you do usually so bring comfy shoes. 

THINGS TO DO IN NYC IN SEPTEMBER

Labor day weekend activities in nyc.

Labor Day is usually the indicator that ‘summer is coming to an end’ taking place each year on the first Monday in September. This is one of most eventful weeks of celebrations for September and there’s a whole week-long of fun activities to check out.

Labor Day Parade

For over the past century, New York City has hosted an annual Labor Day Parade (typically held on the Saturday after the Labor Day holiday) that has been a tradition that continues to carry on.

The parade route starts from 5th Avenue and 44th Street and runs all the way up to around 64th Street typically starting at 10 AM.

Electric Zoo Festival

Electric Zoo Festival is the annual 3 day electronic music festival at Randalls Island Park in New York in September always held over Labor Day weekend.

You can get tickets for the Electric Zoo Festival on SeatGeek , a popular ticket search engine that makes finding tickets to sporting events, concerts, and many other live events in NYC quick and easy.

When you add our promo code  BROOKLYNGUIDE to your SeatGeek account, you receive $20 off your first ticket purchase.

(We receive a small commission at no extra cost to you)

Yacht it Up

There are a lot of options for Labor Day week/weekend activities in NYC including hanging living like the 1% partying on a yacht at any of the many yacht activities that take place from white yacht parties, hip hop and R&B themed yacht parties, to yacht parties with huge musical guests like Bad Bunny or Daddy Yankee!

Check out the different yacht parties and secure your tickets for your fun over Labor Day!

Labor Day Weekend at Time Out Market

Visiting Time Out Market New York in DUMBO, Brooklyn is always a good idea. They have tons of great food options (all under one roof), a rooftop terrace with sweeping skyline and Manhattan views, and just overall have a great location in one of the best neighborhoods in Brooklyn to check out.

Better yet, during Labor Day in September in NYC, Time Out New York hosts an annual rooftop terrace party featuring food and drink specials plus live music all weekend. Better yet, no tickets are necessary, you can just come and enjoy the fun even if you didn’t plan ahead.

West Indian Day Parade

Held annually in Crown Heights, Brooklyn , and boasting up to 2-3 million people in attendance is this day-long march and Carnival celebration that is filled with must-see costumes, nonstop music, and let’s not forget Caribbean food! I think that’s a pretty good recipe for a good time if I say so myself.

The parade starts at Schenectady Avenue and marches to Grand Army Plaza typically starting around 11 AM. However, the celebrations start much earlier as it’s a full blown Carnival celebration with anything and everything from calypso bands and street parties celebrating Caribbean culture.

The U.S. Open is the biggest annual tennis sporting event in the United States and the final Grand Slam of the year starting at the very tail end of August through September.

Each year it takes place at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center stadium in Queens. Bringing the best tennis players from around the world here to NYC for one of the most anticipated events for the sport of tennis each year.

You can get tickets for the U.S. Open on SeatGeek , a popular ticket search engine that makes finding tickets to sporting events, concerts, and many other live events in NYC quick and easy.

9/11 Museum and Memorial Sites

One of the most significant days during September in NYC is the 11th. This is a day that New Yorkers and the entire country of the United States takes a moment to remember those who passed during the terrorist attack and tragic events that took place in 2001.

There are several memorials, tributes, and events that typically happen around the city to remember this day. One of the most visual tributes is the “Tribute in Light” where two towering beam of lights shine from where the Twin Towers both stood in Lower Manhattan and can be seen up to a 60-mile radius from city.

They usually begin testing out the lights the week before September 11th, so you might catch the beams of light at night the week leading up to 9/11.

You can also visit the 9/11 Memorial, which is always free to visit located at the base of the World Trade Center at Vesey Street. This outdoor exhibit commemorates and is a tribute of remembrance of the 2,977 who passed in the 9/11 attacks and is made up of various waterfalls and carved-in names of victims who were lost at the terror attacks of that day including the victims of the World Trade Center site, Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania site.

This is also a great time to visit the 9/11 Memorial Museum too which you’ll need to purchase tickets in advance .

If you’re curious about other memorials you can visit, consider taking the Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan to Staten Island. The ferry is free and you’ll get a great, upclose view of the Statue of Liberty as you pass by before arriving to St. George Terminal in Staten Island.

From here you can walk about 10 minutes to  Postcards , a September 11th Memorial dedicated to the 274 Staten Island residents who lost their lives in the 2001 attacks as well as the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

Oktoberfest

You’ve probably heard of Oktoberfest before, the popular annual German beer festival that takes place every fall from September to October in Munich. Places all over the world celebrate Oktoberfest and NYC is no different, which comes to no surprise as NYC is full of residents with German heritage and roots! Not to mention, it’s a great excuse to party and have a good time.

While the name Oktoberfest implies that the festival takes place in the month of October, it actually starts in September! There are also several ways you can celebrate during September in NYC too!

You can start by hitting up all the best breweries in Brooklyn (and the city). Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg goes all out and even has a special beer they brew just for Oktoberfest you won’t want to miss.

One of the best places to celebrate Oktoberfest the whole month of September is at the Watermark at Pier 15 in Manhattan. Located overlooking the East River, this is NYC’s official Oktoberfest celebrations ! Come for a giant mug of German beer, the big Bavarian soft pretzels, plus great views of the Brooklyn Bridge from this location!

Our favorite thing to do though is do a DIY German beer crawl through the different German biergartens and beer halls in Brooklyn. From DSK in Fort Greene to Black Forest in Carroll Gardens (& Fort Greene) be sure to check out our favorite Brooklyn German biergartens to build your own day of fun!

Oh and we highly encourage you to dust off your lederhosen and dirndl if you have them for all of these Oktoberfest celebrations during September in NYC!

Not only one of the best things to do in NYC in September, but something that can be enjoyed nationwide annually on a single ay in September is Museum Day!

This annual event, organized by Smithsonian Magazine, offers free admission to participating museums all over the country! You can search Museum Day’s official website for participating museums and to get your tickets!

A few of the notable museums in NYC participating including The Museum of Jewish Heritage, Asia Society Museum, Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, and The Jewish Museum to name a few.

The Feast of San Gennaro

One of the best things to do in NYC in September is attend the Feast of San Gennaro festivities! The Feast of San Gennaro is a huge annual Italian-American celebration that’s been happening in NYC since 1926!

The streets of Little Italy are transformed into an 11 day festival full of fun from Italian eateries and vendors, carnival games, rides, live performances, and multiple eating competitions featuring Italian favorites like canolli, zeppole, pizza, meatballs, and more!

Hint: come hungry! The festival itself honors the patron Saint of Naples and is the most famous and celebrated Italian-American festival in the city.

Brooklyn Bagel Fest

One of the best things to do in NYC in September is celebrate one of the most iconic foods of the city – BAGELS! This annual festival that takes place annually mid September at CityPoint in Downtown Brooklyn allows you to sample the best of the best when it comes to bagels in the city. 

Beyond sampling all types of bagels and bagel-related food and drinks there are bagel-themed events, games, and even discussions! After sampling your way around the best bagels of NYC you can cast your vote and help determine who wins the best bagel of the year award!

Get your tickets to Bagel Fest and use promo code BROOKLYNGUIDE for 10% off your purchase !

Rockaway Beach

September in NYC is a great time to get a last-minute beach trip in before it starts getting too cold. You’ll compete with fewer crowds because school is back, and with the NYC ferry service to the Rockaways makes it easier than ever to get there without a car (you can also take the subway too).

This is one of the best beaches in NYC becasue not only are there good food options here, but the beach stretches 150 New York blocks so there’s lot of sandy real estate to comfortably maneuver or find a spot to park yourself all day and soak in the sun in the sand.

Swimming is only allowed while lifeguards are on duty from 10 AM – 6 PM.

Governors Island

One of the best places to visit in NYC is Governors Island. This former military base located in New York Harbor not only as a ton of things to do , places to eat, a spa with and outdoor pool with skyline views, tons of picnic spots, and some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan skyline – but it’s completely free to get to on the weekends before noon!

Even when it’s not free, a round trip ferry ticket is only $4. 

Also, if you’re looking for one of the most unique hotels in NYC , be sure to try out the glamping on Governors Island ! Since it’s nearing the end of ‘glamping’ season it’s a great time to spend the night! You’ll even get to toast marshmallows over an open fire with the backdrop of the night skyline featuring the World Trade Center and Statue of Liberty around you! 

It’s pretty magical if you ask us!

New York Fashion Week

Every September in NYC is Fashion Week! Get ready to spot celebrities, fashion designers, and get in on the action of all the fashionable events that take place.

Unless you’re an elite guest with a special invite, you won’t be able to get tickets to the ‘big name shows’ as those events aren’t open to the general public. 

There are events happening all over the city and there are events available to the public with a ticket . You can check out a few of the upcoming events for the public , and if you can’t make one of the shows be sure to just keep your eye out during Fashion Week for the biggest names in the biz. You never know who you might see!

Catch an NFL Game

If you are visiting NYC in September that means you get to catch the beginning of the NFL season! Both the NY Giants as well as the NY Jets play at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

While both teams are trying to be relevant this year, it’s a great way to cheer for your favorite team. If you’re a transplant, it’s a great way to see your favorite team here vs a New York team and possibly at a steep discount.

For an even better discount , you can get tickets for the New York Giants or Jets on SeatGeek , a popular ticket search engine that makes finding tickets to sporting events, concerts, and many other live events in NYC quick and easy.

Fluffy Cloud Experience (September 24 ONLY)

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by The Fluffy Cloud (@realfluffycloud)

If you’re looking for a truly unique thing to do in NYC in September check out the one-time-only event, the Fluffy Cloud Experience , on September 24th. This immersive exhibit is a 3 story sound and light exhibit.

Dubbed as MORE THAN A CONCERT, this is for the people who are interested in 360 immersive experiences featuring light shows, electronic dance artists, special effects, live music, games food and drinks. This will only be a one-time thing in a 3 story building featuring 33,000 LED lights.

You need to book your tickets in advance . The location of the event is Under the ‘K’ Bridge Park in Greenpoint. Be sure to check out the best Greenpoint bars and best Greenpoint restaurants before or after this immersive experience! 

SUMMER STAGE

One of the best things to do in NYC in September is attend all the free programming from Summer Stage. This free concert and entertainment series provided by the City Parks Foundation in all five boroughs from August to October.

Each year they transform the neighborhood parks of each borough into dynamic, vibrant centers of urban life through sports, arts, and community-building programs for all New Yorkers. They have everything from legendary jazz performers, indie bans, and other musicians, dancers, performances, and even movie screenings.

It’s located in over a dozen parks around the city so there is guaranteed to be one near you, for a complete lineup and which park is having which performer read the full schedule here. 

CATCH A BASEBALL GAME

If you’re a baseball fan then you’re in luck, you have two great choices for America’s favorite pastime this September in NYC as the season continues!

Baseball’s most famous franchise, the Yankees, play at Yankees Stadium in the Bronx. Which is super accessible from anywhere in the city by subway as Yankee Stadium is an easy three-minute walk from the subway.

But for those who are into the Mets or also just like experiencing the different stadiums, you can also catch a game in Queens at the Citi Field Stadium. 

And if you really love baseball and want to check out a minor league team, consider catching a Brooklyn Cyclones game in Coney Island!

You can get tickets for the Yankees or Mets on SeatGeek , a popular ticket search engine that makes finding tickets to sporting events, concerts, and many other live events in NYC quick and easy.

Shakespeare in the Park 

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Jeff Fishman (@jfishman516)

One of the best free things to do in NYC in September (that’s free) is Shakespeare in the Park which takes place in none other than Central Park at the open-air Delacorte Theater. This theatrical program offers free productions of Shakespearean plays produced by the Public Theater.

And yes, it is completely free and tickets are available the day of the performance running from June through September. Although, getting tickets will require some planning – this guide by TimeOut tells you all the different ways you can get tickets!

Save Money on the City’s Best Attractions

One of the best things to do in NYC in September is take advantage of the tail end of those longer summer days and check out some of the best NYC experiences and tours . Like the best observation decks in NYC to enjoy some of the best views in the city.

We have a money-saving secret for you as these hot ticket items can ADD up and cost a fortune. If you’re going to be visiting for a few days or just want to do some sightseeing in a few days consider the different money-saving attraction passes available in NYC. (PS these also work for many of the best museums in NYC too).

These attraction passes are paid upfront for a one-time fee and on your trip, they get you into multiple different attractions for free meaning that you save some serious money overall. By purchasing an attraction pass you can save anywhere from 35-45% on your attraction and saving you hundreds of dollars on your visit! 

CityPASS  offers a  3 attraction pass  or a  6 attraction pass  with over 12 city attractions to choose from including popular observatories like the Empire State Building, The Edge, Top of the Rock, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, the Guggenheim, and more!

Another great option is the  New York Pass  which you can purchase anywhere from a 1 Day Pass to a 10 Day Pass that gets you into over 100 attractions. YES! This one is better if you want MORE options. Once you purchase your New York Pass  you download the Go City app and use that to get up to 45% savings on popular attractions as well as a few hidden gem attractions ranging from the Empire State Building to museums and MANY more.

See our full  breakdown of the New York Pass  and our  breakdown of the New York CityPASS to see if it’s worth it for your visit to save hundreds of dollars on multiple attractions!

PIZZA & WINE MOVIE NIGHTS AT ROOFTOP REDS

What’s better than sharing some pizza, wine, and a movie with a loved one or friends? Doing it on a roof with skyline views! Not to be confused with Rooftop Films, but Rooftop Reds, one of the best rooftop bars in Brooklyn , does a series during the late spring through fall in Brooklyn Navy Yard that offers some of our favorite views of the city along with a movie! Making this one of our favorite September in NYC activities.

Rooftop Reds is actually the city’s only rooftop vineyard, but there are a few wineries in Brooklyn so if you’re a wino, be sure to check those out too and hit up all the different tasting rooms and wine bars.

Rooftop Reds partners with a vineyard in the Finger Lakes region in Upstate New York to bring wine country right here to the city. So while you’re enjoying a movie, you can also enjoy a wine tasting or carafe made right here in the good ol’ state of New York!

The programming began in May and continues all through October. 

CONEY ISLAND

One of the best things to do in September in NYC is to spend a day at Coney Island, one of the most beloved and historic amusement parks in the country. Whether you’re going for the beach or amusement parks, or both this is a great place to check out in NYC.

There are so many cool things to do at Coney Island like riding the Wonder Wheel (which is over a century old), walk the famous Riegelman Boardwalk, eating a Nathan’s hot dog, visiting the New York Aquarium, catch a Side Show (if you’re a cat lover you will also want to keep an eye out for the Sideshow Cat here too), or just lounge at one of the best beaches in NYC .

Rooftop Bars

September in NYC is the perfect time to enjoy the more comfortable temps (the summer can be brutally hot here) and enjoy one of the many amazing rooftop bars in NYC ! Whether you want to do day drinks with friends, sunset on a rooftop, or enjoy one of the best spots in NYC at night taking in the twinkling city lights – there are so many amazing spots to choose from here.

In Brooklyn, check out Westlight in Williamsburg at the top of the William Vale where you’ll find one of the best rooftop bars in Brooklyn with an incredible skyline view of Midtown and the Empire State Building, reservations are recommended!

Tucked away between Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO, check out Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge for more insanely beautiful views (even from the bathroom too).

Manhattan has so many options, be sure to check out Magic Hour at the Moxy Times Square . This is a better night spot as it lights up as bright pink with an open roof with direct views of the Empire State Building!

Head to NoMad and you’ll land at one of the most well-known NYC rooftop bars at 230 Fifth . Or head to Daintree , a swanky cocktail bar is high above the Manhattan skyline and shows off some of the best views of NYC as well as some of the best cocktails!

We hope you enjoy all these amazing things to do in NYC in September. Let us know if we missed one of your favorite September in New York activities in the comments below.

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All you need to know about visiting New York in September

Things to do in New York New York In September

The city of New York needs no introduction. It stands as a beacon of human achievement across all spheres of interest. Boasting an array of galleries, exhibitions, and museums, the Big Apple entices art lovers and history buffs alike. Its streets are a mosaic of cultures from around the globe, celebrating diversity while embracing its distinct American identity. At the forefront of urban culture, a visit to New York City promises an unforgettable experience, particularly as summer draws to a close..

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate the Guide

What makes new york in september special.

• New York in September: Weather

New York in September : Top Experiences

New york in september : events to look out for.

• New York in September : 7 day Itinerary
• New York September Essentials
• New York in September: Seasonal Delicacies

Tips for Visiting New York in September

If you're yearning for a leisurely stroll through the deserted streets of New York on your vacation, your best bet might be to imagine it as a dream! The Big Apple is typically bustling with visitors and locals alike. However, September tends to be one of the quieter months, as schools are back in session and tourism starts to pick up closer to Halloween in October. New Yorkers settle back into their daily routines, and the weather is typically mild and pleasant. Additionally, the city hosts several festivals in September, including the Coney Island Film Festival and the German-American Steuben Parade, which are definitely worth experiencing. Overall, September offers a wonderful opportunity to explore New York City with fewer crowds and enjoyable events.

New York Weather in September

September is the last month of summer in New York. With the current global climate change trend, September begins in an uncomfortably humid fashion but keeps getting milder as the month rolls on. A gentle autumn breeze can be felt towards the end of the month.

Central Park

This large swathe of greenery in the middle of midtown Manhattan is what defines the topographical identity of New York. Central Park has featured majorly in numerous Hollywood productions. Irrespective of the month, Central Park is a wonderful place to visit in New York. If you can talk to the locals, you may even be able to find one f the many events that go on within the park throughout the year.

September Timings Daily: 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM

New York, NY, USA Getting There ›

9/11 Memorial & Museum

The tragic events that unfolded close to two decades ago have left an indelible mark on the history and geography of New York. The 9/11 Memorial honours the 2977 victims of the unfortunate incident at the very spot where the World Trade Center once stood. The museum pays homage to the lives of the victims and how the world has was affected by the attack.

September Timings Daily: 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM (Memorial) Sun – Thu: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Fri – Sat: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Memorial Museum)

Z180 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10007, USA Getting There ›

Top of the Rock

As the humidity goes down in September, the visibility becomes ideal for a trip to some of the famous observation decks of the city. Top of the Rock is cruise ship-shaped observation deck situated at the top of Rockefeller Center. An evening at Top of the Rock will afford you an astonishing view of the New York skyline. Additionally, it lies in close proximity to numerous other tourist hotspots.

September Timings Daily: 8:00 AM - 12:30 AM

30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, USA Getting There ›

Statue of Liberty

This is another spot that not only represents New York but also the entire nation. Named the National Monument in 1924, the Statue of Liberty greets you every time you enter the Upper Bay. You can head to the Liberty Island and marvel at the grandeur of this structure. The Museum offers an in-depth view of the structure and its history. You might find shorter waiting lines during September at the Statue of Liberty.

September Timings Daily: 11:30 AM onwards

New York, NY 10004, USA Getting There ›

Summit One Vanderbilt

Summit One Vanderbilt stands as an architectural marvel in the heart of Manhattan. Soaring high above the iconic Grand Central Terminal, this sky-high observatory offers breathtaking views of New York City's skyline. With innovative design and interactive exhibits, it provides an immersive experience, connecting visitors with the city's history, culture, and unparalleled urban beauty.

45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, United States Getting There ›

The Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a global art institution situated in New York City. Renowned for its extensive collection of modern and contemporary masterpieces, it showcases groundbreaking works in various mediums, from painting and sculpture to film and design. MoMA serves as a hub for artistic inspiration, fostering a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving landscape of modern art.

11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, United States Getting There ›

Day Trip to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is another one of USA’s major attractions and it is situated about 6 hours from New York. Take a day trip to this natural wonder leaving the big city hustle and bustle behind. The entire trip takes a total of 19 hours and includes commute charges. Once you reach there, you can take a stroll through the Niagara Falls State Park as well.

September Timings Guided Tours from NYC to Niagara Falls start at 4:00 AM and ends 19 hours hence

New York, USA Getting There ›

Broadway Shows

Every time you visit New York, irrespective of the reason for the visit, try to take some time out for a Broadway show. New York’s full palette of cultural and artistic diversity is on display at the Broadway. This September, you will have the option to choose from a wide array of musicals including Pretty Woman: The Musical, Come From Away, Frozen, Aladdin, The Lion King, and The Office: A Musical Parody.

September Timings Timings Vary Depending On The Show & Availability

Theater District New York, NY, USA Getting There ›

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building, an iconic symbol of New York City, stands tall in the Manhattan skyline. With its Art Deco architecture, the building has enthralled visitors for decades. Offering panoramic views from its observation decks, it provides a breathtaking look at the city. This architectural wonder captures the essence of the city's history, ambition, and enduring charm.

20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, United States Getting There ›

U.S. Open 2023

22 August – 10 September 2020 One of the four grand slams that take place every year, U.S. Open is one of the most prestigious competitions in the calendar of the sport. The yearly event garners a lot of attention from global media given the glamour and fame associated with it. A great ensemble of international tennis superstars is set to appear in this year’s edition as well.

Arctic Monkeys - Live

9 September 2023 Arctic Monkeys are set to ignite New York City at Forest Hills Stadium on September 9. Anticipation runs high for a dynamic performance by the renowned band, promising an unforgettable evening of their signature rock sound amidst the historic and vibrant atmosphere of this iconic venue.

61st New York Film Festival

29 September - 15 October 2023 The 61st New York Film Festival is a cinematic extravaganza showcasing a curated selection of groundbreaking films. Held in the heart of NYC, the festival gathers filmmakers, enthusiasts, and critics to celebrate the art of storytelling on screen. It's a premier event that offers an immersive journey into the world of cinema.

New York Burlesque Festival

28 September - 1 October 2023 New York has everything and the New York Burlesque Festival is proof of that. The four-day affair brings together over a hundred performers from around the world, making it an international event. The festival originated in 2003 and is mostly accompanied by live music and comedy performances.

NYC in September : 5-day Itinerary

5-7 days in new york itinerary.

9/11 Memorial & One World Observatory

Times Square

Art Museums

Top of the Rock | Empire State Building

Chelsea Market

Brooklyn walking tour.

Day Trip to Niagara / Washington DC

St. Patrick's Cathedral

New York Public Library

Greenwich Village

Sightseeing Cruise

Food Tour in NYC

Shopping on 5th Avenue

Battery Park

Lower East Side

Nyc september essentials.

Language English

Time zone GMT-4

Country Code 917 | 212 | 718

Socket Type A & B

Currency Dollar ($)

In September, the weather starts to ease up, becoming more pleasant. Daytime temperatures typically reach around 25°C, while nights cool down to about 17°C. Rainfall becomes less frequent as the month goes on, and the city enjoys an average of 9 hours of sunshine per day. A gentle breeze adds to the overall mildness of September.

NYC Accommodation In September

As summer sees a decrease in tourist numbers for the first time, you'll have better luck securing your preferred accommodations in New York. However, don't anticipate discounts just yet—it's still too early for that. If your itinerary is set, consider narrowing down hotels near attractions that suit your budget. Rest assured, New York offers lodging to match any criteria, making your search relatively hassle-free.

• Luxury - The Whitby Hotel, The Towers at Lotte New York Palace, Crosby Street Hotel
• Mid-Range - Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection, The Sherry-Netherland Hotel, The Langham New York Fifth Avenue
• Budget - Hotel 50 Bowery NYC, NobleDEN Hotel, EVEN Hotel Times Square South

NYC Packing List September

As the warm weather fades away, it's crucial to ramp up your packing efforts. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for New York's sunny days. Don't forget to bring scarves for added warmth. Heavy jackets may not be necessary. Expect rain on approximately 10 days in September, so be sure to have an umbrella and waterproof gear ready. Sunblock is essential for outdoor activities. Comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan to explore on foot.

Getting Around New York in September

New York is notorious for the amount of traffic its systems have to handle. So make sure you do not try to figure things out on the fly and have some knowledge beforehand. New York has an elaborate public transport network. The MTA has, over time, managed to sufficiently tie the five boroughs together. The fastest way of getting anywhere would be the subway. You may also opt for buses, which are economical, but a tad slower. Cabs are available aplenty in New York, but the travel time will depend on the traffic situation. If you want sightseeing coupled with transportation, take the ferries.

Read more about public transportation in New York and learn how to travel around the city like a local!

New York in September : Seasonal Delicacies

New York has had a significantly large Jewish population. This population has shaped the history of the city, and apparently, its cuisine too. The bagel is a Jewish creation that is a staple in New York. It is basically a bread that is shaped by hand and then baked. It is crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside. Where to eat: Russ & Daughters

The classic New York street meat has earned quite a reputation for itself. While the name itself may raise a few concerns regarding the nutritional values of the dish, we recommend that commit a little sin and give this a go. Meat over rice has roasted meat served with gravy and fragrant basmati rice. Where to eat: The Halal Guys

At times, you just need a food item that can do it all. The BEC is that food item. It can satisfy your hunger, it is delicious, and it is an effective hangover cure (which you should need when in New York). The BEC stands for Bacon, Egg, and Cheese sandwich which gives away the ingredients used in its preparation. Where to eat: Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner

Cheesecake is famous around the world. But New York has found out a way of putting its own spin on this classic as well. The New York Cheesecake replaces the crumble base with a thin, flavoured sponge and has a generous amount of fruit puree to of with the cheesecake itself. Where to eat: Junior’s

The Chocolate Chip Cookie has been adopted by the entire world. Which is why New York has a put a little twist in its own version of it. Apart from the crunchy exterior with embedded chocolate chip, the New York version has gooey chocolate or caramel interior that just adds to the texture and taste. Where to eat: Levain Bakery

• Get your flight tickets well in advance to stand a chance of availing a cut-price deal as yearly trends show that September sees a drop in visitors.
• Avoid heading to the chain restaurant outlets during September as it is still somewhat the high season and the quality of food is likely to be poor.
• Take public transport whenever possible despite the September crowd as walking everywhere might not be the best idea if you need your feet to work for another day.
• Don’t bother to visit Times Square during the day. An evening visit will be much better weather-wise.
• Go to The Big Chocolate Show to experience an event which features demonstrations, workshops, and tastings by chocolatiers from around the world.

Discover New York Through The Year

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For more fun things to do in NYC, check out our detailed guides and plan your trip better!

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An introvert who expresses herself by the words that flow out as she writes. A Bangalorean by heart but has been across 22 countries by the age of 22. New York, Paris & Kashmir making it to her top 3 list of places that she has been to, she plans to go on a solo adventure in the near future. Her gypsy home is filled with souvenirs from across the world. She's always up to take her tastebuds on a food tour. As a world explorer, she has learnt that travelling helps her rejuvenate her soul by filling it up with memories and life lessons that no school ever taught.

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7 Things to do in NYC this weekend: June 7-9

T his weekend’s events of note include the return of a book festival in the Boogie Down; a photography lover’s dreamscape under the Brooklyn Bridge; live jazz music served up by a “Genius” on the Upper West Side, and time-traversing play about the Black gay male experience set in South Brooklyn.

“Photoville NYC 2024”

Brooklyn Bridge Park — Emily Warren Roebling Plaza , 1 Water St. Brooklyn (Dumbo)

Through June 16. Various times. 

The 13th iteration of this annual festival displays over 85 exhibitions throughout the city. Brooklyn Bridge Park is the festival’s central hub with its shipping container exhibitions and open-air viewing.

One of this year’s highlights is “Perception & Representation: Reframing Modernity,” an artistic dialogue between Dutch photographers (such as Jan Steinz ) remixing the styles of Rembrandt and his contemporaries with a splash of color, while American artist Kennedi Carter blends historical references to European royalty with modern Black aesthetics.

Other highlights include Ernst Coppejan’ s’”From the Streets to the Heart” featuring portraits of homeless LGBTQ+ youth in New York City, and Edwin Pagán ’s documentary photo-essay, “Los Inocentes (The Innocents)” about children living in difficult conditions in various New York neighborhoods.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

BAM Howard Gilman Opera House — 30 Lafayette Ave., Brooklyn (Fort Greene)

Through Sun. June 9. Various times.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues its 65th anniversary celebration at the Brooklyn opera House with two programs. The first, called “Contemporary Visions,” featuring new works by Alonzo King, Hans van Manen and former dancer-turned-choreographer dujour Jamar Roberts .

Roberts’ “Ode” is described as “a poem to Black victims of police brutality” and was partly inspired by the 2018 Parkland Shootings that happened near his hometown in Florida.

The second program, “All Ailey,” includes classic works by the dance company such as “ Revelations ,” the Judith Jamison signature 3-section solo “Cry” and 1972’s “A Song For You” performed to Donny Hathaway’s aching take on the Leon Russell ballad.

Tickets start at $35.

“Vijay Iyer Trio Live in Concert”

Smoke Jazz & Supper Club — 2751 Broadway. Manhattan. (Upper West Side)

Through Sun. June 9. Various times. 

Pianist Vijay Iyer fronts his trio at the classic jazz venue this weekend, offering selections from his 2024 album “Compassion.” A MacArthur “Genius” grant recipient, Iyer has been voted DownBeat Magazine’s “Jazz Artist of the Year” multiple times in the last decade.

Bassist Harish Raghavan and drummer Jeremy Dutton join him for his engagement at Smoke, which underwent a renovation and reopening following the COVID-19 lockdown.

Tickets are $25-$55 with live streaming available for $15.

“The Fires”

Soho Rep — 6 Walker Street, Manhattan (Tribeca) 

Through June 30. Various times.

Fresh off the success of Anna K. Jacobs’ and Michael R. Jackson’s adaptation of “Teeth,” choreographer Raja Feather Kelly makes his playwriting and directorial debut with this acclaimed work about three Black gay men from three different eras —1974, 1998 and 2021 — traversing life and love in the same South Brooklyn railroad apartment.

Phillip James Brannon , Sheldon Best and Beau Badu portray the three main characters, all writers in various stages of their lives who seek answers in red-covered journals. Janelle McDermoth, Ronald Peet, Jon-Michael Reese, Jason Veasey and Michelle Wilson round out the cast of eight who bring Kelly’s intricately suspenseful one-act drama to forefront.

Tickets start at $35. $20 rush tickets available 30 minutes prior to curtain for each performance. $0.99 Sunday tickets offered on June 9.

Family/Outdoor

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden — 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island. (Randall Manor)

Sat. June 8 , Sun. June 9. 10 a.m – 10 p.m.

This weekend-long, community-focused, participatory-art event is free and interactive for people of all ages. With a mission “to advance social and personal transformation through creativity,” the volunteer-run “Figment” lives up to its name. Organizers describe it as “an alternative to many of the shortcomings of the commercial art world: exclusive, expensive, impersonal, untouchable and often simply boring.”

“The Bronx Is Reading Book Festival”

Fordham Plaza — Fordham University, 441 E Fordham Road, Keating Hall (The Bronx)

Sat. June 8. 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The book festival is back for a seventh year with a full slate of Saturday programming, including a keynote discussion with Pulitzer Prize winner Colson Whitehead and Cree Myles of All Ways Black. There will also be a “bookstagrammer” and influencer workshop with social media specialist Yasmine Yacut, plus a hip hop writers panel featuring journalists-turned-authors Kathy Iandoli , Rob Kenner and former Vibe magazine editor Miles Marshall Lewis (who penned 2021’s “Promise That You Will Sing About Me: The Power and Poetry of Kendrick Lamar” ).

“Zoolander” at Paramount+ Movie Nights

McCarren Park — 776 Lorimer St, Brooklyn (Williamsburg/Greenpoint)

Fri. June 7. Sundown.

The dimwitted antics of airhead fashion model Derek Zoolander (played by Ben Stiller ) will get the big screen treatment once again at this free movie screening. To help celebrate the summer series’ kickoff — which will also include screenings of “Empire Records” (6/14) and “But I’m a Cheerleader” (6/28) — free popcorn will be offered to those who RSVP.

If you have an upcoming weekend event you’d like to submit for consideration in an upcoming roundup, please email: [email protected] with the details. Consideration does not guarantee inclusion.

©2024 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Need to Vent , Am i unfair ?

Need to put it here or somewhere and just vent I’m beyond angry and i know these feelings are not healthy for me or the baby. My husband always ALWAYS put others happiness first and leaves me and our children at home for last. His daughter wants to come visit us from out the country , she’s is 30 years old and married with two children. Last time she came it was two years ago and she showed up with her extended sisters and fine i took them in my tiny NYC apartment and did my best to make them feel welcome despite them breaking my things , putting holes in my walls and eating in the bedroom which i explain is my number one rule and only rule ! When she left i pointed this to my husband and he got so upset at me and told me to never mention his daughter again. That was a big fight and i told him next time she can take a hotel. He also spent outrageous amount of money to buy her iPads , air pods , clothes , a 700 dollars Nintendo system with games and works for her son his grandson and yes i get it this is fine but he does NOT EVER SPEND that on his two kids 7/9 that he has at home with me ! For us we just have to deal with the Not right now and i end up having to figure out how to make up their bdays and Xmas !

Fast forward now , she called back in Feb and said she wants to come this summer i told him not a good idea I’ll be 8/9 months pregnant and can do very little for house guest , and house guest means, I have to get up make them breakfast lunch and dinner and clean up after them it’s just the culture thing to treat guest with respect etc , i told him I can barely keep up with us and our home i won’t be able to extend myself , she bought her ticket and is still coming I’m furious and praying everyday for god to ease this in me and give me the strength to accept it and face it , Also i work from home and i will be working the whole summer including when they are here so this means waking up extra early to make food , prepping and cleaning during my lunch break and trying to tour and do activities with them after work , I’m tearing just thinking of the stress this will cause me.

Just now we are talking and he says I’m tire i can’t wait to take vacation (this man has never ever taken vacation not even when our other kids were born to help me) i asked him vacation when ? When the baby gets here ? He says no when my daughter comes im taking a month , i said ok and in September when the baby is here how long are you taking he said 3 days ……… I lost my ***, i went off and left to my room, but now im just laying here in tears because im honestly sick of the treatment , he’s taking a month for a grown daughter who knows nyc well and leaving me to hang with two kids starting school and a newborn who will be coming around that same time and in nyc there no school buses you take your kids to school , my kids will be going to different schools , I’ll have to drop one off at 745am then take a bus with the other to drop her off , all with a newborn and swollen vagina ?!!! And I’m sure painful hemorrhoids , Im so upset it’s depressing , and it’s not just oh it’s his daughter give him grace he does these kind of things for friends , cousins etc he’s a pleaser and calls it a culture thing .

I 1000% a culture thing-I'm the eldest daughter.. being Filipino.. some will get this.. and I've also seen this kind of treatment with my Lolo(grandfather) and the difference in how he treated the ex wives and their kids versus my grandma and my mom her siblings..... saying it out loud, he never wanted the kids previous to my grandma... he ignored them essentially and very distant.. his mother sent them money because she was treated the same by his dad... and he then even treated my grandma poorly, and is why she left him...

That said, I don't think using "it's cultural" should be used as an excuse.. it's something you should reflect upon and improve if toxic.

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BREAKING: In harrowing testimony about the drug addictions that rocked the Biden family, Hallie Biden details her own use and Hunter Biden's denials

Man accused of assaulting and punching people in New York City indicted on hate crime charges

A man accused of assaulting or harassing at least five people in New York City over the past year, including a woman who documented her injury on TikTok, has been indicted on hate crime charges in the “anti-female, anti-white, and antisemitic” attacks, prosecutors say.

Skiboky Stora, 40, is charged with three counts of third-degree assault as a hate crime, one count of third-degree stalking as a hate crime and second-degree aggravated harassment in connection with the incidents, which stretched from September to March, the Manhattan d istrict a ttorney’s o ffice announced Tuesday.

Stora, of Brooklyn, had previously been arrested in March on an assault charge, accused of hitting a woman in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. The woman documented the bizarre injury on TikTok.

In that case, the 23-year-old white woman was walking in Chelsea on March 25 when she passed Stora and he “struck her in the head, causing her to fall to the ground,” authorities said. She suffered pain and swelling on the left side of her head, the DA's office said. 

“You guys, I was literally just walking and a man came up and punched me in the face,” she said tearfully in her video . “Oh, my God, it hurts so bad. I can’t even talk.”

She was one of several women who posted on the platform describing being punched or attacked as they were walking down the street in Manhattan.

“Skiboky Stora allegedly committed a series of hate-motivated incidents against several individuals based on their perceived gender, race and religion,” District Attorney Alvin Bragg said. “Nobody should have to fear for their safety because of their identity.”  

The series of attacks started on Sept. 20, when Stora passed a 17-year-old white student in Chelsea, elbowed him in the neck and said, “You people think you can do whatever the f--- you want,” the district attorney's office alleged in a release.

Then, on the morning of Oct. 26, a 37-year-old woman described as “fair-skinned” walked past Stora in Chelsea and, as she passed, he elbowed her left shoulder, causing pain and bruising, officials claimed.

A month later, on Nov. 18, a white Jewish couple were walking their dogs in Union Square when the 28-year-old woman saw a man tearing down posters about kidnapped Israeli hostages and took a photo of him. 

The man, whom authorities identified as Stora, noticed the couple looking at him, began to follow them and shouted “anti-white and antisemitic remarks,” including “F---- you white boy,” officials alleged.

A woman invited the couple into her apartment so they could get away from the man, who followed them into the building lobby yelling, “Die, Jews, Die!” prosecutors said.

The series of attacks apparently culminated with the attack on the woman who posted on TikTok. Stora was arrested two days later in connection with that incident, and he has pleaded not guilty in that case.

He pleaded not guilty to the hate crime charges at his arraignment Tuesday. Stora is representing himself in court, according to court records. His next hearing is scheduled for Aug. 6.

Stora has sought public office in New York since 2021 and participated in a New York City mayoral debate that year, NBC News has reported, citing public records. In 2022, he filed a handwritten petition to get on the ballot for New York governor. Last year, records show, Stora ran for the District 9 seat on the New York City Council.

Stora denied the allegations in the indictment, calling the hate crime charges “absolutely madness.”

Stora told NBC News on Wednesday that he sued Mayor Eric Adams last year, that he intends to run in the mayoral election against him next year and that he believes that he is being charged as an act of political retribution, identifying himself as a Black Republican. 

Speaking about the assault on the woman who documented her injury on TikTok, he said, “I never met that woman,” and he claimed she identified a different person in a lineup. 

Asked about the November incident involving the Jewish couple, Stora said he was tearing down the posters because they were “scaring the kids in the community.”

“I’m all about America. I love Jews,” he said.

He said the couple confronted him as he was tearing down the poster, and he claimed the man told him: “The Muslims are coming. Die, Jew, die.” Stora said the couple made the statement, which the district attorney’s office referred to, in mockery toward him.

He then headed home and saw the couple enter a building, he claimed. They eventually exited and then followed him home, he said.

Online court records show that Stora filed a lawsuit against the New York City Board of Elections last year under the Civil Rights Act that is ongoing, as well as a second suit last month against the city and Bragg alleging false arrest and excessive force in connection with a search warrant executed at his home on April 18. The warrant was executed after the street attack incidents. No responses have been filed in response to the latest suit.

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Biden’s Push to End the War in Gaza

The american president revealed a secret cease-fire proposal that may force israel’s leader to choose between the end of the war and his political survival..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

Hey, it’s Michael. Before we start today, we wanted to invite you to something really special. The legendary Tribeca Festival is starting a brand new annual gala to celebrate excellence in audio. And for this, the inaugural year, they’ve chosen to celebrate “The Daily.” We know that you, our incredible audience, are all over the world, but we’d like you to join us.

The Gala is in New York on June 9th at 5:00 PM. You can get all the details and buy tickets at tribecafilm.com/thedaily. That’s tribecafilm.com/thedaily. I’m going to be there. So is Sabrina, along with a bunch of us from the show. Mo Rocca is going to host it. So if you’re in the area or visiting, we’d love to see you there. OK, on with today’s show.

From “The New York Times,” I’m Sabrina Tavernise. And this is “The Daily.”

[MUSIC PLAYING]

In an unexpected speech last week, President Biden revealed the details of a secret proposal intended to end the war in Gaza. Most surprising was where that proposal had come from. Today, my colleague Isabel Kershner explains Biden’s gambit and the difficult choice it presents for Israel’s leader, Benjamin Netanyahu.

It’s Wednesday, June 5.

Isabel, tell us about this speech from President Biden last Friday at the White House.

So last Friday, President Biden made a speech. And it came at a pivotal moment in the war because for weeks beforehand, the whole world had been focused on Israel’s long delayed invasion of the city of Rafah, the southernmost city in the Gaza Strip and also the city that about a million displaced Palestinians had fled to to find refuge from fighting in other areas of the Gaza Strip. So understandably, there was huge concern internationally and particularly a lot of pressure coming from the White House for Israel not to go into Rafah. It was just considered way too risky.

But for the Israelis, they were saying the last battalions of Hamas are there. Many hostages are there. And without taking control of that area, the Israelis felt they wouldn’t have accomplished anything.

So in the end, they did begin to move into the Eastern part of Rafah. But then as the Israelis were operating in Eastern Rafah with their tanks and ground troops, the Israelis on May 26 carried out a strike, an airstrike.

This was an attack meant to target two Hamas operatives. And they did, in fact, strike those two operatives and killed them with what they said were the smallest missiles that their jets could carry.

Unfortunately, that strike then set off an absolutely devastating fire because the area the strike took place in is right by a camp of makeshift shacks and tents where hundreds or thousands of Palestinians were sheltering. This fire ripped through the tents and ended up killing 45 civilians according to the Gazan health authorities. And it was exactly the kind of disaster that everybody had feared if Israel were to operate in this crowded, southern, dusty border town.

Which presumably put a lot more pressure on the Biden White House to do something about this war.

That’s right. Now, we know that the White House, the Biden administration, would very much like to see this war come to an end as soon as possible. And then on Friday —

Good afternoon. Before I begin my remarks —

— President Biden gives a speech. And surprisingly —

Now to another issue.

— this speech when it turns to the Israel-Hamas war was not about Rafah. In fact, it was something totally different and much bigger.

Israel has now offered — Israel is offering a comprehensive new proposal. It’s a road map to an enduring ceasefire and the release of all hostages.

What President Biden described as the outline of an Israeli proposal for a ceasefire truce and hostage release deal with Hamas that would end the war.

This proposal has been transmitted by Qatar to Hamas. Today, I want to lay out his terms for the American citizens and for the world.

And, Isabel, what did he mean exactly by the Israeli proposal?

Well, there’s been a lot of smoke and mirrors around this whole process of talks and negotiations between Israel and Hamas. And, in fact, the last time we saw a negotiation actually result in a temporary cease fire and a partial hostage release was at the end of last November.

But, in fact, there had been this on again, off again attempt at getting negotiations back on track over the last few weeks. And it soon came to light that this was the latest Israeli proposal that was apparently presented. And this proposal it turns out was unanimously approved as a basis for the negotiation by Israel’s war cabinet.

And here is an American president spelling out this previously undisclosed Israeli position on television.

Absolutely. And the Israeli public knew nothing about this.

So what does Biden actually say? What does he say is in this proposal?

OK, well, what he says —

This new proposal has three phases. Three.

He presents it as a deal in three phases, which is generally in line with all the previous plans of the last few months. And the first phase would involve a six week temporary ceasefire during which a certain number of hostages —

— including women, the elderly, the wounded —

— the most vulnerable ones —

There are American hostages who would be released at this stage. And we want them home.

— would be exchanged for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. And Israeli forces would be withdrawing from population centers within the Gaza Strip.

— with 600 trucks carrying aid into Gaza every single day.

Humanitarian aid would be flowing at a much greater level and generally the beginning of a change in atmosphere and climate.

So this seems in some ways like the temporary ceasefire in November, right? Women and children, vulnerable hostages, a cease in hostilities for six weeks. What about phase two?

Well, here we get to the crucial part because during phase one, the sides are supposed to start negotiating phase two.

Now, I’ll be straight with you. There are a number of details to negotiate to move from phase one to phase two.

And phase two is supposed to culminate in all remaining living hostages released and exchanged again for many more Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. This would involve also the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip. And in his speech, President Biden does say that as long as Hamas lives up to its commitments, the temporary ceasefire would become, in the words of the Israeli proposal —

— the cessation of hostilities permanently.”

— essentially meaning the end of the war.

So Biden is actually talking about the end of the war. He’s saying that out loud, which is not something we’ve been hearing from Israel at all, at least publicly. On the contrary, in fact, our colleagues wrote a story at the end of last week when one senior Israeli official said the war would last until at least the end of the year. So this is something very new.

Absolutely. And then we get to phase three because there’s a third phase to this plan. And that is moving ahead already to the day after the war, which has been kept very vague by the Israelis up to now. And the phase that President Biden outlined was essentially just for a major reconstruction plan for Gaza.

That’s the offer that’s now on the table and what we’ve been asking for. It’s what we need.

So the president is saying that this is a deal that should be accepted, that meets the requirements of both sides, that can point to a path forward. And he makes a couple of points to bolster that —

The people of Israel should know they can make this offer without any further risk to their own security because they’ve devastated Hamas forces.

— one of which is that in his view, Hamas has already been sufficiently degraded and devastated to the point where, as President Biden puts it, Hamas is no longer capable of carrying out another October 7.

In other words, that goal of total victory that Netanyahu talks about, Biden is actually saying they’ve accomplished it. The Israelis have accomplished it.

Not really, actually. He takes on Netanyahu on the total victory slogan —

Indefinite war in pursuit of an unidentified notion of total victory will not bring Israel and will not bring down — will only bog down Israel in Gaza, draining the economic, military, and human resources and furthering Israel’s isolation in the world.

— and says that total victory is a kind of nebulous and unrealistic goal that would basically mean indefinite war because what does total victory mean? You can’t kill every last Hamas operative. And even if you did, presumably there would be many more Palestinians who would come to replace them.

And in a way, he’s using this speech to go over the head of Netanyahu and go straight to the Israeli people and present them with these terms to in a way corner Netanyahu, but also to put down the gauntlet to Hamas and say, here are the terms. They sound very like the terms Hamas was asking for and putting Hamas equally on the spot to come back to the table even though Israel is still fighting in Rafah.

It’s time to begin this new stage, for the hostages to come home, for Israel to be secure, for the suffering to stop. It’s time for this war to end, for the day after to begin. Thank you very much.

So Biden is essentially saying here, listen. Israel, you have won the war effectively. Hamas is degraded. Now it’s time to accept the ceasefire deal that you yourself have designed. What was the reaction inside Israel?

The initial reaction took a while to come because President Biden made his speech. And it landed at about 8:30 in the evening on Friday Israel time. And this is the time where many, many families are sitting around their Sabbath dinner table, as I was with my family and friends, not watching the news, not looking at phones for the most part. Observant Jews have actually switched off for the Sabbath and aren’t going to hear any news until Saturday night.

And as the news did begin to trickle out, it really shook Israel up. And this leaves Netanyahu in a great bind because for months, he’s really been playing for time and juggling competing interests and really not having to make a decision one way or the other on what comes next.

We’ve been hearing that Rafah is really the last stronghold of Hamas, and this is something the military has to do. But after that, there was just a kind of void and no news on the hostages or a ceasefire or a deal on the horizon.

And so when this speech was made, suddenly it shook up everything. And Netanyahu is suddenly facing a very crucial choice.

We’ll be right back.

So, Isabel, you said that this is a very important moment for Netanyahu, that now he really is facing a choice. What does he do? What does he come out and say?

So his office actually put out a statement. And his first response was that Israel is sticking to its objectives of the destruction of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities. And he said the actual proposal put forward by Israel would allow Israel to uphold these principles.

Now, this was a slightly ambiguous response that you could pass in different ways. He wasn’t exactly denying that this was an Israeli proposal. And indeed, we quickly learned that, in fact, Israel’s war cabinet had unanimously voted on the general outlines of what President Biden had presented. He wasn’t denying it. But the one thing missing from that statement was this declaration we’d been hearing for months on end that the war wouldn’t end until there was total victory. That had gone.

So total victory had gone, which is a difference, which means potentially the war goals have shifted a little bit.

Well, the way he articulated it is talking about the degradation or dismantling of Hamas’s capabilities as opposed to talking about the total elimination of Hamas as a movement. And then he followed up. His office put out another statement on Saturday, also still during the Sabbath, which was a little stronger. He said under the proposal, Israel would insist on its conditions being met, these same war objectives, before a permanent cease fire is put in place and that any suggestion that Israel would agree to that permanent ceasefire before the conditions are met would be a non-starter.

But again, it was kind of conditional and could be interpreted in different ways. At what point does one declare that the capabilities have been dismantled or sufficiently degraded? So it left a lot of room for maneuver.

And so what is Netanyahu up to here, Isabel?

I think he’s trying to balance all these competing sides. He’s seems to be trying not to torpedo the chances of this deal but at the same time to be able to hang on politically when he has a very serious challenge looming within his government should this deal go ahead.

So tell me about that challenge.

Israel’s government is formed of a coalition of parties. Netanyahu’s Likud is the main party. But it totally relies for its majority in parliament on its partners in the coalition. And they include two ultra-orthodox parties and two far right parties. And the far right parties have both come out explicitly saying that should this deal as outlined by President Biden go ahead, they will not be party to it.

So Netanyahu faces this real political danger on his right.

That’s right. So there are the leaders of these two right wing parties who he relies on for his coalition government. He relies on them for his majority in parliament. And the leaders of those parties are Itamar Ben-Gvir, who’s the national security minister, and Bezalel Smotrich, who is currently the finance minister.

Now, neither of these parties nor their leaders are sitting in the much more tight and small war cabinet that actually oversees and directs and makes the decisions on the course of the war in Gaza. They were seen as way too extreme to be part of that forum. That forum is much more reflective of the national consensus.

But these parties are part of the broader government. And they have threatened not only to oppose the deal as outlined by President Biden should it go ahead. But they have actually vowed if it does go ahead, they would withdraw their support to Netanyahu and bring his government down. And if his government were to collapse as a result, he would then be facing a new election.

Now, he has been trying to stave off the end of the war and the prospect of new elections ever since October 7 because then he’s in danger of facing that public reckoning for the perceived failures that the government’s policy failures, the military’s failures, the intelligence failures leading up to the Hamas led attack of October the 7. But we really might be getting to crunch time when it comes to his political lifeline here.

So this is a pretty dramatic moment for Netanyahu then, right? I mean, he’s under tremendous pressure from Biden, his biggest ally. Biden’s basically asking him to choose between this deal, which means the end of the war, something his coalition partners, these hard right guys, really don’t want, and his own power essentially, right? Staying alive politically or the end of the war and the hostages coming home. That is a very stark choice.

Absolutely. And then there are other choices that he has to weigh because Israel has been increasingly isolated and under international censure for its prosecution of the war in Gaza. Netanyahu himself is facing the prospect of possible arrest warrants being put out against him from the International Criminal Court in the Hague. Israel is in the dark on a genocide case in the International Court of Justice in the Hague. So should he go ahead with this deal, he has been offered sweeteners like an invitation to address congress. And this would in a way be a way of bringing him back into the fold.

So, Isabel, say Netanyahu approves this proposal. How likely is it that the right wing, Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, actually do leave the government? I mean, they would be giving up power, too, no?

They would. And if we look at all the opinion polls being done in Israel in the last few months, Bezalel Smotrich and his religious Zionism party for one would barely scrape back into parliament in another election. And therefore, there’s a lot at stake for him, too, and for Itamar Ben-Gvir because if the next government that’s formed is not going to be a right wing and far right government, he would find himself out of power, too.

But, Isabel, let’s say they do leave. What happens in that scenario?

Well, the assumption is that the government would collapse. It would lose its majority. And naturally, the Knesset would vote to dissolve itself and set a date for a new election, which would have to come within five months. And during that period, this government would turn into a caretaker government.

Now, usually a caretaker government that’s a transitional one in that period before elections isn’t supposed to make dramatic decisions for the country. But being a caretaker government during wartime, this puts Israel in uncharted political territory. Then theoretically, if we were to ask could such a government even approve a deal once it had been negotiated, even without the support of those far right parties, apparently there would still be enough in favor to see it through.

Interesting. So it seems like there are a lot of possibilities for how this could go. But it does in a way rely on Netanyahu deciding what Israel’s course will be. And it seems like he probably needs to land on one of these options. What do you think he’s going to do?

Well, it might not end up being black and white, take the deal or not take the deal. We might end up seeing something in between because I think Netanyahu, who is facing huge public pressure to bring back those hostages who still are alive, would definitely want to move ahead with at least that first part of the deal that would see a six week temporary ceasefire in return for the most vulnerable hostages. And then you get into the much trickier part of that negotiation for the next stage, which would involve essentially ending the war.

And it could be that we might see Netanyahu wanting to proceed with this deal but only partially and then get to a point where it can’t go further. And Netanyahu is probably very keenly aware of the American political timetable. There are skeptics here who say that by Labor Day, all the American attention is going to be focused on America’s own internal politics running up to the November elections and that Netanyahu basically just has to survive another 90 days to get to that point, at which point the pressure subsides.

So this is a scenario in which he just basically runs out the clock. He keeps on that tightrope.

That’s a possibility, absolutely, and one that he would be very adept at doing if the past is anything to go by.

OK, so there are a number of ways Netanyahu could actually handle this. How should we think about what Biden has really accomplished here?

Well, I think it’s hard to say that one speech is going to change the course or the outcome of this war. But it certainly has crystallized the issues and brought them out into the light after months and months of murkiness that Netanyahu was able to in a way hide behind and operate within. And I think now he’s in the spotlight. And assuming that Hamas is willing to accept and go along with this negotiation for this proposal, the Israeli public’s expectations have certainly been risen now toward a deal. And all eyes are now on Netanyahu to see which way he will go.

Isabel, thank you.

Thank you so much.

In an interview with “Time Magazine” published on Tuesday, Biden was asked whether Netanyahu was prolonging the war in Gaza in an effort to hold on to office. Biden said, quote, “There is every reason for people to draw that conclusion.”

Here’s what else you should know today. On Tuesday, Republican lawmakers in Arizona voted to put a ballot measure before voters in November that would make unlawfully crossing the border from Mexico a crime in the state. The move would put the border crisis directly onto the ballot in a key swing state, potentially firing up anti-immigration conservative voters. It is similar to a law passed in Texas earlier this year, currently held up in court after it was challenged by the Biden administration.

And the results of a major election in India have been tallied. And they are deeply disappointing for India’s prime minister Narendra Modi. Modi appeared to have secured a third consecutive term in office. However, his BJP party did not deliver the landslide victory it had promised and even lost its majority in parliament. Now Modi and the BJP must come to an agreement with other parties in order to form a coalition government in India’s parliamentary system.

Today’s episode was produced by Will Reid, Eric Krupke, and Sydney Harper. It was edited by Brendan Klinkenberg and Michael Benoist, contains original music by Marion Lozano, Diane Wong, Dan Powell, and Rowan Niemisto, and was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly.

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Sabrina Tavernise. See you tomorrow.

• June 6, 2024   •   23:38 The Fight Over the Next Pandemic
• June 5, 2024   •   30:42 Biden’s Push to End the War in Gaza
• June 4, 2024   •   29:17 A Conversation With President Zelensky
• June 3, 2024   •   32:07 How Trump’s Conviction Could Reshape the Election
• May 31, 2024   •   31:29 Guilty
• May 30, 2024   •   25:21 The Government Takes On Ticketmaster
• May 29, 2024   •   29:46 The Closing Arguments in the Trump Trial
• May 28, 2024   •   25:56 The Alitos and Their Flags
• May 24, 2024   •   25:18 Whales Have an Alphabet
• May 23, 2024   •   34:24 I.C.C. Prosecutor Requests Warrants for Israeli and Hamas Leaders
• May 22, 2024   •   23:20 Biden’s Open War on Hidden Fees
• May 21, 2024   •   24:14 The Crypto Comeback

Hosted by Sabrina Tavernise

Featuring Isabel Kershner

Produced by Will Reid ,  Eric Krupke and Sydney Harper

Edited by Brendan Klinkenberg and Michael Benoist

Original music by Marion Lozano ,  Diane Wong ,  Dan Powell and Rowan Niemisto

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube

In an unexpected speech last week, President Biden revealed the details of a secret proposal intended to end the war in Gaza. Perhaps the most surprising thing was where that proposal had come from.

Isabel Kershner, a reporter for The Times in Jerusalem, explains Mr. Biden’s gambit and the difficult choice it presents for Israel’s leader, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

On today’s episode

Isabel Kershner , who covers Israeli and Palestinian affairs for The New York Times.

Background reading

Mr. Biden called for an end to the war in Gaza, endorsing an Israeli cease-fire proposal .

Mr. Netanyahu answered the call for a truce by insisting on the “destruction” of Hamas.

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The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson, Nina Lassam and Nick Pitman.

Isabel Kershner , a Times correspondent in Jerusalem, has been reporting on Israeli and Palestinian affairs since 1990. More about Isabel Kershner

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