Best Time to Visit NYC Attractions
Best months by attraction type
Outdoor decks and ferries shine in May and October. Museums fit any month but feel emptier on weekday mornings in January and February. Walking tours work best from April to June and September to early November.
Worst weeks to avoid
Christmas to New Year, the week of US Thanksgiving and the first week of August. Lines at observation decks can exceed 90 minutes and ferry tickets sell out 1 to 2 weeks ahead.
Best hours of the day
Statue of Liberty: 8:30 ferry. Top of the Rock and Empire State: 9 to 10am or last entry 30 minutes before close. Walking and food tours: 10am or 5pm slots, never midday.
Weather and what to wear
May to June: 18 to 25 Celsius, light layers. July to August: 28 to 33 Celsius and humid, sun protection. September to October: 12 to 22 Celsius, layered. November to March: bring a real coat, decks close above 65 km/h winds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is January a bad time to visit NYC?
Crowds are at their lowest but cold weather can shut outdoor decks. Indoor museums and Broadway are great in January.
What is the cheapest month to visit NYC?
Late January and the first half of February have the lowest hotel rates outside major events.
Are NYC attractions open on Thanksgiving?
Most observation decks open with reduced hours. The 9/11 Museum and many cultural sites close. Macy s Parade dominates the morning.
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