Best time to visit New York City

New York City is a fun and exciting place to visit any time of year. This sprawling city of more than eight million residents offers world-class shopping, sporting events, restaurants, and museums. It's also home to some of the most iconic American landmarks and attractions including the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.

However, some seasons in New York are better suited to different interests than others. Below are just a few suggestions on when you should visit based on what New York events and attractions you plan on experiencing during your visit.

The best time of year to visit New York City for sightseeing

New York weather can be fickle and sometimes make it difficult to navigate the city streets to see in the sights. That's why it's important to choose a seasonable time in order to make your sightseeing more enjoyable. The temperate New York weather in April, May, September, and October is perfect for walking tours of the city and taking in such sights as the 9/11 Tribute Museum, Top of the Rock, and the Empire State Building.

Best time to visit New York for foodies

Food festivals abound in New York City during the summer. The annual Taste of Times Square food festival takes over the theater district for a week every June. June also brings the annual Big Apple BBQ Block Party to the Madison Square neighborhood.

Early July brings French Restaurant Week to the city, and, at Coney Island, you can witness the annual Nathan's hot dog eating contest on July 4th. In addition, farmers' markets set up all over the city from May through September.

Best time to visit New York for shopping

While there is really no bad time to visit New York City for shopping, some times of year are a little better than others. The holiday season, which begins in the city around the middle of November, brings a variety of gift items and seasonal merchandise.

After Thanksgiving, the department store windows add a festive air to Fifth Avenue, Third Avenue, and Herald Square. For bargain hunters, January and February is sale season in New York, with white sales and discounts on holiday merchandise.

Best time to visit New York for shows

For ticket availability, visiting New York City in January/February or September/October is desirable. The city is less crowded during these times of the year and you're more likely to be able to get tickets to top shows. For ticket bargains, check out Broadway week, held in both January and September. You can get 2-for-1 tickets to more than 20 shows during these weeks.

Best time to visit New York City for museum hopping

While New York's hundreds of museums are fascinating to explore any time of year, they are less crowded during winter, when there are fewer tourists and locals are more inclined to stay home where it's warm. Escape the winter weather by spending a day at The Met - you still won't see all this wonderful and extensive museum has to offer.

Or, museum hop along Fifth Avenue's Museum Mile, with stops at the Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of the City of New York, the Cooper Hewitt Design Museum, and The Frick Collection.

About the pass

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