An All-Weather Guide to New York

By Katie Sagal
Published: May 16, 2024

New York City is one of our favorite vacation destinations for plenty of reasons. Sports fans will appreciate the strong athletic history of the city, just as artsy folks will love the museum, theatre, and gallery scene. Those who crave adventure and excitement can opt for any number of cruises, tours, bike rides, excursions, and more. Of course, what you might do on your NYC vacation probably depends on the time of year, and the weather. New York weather can be unpredictable, but it’s also fairly consistent depending upon the time of year. There are advantages to traveling to NYC pretty much any time of year, but you may wish to carefully consider any potential drawbacks before making your travel plans. To make your vacation planning a little bit smoother, we’ve put together this all-weather guide to New York. You can’t predict the weather in NYC, but you can make a few plans to make sure that you’ll have a blast regardless of the temps.

Image of Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Landscape, Scenery, City, Panoramic, Cityscape, Urban, Lawn, New York Weather in Spring

Spring is one of the best times to visit NYC. The temperatures range from chilly to pleasant, and many of the outdoor attractions like cruises that have been closed from the previous winter will start to open up again. Some of our favorite things to do in New York during the spring include: riding a bike through Central Park, walking the High Line, exploring the burgeoning blossoms at the New York Botanical Garden, or simply enjoying a good lunch on a patio. Keep in mind that you will need to dress in layers, and be prepared for unexpected rain. You should have a light jacket and/or sweater, umbrella, and good shoes. Avoid sandals, as the spring rains could make the streets pretty dirty.

Image of Car, Vehicle, City, Person, Traffic Light, New York Weather in Summer

Summer is among the more popular times to visit New York, with many families taking advantage of the summer vacation to explore the Big Apple. The temperatures can get quite hot in NYC in the summer, so it’s important to prepare for a lot of direct sun. If you’re looking to stay cool in the summer in NYC, we like the idea of a cruise. The cool breezes will make the heat more bearable, and it’s a fun way to get unique vacation photos. Take a landmark cruise around Manhattan to see all the best sites, or hop aboard the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty. If it should get too hot to be outdoors at all, cool off with a few hours wandering around the Met and scoping out their vast artistic and cultural collections.

Image of City, Cityscape, Urban, Empire State Building, Landmark, Tower, Credit: Anthony Quintano (license)

New York Weather in Autumn

Fall in New York is one of our favorite times. The leaves of Central Park are changing color, the air is crisp, and everything is celebrating the flavors of the season. And while many folks are back to work and school, it’s actually a top time for school trips and weekend getaways. See the fall foliage from above with a trip to the top of the Empire State Building. Or, if the weather isn’t too chilly, try a Central Park Tour to see the leaves up close. You could also enjoy a cruise or two before they close for the winter. Autumn also ushers in a bevy of new special exhibits at the city’s best museums, from the American Museum of Natural History to the MoMA.

Image of City, Person, Metropolis, Urban, Try ice skating in Central Park for a memorable winter New York City activity.

New York Weather in Winter

Don’t be scared away from visiting NYC in the winter. It’s true that the air is cold, the snow can pile up (and often in very inconvenient places on the sidewalk), and certain attractions like cruises won’t be operating. At the same time, this is your opportunity to see the city with fewer crowds and more space to explore. Snap photos with your favorite celebs at Madame Tussauds, tour Madison Square Garden (or take in a Knicks game), or check out the Top of the Rock Observatory. If you’ll be visiting around the holidays, join up with this holiday market walking tour or try your hand at ice skating. Keep in mind that NYC is very busy during the December holidays, but it’s worth the congestion to see the gorgeous store windows and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.

Image of Art, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Sculpture, Statue, Tips for Visiting New York in All Kinds of Weather

  • Wear sunblock. Even if it’s winter, if you’re walking around at all you’re going to be exposed to sunlight and it’s important to protect your skin.
  • Carry an umbrella at all times. A small collapsible one will save you when it starts to suddenly downpour in the summer or winter.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and avoid sandals. You’re going to be walking quite a bit, whether you’re strolling the sidewalks or poking around indoors at a museum, and you’ll need the support.
  • Bring layers, even in warm weather. If you’re hot outside in the summer, you’re going to freeze inside in the air-conditioning.
  • Plan back-up transit. If it does suddenly rain, get windy, or start snowing, walking may not be the best way to get between attractions. We like the hop-on-hop-off Big Bus tour for linking many attractions together.
  • Check the weather on an app before your trip, and regularly during the trip. While East Coast weather is less fickle than in other places in the country, it can still be unpredictable. You’ll want to be sure to keep up on the most current forecast.
  • Reserve some indoors activities for colder, rainy, or otherwise unfavorable days. Check out our recommendations for things to do when it rains in NYC.
  • If you’re visiting in winter, we recommend waterproof boots. While it may not have snowed in a while, half-melted piles of slush can stick around for quite some time.

Save on New York Attractions Year-Round

Whenever you’re making your trip to NYC, be sure to bring a Go New York pass with you. Save up to 50% on admission to nearly 100 of the city’s best attractions. With something that’s just perfect for any time of year, we’re sure you’ll make the most of this money-saving pass.

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Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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The Ultimate Kids’ Day Out: Inside the American Museum of Natural History

Why Kids Absolutely Love the American Museum of Natural History  Families flock to New York looking for amazing adventures—and when it comes to sparking curiosity, there’s nowhere quite like the American Museum of Natural History. Standing proudly on the edge of Central Park, this beloved institution is packed with dino-sized discoveries, secret science nooks, and interactive zones made just for hands-on explorers. From towering T. rexes to star-studded planetarium shows, the museum transforms science into boundless fun for visitors of all ages. But why do kids, especially, leave wide-eyed and buzzing with excitement after every visit? Step inside with us as we reveal the 10 reasons youngsters simply can’t get enough of the American Museum of Natural History. Ready to plan your best-ever New York family adventure? Let’s dive in!  Our fave family-friendly experiences at the American Museum of Natural History include:  The Giant Dinosaur Fossils in the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs  The Rose Center for Earth and Space  The Butterfly Conservatory (seasonal)  The Hall of Ocean Life with its giant blue whale  Discovery Room (hands-on science for kids)  Hall of North American Mammals  Gems and Minerals Hall  The Titanosaur  Fossil Preparation Lab  Family-friendly dining at the museum cafeteria  Read on for the best can’t-miss experiences for families and why kids remember this museum long after the subway ride home!  The Rose Center for Earth and Space  Weather turning iffy, but you still want an out-of-this-world adventure? Make a beeline for the Rose Center. With its glass-walled, futuristic look, this is where imaginations blast off. Inside, you’ll find the Hayden Planetarium—a domed theater that launches kids right to the edge of the universe. Neil deGrasse Tyson, the planetarium’s legendary director, narrates shows that swoop through the cosmos, explore black holes, or explain what makes up a star. The effect? Kids aren’t just learning about planets and galaxies—they’re literally seeing them fly by.  The Rose Center offers plenty of hands-on fun. There’s the Scales of the Universe walkway, which uses real weights to help kids grasp enormous distances in space. The giant meteorites (touching one is a must) let your child literally get hands-on with space history. Interactive screens, glowing models, and “space trivia” stations keep little astronauts busy.  For many families, the Rose Center is a hit because it feels both grown-up and playful. It’s a place where future stargazers dream big—some even leave with a list of ideas for their next school science project.  The Butterfly Conservatory (Seasonal)  From November to May, the American Museum of Natural History becomes home to thousands of fluttering, jewel-toned butterflies in a tropical oasis kids will never forget. The Butterfly Conservatory is like walking straight into a storybook. Before you even enter, the air gets warmer and smells faintly of damp earth and nectar—then suddenly, you’re surrounded by hundreds of butterflies from all around the world.  Children immediately become gentle explorers, tiptoeing through lush greenery as blue morphos, monarchs, and swallowtails swirl overhead and land on flowers or—if you’re lucky—a friendly shoulder. There’s something magical about making eye contact with a curious butterfly! Along the way, helpful guides share “did you know?” facts about metamorphosis and butterfly habitats.  This exhibit feels like a living fairy tale, perfect for little naturalists and daydreamers. Watching your child’s eyes widen as a butterfly settles nearby is the kind of moment you’ll want to capture forever.  The Hall of Ocean Life with its Giant Blue Whale  Ask any New Yorker about their first memory of the American Museum of Natural History, and you'll likely hear the same thing: “The blue whale!” Suspended from the ceiling, the 94-foot-long model blue whale is truly awe-inspiring in scale. Kids lie on the floor underneath, gazing up, caught between amazement and a bit of giggling disbelief at how ENORMOUS the ocean’s gentle giant can be.  But there’s more than just the whale: the Hall of Ocean Life lets families peer into delicate dioramas of undersea creatures—from glowing jellyfish to fearsome sharks. Interactive panels teach kids about ocean conservation, whale songs, and different types of beaches and sea creatures found from the Arctic to the tropics.  With its soothing blue lighting and soft echoes, the hall magically mimics the underwater world. Expect lots of “Whoa!” and “Look at that!” especially from curious little ones eager to learn just how many weird and wonderful things exist below the surface. For every budding marine biologist (or “Finding Nemo” enthusiast), this is pure delight.  Hall of North American Mammals  Nature documentaries come to life in this immersive, beautifully designed series of animal dioramas. The Hall of North American Mammals places you eye-to-eye with moose, grizzly bears, wolves, and elusive mountain lions—all preserved in lifelike habitats that spark both awe and an urge to learn more.  Kids can “camp out” in front of the enormous Roosevelt Elk, peek at otters diving through “icy” mountain streams, and spot birds tucked into realistic trees and rocks. Clever lighting makes you feel like you’re peeking into a real forest at dawn or dusk. The tiny details are what seal the deal: paw prints, burrowed dens, and even hidden critters for those with eagle eyes.  Why do kids love this hall? It’s where a sense of adventure meets a dose of reality. All those wild animals that fill bedtime stories and cartoons seem to step out of the pages, making it easy for children to imagine themselves as explorers on a North American wilderness trek. And when their feet get tired, there’s always a cozy bench for a mid-museum snack break.  Gems and Minerals Hall  Looking for “oohs” and “wows” that aren’t dino-sized? Enter a world that gleams, glitters, and glows—the spectacular Halls of Gems and Minerals! Kids gravitate to these displays for a treasure hunt unlike any other. Massive quartz crystals, gleaming meteorites, deep-blue sapphires, and even fluorescent rocks dazzle under the lights.  The centerpiece, the legendary Star of India sapphire, has an otherworldly shimmer that’s sure to impress even the most hard-to-please kiddos. Young visitors can play detective trying to spot minerals that look like candy, crystals cut into technicolor shapes, and mysterious stones with hidden shapes inside.  The Hall’s vibrant, immersive layout—with its mirrored alcoves, interactive touch screens, and educational games—makes it feel a bit like a friendly science maze. Kids love learning fun facts about how these stones form, where in the world they’re found, and which gems are hidden in their very own jewelry box or favorite cartoon. Every visit, there’s something new sparkling from the shadows.  The Titanosaur: Step Into the World of Giants  Not every museum can boast of a resident guest who’s literally too big to fit in the room. Meet the Titanosaur—stretching 122 feet from nose to tail, this towering cast of a giant herbivore from Patagonia fills the Hall of Vertebrate Origins (and stretches out so much, its head peeks out into the hallway!).  For kids, the Titanosaur’s wild size is a lesson in both science and adventure. Stand at its feet, and you’ll realize just how small we humans are. Panels line the display with truly wild facts (the real animal weighed as much as ten elephants!), helping kids compare themselves to creatures from ages past.  Families take fun “dino selfies” beneath the drooping neck, and the friendly staff offer up interactive worksheets and activity packs to lead aspiring paleontologists on a scavenger hunt, searching for hidden features all over this gentle giant’s display.  The Titanosaur feels less like a distant fossil and more like a friendly giant—one that inspires awe, laughter, and a deep dive into the world of ancient giants.  Fossil Preparation Lab  You’ve seen the finished skeletons—now peek behind the scenes at how scientists actually prepare them! The Fossil Preparation Lab in the David H. Koch Dinosaur Wing lets kids watch real paleontologists in action as they clean, restore, and research bones unearthed from far-flung dig sites.  Big windows and live cameras bring plenty for onlookers to see. It feels like reality TV for science lovers! Budding fossil hunters can ask questions, watch experts carefully dusting off million-year-old bones, and understand just how much real work goes into making a T. rex ready for the museum floor.  Watching scientists at their benches—armed with tiny chisels, paintbrushes, and high-tech tools—kids learn that the world’s coolest discoveries start with slow, precise work. Any future paleontologists will leave inspired, and even not-so-science-y kids end up fascinated by how science “happens” in real life.  Family-Friendly Dining: The Cafeteria  Let’s be honest: little explorers need fuel, and the museum delivers! The in-house cafeteria is perfect for families needing to recharge between adventures. Unlike typical museum canteens, AMNH’s food halls provide lots of choices to suit even picky eaters. There are pizza slices, fresh salads, classic mac and cheese, as well as fun “build-your-own” sandwich stations and sweet treats for a quick morale boost.  Seating is spacious, stroller-friendly, and often sprinkled with dino-themed decor or wall murals that keep the science-y fun going. Closer to the Rose Center, specialty vending machines serve up organic snacks and New York bagels—just what you crave before another round of exploring.  For those visiting in summer, grab your treats and picnic outside in Central Park (just across the street). The museum’s location allows you to enjoy a quick lunch break, cool off under a tree, and jump right back into discovery.  Plan Your Perfect Family Day at AMNH  Whether your family is obsessed with dinosaurs, mesmerized by space, in love with sparkly gems, or just in need of an indoor adventure, the American Museum of Natural History has something for everyone. Walk through its grand halls and you’ll see giddy toddlers, school-age scientists, and even grown-ups all wide-eyed at the sheer scale of discovery waiting around every corner.  A day here is more than just entertainment—it’s a chance to open up a world of wonder and imagination for your kids, one fossil, planet, and butterfly at a time. For your next New York family adventure, this place is at the very top of our list.    Enjoyed this? Find kid-friendly fun galore here, and check out our guide to visiting the Big Apple with teens.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®    We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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Is New York Safe?

In many ways, New York is the perfect place for recreation and exploration. From its fantastic cultural amenities and historical landmarks to great bars and restaurants, the city has it all. Still though, like any entity that reaches an immortal level of fame, the city has amassed quite the reputation. Rumors began to fly. So, it only makes sense for a person to wonder, ‘’is New York safe to visit?’’ Well, we’re here to tell you that the answer is a resounding yes! But, if you still need more convincing, or are perhaps looking for tips for how to stay safe during our visit, have a read through our guide to navigating the concrete jungle! How Safe is New York? There’s nowhere quite like the Big Apple. The city is one of the most visited destinations in America – and with good reason! Still, New York is not without its flaws. A fairly common issue for visitors to the city is petty crime, coming in a wide variety of forms. From bag snatching and pickpocketing to phone grabbing and mugging, it can sometimes seem like there’s much to look out for. A lot of the time, criminals prey on new visitors because they stand out and seem like they don’t know their surroundings. To avoid becoming an easy target, we suggest that you dress conspicuously and keep an eye out for suspicious activities wherever you go. Things to be Aware of When visiting New York, you might feel excited to buy tickets for some of your favorite events – and who wouldn’t be? Still, it’s important to stay especially cautious when looking at tickets, due to the rising prevalence of fraud. To ensure that you’re paying for what you get, we advise you to avoid buying tickets which are marketed on social media, instead purchasing directly from well-established companies and websites. This way, you’ll know for sure that your tickets are legitimate and won’t have to miss out on something truly special! Is New York Safe at Night? Forever bold and buzzing with life, New York is well-recognized for its great nightlife. Though a night out in the big city is a lot of fun, it can also present some risks. Whilst spiking and attacks are irregular incidences, they can and do happen – so it's important to take precautions to reduce the chances of becoming a victim. First off, we recommend going out in a group - remember, there’s always safety in numbers. Still, if this isn’t possible, then it’s best to let somebody know where you’re going for the night. In addition, you should drink in moderation and politely decline any beverages offered to you by strangers. We also suggest taking a taxi back to the hotel over other modes of transport, since walking or taking public transport at night could be dangerous. Though going out in New York might sound like a big deal, it doesn’t present any bigger issues than partying somewhere else in the world – plus it’s twice the fun! Is Transport in the City Safe? Another common concern of visitors to New York is if it's dangerous to travel around the city. The Big Apple presents many different methods of transportation, all of which are time-efficient, cost-effective and, yes, pretty darn safe! Still, of course, we suggest that you keep super vigilant of your surroundings and apply good ol’ fashioned common sense when exploring the city. For those who are planning to use public transport to get around, it's important to keep a close eye on your belongings and not show any cash. Also, be sure to plan your trip beforehand – this way, you won’t get lost, or potentially end up in a dangerous neighborhood. If you’re going opt for a taxi, you should steer clear of any unmarked cabs – you'll note that all NYC cabs are clearly display the cab driver's medallion number. Uber and Lyft are also a great cheaper safe alternative. If you want to walk around and soak up the atmosphere of the city, we suggest sticking to daytime hours and busier areas. How to Stay Safe in New York A common misconception about the city is that it can be dangerous to visit – however, if you stay in safer areas, you’ll have little to worry about. Some of the better areas of the city include Midtown, Greenwich Village, Chelsea, and the Upper West Side. Still, if you decide to venture into one of New York’s grittier neighborhoods, it's important to pay attention to your surroundings. The best thing to do is stay sharp and keep your wits about yourself whilst exploring the area. If you need to stop for directions, we suggest going into a local shop and asking an employee. Though discovering a new area can be quite daunting, there’s no reason not to if you take the right measures. Solo and Female Travelers Generally, New York is welcoming to all of its visitors. Still, with its sprawling cityscape and big reputation, it seems understandable that some would think it could pose a threat for solo travelers and women. Although we think New York is a great vacation spot, we still want to emphasize how important it is to be properly prepared for your trip. If you’re a solo traveler, make sure to research your destination ahead of time. When you arrive, you should keep in touch with friends and family back home so that they know what you’re up to. For female travelers, it's important not to share too much personal information about your itinerary or where you’re staying with strangers. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, don't feel scared to make a call or talk to someone in the vicinity. As with any city, New York can present its dangers, but if you’re careful and make smart decisions, you’ll get along just fine. Enjoying Your Time in the City Safely There are endless things to see, do and experience in New York. The list of remarkable attractions and cultural institutions run the gamut. Just think: the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and Grand Central Station. Still, every city has its issues, so it’s important to follow basic precaution measures whilst visiting. Though New York has a pretty strong safety record, we advise you to be cautious to avoid any incidents or inconveniences that could occur. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Where To Stay in New York

Planning a trip to New York and not sure where to stay? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re a first-timer looking to see the sites or wanting a more authentic NY experience, we've put together a list of our favorite places to stay in the area. Wherever you choose to stay, the Big Apple packs so many fun attractions and hidden gems within its boundaries that it's impossible to be bored there. With Go City, you can see more, for less. See the Sites If it’s your first visit to New York, there's no greater place to stay than Midtown Manhattan. Located right in the heart of the concrete jungle, this vibrant district is the best choice for soaking up the true atmosphere of the city. Attracting millions of visitors each year, the area remains the most popular tourist destination in the entire city – and with good reason! Stay here, and you’ll be just a stone's throw away from countless emblematic attractions, including the Empire State Building, Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and more. There are also great restaurants, theaters, shopping opportunities and bars – basically, you name it, they have it! Staying here also means that you’ll have your pick of some of the most iconic hotels in the city. With the city’s big reputation and all of the excitement to match it, it’s only natural that you’d want to stay near the center of it all. Still, if Midtown isn’t quite your scene, we recommend staying on the Upper West Side. This area is a great middle-ground for first-time explorers because it has an abundance of interesting attractions but with less of a buzz. Here, you’ll find everything from fantastic museums and parks to great restaurants and markets. Undoubtedly picturesque and quintessentially New York, the Upper West Side has a certain beauty and elegance you won’t find elsewhere. Live Like a Local New York is a city of enchanting contrasts, with an animated spirit and countless great neighborhoods and districts to explore. Still, one of our top picks to stay in is Chelsea for its vibrant art scene and great nightlife hotspots. The area presents an interesting array of industrial landmarks, modern structures, and of course, galleries to boot. Stay here, and you’ll be very close to the Whitney and the Rubin, amongst countless others. Dense with creativity and humanity, Chelsea is the perfect area for any artsy types coming to visit the Big Apple. Though we might have been led to believe otherwise, New York isn’t just all about Manhattan! If you’re looking to stay further out from the city center, we recommend checking out hotels in Brooklyn. Standing out as one of the coolest boroughs in New York, the area has a more laid-back feel than Manhattan, but without giving up all of the fun and intrigue. As one of the city’s liveliest urban spaces, you’ll find everything from interesting museums and landmarks to great bars and restaurants all in one place. Stay in Brooklyn if you’re looking for something a little different from the usual New York experience. When looking at places to stay in New York, many forget about the surrounding boroughs. Well, not us! Just a short ride away from Manhattan, Queens is one of our favorite destinations for its great attractions and diversity in culture. Other than that, the best things to do in the area run the gamut; from visiting historic landmarks and art museums to trying out some of the best cuisines in the city, you’ll find many reasons to love this unique spot. Those looking to soak up the urban atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed will undoubtedly enjoy Queens. Try Something New If you’re looking to live like the locals, look no further! Most certainly one of our favorite areas of the city, the West Village is known as the birthplace of 1960's counterculture and the gay liberation movement. Today, the area is flanked with federal-style townhouses, trendy restaurants and artsy boutiques, making it one of the most picturesque areas in New York to stay in. In addition, the neighborhood is well-recognized for its historic bars, theaters, and comedy clubs. Whilst this area appeals more to a younger crowd, there are no rules here! Aside from being super famous, New York has a little something for everybody – interesting history, alluring shopping destinations, great dining, and a whole heap more! Known for being the birthplace of punk, the East Village is good for those who want to experience the grittier side of city living. For creative types and dreamers, the area presents no shortage of galleries, hip restaurants and vintage stores to be discovered. Come nightfall, you’ll be right in the center of all of the fun, with an abundance of old school bars and music venues to choose from! Painfully cool and forever exciting, the area is perfect for anybody who’s looking to see a different side of the city. Another great place to stay in New York is SoHo. Lively and rich in culture, this area is kind of like the East Village’s grown-up older brother. With its elegant cast-iron structures, trendy cafes, and cobblestone streets, this neighborhood is truly the stuff movies are made of. At night, this place comes alive with high-end restaurants, bars and wineries to be enjoyed. For art lovers and anybody with a passion for fashion, Soho would be the perfect option. New York presents so many great places to stay in, each with their own unique sights, sounds, tastes and history. The city has a lot to offer, from trendy urban boroughs to High-end residential districts. Whether you’re an art lover, a shopaholic, or a foodie, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to suit your style and itinerary amongst the city’s wealth of options. To get the most out of your visit, check out our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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