New York in May

UPDATED JULY 2024

May is a wonderful time to visit New York and see the sites, find some exciting activities, and immerse yourself in the culture of the city. As the weather starts to warm up, the area will be flourishing with exciting festivals, fun pop-up markets and delightful events held in NYC parks. So, we’ve rounded up our favorite springtime ideas for those who are thinking about making the visit — from Cinco de Mayo festivities to extravagant flower shows, we’ve got you covered. With Co City, you can create memories for years to come.

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There’s nothing like a day at the ballpark, right? Once spring kicks off, the balmy weather serves as the perfect backdrop for the start of the season. Those who are interested in catching a Big Leagues game should be able to book tickets to the Yankees or Mets online – just be sure to book early, since these things sell out fast! We can almost taste the cold beer on our lips and feel the sun on our faces.

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Another one of our favorite things to do in the city for May is attending Frieze New York. A total must for art lovers, the event seeks to celebrate the best work of international historical and contemporary artists. For five days each year, The Shed fair features works from over 1,000 artists and 200 international galleries for a broad audience. In addition, the festival features a great program of just commissioned works, films and talks.

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If you’re looking to experience the city through its food, you might be interested in the next item on our list. The perfect day trip for any gastronome, the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival offers a diverse range of cuisines from popular local vendors. Whether you’re looking to try out traditional street fair treats or taste cuisine from around the globe, this event has it all. In addition, the festival features two stages of live music, food contests, as well as over 200 vendors selling unique arts and crafts.

Find Interesting Activities

Since New York is known for its exceptionally multi-ethnic population, it seems only fitting that the city observes Cinco de Mayo in style. Held annually in the fair springtime weather, a vibrant parade makes its way down Fifth Avenue and leads towards festivities in Sunset Park. In addition, you should be able to celebrate at various bars and restaurants across all five boroughs with live Mariachi music, traditional dancing, and delicious Mexican food.

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Bursting with excitement, New York is the perfect tourist destination with a plethora of attractions for you and your loved ones. Since its establishment in 1982, Fleet Week has served as an annual celebration of the US Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps. The annual week-long tradition kicks off with a flotilla of naval vessels docking in at the New York Passenger Ship Terminal on the Hudson River. Those who are looking to join in on the fun should be able to find a string of parties all over the city, with dress-up, live musical performances, and an abundance of drink! An unusual and exciting occurrence, this event is nothing but fun!

If you’re travelling during Memorial Day weekend, you might want to check out some of the festivities going on in the city. As with any big federal holiday, you won’t have to look far to find the parade, which kicks off at 11 A.M. on Third Avenue each year. In addition, the city offers some great ways to pay tribute to America’s fallen soldiers, including the New York Philanthropic Memorial Day Concert, Intrepid Museum’s Free Movie Night, and Central Park walking tours, which take you through a number of fountains, monuments, and sculptures that honor past lives. And as if that wasn’t enough, you should be able to find many restaurants and bars across the city holding their own special events.

Try Something New

Why go to the theater when you can watch Shakespeare right in the middle of Central Park? That’s right, you heard us. Set up against the magnificent natural splendor of the park, The Public Theater provides admission-free world-class entertainment – honestly, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend the evening. With past cast members like Meryl Streep, Al Pacino and Denzel Washington, we don’t think you’ll want to miss out on this one.

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May means Mother's Day – and what better way to celebrate this major holiday than with a flower show? Running from 2nd-26th of May, Macy’s spectacular two-week exhibit features beautifully manicured living sculptures, inspired by a different theme each year. Completely free to the public, the vibrant display is open for viewing during the store’s regular hours. Totally iconic and incredibly Instagram-worthy, we highly recommend noting this one down.

New York is home to some of the most renowned cultural amenities in the country. Situated along Fifth Avenue, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and finest creative institutions in the Western Hemisphere. As stunning as it is fascinating, the repository features more than two million works of art spanning over 5000 years. Spring is an especially great time to visit, since the Cantor Roof Garden Bar will be open to all visitors. Granting fantastic views over Central Park, this is undoubtedly the perfect place to sit and relax after a hard day at the museum.

May is the perfect time to visit the Big Apple. The weather is fresh, the flowers are in bloom, and as always, the city presents endless exciting attractions to its visitors. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or a sports fan, there’s a little something for everybody here. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo to its fullest, try out the area’s rich culinary offerings, or enjoy Shakespeare under the stars – the choice is yours! And now, you don’t have to miss out – with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can find an exhaustive array of things to do, for cheaper. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Greenwich Village

Bursting with living history and culture, Manhattan’s Greenwich Village is perhaps best known for birthing both 1960s counterculture and the LGBTQ movement. Today, the neighborhood’s innovative nature lives on through its world-class attractions, captivating architecture, and anecdotal landmarks. From highly acclaimed galleries and eye-catching structures to historic theaters and beloved comedy clubs, this vibrant area of the city should offer more than enough to keep you busy. So, if you’re looking to explore The Village, have a read through our list of the best things to check out in the area. With Go City, you can see more, for less. Explore the Area Anybody who’s interested in the history of The Village should make a stop at the Stonewall Inn. Standing as one of the most culturally significant attractions of the area, the inn is known as the site of the 1969 riots that set the gay liberation movement into motion. Nowadays, the bar stands as both a somber reminder of the past and as a celebration of how far we’ve come. Whilst you’re there, why not also check out the Stonewall National Monument across the street? Deeply profound and incredibly important, the park is the first National Monument dedicated to LGBTQ rights and serves as a moving monument to remember the struggle for equality. New York is an architecture fan’s paradise, with Greenwich Village boasting some of the city’s most interesting structures. The perfect stop for design lovers and history buffs alike, the Ascension Church is known as the first church to be built on Fifth Avenue. Visitors can take guided tours to admire its remarkable high ceilings, elegant marble columns and stained-glass windows. With its fascinating history and striking features, this one should be on everyone’s itinerary. To take a break from all the buzz, grab a bite from a local food cart, and head over to Washington Square Park. Offering plenty of space and fresh air, this vibrant urban green space is a great place for spending time with friends and family. Whilst the park is perhaps best known for its emblematic marble arch, it has even more to offer past its historic landmarks. Recognized as a center of culture and activism, the area continues to serve as a meeting place for artists, performers and activists. Go for a casual stroll, have a picnic, or watch the sunset– the choice is yours! Find Interesting Things to Do New York presents a wealth of fantastic attractions, with some of its most unique institutes based in Greenwich Village. Standing out as the only institute of its kind in the city, the Museum of Illusions presents interactive and captivating exhibitions to deceive the eye. From kaleidoscopes and holograms to tiled and reverse rooms, the museum provides an intriguing visual experience which you might want to save some album space for. A little mind-boggling and a whole lot of fun, this place is great for those who are travelling with family. A visit to Greenwich Village isn’t complete without checking out the nightlife. For some drinks and deep belly laughs, head over to the Comedy Cellar. Since its founding in 1982, the club has become recognized as one of the best comedy destinations in the United States. Hosting a diverse lineup of big-name headliners and gifted up-and-comers, this place definitely lives up to its hype. With its pulsing energy, underground vibe and incredible atmosphere, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend the evening after a long day of touring. If you’re eager to locate film and TV sites around the Big Apple, the next item on our list might just be for you. Situated in the West Village, the original Friends apartment building stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions of the area. Whilst the inside is inhabited by New York natives (nope, not Monica or Rachel), the outside is more than enough to draw in thousands for its Instagrammability. It doesn’t take long to make this stop, which means that you’ll have plenty of time to explore the surrounding local area. Get Creative A renowned center of innovation and creative thought, Greenwich Village is a real treat for creative types. Breaking away from the typical art museum experience, the Center of Architecture is the city’s oldest and most influential institution focusing on form, construction and urbanism. Through exhibitions, programs, and special events, the institute aims to foster curiosity in the design process. The perfect way to spend a quiet afternoon, the museum delivers and exiting and unique cultural experience which you don’t want to miss out on. A well-recognized center of creative development, Greenwich Village presents a wide range of cultural institutions for lovers of the performed arts. Located in a venerable landmark building, the Cherry Lane Theatre is recognized as the oldest continuously running Off-Broadway theater in New York City. The venue runs everything from total classics to new and experimental productions at a fraction of the cost of a Broadway ticket. With its intimate setting and unique history, the theater provides an irreplicable cultural experience. Rich in culture and creative activity, Greenwich Village knows how to deliver when it comes to world-class art. A total must-visit for art lovers, the Whitney Museum of American Art shelters one of the biggest collections of modern and contemporary art in the United States. The museum’s permanent collection is comprised of over 25, 000 artworks, spanning from the late 19th century right through to the present day. Amongst its holdings, you’ll find treasures by Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, and Marsden Hartley. Through its captivating exhibitions, special programs, and workshops, the museum works to present a fascinating breakdown of 20th and 21st century art. With its fascinating background and vibrant arts scene, Greenwich Village is a great stop for first timers and seasoned visitors alike. Whether you’re a history lover, a theater geek, or an architecture fanatic, the area has a little something to offer everybody. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
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Things to do in West Village   

Nestled along the Hudson River and flanked with striking brownstones and trendy restaurants, the West Village is one of the most vibrant areas of New York. Whether you’re in a group or travelling solo, you’ll find many reasons to love the neighborhood. From world-class galleries and historic landmarks to fantastic theaters and comedy clubs, you’ll never be bored here. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple and would like to spend some time in the West Village during your stay, have a read through some of our favorite things to do in the area! Get Cultured A well-recognized hub of innovation and artistry, the West Village has much to offer in the museum department. For first time visitors, a trip to The Whitney Museum of American Art is essential. Founded in 1930, the museum has grown to become one of the leading institutions for modern and contemporary art. The repository features many styles of artwork, from minimalist pieces to conceptual mind-benders. Visit to see works from renowned artists including Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns and Georgia O’Keeffe. An artists’ enclave-turned-current hipster hotspot, the West Village presents a wealth of fantastic cultural institutions for theater lovers. First opened in 1923, The Cherry Lane Theatre is now recognized as the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City. The playhouse runs everything from total classics to side-splitting comedies, all under one roof. With its unique charm and elegance, this venue provides an intimate experience that you won’t find at other places. Though the theater is small, this spot has amassed quite a reputation – for this reason, we recommend booking ahead of time. Cinephiles taking a trip to the West Village will be blessed with countless options for places to catch a movie. Still, our resounding favorite for independent cinema has to be the IFC Center. Formerly the Waverly Theater, this place is famed for popularizing the Rocky Horror Picture Show back in 1976. Nowadays, the venue regularly screens an eclectic mix of independent, foreign, documentary and classic films. With its fantastic film picks and laid-back atmosphere, this stop is great for spending time with friends and family. Find Fun Activities Another one of our favorite things to do in the West Village is visit the Museum of Illusions. Breaking away from the traditional museum experience, this spot offers more brain-tricking, eye-tricking fun than any other entertainment location in the city. Learn about vision, perception and the human brain through the institute’s intriguing walkthrough exhibits. From kaleidoscopes and holograms to tiled and reverse rooms, this place is a total feast for the senses. Don’t forget to bring your phone to capture some snaps for Instagram! The West Village isn’t just home to some fantastic cultural amenities and interesting historic sites – it's also a total foodie’s paradise! Whether you’re looking for fine dining, a romantic date spot, or maybe just a quick bite, the area has something to suit all tastes and budgets. For those harnessing a sweet tooth, we recommend checking out Milk Bar. Founded by James Beard Award-winning pastry chef Christina Tosi, this place is famed for its cutesy, nostalgic treats which taste as good as they look. If you’re looking to satisfy all of your savory cravings, head over to John’s Pizzeria. Serving up coal-fired thin-crust pies since 1929, this authentic spot has more than mastered the art of the perfect slice. Though the city is perhaps best recognized for its towering skyscrapers and modern structures, it's also home to some wonderful urban green spaces. Those looking to get some fresh air might enjoy Hudson River Park for its beautiful scenery. Running from Battery Park to 59th Street, the park attracts millions of visitors each year with its stunning views of the river and Manhattan skyline. There are flowers, benches, beaches, and many exciting activities to try out – including kayaking and sailing tours. Take a stroll, have a picnic, or watch the sun set over the river – the world’s your oyster! Spot the Famous Landmarks Teeming with living history and culture, the West Village presents many interesting anecdotal sites to be explored. Recognized as the most famous gay bar in the world, the Stonewall Inn gave its name to the spontaneous demonstrations of 1969, which set the LGBTQ+ rights movement into motion. Today, the bar draws in a diverse crowd in celebration of the history and progression of the gay liberation movement. A National Historic Landmark and mainstay of West Village culture, this place should be at the top of your itinerary. Before visiting, we suggest checking online for drag shows, themed nights and karaoke. The concrete jungle has long been a popular filming destination, with some of the TV’s most recognizable sites tucked away in the West Village. For comedy lovers and pop culture fans, one of the best spots in the city is none other than the original Friends apartment building. Situated at 90 Bedford Street, this redbrick building attracts thousands of fans to catch a glimpse of TV history. Though you can’t go inside the building, this place makes for the perfect photo opportunity! The list of TV shows shot in the picturesque center of New York City is endless. With its beautiful parks and historic architecture, the West Village has long been a favorite for the small screen – in fact, the area minds the home of one very famous New Yorker: Carrie Bradshaw. Sadly, the inside isn’t open to the public, though we like to imagine it overflowing with Manolo Blahniks and Vogues. Undoubtedly stunning and quintessentially NYC, this stop is a total must-see for any Sex and the City fan. Whilst you’re in the area, take time to explore its designer boutiques and hip restaurants in true Carrie Bradshaw style. Well, there you have it: our list of the best things to do in the West Village. Still, to face the facts, you could live in the neighborhood for years and not experience everything that it has to offer, because there’s simply so much to see and do! Whether you’re looking to catch a play with some friends, taste some of the best pizza in the city, or admire the views at Hudson River Park, you’ll find many reasons to love the area. Explore New York to its full potential with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or 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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