visit new york on august

The 57 Best Things to Do in New York in August 2024

What can you do in nyc in august.

New York in August is especially beautiful and typically a great time to visit. Yet, even without concerts, and other large events, your time in NYC will not be boring! Below, we have summarized the best things to do in New York this August.

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• Things to do in New York City
• Our New York City Summer-Guide
• The Best Events in NYC

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Table of Contents

The 57 Absolute Best Things To Do in August in NYC

For those of you who either live in NYC or visit NYC in August, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of things you can do in one of our favorite months of the year!

SummerStage Festival: One of my favorite things to do in August

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.

Summer Streets

New York City is already one of the world’s most walkable cities. But have you ever wondered what it would be like without any cars?

Then you’ll love Summer Streets, an annual multi-day car-free event held in August. Taking place over seven miles of NYC streets between the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park, you’ll have the opportunity to walk, run, bike, and more along wide-open streets. Plus, there are public art installations, performances, and activities all along the route.

• Manhattan: August 3, 10 & 17 | from the Brooklyn Bridge to West 125th Street
• Brooklyn: August 24 | Eastern Parkway between Grand Army Plaza & Buffalo Avenue
• Bronx: August 26 | Grand Concourse between East Tremont Avenue & Mosholu Parkway

Have a good time on a Dinner Cruise

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 August, 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 August. 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 .

Summer Concerts at Wells Fargo Stage

This summer, there are also free live outdoor concerts at Hudson Yards! Every Wednesday from June through August, the events take place at Public Square & Gardens on the Wells Fargo Stage (by The Bowery Presents).

Following each concert, you’ll find various after hour events at a few select bars and restaurants in The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards. There will be special food & drinks and live DJs will provide you with cool music.

For more information and the full line-up, check out the official website.

• AUGUST 7 – KEKE PALMER (Special guest HABEN)

NYC Summer Restaurant Week 2024 (through August 18, 2024)

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.

• from July 22 – August 18, 2024

Uptown Night Market

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!

Charlie Parker Jazz Festival

New York City’s esteemed Charlie Parker Jazz Festival returns for its 31st edition, celebrating the iconic saxophonist in the very neighborhoods he once graced, such as the iconic Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem and Tompkins Square Park in the East Village. Annually, this event gathers the crème de la crème of jazz musicians who encapsulate Charlie “Bird” Parker’s unparalleled musical artistry, fostering a deep appreciation for this globally celebrated maestro.

• When? August 23 – 25, 2024

Sunset Salsa at Hudson River Park

Hudson River Park invites you to dance! Sunset Salsa at Hudson River Park takes place every Thursday this summer. Talía Castro-Pozo, dubbed the “Woman of Salsa” by Latina Magazine, is a professional dancer and is skilled in all dances from Ballroom to Jazz.

At Sunset Salsa, beginners and advanced dancers can dance under the stars and enjoy themselves. This event is free, donations are welcome!

The Best Broadway Shows in August 2024 in New York

The answer to whether you should or should not see a Broadway show when visiting New York in August 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 August !

Big Screen at Hudson Yards

From May to October, major international sporting events are shown on the big screen at The Big Screen at The Backyard at Hudson Yards. Sports enthusiasts can watch soccer, Formula 1, golf, tennis tournaments, baseball playoffs, women’s soccer and more on the approximately 30-foot screen.

Schedule 2024:

• August 1 – 11: 2024 Summer Olympic Games
• August 15 – MLB Mets vs Athletics
• August 16 – MLB Mets vs Marlins
• August 17 – MLB Yankees vs Tigers
• August 24 – NCAA Football: Florida State vs Georgia Tech
• August 27 – 30 US Open Tennis

Celebrate National Panini Day on August 11, 2024!

Nomad Girl is an all-day cafe and restaurant in the heart of Manhattan. The authentic Italian dishes are always prepared with high-quality organic ingredients. From breakfast and brunch to dinner, you can find delicious Italian dishes here at any time of the day, including handmade pasta! Some of these dishes were developed in collaboration with Chef Fernando Baez (formerly of Bottega del Vino).

To celebrate National Panini Day, Nomad Girl is offering a selection of delicious paninis and piadinas. Options include a panini with shrimp, mozzarella, arugula, prosciutto and salsa. Piadinas, by the way, are rustic Italian sandwiches flown in directly from Italy! Here, for example, you can opt for the version with prosciutto di parma, cheese, arugula and salsa rosa. Sounds mouth watering, doesn’t it?

Visit Little Island at Pier 54

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 132 beautiful tulip-shaped concrete stilts in the Hudson River!

Besides the view, you can visit various events and art exhibitions (every day except Tuesday). Click here for the Little Island event calendar.

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

Movies With A View

This year marks the 23rd year of the Movie With A View and is part of the Free Summer Movies that take place throughout New York. It’s a free event organized by the Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy with a new theme each year. For 2023, it’s “We Are Family”.

This year’s movies:

• August 8: But I’m a Cheerleader
• August 15: Bram Stoker’s Dracula
• August 22: The American President
• August 29: Public choice!

Visit Bryant Park Film Festival 2024

One of the best things to do in August in New York is visiting the free Bryant Park Film Festival and picnic performances in Bryant Park. In the heart of Manhattan , people gather in the summer months with blankets and chairs they’ve brought themselves to relax at the outdoor movie theater and concerts by the New York Philharmonics. Bryant Park is just under a 5 minute walk from Times Square , surrounded by tall trees, so it’s a bit secluded from the rest, but you’re still in the middle of it all: Awesome!

My tip: this is the complete guide to free summer movies in NYC .

• August 5: Arrival
• August 12: Titanic

Bryant Park Picnic Performances

If you’re in New York this summer, 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.

• August 2, 2024: Carnegie Hall Citywide – La Excelencia
• August 9, 2024: Joe’s Pub – Broadway en Spanglish: Jaime Lozano and Florencia Cuenca
• August 10, 2024: New Victory Theater – Ephrat Asherie + Barkin/Selissen Project
• August 16, 2024: World Music Institute – Gyedu-Blay Ambolley + Natu Camara
• August 17, 2024: Jalopy Theatre – Cristina Vane, Slavic Soul Party!, and Guachinangos
• August 23, 2024: New York City Opera – Tosca
• August 24, 2024: New York City Opera – Tosca
• August 30, 2024: Asian American Arts Alliance – Vijay Iyer Trio
• August 31, 2024: Contemporary Dance – Mark Morris Dance Group, Blacks in Ballet, and Reed Luplau

Jazz Age Lawn Party

This lively, colorful, and family-oriented event features performances from an orchestra specializing in Hot Jazz of the 1920s, a dance troupe that channels the Roaring ‘20s, vaudeville spectacles, and more. And because it’s prohibition-themed, you know there’s always a great lineup of summer cocktails and drinks.

• August 10 & 11, 2024
• Governors Island

Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival (August 3 + 4, 2024)

The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York is an annual multicultural and sporting event. It is celebrated on Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, during August, which corresponds with the fifth moon of the lunar calendar. The festival combines sports, cultural performances, and traditional Chinese food, creating a unique experience for all attendees.

Free Kayaking on the Hudson River & East River

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.

Brooklyn Ice Cream Social Half Marathon & 5K

Sports enthusiasts will get their money’s worth in New York in the summer: At the Brooklyn Ice Cream Social Half Marathon & 5K, you can run a few laps through Prospect Park and receive not only a medal and a T-shirt at the end, but on top of that fresh fruit and ice cream to cool down. Drinks will also be provided on the course and at the finish line, of course. A few days after the race, you can request a photo of yourself at the finishing line. That’s a cool memento, isn’t it?

You can choose between a half marathon and a 5K race here.

• Saturday, August 24, 2024 – starting at 7:00 AM

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

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

•  August 1st: Bridesmaids
• August 4th: O Brother, Where Art Thou?
• August 8th: Twister
• August 11th: Crazy Rich Asians
• August 15th: Love & Basketball
• August 18th: Fifth Element
• August 22nd: Pretty Woman
• August 25th: Bring it on
• August 29th: Top Gun Maverick

Watch a movie at the Seaport Cinema

The Seaport Cinema is back! Between June and September you can watch exciting movies once a month in a great location. While watching the movie on a big screen, you can enjoy snacks and drinks. There are popcorn, pretzels and sweets, but also tater tots and chicken fingers to satisfy your small appetite. Beer and cocktails will quench your thirst.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and you should arrive early to get the best seats. The motto is: first come, first served! The best thing about this event? It is FREE of charge!

• AUGUST 12 – A STAR IS BORN
• The Rooftop at Pier 17, 89 South Street

The US Open

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 2024 tournament starts August 26th through September 8th. Tickets are available here .

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.

The MLB is on in August!

Baseball is New York. Whether it’s a game of the  New York Yankees  or the  Mets , both baseball teams are definitely worth checking out.

Here you find the best New York Yankees Tickets and New York Mets Tickets

Discover New York from an observation deck

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 decks, attractions 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 .

Enjoy BBQ and Blues at the Blues BBQ Festival (August 10, 2024)

One of New Yorkers’ favorite free summer festivals is the Blues BBQ Festival at Pier 76 in Hudson River Park. What could be better than listening to live blues while eating delicious BBQ from the best BBQ spots in the city?

Bronx Night Market

The Bronx Night Market is one of the best places to find foods that celebrate New York City’s most northern borough. Each spring, this event supports the Bronx’s food scene by offering world-class events that are affordable. Be ready to celebrate cuisine and culture, as it represents NYC’s diverse offerings and encourages people from all around the city to experience this borough.

You’ll find just about every type of food, from ice cream, latkes, and pastries, to tamales, soul food, and vegan options. There are also other types of local merchants and live entertainment.

Escape the city for a day!

August 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 from Domino 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.

Experience New York like a local: Willy Wall!

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

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!

Enjoy some food at Smorgasburg Food Festival

Smorgasborg is a popular food festival in New York City. You can find many different dishes from local vendors. The food festival, also known as the “Woodstock of Eating,” is held every Sunday from April to October in Prospect Park in Brooklyn.

Watch Hamlet at Shakespeare in the Park

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.

Note: The Delacorte Theater is under construction in 2024.

Dominican Day Parade (August 11, 2024)

Another great parade in summer is the Dominican Day Parade, which takes place every 2nd Sunday in August. This parade has been around since 1982 in New York, which starts at the Avenue of the Americas (6th Avenue) level of 38th Street and continues north to 52nd Street.

My tip:  This is my complete  Guide to Parades in New York .

Free Friday in August: Free Admission to The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (August 23, 2024)

The Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum is the only floating museum in NYC. You will find a wide array of historically significant military and maritime vehicles as well as a collection of museum ships on this aircraft carrier which is docked on the Hudson River. This is great for kids and adults alike as it discusses and shows a wide variety of artifacts regarding the US military and maritime history.

Tip: Free Friday is back! During the months of April-September, you’ll get into the museum for free from 5pm-9pm! Mark your calendars for these dates:

• August 23, 2024

Walk the High Line

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

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 your evening at one of the rooftops of New York

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 .

BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn Festival Closing Night

Since its first performances in 1979, the BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival has been entertaining audiences of New Yorkers and visitors alike. This free festival hosts events all summer long that are a testament to culture and creativity.

With performances featuring “global music icons, legendary jazz artists, chart-topping indie bands, gravity-defying dance troupes, large-scale film projects” and even VR installations, this Prospect Park Bandshell-based series is a must-see for any NYC summer visit.

• When? Thursday, August 17, 2024 – Doors: 7:00 PM | Show: 8:00 PM

Head over to Governors Island

Governors Island is one of our favorite places in New York City. Especially in the summer, it’s a lot of fun to explore. Being completely surrounded by water, you can count on a fresh breeze. Our tip would be to rent a bicycle (or even tandem, if you dare!) to ride around the island. It’s much more comfortable than walking.

Even though you can only explore the outdoors , there’s still a lot to do: have a picnic , ride on NYC’s longest slide , chill out in one of the hammocks , climb up the hill to enjoy gorgeous views of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty, take a look at Fort Jay, enjoy fresh lemonade, or even go glamping for anything between $200 and $600 a night. Be sure to reserve your ferry tickets in advance as capacity is limited to ensure safe distances.

Spend the day at the pool

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

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

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

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

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

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! 

Spend a day at South Beach on Staten Island

South Beach Staten Island is a gorgeous beach that invites you to relax and take a walk. Why fly all the way to Miami when you can find South Beach on Staten Island? The wooden beach promenade is about 1.5 miles long and is the fourth longest in the world. From here, there is a beautiful view of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. On the boardwalk, there are bocce and picnic areas, as well as other sports facilities. The beach area is really beautiful and absolutely worthwhile.

Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

One of our favorite things to do in Chinatown NYC is grabbing an ice cream from here and stroll through the busy streets. With amazing flavors and many unique ones at that, this is a must-try! The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory offers some of the most unique ice cream flavors in New York City!

My tip: check out our 30+ best ice cream shops in New York .

Celebrate International Beer Day (August 6)

I’m a big fan of the craft beer scene and am always happy to discover something new in one of New York’s many bars, especially if it was brewed in or right around New York. After all, there are several breweries in New York that are worth a visit.

Therefore: cheers to you and the International Beer Day! And where you can celebrate it in New York City, you can see here in the list of the best bars in New York, the best pubs in New York or the best breweries in New York.

Harlem Meer Performance Festival (Through August 18, 2024)

Every Sunday during the summer months of July and August, the Harlem Meer Performance Festival is held. It is a free event held at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (elevation 110th Street and 5th Avenue). The Harlem Meer Performance Festival was founded in 1993 to celebrate the restoration of the Harlem Meer and the surrounding 225 acres above 96th Street.

• This year, you can experience the Harlem Meer Performance Festival from July 14 to August 18, 2024 .

Cool off on a jet ski

New York in August is 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 !

Take a stroll at one of the city's flea markets

The Artists & Fleas at Chelsea Market is located directly under the High Line, so you can easily reach the market’s many vendors & restaurants via the disused elevated line. Or you can combine a walk along the High Line with a visit to the Artists & Fleas Market in the heart of the Meatpacking District.

My tip: These are the best flea markets in NYC .

Annual Hindu Lamp Festival (August 10, 2024)

Pebble Beach – the small stretch of beach in Brooklyn Bridge Park not far from Jane’s Carousel – will host the 11th annual Hindu Lamp Ceremony on August 12, 2023 (4 pm).

Dance artist Aeilushi Mistry will perform the traditional Hindu Aarti ceremony there. This ceremony originated in India, where it is traditionally performed every morning and evening at the rivers.

A highlight will be the decorating of the typical palm leaf lamps. Afterwards they will be released on the East River, prayers will be said to pay tribute to their loved ones.

Cool down at the Museum of Ice Cream

The Museum of Ice Cream in NYC is the first flagship store of the popular installation. It is anything but an ordinary museum. Here you can enjoy a Sprinkle Pool and other interactive ice installations. What’s better than ice cream on a hot summer day?

Marvel at the city from a helicopter

The Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour takes you on an aerial tour over Manhattan and its many attractions. You wont forget the view of NYC from above or the feeling of flying high above the skyscrapers any time soon. Especially for those of you who like taking photos, this is a guaranteed way to secure some amazing shots of the NYC skyline.

My tip: these are our favorite helicopter tours in NYC !

These are the best Events in August in New York

The weather in new york in august, top tours in new york in august.

Things To Do

Our Guide to Summer in New York

The best events in new york.

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 !

Hole dir deine wöchentliche Dosis New York mit meinem Loving New York-Newsletter! Er ist vollgestopft mit den neuesten Artikeln, Videos, Erfahrungsberichten und allem, was gerade Interessantes und Wissenswertes im Big Apple passiert.

Ich selbst war über 25x in meiner Lieblingsstadt und möchte dir mit meinen Emails dabei helfen, eine sensationelle Zeit vor Ort zu haben.

Und als BONUS bekommst meine ✔️ "24 Tipps für deine New York-Reise" ✔️ die U-Bahn-Karte und ✔️ die offizielle NYC-Karte zugeschickt. Ganz KOSTENLOS!

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

New York Dearest

Written by An NYC Local

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30 (FUN) Things to Do in New York City in August

By Antonina | Updated: October 5, 2023 | 1 Comment

Visiting New York City in August is not for the faint of heart. The summer heat and (intense) humidity requires a certain gumption. However, sometimes August is the only option available, thankfully there’s plenty to do, assuming you take adequate breaks and give yourself permission to go at a slower pace.

There is no shortage of fun things to do in NYC in August, so we’ve rounded-up the can’t-miss events happening this summer.

Load up on sunscreen, start your days early and don’t you dare think about leaving the hotel without a water bottle in hand! Let’s cover everything you need to know about visiting New York City in August.

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on  Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid) . Don’t have time?  Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.

• Tips for Visiting NYC in August
• Wear comfortable shoes:  Visiting New York City in August means you’ll be outside exploring during the majority of your trip. Since you’ll be putting some miles on your shoes make sure to pack a pair that are comfortable and reliable. This is NOT the time to break in new shoes.
• Take it slow and stop for breaks: This isn’t a novel tip, but in this case it’s very important. The heat and humidity in NYC during the summer has a way of sneaking up on folks. My advice? Take breaks in shady areas often and swing by for indoor activities whenever the opportunity presents itself. Also, leave 15 minutes earlier than you typically would to avoid rushing and getting even sweatier.
• Wear sunscreen:  You know I’m a stickler for sunscreen!  Here’s the only sunscreen I recommend . I’ve been using it exclusively for the past 8+ years and can’t recommend it enough.
• Pack sunglasses : As the days get longer and the sun sets later, you don’t want to be squinting all day. If you’re going somewhere with buildings that might have reflective windows, bring polarized sunglasses to help minimize any unpleasant glares (at least until the sun fully sets).

• August Weather in New York City

August averages: high 83° | low 68° | rains on average 7 days of the month

So you’re planning on visiting New York City in August… that’s very brave of you . The summer heat mixed with the downright awful humidity is a duo I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy.

There’s no need to sugarcoat it, New York City in August is hot! Most of the city is concrete and cement, which absorbs heat and creates what scientist call the  urban heat island effect . 

To keep things short and sweet, urban heat island effect is where an island’s temperature is up to 7 degrees higher than the surrounding area. In NYC it’s boosted by the tons of concrete that retain heat longer than greenery would.

Now that’s not to say you can’t enjoy yourself when visiting NYC in August. Instead I encourage you to take the necessary precautions to not fall victim to the heat. Stay hydrated, wear your sunscreen and stop for breaks!

Things to Do in New York City in August

Table of contents: things to do in new york city in august.

• Enjoy a Picnic in Central Park
• Sunset Salsa at Hudson River Park

Attend an Event at Bryant Park

Take advantage of summer streets, enjoy jazz at pier 84.

• Celebrate International Beer Day 

See at Outdoor Movie at Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown

Go stargazing on the high line, make reservations at grand banks, indulge at smorgasburg, visit governor’s island for free.

• Cheer on the Dominican Day Parade
• Free Kayaking on the Hudson

Visit The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum on Free Fridays

• Attend the U.S. Open

Eat Your Weight in Ice Cream

Enjoy brooklyn’s rooftop bars.

• Explore Coney Island
• Catch a Yankees Game 
• The Blues BBQ Festival 

SummerStage Festival

• Hindu Lamp Festival 

Summer on the Hudson

• Summer Restaurant Week

Best things to do in New York City in August (Post Summary)

Map of new york city august activities.

Enjoy a Picnic in Central Park

Date: August

Ask any New Yorker what their favorite pastime is and many will answer sitting in a park. In a city labeled as a “concrete jungle” it’s normal to run to the nearest bit of greenery to find some reprieve. One of the best things to do in NYC during August is to pack up some snacks and plan a picnic in the park.

But I’m going to be honest with you, August in NYC is hot… too damn hot. So don’t make the mistake of planning a lunch in the park unless you’re trying to overheat.

Instead opt for an early breakfast in the park or an evening dinner. Find the shadiest bench or spot on the grass and park yourself with a delicious meal in hand and watch the sun go down.

This is one of the most affordable things to do in NYC in August since you can keep things simple. Now the question stands which park is the best?

If helpful, here’s a list of my favorite parks for picnicking

• Central Park
• Bryant Park
• Domino Park
• Little Island
• Riverside Park

Need more suggestions? Check out 15 ICONIC New York City Parks You Can’t Afford to Miss .

2024 Dates: Thursdays in August at Pier 76

Ever wanted to learn how to dance but had no idea where to begin? Well, I know just the spot if you’re seeking to get your heart racing and enjoy one of the greatest things to do in NYC in August.

Starting Thursday June 1st, Hudson River Park is turning Pier 76 into one big dance floor.  Every Thursday until August folks are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone and try their hand at Salsa dancing. I know this may sound intimidating but once you get going it’s hard to stop.

Beginners lessons start at 6:30pm that will have you feeling confident in no time. By the time the dance floor opens (7:15pm), everyone is grooving. It’s a great time for novices, amateurs and pros. Two left feet welcome!

It’s hard not to enjoy yourself when partaking in one of the best things to do in New York City in August.

Something to note:  This is a free event. However Hudson River Park is not funded by the city so free events thrive off of donations. You can show your support by  donating here .

Address: 408 12th Ave West, New York, NY

Date: All of August

For those of you visiting New York City in August looking for things to do daily, set your GPS to Bryant Park and don’t look back.

Bryant Park is perfectly tucked into the shadow of towering office buildings that make up the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Located right behind the breathtaking New York Public Library, it’s not uncommon to find all the chairs and benches full during sunny days.

The park is constantly bustling with different activities and hosting multiple events throughout the entire month. There’s simply no shortage of things to do in NYC this August at Bryant Park. Don’t believe me? Check out the park’s calendar.

2024 Dates: August 3, 10 & 17 | 7am-3pm

It may seem impossible to imagine a summer in New York City without honking cars, but guess what? New Yorkers get a taste of that utopia this August during Summer Streets.

Summer Streets is when the city shuts off main roads to cars and folks are able to enjoy the streets car-free. People can walk, bike and partake in a handful of activities in a safe environment and not have to worry about beating the blinking crosswalk light.

One of the coolest things to do in New York City in August is to get outside and take advantage of the people-filled streets. Between the workshops, vendors and other programming there is something for everyone to enjoy.

2024 Dates: August 7, 13, 14

New York City’s jazz scene is quite impossible to match. The soothing tunes have been an integral part of the city for years and is not about to stop any time soon.

Attending the Hudson River Park’s Jazz at Pier 84 performance is one of the best free things to do in New York City in August. This summer, on every Wednesday, local legends will serenade the crowd while they gaze over the picturesque Hudson River.

The event runs from 7 to 8:30 PM, making for a memorable evening. Bring a loved one, some snacks and a blanket to sit on the lawn and enjoy one of the best things to do in NYC this August.

Address: Pier 84 at Hudson River Park; 555 12th Ave, New York, NY

Celebrate International Beer Day 

Date: August 2, 2024

Finally, an international day I can get behind! For those brave enough to visit New York City in August you should prepare to treat yourself to a large, cold, crisp beer. The heat is no joke and hydration (of any kind) is always encouraged.

Luckily one of the best things to do in NYC this August is to go HAM on International Beer Day. Don’t worry since it’s a “holiday” it’s socially acceptable to start as early as you’d like. New York City doesn’t play second fiddle so the options of amazing breweries, local pubs and dive bars are endless.

Here is a round up of articles that will help you decide where to celebrate International Beer Day this August in NYC:

• 10 Thirst-Quenching Brooklyn Breweries Guaranteed to Impress
• 20 Buzz-Worthy Breweries in New York City (Local’s Guide)

Date: Daily | Check out the calendar with movies and start times here.

Prepare yourself for a movie viewing experience unlike anything you could imagine. Thanks to the Rooftop Cinema Club, you can watch some of the most timeless films under the open sky in New York City in August. 

On the roof of the Embassy Suites in Midtown you’ll find lounge chairs and personal headphones to maximize comfort during your movie. The hotel provides a full bar and restaurant, and you’ll also find a concessions stand with typical movie snacks. This fun New York City August activity is hard to replicate elsewhere.

Arriving early and with your full party is paramount since the seats are first come first serve. Doors open an hour before the showing so there’s ample time for drinks and snacks too. The summer in New York City is never boring thanks to the Rooftop Cinema Club.

Address: 60 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018

Date: Every Tuesday from sunset to 30 minutes before the park closes until October 31st, 2023

Would you believe me if I told you that New York City offers free stargazing? That’s all thanks to the helpful members of the Amateur Astronomers Association. As one of the best free things to do in NYC in August, trust me when I tell you — you don’t want to miss out on this.

Telescopes are provided and spaced throughout the High Line, a former elevated cargo line turned beloved New York City park . You don’t have to be Neil deGrasse Tyson to enjoy the beauty of our universe thanks this incredible New York City summer activity.

This is an excellent activity for both inexperienced and expert stargazers alike because the helpful members of the association are there to assist and answer any questions.

Bonus: If you need another reason as to why visiting the High Line is one of the best things to do in New York City in August let me help you. In the summer months the park brings in vendors that sell artwork, drinks and even ice cream. It’s a fun spot to bring the family to burn off some energy and to leave with a treat!

Date: Reservations  open May 1st, 2024

In the 18th and 19th centuries New York City was riddled with oyster barges (flat, wide boats) that unfortunately dwindled away. Luckily, Grand Banks is a blast from the past. Serving up sustainably harvested oysters aboard one of the best restaurants on the water in NYC.

During the colder months, New Yorkers bid farewell to the delicious waterfront restaurant and count down the days until Grand Banks has its grand   reopening. So if you find yourself visiting in the summer and are looking for things to do in New York City in August,  I suggest making a beeline to this popular dining spot.

Located on Pier 25 in Tribeca, Grand Banks has caused massive waves and has gained the attention of all the bigwigs in New York City. Indeed, the waterfront restaurant has rave reviews from CNN Travel, The Observer and New York Magazine. Which only help draw in bigger crowds.

With so many eyes focused on Grand Banks, I’d be doing you a disservice if I didn’t let you know dining here is one of the best things to do in New York City in August.  Consider this an inside scoop and  make reservations now!

Fun Fact:  The ship (technically it’s a schooner) is named the Sherman Zwicker and was hand-built in 1942. In fact, it’s the largest wooden vessel in New York City!

Address: Park, Pier 25 Hudson River, New York, NY

Date: Fridays at the World Trade Center | Saturdays in Williamsburg | Sundays in Prospect Park

If you consider yourself to be a foodie, even in the slightest, one of the best things to do in New York City in August is to welcome the return of Smorgasburg, also referred to as “The Woodstock of Eating.”

Smorgasburg is the largest weekly outdoor food market in the U.S. Vendors from all across the Big Apple pitch canopies and come together enabling you to try a variety of the city’s best cuisines all in one place.

The event is hosted in three NYC neighborhoods. On Fridays they set up shop outside the World Trade Center in Manhattan. Saturdays is the original (and most popular) location in Williamsburg Brooklyn and Sundays they’re in Prospect Park (also in Brooklyn).

With more than 60 vendors you’ll find a broad variety of eats. If you do it right you’ll have to be rolled home. Plus, the portions at Smorgasburg are usually on the smaller side, enabling you to try a plethora of options. 

One of the best things to do in New York City in August is meeting up with friends and jumping from vendor to vendor trying all the delicious food.

This is one of the most popular events in New York City in August, drawing 20,000 – 30,000 visitors every weekend!

2024 Dates: Weekends in August

Only a 10 minute ferry ride from lower Manhattan, Governor’s Island is a relaxing reprieve from the nonstop pace of New York City in summer.

You will find history dating back to the Revolutionary War at the island making it a great spot for history buffs. You can walk around Fort Jay and Castle Williams which are both run by the National Park Service.

There will be some exciting events hosted at Governor’s Island this August in NYC. This summer you’ll find the Jazz Age Lawn Party, Urban Farm Tour and an ice cream social fun-run. Some of these events may require tickets however, info can be found  here . 

If at the end of the day relaxing is more your style I suggest you bring a book and hang out at Hammock Grove. It’s a dedicated space for an array of hammocks available for visitors to enjoy. August in NYC is a fantastic time to visit Governors Island, where you can spend the day exploring or relaxing.

Address: Ferry from Manhattan boards at 10 South St, New York.

You might enjoy reading: 12 Fun Things to Do on Governors Island (Local’s Guide)

Date: August 11, 2024

Originally started as a neighborhood celebration by Dominicans, the Dominican Day Parade has become one of the most popular August events in New York City. The parade runs along the Avenue of Americas (Sixth Avenue) from 37th Street and 55th Street. More than 10,000 participants flood the street to join the celebration!

Kayaking on the Hudson River is a fantastic way to spend a day in New York City in August, regardless of your skill level. With a variety of locations offering both free and professional instruction, anyone can partake in this summer activity.

The best part? This NYC August activity is completely free! It’s good, clean fun that the whole family can be involved in. There is the ability for kids to kayak with a guardian, as well as Kayak Polo for the more competitive crowd. I can think of few better things to do during the New York City summer.

With so many available dates and times, it’s easy to add this summer activity to any NYC August itinerary. Check out the calendar here . Kayaking on the Hudson is simply a treat to experience!

Address: 10 Montague St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Dates: August 23, 2024

Home to a remarkable collection of military vessels of the sea and sky, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City is a must-see for any military enthusiast or history buff. 

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is considered one of the 10 best aviation museums in the world, reason alone to visit. Fortunately visiting is one of the best free things to in New York City in August thanks to  Free Fridays. 

During the event the Intrepid Museum extends its hours and is open, free of charge from 5-9pm on the last Friday of each month, April through September.

More than 1 million visitors per year choose to visit this important New York City museum to explore the exciting collection and you get to do it for free!  Expect to find authentic WWII fighter planes, aircraft carriers, a submarine used during the Cold War, a supersonic jet and the NASA space shuttle Enterprise.

The event is especially one of the best things to do in New York City in August with kids. I was able to take my nephew to the museum last year who was wide-eyed during our entire visit!

Address: Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036

Date: August 28th – September 10th, 2023

Even casual sports fans have heard of the US Open. It’s the final tennis Grand Slam tournament of the year and has been hosted at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York since the 1970’s. 

In 2022 the sum of all the prize money awarded was over $57 million, making it the largest pot in the Open’s history. If you have plans to visit NYC in August, don’t forget to grab tickets in advance for the US Open.

Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster and go live on June 5th. From the 34th St-Penn Station terminal you can take the LIRR for 25 minutes to the Tennis Center and enjoy the competition from August 28th to September 10th.

Few sporting events are as epic as the US Open, making it a great thing to do in New York City during August. 

Address:  Flushing Meadow – Corona Park, Flushing, NY 11368

If this article has drilled anything into your head, let it be that New York City summers are  hot .

Aside from the boring (but necessary) ways of cooling down like staying hydrated, there is another way to escape the heat for a brief moment. A flavorsome reprieve that some might go so far as to call a heavenly experience. 

That’s right, I’m talking ice cream. One of the most delicious things to do in NYC in August is to hunt down the (ice) crème de la crème.

And trust me, you won’t struggle! Ice cream shops are sprinkled all over the city. Some are on wheels, located in malls and markets and others are good old-fashioned brick and mortar stores. Regardless of where you’re at, you’re bound to have something close by.

Have more time? Check out 15 Satisfying New York City Ice Cream Shops (No Need for Napkins Here Folks) .

My general rule of thumb when it comes to New York summers is that if I’m going to be outside there sure as hell better be an epic view.

That’s why rooftop bars make for a great summer activity when looking for things to do in NYC in August. Cocktails seem to go down easier, vibes seem to be higher and the sun setting over the city seems a little more magical.

In the land of skyscrapers and dreams, finding a decent rooftop bar in New York City won’t be too difficult. But if you need some guidance, here is a quick round up of some of the best rooftop bars to enjoy this August in NYC.

Need more suggestions on which rooftop bars are worth visiting in New York City in August? We are currently working on a roundup of the best. Until then check out  10 Epic Lower East Side Rooftop Bars (You Won’t Want to Miss) .

Coney Island’s famed amusement parks and beaches are hot commodities during New York City’s summer months. You can spend an entire day eating delicious food and riding some fun rides and still be itching to come back for more.

That’s why one of the most entertaining things to do in NYC this August is to gather all your friends and make way to Coney Island in Brooklyn.

This vibrant neighborhood holds a lot of history and has fun things to do for all ages. Peruse the boardwalk and see if you can win a prize playing a carnival game or ride the nearly 100 year old wooden roller coaster named the Cyclone. You’re never short of fun summer activities in this New York City neighborhood.

• Catch a Yankees Game 

Date: Yankees Schedule

Grab your ball caps boys (and gals, or course!), we’re about to embark on a New York City summer activity locals can’t live without. With a record 27 World Series wins, the New York Yankees are always an exciting watch.

Located in the Bronx, Yankee Stadium is accessible by subway and tickets can be found for as little as $10 depending on the game. With a whopping 162 games played every season, there’s a plethora of both weekday and weekend games to choose from if you’re looking for things to do in NYC this August.

There’s no excuse for not checking out a game this summer. 

Whether you love them or hate them, the New York Yankees are icons of both American sports as well as NYC. 

Making it to one of their games should be high on your list of things to do during your trip to NYC this August. 

This year the Yankees are one of the best teams in Major League Baseball, meaning every team they play against is hoping to bring them down. The intensity of every game will have the crowd fully engaged making this one of the best things you can do this August in New York City. 

Address:  1 E 161 St, Bronx, NY 10451

August Festivals in New York City

The blues bbq festival .

Date: August 19, 2024

Billed as the best free music and food festival in Manhattan, the day-long Blues BBQ Festival returns to Pier 76 this summer.

There are few better ways to spend a sunny weekend in NYC in August than eating incredible food and listening to live music. The best part?

Hudson River Park hosts an annual BBQ & Blues event on Pier 76 where New Yorkers of all stripes can enjoy one massive BBQ.

The event starts at 1pm and goes into the evening. This is a great, family- friendly event happening in NYC this August that you don’t want to miss out on.

Address: 408 12th Ave West, New York, NY 10018

Date: August 2024

SummerStage is a festival that takes over New York City starting in June. The flagship venue for their concerts is at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park but they also put on shows at other parks in all 5 boroughs.

The reason we consider this a can’t-miss thing to do in NYC during August is because majority of the shows are free!

The free shows require no RSVP and are first come first serve, however they also put on benefit concerts that require a ticket.

SummerStage’s music varies in genre, so make sure to check the calendar to see who is performing before heading to the park. The event gets lively with people of all different generations and backgrounds. It’s a great way to spend your time if you’re looking for things to do in New York City in August. 

Here is the  brochure for SummerStage 202 3  where you will find showtimes and locations.

Hindu Lamp Festival 

Date: August 10, 2024 | 4-7:30pm

Brooklyn Bridge Park is hosting its 11th annual Hindu Lamp Festival this August in NYC. Hosted by Aeilushi Mistry, an educator and dance artist, folks are in for a treat as she performs the traditional Hindu Aarti ceremony at Pebble Beach.

The Aarti ceremony is traditionally performed each morning and evening along India’s rivers, in order to convey gratitude to mother river, reflect on community, and remember loved ones. Brooklyn Bridge park

The ceremony’s goal is to unite the neighborhood in harmony and peace. Visitors are encouraged to paint palm leaf lamps and release them into the East River as a way to pay respect to loved ones.

The event is completely free and one of the most unique things to do in NYC this August.

Summer on the Hudson is an annual festival put on by NYC Parks in collaboration with the Riverside Park Conservancy. There are endless activities all summer long to partake in for both kids and adults alike so adding this to your NYC itinerary during August is a no-brainer. 

The activities include things like movie showings, musical performances and Tai-Chi lessons. There’s a full  PDF schedule  available for you to survey the options and choose which you’d like to participate in. Luckily all the fun events that take place on the Hudson are free and easy to join.

If scheduling isn’t your style and you’re more go with the flow consider following Summer on the Hudson’s social media pages. This way you’ll get consistent reminders as to that day’s activities. August in NYC has never been more eventful!

Some events to look forward to this August in New York City:

• Trivia: August 4th
• FlyNYC: August 19th
• Pier I Game Night: August 11th
• Star Gaze Saturdays: August 26th
• Shakespeare Workout: August 12th
• Silent Disco: August 5th
• Game Days: Tuesdays in August

The full event list can be found here.

Address: Riverside Park between 59th Street and 153rd Street

Date: Most of August

Foodies rejoice!

Participating in Restaurants Week is one of the best things to do in NYC in August for those of us who live to eat. Restaurants all across the city offer two to three course meals at a discounted rate giving folks the opportunity to sample a little bit of everything.

This is the perfect way to spend your August in NYC if you’re anything like me and can never settle for just one dish. Temptation gets the best of me and Restaurant Week is the ideal way to indulge.

Hundreds or restaurants across all five boroughs take part in the fun foodie event. General reservations begin July 6th, 2023 so set your alarms and make sure you sign up for one of the best things to do in NYC this August.

• Watch Hamlet at Shakespeare in the Park
• Enjoy some soothing jazz on Pier 84
• Any of the plethora of events Bryant Park hosts
• Take advantage of Summer Streets
• Celebrate International Beer Day
• Can an outdoor movie at Bryant Park
• Or the Rooftop Cinema Club
• Or at the Seaport Cinema
• Join the Today Show Concert Series
• Rock out at Hudson Yards Summer Concerts
• Stargazing on the High Line
• Make reservations at Grand Banks while you can
• Spend the evening eating your weight in food at Smorgasburg
• Spend the morning at Governor’s Island
• Spend the evening bopping around a Night Market
• Visit The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum for free
• Go on the hunt for the best ice cream in New York City
• Enjoy rooftop bars while you can
• Plan a sunset picnic in the city
• Spend the day enjoying BBQ and Blues at the Blues BBQ Festival 
• Rock out at SummerStage Festival
• Partake in the Annual Hindu Lamp Festival 
• Partake in Summer on the Hudson

And there you have it folks, the best things to do when visiting New York City in August!

I hope you found the article useful, cheers.

About Antonina

Hi there! I'm Antonina. Like so many folks, living in New York City was always a dream of mine. Now it's my reality! I started New York Dearest as a means to share my passion for NYC with locals and visitors alike.

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August 7, 2024 at 2:09 pm

I’ve heard a few people recommend Hindu Lamp Festival and I think it’s about time me and my family get over there! We’ve been pretty busy over the last few months with home renovations, but now that we finally finished the last thing on our to-do list, I think it’s about time we take a break and check it out! Thank you for sharing!

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35 Top-Rated Attractions to Add to Your New York City August Itinerary

New York is the busiest and most crowded city in the world, and thousands of tourists visit the city every season around the year. All the seasons and months have distinctive attractions, events and festivals, and fascinating things to do in NYC.

The summer season begins in June and ends in August. The weather is scorching, humid, and sweaty at the end of summer, August, in NYC, but it has various lovely tourist attractions in New York . Tourists can enjoy several cool spots, fantastic things to do, and New York Events in August.

Here we discuss various fascinating spots to explore, unique attractions and exciting festivals, and New York City Events in August 2023. You will get information on planning a trip to New York in August.

Weather in August in New York

Summer will end in August, the warmest and most humid weather in New York. The average temperature is 83F and 20C, hot and humid sunny days in NYC. Summer is also very famous to visit, the hotel rates are regularly high, and the humidity rises to the peak. Planning a trip to New York in August is a little expensive because you must travel in AC taxis, cabs, or cars and can't walk on the sidewalks easily on sunny days. Rain can be expected anytime in the summer, so you must be ready for August's beautiful, rainy days.

Tourists must pack their bags with light and airy clothes and some raincoats. You can use sunscreen lotions or creams to protect your skin from sun rays and get some sunglasses, flip-flops, or sandals and hats to wear in warm weather.

List of Spectacular NYC Events August

It lists exciting NYC Events in August for tourists and visitors. They can enjoy the end of the summer season with spectacular festivals, fun and entertainment, and unique places to visit in New York . You don't need to worry about what to do in New York in August and check this list of fantastic activities and events.

1. Whimsical Paradise at Wonderland Dreams in NYC in August

Wonderland Dreams by Alexa Meade is an immersive art experience in a twenty-six thousand square feet area, a whimsical paradise of your fantasies, a beautiful world made of hand paintings. You can feel the vibrant colors of life with the fascinating imaginations of Alice and Wonderland’s paintings that come alive. Step inside your dream world of wonderland and experience brilliant colors, exciting scenes, and illuminations. It’s one of the most fun things to do in NYC in August.

2. 90s Sitcom at The Friends Experience in NYC in August

Now you can enjoy the fantastic interactive experience of the famous Friends Show in real-time recreational settings, and it’s one of the best things to do in NYC in August. Experience your favorite scenes at the Friends set recreations, the perfect vibes for the real-time location, the famous orange couch, and actual costumes from the show. Shop exclusive items, clothes, and accessories from the Friends Store and bring your ideal character’s costumes and accessories into your real life.

3. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt in NYC in August

Summit One Vanderbilt skyscraper offers eleven hundred feet's sky-high observation deck and iconic views of New York City from the crystal-clear glass through. You can experience the highest peaks and watch the grand city from the clouds. They offer Astronomy Nights at the Summit to experience the fascinating wonders of star gazing through advanced telescopes from the highest spot in NYC. Join them at world photography day to enjoy the most incredible photo ops for exciting city scenes at sunrise with coffee and breakfast at Summit. These are the remarkable New York City events in August.

4. Jay Gatsby's Fabulous Parties in NYC in August

Jay Gatsby organizes fabulous parties and immersive shows on the twenty's theme. It's the perfect dance party with a flow of champagne and wines, sparkling lights, and a fantastic ball with beautiful nineties-themed costumes. The Party is based on famous author F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel and portrays the actual scenes from the story with music, dance, and remarkable fun. Join these outstanding NYC events in August and enjoy the fantastic virtual experience of being a part of the famous story.

5. Chance To Relive the Splendors of Ancient Rome in NYC in August

Visit the most outstanding exhibition to explore the fantastic Roman artifacts and recreations and experience the incredible history and glory of the Roman Empire. It's an audio-guided tour with headphones to learn the history and events of the legendary empire while going through the exhibition and discovering the facts about the victory of Julius Ceasar to the triumph of the Roman empire. It's one of the most remarkable things to do in New York City in August.

6. Miniature Art Exhibition in NYC in August

Miniature Art Exhibition is the ultimate experience of teeny tiny icons and the outstanding artwork of thirty-two world's most remarkable artists who brought their skills into these little art collectibles to present their unique art and craft skills into the world. The museum is on the famous Broadway, and online bookings are available on the website. Reservations are recommended to avoid long waiting hours and unavailability. It’s an ideal spot to visit in New York City in August.

7. The Fourteen Piece Orchestra performs the Best of Queen in NYC in August

Experience the remarkable performance of Broadway Sings Queen concerts, the magical performance of Broadway singers with the fourteen-piece orchestra performing the Queen’s hits with fantastic musical energy and glorious ambiance. Enjoy the lovely cocktails and full menu in these remarkable musical events in NYC in August with award-winner artists, a full orchestra, sparkling lights, and a fantastic bar scene.

8. Gorgeous Concert by Candlelight in NYC in August

Join the remarkable August events in NYC and the gorgeous musical candlelight concerts decorated with illuminating candlelights. Experience the highest musical energy with bright flickering candle flames and exclusive musical performance. Embark on the musical journey with Neo-Soul and Hip-Hop music favorites or Sights and Sounds of Flamenco and Spanish Guitars.

9. Titanic Exhibit in NYC in August

The gripping Titanic exhibit was anchored in NYC, and it’s one of the most incredible things to do in August. Experience the facts about the legendary ship Titanic and its true story by exploring the photographs, personal letters, artifacts, and belongings of the people traveling on the cruise. Explore the recreational cabins of the ship, feel the vibes of the historical cruise and its crew, and discover the historical incident from the audio-guided tour and the actual story of the Titanic in a real-time experience in this museum.

10. Authentic Spanish Flamenco show has returned to NYC in August

Visit the best Spanish dance, music, and artistic performance from famous Spanish artists and professionals. Experience the passion, feelings, and intensive emotions and gestures with the lively rhythm of Spanish musical art and dances in New York City at the Williamsburg Opera House in Brooklyn. Enjoy these outstanding Flamenco shows and one of the most fantastic things to do in New York in August. 

11. La Barca Cantina Floating Mexican Restaurant in NYC in August

Hop aboard NYC’s first-ever floating Mexican restaurant La Barca Cantina. They offer delicious Mexican cuisine and street food at the boat restaurant on the Hudson River. Enjoy the delightful tortillas and Mexican tacos floating on the river, pure chilly wind and iconic NYC skyline views at the cruise with delicious food and drinks. If you’re planning for New York trips in August, you must visit this cruise restaurant to get the best food and photo ops at this floating Mexican restaurant, an unforgettable experience in NYC.

12. Peekamoose Swimming Hole in NY in August

New York has various attractions for the Fall season, but the ultimate interest is the fascinating natural scenes outside NYC. Peekamoose Swimming Hole is a remarkable natural swimming pool of fresh crystal blue water surrounded by lavish green, deep forests and the most visited spot in New York in August. It’s a fantastic location and a part of the Catskills Region, approximately two and a half hours' drive from NYC. If you’re afraid to jump into the deep water from the rocky cliffs, an easy trail helps you to get into the water safely.

13. Mountain Creek Water Park outside NYC in August

Mountain Creek is a massive outdoor water park near NYC. It has a vast double-looping thrill water slide adjacent to the main pool, biking, ski lodging, snow tubing, high tide waves water pool, sky ride, and the most famous water slide Zero-G. It has unique famous attractions like Lost Island Lazy River, Water Spray Ground, Canyon Cliff Jump into the pool, and Surf Hill eight-lane water slide at the pool. It’s one of the most incredible things to do in August in NYC.

14. Floating Pool Lady in NYC in August

Visit America’s only fabulous floating pool in NYC. The Floating Pool Lady is on a ship on the East River at Barretto Point Park in the Bronx. It’s a fantastic water pool with locker rooms, bathrooms, and all other amenities with a beautiful riverside waterfront view. It’s one of the most exciting things to do in NYC in August.

15. Classic Ice Cream Shops in NYC in August

One of the most delightful things to do in NYC in August is taste the yummy flavors of ice creams. You can find multiple dessert cafes and must-try ice cream shops in NYC, but here we go with a few more popular ice cream spots that offer unique flavors of ice cream are;

• Mister Softee ice creams NYC
• Whipped Urban Dessert Lab NYC
• Tipsy Scoop ice creams NYC
• Van Lewan’s ice creams NYC
• Minus Celsius ice creams in NYC
• Odd Fellows ice creams NYC
• Sugar Hill Creamery ice creams NYC
• Morgenstern ice creams NYC
• and China Town ice cream Factory NYC.

16. Ravine Central Park Waterfall in NYC

Visit a stunning waterfall in New York City. The Ravine Central Park Waterfalls are in the stream valley of North Woods at the top of Central Park. It has exciting hiking trails perfect for a walk and bird watching. Five small waterfalls spread over forty acres in the north woods of Central Park. This hidden area of Central Park has iconic views and fascinating scenes for beautiful clicks at the water streams. Enjoy the fantastic woods, beautiful settings, and lovely waterfalls in August in NYC.

17. Enjoy the lovely Beaches of New York in August, High Summer.

The high summer season in August brings great attractions for New Yorkers. Locals love to sunbathe on sunny days at the beaches and seashores, kids play around with sand, and adults get water skiing, boating, and swimming at the beach. It's one of the most amusing things to do in New York for first-timers in hot weather.

Famous NYC beaches are Manhattan Beach, Wolfe's Pond Beach in Staten Island, Fort Tilden Beach, Brighton Beach, Rockaway Beach, Jacob Riis Park Beach, Cedar Grove Beach, and Coney Island Beach.

18. Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival New York in August

New York City has several festivals and events in summer full of fun and amusement. Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, for boat races, is held in August. The event celebrates the fifth moon from the lunar calendar, sports, and culture.

The festival is organized in Queens, Flushing Meadows Corona Park on Meadow Lake. Tourists can enjoy the fantastic site scene of over 150 colorful boats reflecting iconic dragon paintings and dragon art floating in the Meadow Lake. The dragon boat festival has various other attractions like Chinese food carts, traditional Chinese live music and dance performances, martial arts, and colorful floats looking adorable in Corona Park. It's the most popular event and the best activity to do in New York .

19. Jet Water Skiing in New York

Hot weather in the summer season doesn't allow us to explore the city and go sightseeing on a Hop-on Hop-off ferry, public buses, and subways. People can enjoy fantastic Jet Skiing in High Summer. Explore the panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and the stunning scenes while water skiing on the Hudson River. The local guides are available to give you complete access to the city's skyline. You can get Jet skiing spots at Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty at Staten Island, Governor's Island, Freedom Tower, Brooklyn, and Manhattan Bridges. It's the most beautiful thing to do in July and August in the hottest weather in NYC.

20. Broadway in Bryant Park in New York

Broadway shows are organized at the famous Bryant Park NYC in August, and you can enjoy the lovely Broadway musicals at the open-air theater in Bryant Park's lush green space with a super relaxed atmosphere. It's the city's most popular event and the fun thing to do in NYC .

The famous Broadway shows held in August are Disney on Broadway, Aladdin, The Lion King, Kimberly Akimbo, Dear Evan Hansen, Phantom of Opera, Hades Town, Chicago, Mr. Saturday Night, Funny Girl, Six, The Wicked, A Strange Loop, Come from Away, Beetlejuice, and Moulin Rouge-The Musical.

21. Pan African Festival in New York

Pan African Festival is held in Harlem Art Park in August, NYC. The beautiful celebrations of Pan-African Cultural Art, Intellectual Art, and Musical Dance performances at the festival, and the event is free for everyone. The tourists can also enjoy the glorious festival with lovely DJs, music and dance, flavorful meals from the Food Plaza, spicy savories, sweets, delicious food and drinks in NYC .

22. Creole Food Festival in New York

Creole Food Festival is held at Serafina on the Rooftop of Pod Hotel , New York City. You will enjoy the exclusive experience of tasting delicious, flavorful food from top-notch restaurants and highly professional chefs. You will also enjoy the lovely music, and live entertainment, with dance and fun. You will see the rising chefs, signature drinks, tasty treats and meals, and more.

23. Seltzerland Drinks Event in New York

Seltzerland is a one-of-a-kind patio party to taste various kinds of sample canned cocktails and drinks, food, snacks, munchies, paid food stalls, DJs music with bass, rhythm, and dance, and various other games and attractions. Visitors must buy the tickets and get free tote bags, buzz balls, and sunglasses for fun.

24. Balkan Festival in New York

Balkan Festival is a music and dance event celebrating Balkan culture and arts. Over 60 popular music bands performed live music and dances at four stages, and various Balkan music and dance genres were presented at the event. Visitors can enjoy beers and cocktails as refreshments. Balkan art collectibles and fabrics are displayed at the event to purchase as gifts for friends.

25. Harlem Week Festival in New York

Harlem Week Festival is celebrated to honor the diverse society and culture of the American African, Caribbean, European, and Hispanic populations in Harlem , NYC. People can enjoy the event with cultural art and craft, kids' activities and games, music and dances, food stalls and drinks, and Broadway theater shows.

26. Elements Music and Arts Festival in New York

Elements Music and Arts Festival is held in August at Long Pond, NYC. It's a unique experience to listen to elemental music with incredible elemental-themed stages for Earth, Water, Fire, and Air. The festival is in great woods and forests, decorated with elemental arts and collectibles.

27. Summer Streets Festival in New York

Summer Streets Festival is held in August to celebrate the traffic-free environment in Manhattan's busy streets. It begins seven miles from Park Avenue, and all the traffic shuts down for the festival. People walk on the streets or travel via bicycles. The Manhattan streets are decorated with local art collectibles, live music performances, and fun activities to present the city in a unique traffic-free atmosphere.

28. US Tennis Sports Event in New York

The US Tennis Open Championship is held in August in Flushing, Queens, NYC. Join the thrilling Tennis Sports event to watch NYC's favorite Tennis team players at the ground and enjoy the most famous Tennis League in NYC. It’s the best sports league for the fall season in NYC and one of the most remarkable things to do in New York in October .

29. Bad Bunny and Diplo Music Event in New York

Bad Bunny and Diplo are the most famous music artists in New York. The Music event is held in Yankee Stadium in August. Join the massive electric energy for this remarkable music event with superb live performances in Yankee Stadium, NYC.

30. Charlie Parker's Jazz Festival in New York

The famous jazz musician Charlie Parker performed live jazz music by the City Park Foundation at the Jazz Festival in Marcus Garvey Park, Harlem. Entry is free for the public, and you can enjoy modern jazz music by highly influential and top jazz artist Charlie Parker at the show.

31. Poster House Block Party in New York

The Poster House Block Party is held in Flatiron Plaza. Free entry for everyone at the Poster House, and people can get their gig posters, screen printing, individual picture booths, and fantastic colorful vibes everywhere in the Block Party.

32. Floating Restaurant in New York

La Barca Cantina is the only Mexican floating restaurant in a boat on the Hudson River. The boat restaurant floating on the river surface gives an exquisite dine-in experience with a three-story bar and restaurant. You can enjoy the delicious Mexican cuisine at the top deck of the boat restaurant with a cool water breeze and a view of the city. Visit the lovely Mexican boat restaurant to enjoy Mexican food. It's the fantastic things to do in New York in the April , spring, and summer seasons.

33. Rock the Bells Festival in New York

Rock the Bells is a music festival for the daytime at the Forest Hills Stadium, Queens, NYC. The music festival is a celebration to honor Hip Hop music. People can enjoy the fascinating modern style of Hip Hop music, dance, food, and drinks with various art exhibitions at the festival. It’s a fun festival for everyone and one of the best things to do in New York .

34. Sports Events in NYC in August

The most popular sports events in August in New York City are; the 2023 New York Jets at the MetLife Stadium, Staten Island Ferry Hawks vs. York Revolution at the SIUH Community Park, New York Yankees vs. Tampa Bay Rays at the Yankee Stadium, New York Boulders vs. Trois-Rivieres Aigles at the Clover Stadium, New York Yankees vs. Houston Astros at the Yankee Stadium, New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces at the Barclays Center, New York Mets vs. Chicago Cubs at the Citi Field, Brooklyn Cyclones vs. Aberdeen IronBirds at the Maimonides Park, Long Island Ducks vs. Southern Maryland Blue Crabs at the Fairfield Properties Ballpark, New York Red Bulls II vs. Toronto FC II at the MSU Soccer Park At Pittser Field, New York City FC II vs. Orlando City B at the Belson Stadium, and New York Red Bulls II vs. Chicago Fire II at the MSU Soccer Park At Pittser Field. These sports events are famous for the fall season and the best things to do in New York in September .

35. Music Concerts in NYC in August

The Popular music concert with exclusive tickets and seatings in August NYC includes performances such as Phish - 2-Day Pass at Madison Square Garden, Fall Out Boy, Bring Me The Horizon, Royal and The Serpent & Games We Play at Forest Hills Stadium, Lindsey Stirling & Walk off The Earth at Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater, Jesse Cook at Sony Hall, Ali Wong at Beacon Theatre, Granger Smith at Irving Plaza, Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa & Too Short at PNC Bank Arts Center, Pink Martini & China Forbes at The Rooftop at Pier 17, Foreigner & Loverboy at Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater, Cavetown at City Parks Foundation SummerStage, Tyler Childers at Radio City Music Hall, The Airborne Toxic Event at Bowery Ballroom, The Drums at Webster Hall, Pink, Brandi Carlile & Group Love at Citi Field, Powerman 5000 at Ding Batz, Magic at Brooklyn Bowl, The Disco Nights at Ridgefield Playhouse, Bicep at Brooklyn Mirage, John Waite at City Winery - New York City, The Mountain Goats at The Rooftop at Pier 17, and King's X at The Vogel at the Count Basie Center for the Arts, NYC. For those seeking things to do in Beacon , NY, these concerts offer a diverse range of musical experiences.

New York City has various attractions, events, and festivals to enjoy every month and all the seasons, but some particular events and spots can be visited in only specific months, like flower exhibitions and botanical garden events held in Spring. It's the most incredible thing to do in New York in May .

Swimming, pool parties, water sports, Jet skiing, speed boating, and cruises are the fun things to do in New York in June , the summer season, and ice skating is the best activity for winter in NYC. If you visit in August, you will find more activities for the hottest season in New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

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41 Amazing Things To Do This August In NYC

It's nearly August, which means we're about to head into the dog days of summer. Here are the best things to do in NYC in August 2024.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to cool off in NYC! There are also lots of new rooftops, outdoor concerts, park movie nights, and more to keep you busy.

From dreamy art installations to free kayaking to biking to beaching , here are the best things to do in August in NYC to make the most of the last summer months!

1. Travel through eight whimsical rooms at Bubble Planet

Through VR technology and whimsical rooms, you can journey through Bubble Planet to excite all of the senses. Each of the eight rooms invites you into a colorful world of fantastic landscapes and bubbles. Grab your tickets here .

2. Travel back in time to the 1920s at the Jazz Age Lawn Party

It’s coming up on your last chance to attend the party of the summer on Governors Island! Jazz Age Lawn Party is bringing a Prohibition-era world full of photo booths, vintage clothes, dance lessons, carnival games and of course, live jazz. Grab your tickets now .

3. Roam through larger-than-life balloon sculptures at Balloon Story

Full of playful exhibits and interactive installations, Balloon Story is an adventure that awaits you at NYC’s iconic Park Avenue Armory. Sure to unleash your inner child, Balloon Story will defy your imagination through eco-friendly sculptures that will have your jaw drop. Get tickets now .

4. Take in sweeping city views at One World Observatory

Ride over 100 stories above ground level and be amazed and how magnificent the city looks from the sky. From One World Observatory you’ll be able to see 50 miles out on a clear day. Grab tickets here.

5. Watch an outdoor movie at Bryant Park’s free summer movie nights

Always a warm-weather staple in NYC, the free sunset movies have returned once again — it’s the second summer they’re back since COVID-19, when the series was canceled for the first time in 26 years. Though screenings started in June, you have until August 15th to catch a film in the park. Find out August’s movie lineup here .

6. Listen to a 14-piece orchestra perform the best of Taylor Swift

This unique concert series is bringing a high-energy, musical experience featuring Taylor Swift’s greatest hits to The Cutting Room. The reinterpretations will be performed by Broadway stars including Tony winners and nominees. Plus, you can sip on cocktails and treat your tastebuds to delicious bites while you enjoy the performance. Buy your tickets here .

7. Attend a gorgeous concert by candlelight

Treat yourself to a relaxing evening surrounded by shimmering candlelight and beautiful music at these stunning evening concerts in NYC. Hear everything from classical masterpieces to current day tracks. These are some of our favorites below:

• Candlelight: A Tribute to Beyoncé
• Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer
• Candlelight: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and More

8. Head to the beach

NYC is known for its notoriously hot and humid summers, which may be true for all over the tri-state but definitely seem worse when you’re surrounded by tons of sky-high buildings! Taking a trip to one of our lovely beaches is definitely one of the best ways to beat the heat, so check out our list of the best beaches in NYC. Here’s a sneak peek :

• The People’s Beach at Jacob Riis Park, Queens
• Coney Island, Brooklyn
• Orchard Beach, The Bronx

See the rest of the list here .

9. Enjoy miles of car-free streets with the return of Summer Streets

Summer Streets is returning once again for the last weekend of July (27th) and the four Saturdays of August (3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th) . For those unfamiliar with the event, this is a pedestrian and cycling haven where miles of NYC streets will be closed off to cars and various activities will be taking place along the route. Learn more here .

10. Make a trip out to Dinos Alive in Schenectady

Enter back into a time when giants ruled the planet at Dinos Alive. This dinosaur exhibition boasts over 80 life-sized moving replicas of the most jaw-dropping creatures from T-rexes to Stegosaurier, Ankylosaurusi and Velociraptors. Grab your tickets now .

11. Take advantage of dining deals during NYC’s Restaurant Week

Restaurant Week celebrates NYC’s dining scene by offering prix fixe menus to some of the city’s most established restaurants and neighborhood favorites, and it’s going on from Monday, July 22 through Sunday, August 18, 2024. This year, hundreds of restaurants across all five boroughs are participating in Restaurant Week, offering deals during meal periods of their choosing (lunch, dinner, or both). Learn more here .

12. Frolic through lavender and wildflowers

NYers love cherry blossom season, but once the weather gets warmer new blooms start to emerge. If you’re looking to frolic through more colorful florals, check out the following:

• Central Park’s wildflower meadow
• Long Island’s sweeping lavender fields
• Brooklyn’s rooftop meadow garden

13. Hop aboard NYC’s first-ever floating Mexican restaurant

You read that right! This floating restaurant serving up delicious Mexican fare is literally in the Hudson River. Cruise around and enjoy the sunset views over the city skyline during your meal, and cheers your friends amongst the beautiful backdrop before you sip on one of their many agave-based spirits. Read more here.

14. Cool yourself down at Peekamoose Swimming Hole

There are a ton of swimming holes outside of NYC, and about 2.5 hours from the city you’ll find one of them–Peekamoose Blue Hole. The crystal clear waters here offer a welcoming way for NYers to cool down, and if you’re not feeling brave enough to plunge into the water from the raised rock platform, there is a path that allows you to walk into the water at your own pace. Learn more here .

15. Take in skyline views at these stunning NYC rooftops

Nothing beats a drink in hand and a skyline in sight. Here are some of our favorite rooftops around the city:

• Head up 64-stories and enjoy tasty drinks at Overstory  rooftop.
• Escape to the Hamptons right in the city at this beachy-themed bar

Check the entire list here and adventure to one of these fantastic rooftops across the city for the most unbeatable scenery and not to mention, refreshing cocktails!

16. Splash around at this massive outdoor waterpark near NYC

Mountain Creek Resort is a multi-use property complete with a bike park, ski lodge, zip lines, snow tubing, and our summer favorite: a massive outdoor waterpark. Though it’s located in Vernon, New Jersey, it’s less than two hours away from the city! Learn more about how you can splash around at this waterpark here .

17. Kayak for free at Brooklyn Bridge Park

Every Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday through August this summer you can enjoy free kayaking at Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse Pier 2 . The sessions only run for 20 minutes but the views are worth it and at the end of the day, it’s a free activity! So why not? Learn how to make your reservation here.

18. Take a dip in an NYC pool

NYC’s free public pools  are open for the season, but if you’re looking for something more high-end, there are tons of gorgeous private pools to check out too! Here are some of our favorites:

• Roosevelt Island’s pool
• Jimmy at the James in SoHo
• The Beach at Dream Downtown in Chelsea
• McCarren Hotel & Pool in Brooklyn
• QC NY Pool on Governors Island

19. Visit America’s only floating pool in NYC

Unlike your average spots to swim, “Floating Pool Lady” at Barretto Point Park in the Bronx is actually located on a barge floating in the East River! Walk across a gangplank to travel between land and the seven-lane infinity pool that boasts incredible waterfront views, along with guest access to locker rooms, bathrooms, and a pool house. Read more here.

20. Visit all the must-try ice cream shops in NYC

One of the best ways to beat the heat in NYC is by indulging in some delicious ice cream! Of course Mister Softee is a classic, but here are some of our other favorite spots to grab a cone:

• Whipped Urban Dessert Lab, Lower East Side
• Van Leeuwen’s, Multiple Locations
• Tipsy Scoop, Kips Bay & Williamsburg
• Milk & Cream Cereal Bar, Little Italy
• Marvel, Astoria

21. Pick your own sunflowers in New Jersey

The lovely Happy Day Farm in nearby New Jersey has opened its sunflower field for the summer to those looking to come out and pick their own fresh flowers. And honestly, even if you decide not to take any home (though, why wouldn’t you?) the sight of a sunflower field alone is worth the visit. Find out how to visit here.

22. Visit a stunning waterfall

If you’re ready for some summer hikes but want to make sure you can really take in the most picturesque views, make sure trails with waterfalls are on your list! Some must-visit picturesque waterfalls include:

• The Ravine, Central Park
• Kaaterskill Falls: Hunter, NY

See the full list here .

23. Go on a relaxing summer bike ride

Spending time outdoors has been one of our few escapes during the pandemic. Safely, of course! So we were looking for some perfect summertime activities you can do without taking a trip out of NYC…and what’s better than a lovely (not too strenuous) summer bike ride? We asked the true experts: New Yorkers themselves (aka you, our readers and followers!) for their best spots on Instagram , and as usual, you didn’t disappoint! Find out what the rest of them are here.

24. Dine on the waterfront

Take in the breezes at NYC’s best spots for waterfront dining! From eating on historic boats with insane views of the sunset to checking out secluded seafood hotspots on NYC’s smaller surrounding islands, you’ll be cooling down in no time. See them here!

26. Go camping under the stars at Governors Island

Treat yourself to this lovely glamping experience on NYC’s perfect island getaway: Governors Island! Over the years, Collective Governors Island Luxury Camping Retreat introduced plenty of new and exciting amenities that included “live music nights, tarot readings, crafting, morning yoga, bike rentals, chair massages, plenty of lawn games, campfires and cocktails” throughout the season—but this year, the experience is offering even more incredible amenities than years prior. Find out more here!

27. See all there is to do at a NYC street fair

During the summer the city’s streets get crowded with those looking to spend the warm months outdoors, and NYC street fairs take over tons of blocks across all five boroughs during this time. Most often a visit to a street fair means tasty bites, shopping opportunities from vendors, and the chance to dance the day away, and why would anyone want to pass that up? Check out the full list of this summer’s street fairs here .

28. Escape the city with one of these quick summer trips

Who else is looking for a little summer getaway from the city? Well, we asked and you answered! Here are some charming, scenic escapes from NYC life, if only for a day or two. Most of these ideas came from SecretNYC readers themselves, responding to a survey on our Instagram story . So, thank YOU. Find them all here.

29. Enjoy the breeze at one of NYC’s many waterfront parks

Even on the hottest summer days, we’re lucky enough to live in a city surrounded by water. And even more luckily, there are tons of public parks situated along the waterfront — allowing for stunning views and refreshing breezes! Whether it be on the Hudson or East River, uptown or down, there are plenty of options the next time you want to cool down in one of NYC’s waterfront oases.

• Little Island, Hudson River Park
• Gantry Plaza State Park, LIC
• Brooklyn Bridge Park, Dumbo
• Riverside Park, West Side

30. Slurp on some of NYC’s tastiest oysters

New York might make you think of top-tier pizza and bagels, but don’t forget about the plentiful seafood options the city holds. Especially during the summertime, you can find some of the freshest finds around! Some of our favorite spots to grab oysters include:

• Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar, East Village
• Greenpoint Fish & Lobster Co, Greenpoint

Find the full list here .

31. Get fresh local produce at a farmer’s market

The city’s endless amount of farmers markets are a must-visit—especially in the warm weather—and the level of produce and goods you can find here is unmatched. For a fresh and tasty meal cooking with local produce is the way to go. Find some of our favorite NYC farmer’s markets here .

32. Cool down by sipping on some boozy frozen cocktails

From the classic frosé and frozen margs, one of the most delicious ways to cool down is by sipping on a frozen drink. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of these to be found around the city. Loads of NYC businesses are serving refreshing icy slushees that of course, have a nice little spike of alcohol, two of which are:

• Pink’s Cantina, East Village
• The Sampler, Bushwick

The rest of the list can be found here. .

33. Stay cool at one of NYC’s cooling centers

Temperatures have been scorchingly hot this summer so it’s important to keep cool and remain hydrated. Whenever NYC is struck by a heatwave, the city opens cooling centers across the boroughs with public air-conditioning. Use this “Cooling Center Finder” online here to locate one nearest you.

34. Visit an NYC museum for free

New Yorkers are lucky to have access to incredible cultural institutions at the tip of their fingers, but one of the best parts is that some museums don’t even make you pay for entry! Some museums offers free admission every day or a once-a-month sort of deal that let’s you immerse yourself in art and education at no cost. Find which museums offer free admission and when here .

35. Experience all things Olympics at the Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is transforming into an Olympic hub for this years 2024 games. From watch partiers to Parisian food, athlete visits and photo-ops, find all of the best Olympic happenings across the campus through Sunday, August 11th. Learn more here .

36. Take a stunning road trip through quaint towns, wineries and seaside restaurants

Escape the stench of the city in the heat of the summer with a beautiful drive on Long Island following the North Fork Trail Scenic Byway ! This route provides all of the gorgeous scenery you could ever want with lighthouses, seaside shops, wineries and more. Whether you make all the stops along the way or are just doing it for the drive, the route is a perfect way to spend some time outside of the city. Find out more here .

37. Go disc golfing at NYC’s first-ever course

The city’s first-ever disc golf course has made its way to Queens. Residents can head over to Highland Park to test their skills . Not sure what disc golf really is? Think golf meets frisbee tossing! Remember, it’s never too late to pick up a new hobby! Learn more about the sport and course here .

38. Hang loose and catch a wave this summer

Whether you grew up catching waves or you’ve never even touched a surf board, there’s so many places to hone your skills in or near NYC. From surfing at Rockaway Beach to indoor surfing at Skudin Surf at American Dream, find all of your options here .

39. Test your luck with the SNL lottery

Be one to score the hottest ticket in town by joining the SNL ticket lottery that kicks off at 12 am EST on August 1, 2024. Winners will get two FREE tickets to an upcoming SNL show this season. Find out how to enter here .

40. Roller skate at this intergalactic rink in Bushwick

Roller rink meets nightclub at Bushwick’s psychedelic Xanadu Roller Arts. Spanning 16,000 square feet, the space welcomes you to skate, dance and listen to music. Plus, its the city’s only year-round indoor roller rink. Learn more here .

41. Explore this 15,000 square-foot exhibition dedicated to Banksy

Peruse one of the world’s largest collections of Banksy’s artwork at the Banksy Museum. From life-size recreations of his murals to a selection of his studio work, learn more about one of the world’s most enigmatic artist’s. Buy your tickets today .

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A detailed guide on the best things do in New York in August

New York needs no introduction. It is a city of unparalleled energy and diversity, possessing an indomitable spirit that captivates all who tread its streets. Comprising five boroughs, it's a melting pot of cultures, architecture, and lifestyles. If you plan to visit the city in the month of August, you’re in for one of the best experiences of your life. Pleasant weather, sports season, movies under the stars, beach time, outdoor concerts, music and dance festivals, culinary delights, beautiful parks, and art museums - explore all of this and so much more!

New York City is a great place to visit throughout the year however, if you’re planning a trip to the city in August, this guide will come in handy. Read on to know what the month of August has in store for you.

Is August a good time to visit New York?

The weather in New York during August is sunny and pleasant. However, there may be a few hot days with high humidity. August provides a vibrant and tourist-friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent time to explore the diverse and exciting offerings of the city.

Why you should visit?

• August brings warm and sunny weather, making it a comfortable time to explore the city.
• The month is filled with festivals and events taking place throughout the city, offering tourists the chance to experience the vibrant culture and entertainment that New York has to offer.
• The sunny weather in August provides the perfect opportunity for outdoor activities. You can relax in Central Park, visit the beaches, try jet skiing on the Hudson River, or take a river cruise. 
• If you're a sports fan, August is right in the middle of the baseball season. You can catch a New York Yankees or Mets game and experience the excitement of American baseball.

What to look out for?

• The locals might be on vacation, but the city remains bustling with tourists, which means large crowds at attractions and high accommodation rates. 
• Outdoor festivals, concerts, rooftop bars, and cycling tours are popular during this month.
• The US Open happens in August! Catch a game of tennis and watch your favorite players live in action.
• Don’t miss out on jet skiing on the Hudson River. It’s an unforgettable experience.

Overview of the weather in New York in August

The weather in New York in August is sunny and pleasant with a few hot and humid days and occasional thunder showers. It’s the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities or catch a game of baseball or tennis.

• Average temperature: High: 29°C, Low: 21°C
• Average rainfall: 87 mm
• Daily wind speed: 10.4 mph
• Temperature of sea: 23.5 degrees C
• Average daylight: 14 hours

More about the weather in New York in August

How hot is New York in August?

New York is sunny and pleasant in August with a few hot and humid days and occasional rainfall.

Can you swim at beaches in New York in August?

Yes. Going for a swim at the many wonderful beaches in New York is a great way to beat the heat, relax, and rejuvenate.

Does it rain in New York in August?

The city experiences occasional thundershowers in August.

Is New York windy in August?

The climate is not windy but New York does experience moderate winds in August.

Best things to do in New York in August

Frick Collection

The Frick Collection in New York is a renowned art museum housed in the former residence of industrialist Henry Clay Frick. Located on Fifth Avenue, it features a distinguished collection of European paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and furniture. Notable works by artists such as Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Goya are showcased in an intimate setting. The museum's elegant surroundings and masterful artworks provide a unique and enriching cultural experience for visitors.

New York Aquarium

The New York Aquarium, situated in Brooklyn's Coney Island, is the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States. Managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society, it showcases a diverse marine life collection, including sea lions, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium emphasizes education and conservation, engaging visitors with interactive exhibits and marine conservation efforts. With a focus on ocean exploration and wildlife protection, the New York Aquarium offers an immersive experience for both locals and tourists.

Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park, located in the heart of Greenwich Village, is a vibrant public space in New York City. Boasting a central fountain, iconic arch, and lush greenery, the park is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. It features cultural events, live performances, and a lively atmosphere. The park's history is rich, and it serves as a hub for artistic expression, social activism, and casual recreation, making it a beloved and dynamic part of the city's landscape.

New York Helicopter Tours

New York Helicopter Tours offers a thrilling aerial perspective of the iconic cityscape. Passengers embark on a scenic journey above landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Manhattan's skyline. The tours, ranging from short rides to comprehensive explorations, provide a unique and exhilarating way to witness the grandeur of New York City. It's an unforgettable experience for those seeking a bird's-eye view of the city's most famous attractions.

New York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tours provide a flexible and immersive way to explore the city's top attractions. Passengers can board and disembark at various designated stops, customizing their itinerary to visit iconic sites like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. With informative commentary, these double-decker bus tours offer a convenient and comprehensive way to discover the diverse neighborhoods and landmarks of New York, making it an ideal option for sightseeing at one's own pace.

Times Square

Times Square, often called "The Crossroads of the World," is a bustling commercial and entertainment hub in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. Renowned for its iconic neon billboards, theaters, and lively atmosphere, Times Square is a major tourist destination. It hosts the famous New Year's Eve ball drop celebration. Surrounded by theaters, shops, and restaurants, the square is always aglow with activity, making it one of the most iconic and energetic locations in the city.

Tenement Museum

The Tenement Museum in New York City offers a compelling glimpse into the lives of immigrants who lived in the Lower East Side during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Housed in historic tenement buildings, the museum provides guided tours that explore the living conditions and stories of immigrant families. Through restored apartments and personal narratives, the Tenement Museum preserves and shares the immigrant experience, contributing to a deeper understanding of American history and cultural diversity.

Top of the Rock is an observation deck atop the Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, New York City. Offering stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, Central Park, and the Empire State Building, it provides a unique vantage point from the 70th floor. Visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor observation decks, making it an ideal spot for capturing breathtaking photographs of the city. The experience is enhanced by interactive exhibits, creating a memorable viewing experience in the heart of NYC.

Coney Island

Coney Island, a vibrant seaside neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York, is famed for its iconic boardwalk, amusement parks, and sandy beaches. Home to the historic Cyclone roller coaster and the Wonder Wheel, it offers classic fairground experiences. The lively atmosphere includes Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs, annual events like the Mermaid Parade, and a blend of nostalgia and contemporary attractions, making Coney Island a popular destination for entertainment, recreation, and cultural festivities.

Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine

The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, situated in Manhattan, is one of the world's largest Gothic cathedrals. Often referred to as St. John the Divine, it boasts stunning architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and serene gardens. Serving as the mother church of the Episcopal Diocese of New York, the cathedral hosts cultural events, concerts, and spiritual services, making it a unique blend of religious significance and artistic expression in the heart of the city.

Top experiences & things to do in New York in August

Events in new york in august.

The US Open Tennis Tournament is a prestigious Grand Slam event held annually in New York City. Hosted at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, it attracts top tennis players from around the world. Known for its intense competition, thrilling matches, and electric atmosphere, the tournament showcases the pinnacle of tennis excellence on hard courts.

Harlem Week

Harlem Week is an annual celebration in New York City honoring the rich cultural heritage of Harlem. This month-long event features music festivals, parades, cultural exhibits, and community activities. Showcasing the vibrant history and contributions of the Harlem neighborhood, Harlem Week is a lively and inclusive celebration of art, music, and community spirit.

Battery Dance Festival

The Battery Dance Festival is a vibrant annual event held in New York City, showcasing a diverse range of dance performances in Battery Park. Celebrating global dance traditions, the festival features international and local talent, offering free outdoor performances. It provides a dynamic platform for cultural exchange and the appreciation of various dance styles.

Summer Streets

Summer Streets is an annual event in New York City, temporarily closing streets to vehicular traffic and creating a car-free zone for pedestrians and cyclists. Spanning from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park, it offers recreational activities, fitness classes, and art installations. This initiative encourages sustainable transportation and provides a unique urban experience.

Movies With A View

Movies With A View is an outdoor film series in Brooklyn, New York, held at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline, the series features a curated selection of films. Attendees enjoy open-air screenings, picnics, and stunning views, creating a cinematic experience in one of New York's scenic waterfront locations.

NYC Restaurant Week

NYC Restaurant Week is a biannual culinary event in New York City, offering prix-fixe menus at discounted prices in a wide range of restaurants. Diners can explore diverse cuisines and experience the city's vibrant culinary scene. This initiative promotes dining out and supports the hospitality industry, making it a popular gastronomic celebration.

Shopping in New York in August

Shopping in New York in August is a delightful experience as the city buzzes with summer sales, back-to-school promotions, and an array of shopping festivals. Take advantage of the tax-free week on clothing and footwear, adding an extra incentive for a shopping spree. Explore iconic shopping districts like Fifth Avenue for luxury brands, SoHo for trendy boutiques, and Macy's in Herald Square for a department store extravaganza. 

Don't miss the unique finds at Chelsea Market and the vibrant street markets like Union Square Greenmarket. August brings outdoor markets to life, such as the Grand Bazaar NYC and Smorgasburg, offering diverse artisanal goods and delectable treats. From high-end fashion to eclectic street markets, New York in August ensures a retail adventure amid the summer warmth and city excitement.

Know before you visit New York in August

• Time zone: GMT-5
• Currency: United States Dollars (USD)
• Country code: +1-646
• Emergency numbers: 911

• Choose lightweight, breathable clothes such as tops, dresses, and casual shirts.
• Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes because you will have to walk a lot in New York. 
• Outdoor gear like sunglasses and hats will protect you from the harsh rays of the sun.
• Carry a swimsuit if you want to hit the beach.

• Pack essentials like a phone charger, power bank, and adapters.
• Carry hand sanitizers because certain areas in the city might be dirty.
• Don’t forget to carry necessary medications and first-aid supplies.
• Carry sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Pack a hat, raincoat, or umbrella for sunny or rainy days.

Getting around New York in August:

• By subway: The subway network in NYC is the most efficient and budget-friendly way to travel within the city because it connects all major attractions.
• By bus: The bus network covers areas that are not served by the subway and is an affordable travel option.
• By ferry: Take the ferry service to travel between Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, while enjoying scenic views of New York City.
• By taxi: Taxis and cab services like Uber and Lyft are easily available for convenient transportation.

New York boasts numerous hotel and lodging options that cater to all kinds of budgets.

• Budget hotels: Jazz on the Park Hostel, Hotel Edison Times Square, Broadway Hotel & Hostel
• Mid-range hotels: Candlewood Suites New York City, The Gregory Hotel, Hotel Giraffe by Library Hotel Collection
• Luxury hotels: The Knickerbocker Hotel, The Lotte New York Palace, The Edition Hotel

New York is a foodie’s paradise. Experience the rich and diverse culinary delights that NYC offers at the several restaurants in the city.

• Marea: This Michelin-starred restaurant in Midtown specializes in seafood and Italian coastal cuisine, offering a sophisticated dining experience.
• Amma: This East Village gem serves contemporary Indian dishes with a focus on bold flavors and inventive twists.
• Barn Joo Nomad: A Korean gastropub in Manhattan offering a fusion of traditional and contemporary Korean flavors, along with a wide range of drinks.
• Gallow Green: Located atop the McKittrick Hotel, it transforms into a garden oasis during the summer, providing a magical atmosphere.
• Balaboosta: This restaurant offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu with delicious Lebanese dishes like lamb kebabs and mezze.

Hacks & tips to visit New York in August

• For popular attractions, consider booking tickets in advance to skip long lines.
• The month of August can be hot, so carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while exploring New York. You can refill it at various water fountains throughout the city.
• New York is a popular destination in August, so expect crowds at major attractions. Plan your itinerary strategically and consider visiting popular spots early in the day
• Consider purchasing a MetroCard for easy access to buses and subways.
• Make reservations for popular restaurants in advance, especially if you have specific places you want to try, to save yourself from waiting in long lines.
• Look for free events happening in the city, such as outdoor movie nights or concerts. It's a budget-friendly way to experience the culture.
• Explore city passes or discount cards that offer savings on multiple attractions.
• Consider using ride-sharing apps, like Uber and Lyft, for convenience when exploring the city, especially during late hours or when public transportation is less accessible.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and be careful of pickpockets.
• Interact with locals for recommendations and insider tips for unique experiences.

Explore New York through the year

Frequently asked questions about visiting new york in august.

Yes. The month of August is a good time to visit New York if you want to enjoy the pleasant weather and don’t mind the huge crowds.

Enjoy outdoor concerts, visit Central Park, attend street festivals, explore museums, and catch a Broadway show. It’s baseball and tennis season, so catch a Yankees or Mets game or watch your favorite players battle it out on the tennis court at the US Open. The possibilities are endless in this vibrant city.

No. New York is not cold in August.

The city is sunny and pleasant in August. However, it might experience a few hot and humid days.

Yes. It’s the best time to make the most of the beautiful beaches in New York. Just put on your swimsuit and go for a swim to cool off.

Yes. The weather in New York is warm and sunny in August.

The weather is warm, therefore, carry lightweight and breathable clothes like dresses, shirts, t-shirts, shorts, and casuals.

The city does experience occasional thundershowers in August.

Yes, New York can be an expensive place to visit. However, there are budget-friendly options for accommodations, dining, and attractions.

Overall, New York is a safe city, but like any urban area, it's essential to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Also, beware of pickpockets.

Visit iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, and the Statue of Liberty. Explore neighborhoods, museums, and attend outdoor events and festivals.

Events include Harlem Week, the US Open Tennis Tournament, outdoor movie nights, and various festivals. Check the calendar for concerts and Broadway shows.

The average temperature in August ranges from 21 to 29 degrees Celsius in August.

Enjoy family-friendly attractions like the Central Park Zoo, Children's Museum of Manhattan, and New York Aquarium, explore interactive exhibits, and attend kid-friendly events and Broadway shows.

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51 amazing things to do in NYC in August

Things to do

DMC US Finals DJ Battle: DJ Total Eclipse Highline Ballroom; Aug 5 at 7pm; tickets start at $63 Watch 12 DJs throw down for the title of USA Champion at the most prestigious turntable competition in the world. Each competitor has the chance to perform a 6-minute set before the panel of experts chooses the best of the best. 

New York Renaissance Faire ; Aug 5; $12–$23 Get medieval on your weekend. Now in its 40th year, the immersive Elizabethan re-creation delivers jousting knights, fairies, pirates and more, as hundreds of actors take you back to the days of yore. The festival’s food offering includes steak on a stake, funnel cake and plenty of ale. Don’t forget your cloak.  600 Rt 17A, Tuxedo Park NY.   

Madonnathon Brooklyn Bowl; Aug 12; $15–$18 Make sure you stretch at home before this 14th annual celebration of the Material Girl, and dress yourself up in your favorite Madge-inspired look (lace is  always  in season!) to win high-camp prizes and attract your lucky star on the dance floor. Performers include Amber Martin, Brian Charles Rooney, Lane Moore, Shannon Conley, Anna Copa Cabanna, Queen V, Daryl Glenn, Michael T and Sophia Ramos; Cathy Cervenka are Rupert Noffs are the hosts.

Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival Flushing-Meadows Corona Park; Aug 12 + 13; free Travel to beautiful Hong Kong without ever leaving the city thanks to this annual event at Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, now in it’s 26th year. Around 180 teams gather at the lake to race on long boats while paddling to the beat of their boat’s drummer at this culture fest inspired by Chinese tradition. On land, you can join in on the fun with music and dance performances, martial arts demonstrations and food-court vendors selling Asian cuisine like steamed dumplings, pork-belly buns and frozen delights such as Sno Biz shaved ice.  

ELEMENTS by BangOn! NYC Location TBA; Aug 12 + 13; $55–$260 Five stages featuring electronic music acts, 3D projections, food trucks, vendors, death-defying aerialists, circus performers and a giant inflatable slide: Yeah, BangOn!NYC goes all out for this annual bash. Get pumped for DJs such as Griz, The Knocks, The Golden Pony, Motum and plenty more. This mind-blowing music and arts festival is not one to be missed, so grab your tickets and keep your eyes peeled for the secret NYC waterfront location announcement.

The Subway Series: New York Mets vs. New York Yankees Citi Field and Yankee Stadium; Aug 14–17; tickets start at $32 “Root, root, root for the home team” takes on another meaning when the Mets and Yankees face off at the annual Subway Series. Whether you bleed Yankee blue, don the orange for every Mets game or you’re just here for the peanuts and beer, it’s sure to be a good time.  

Play NYC Terminal 5; Aug 19 and 20; tickets start at $25 Gamers and programmers alike won’t want to miss the city’s first ever dedicated gaming convention. Demo new games from Avalanche Studios, Bomb Shelter Games and other studios and listen to talks with industry insiders at the two-day event.

Jazz Age Lawn Party Governors Island; Aug 26 + 27; $55–$5,000 Slap on your spats and practice the Charleston because the Jazz Age Lawn party is returning to Governor’s Island. Sip on Prohibition-era cocktails by Lejay Liqueur and local Bootlegger 21 New York, and none of the back-alley hooch of the day. Food vendors will be on hand to keep your Lindy Hop hoppin’ during incredible daylong jazz performances from Philadelphia’s prized Drew Nugent and the Midnight Society, as well as singer-songwriter Queen Esther. Sure to mesmerize is the ultimate 1920s ensemble band Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra, led by the party’s host, crooner-conductor Arenella. As the tunes blast, partake in dance lessons from instructors and perfect your fox-trot. 

Museum of Interesting Things Secret Speakeasy The Lofts at Prince; Aug 27 at 6pm; $10  Every month, the roving Museum of Interesting Things throws a speakeasy-style exhibition in a New York loft. August’s theme is Back to the Futurist, and the museum will show off items from the past that look like they could be from the future. Partygoers can sip drinks while dancing to vintage music on vinyl and examining unique historic artifacts and oddities. 

U.S. Open Flushing Meadows–Corona Park; Aug 28–Sept 10; tickets start at $26 Fun fact: The U.S. Open is New York’s most attended sporting event. Watch the likes of Andy Murray, Roger Federer and other tennis superstars battle it out at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Though hardcore fans will likely have their eyes glued to the match, avid celeb-watchers might also spot A-listers like Oprah, Karlie Kloss and Leonardo DiCaprio in the stands.   

Comedy  

Comedy at Stonewall The Stonewall Inn; Aug 5; $5, at the door $10 plus two-drink minimum The always delightful Chrissie Mayr and darling Oscar Aydin host this monthly showcase of dope queer and queer-appealing comics at the historic Stonewall. August's edition features Claudia Cogan, Tanael Joachim, Nicky Paris, Abby Rosenquist and Keenan Steiner. 

Trump Lear Under St. Marks; Aug 5 + Aug 12; 2pm; $20 You may know David Carl from his portrayal of Gary Busey in his standout one-man comedy show, David Carl’s Celebrity One-Man Hamlet. The actor is at it again, this time embodying another erratic, at times unintelligible character: Donald Trump. In this show, Carl plays a man named Carl David (try to keep up), who makes it big by depicting Trump performing a solo show of  King Lear . Count on an upsettingly uncanny performance from this virtuoso.

Punderdome 3000 Littlefield; Aug 8; $8–$10 Jo Firestone and her Rodney Dangerfield impersonator father, Fred, host this beloved competition, in which the first 18 individuals or duos to sign up at the door attempt to pun-up each other’s spontaneously-produced wordplay. Winners are determined by the Human Clap-O-Meter and go home with a Mystery Box prize. Get ready to laugh—and groan.

Cole Escola: Help! I’m Stuck Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater; 9:30pm; $15 Some stars are made to shine over New York, and in the case of the Cole Escola, the disturbingly talented character incubator was meant to rule downtown. Witness the  Difficult People  star as he unleashes new and beloved characters like "Oh, Jeremiah" and broken-down cabaret legend Maven Crawford in this demented solo show.

Maria Bamford The Bell House; Aug 17; $30 The Bammer is a tumult of cheery weirdness, winning hearts with a childlike whisper as she presents her idiosyncratic vision of the world. She drops comedic bits—unexpected impressions, goony faces, far-flung metaphors—like bread crumbs, keeping the audience intrigued regardless of how bizarre things seem. She joins the very funny Jackie Kashian for two back-to-back sets of joyous delirium. 

Big Gay Roller Skate Lakeside at Prospect Park; Aug 3; $20, at the door $25 Skate to the sounds of  Xanadu  and Beyoncé at this joyous dudes’ night on the rink. Enjoy a full menu and cocktails, jams from DJ William Francis and totally insane drag performances on wheels by Terra Hyman and Chelsea Piers. Be sure to serve your rhinestoned wrestling unitard look for this week’s GLOW theme, inspired by the new Netflix series. Capes are welcome.   

Alaska & Jeremey: On Golden Girls Laurie Beechman Theatre at the West Bank Café; Aug 3–Aug 13; $25, VIP $50 Ultimate all-star Alaska Thunderfuck and her best bro Jeremy Keller honor TV's greatest bastion of kindness, love and friendship,  The Golden Girls , at this live musical show. They'll cover songs from the series—including Bea Arthur's outsized "What'll I Do?" and the legendary theme song. Check your lighters at the door; there's going to be a lot of flammable fabric on one stage. 

The Late Late Show at Hardware Bar; Aug 6–Aug 27; free Marti Gould Cummings—one of the sharpest drag MCs in town—reigns supreme over this weekly getdown at Hardware, featuring guest diva performers, drink specials and beats from DJ Kiki Darling. 

Isaac Oliver Won’t Stand for This Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater; Aug 17; $20, plus $12 minimum If David Sedaris and Fran Lebowitz had a baby who wrote about subways, theater patrons and blow jobs, he might be a lot like Isaac Oliver. The hilarious and poignant comic essayist is also a deft deliverer of his own work; at Joe's Pub he shares new work as well as pieces from his compulsively readable debut collection,  Intimacy Idiot .

Flame Con 2017 New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge; noon; $25, weekend pass $35 Genre, fantasy, sci-fi, gaming and comic book fans of all types shut down Brooklyn for a week of LGBTQ-oriented fan culture. Over two days, engage in smashing panels, meet LGBTQ artists and writers, and, of course, show off your raddest gender-bent cosplay.  

Dungeons & Drag Kings Talon; Aug 31; $10–$15 Anja Keister and Lee Valone host this mad monthly night of gender-bending, kink and geek ecstasy at Talon. Witness inventive drag from Valone and JJ Sparks and gagworthy burlesque from Ms. Suki E, Trinity Starlight and Qualms Galore. As if the performances weren't enough, the wild night includes a demonstration in shibari—Japanese bondage—followed by drunk geek trivia.

Food and drink

Battle of the Burger Pier 26; August 10; $53.74 Time Out New York ’s mammoth Battle of the Burger is an annual to-do: 20 of the city’s best patty-and-bun concoctions served up for your sampling pleasure. Sip on complimentary Budweiser suds as you rate the burgers and help us crown the best in town, and enjoy live top 40 tunes from Go Go Gadget and DJ Jeronimo.

Tap + Cork Restoration Plaza; August 12; $31.74-$36.87 This outdoor beer and wine festival in Bed-Stuy grows each year: this August, Restoration Plaza will fill with vendors offering pours of more than 45 craft beers and artisanal wines. Admission gets you 15 drink tickets, each good for a three-ounce sample of the suds and vinos on offer. Local food trucks will provide noshes, and DJs will be on hand to spin tunes. Blues BBQ Festival Pier 97; August 19; free Returning for its 18th year, this blockbuster late-summer event on the Hudson River reunites two natural partners: barbecue and blues music. Catch the riverside breeze as you chow down on plates from NYC’s premier BBQ restaurants, including Dinosaur BBQ, Mighty Quinn’s and pig beach, all while treating your ears to live tunes from The Campbell Brothers, Eric Gales and other blues-and-roots artists.

From Sprinkles to Sundaes: The Evolution of Ice Cream in America MOFAD; August 31; $25 Indulge your summer sweet tooth at this Museum of Food and Drink event, where James Beard award-nominated food writer and pastry chef Stella Parks will share stories of New York’s bygone ice cream saloons and demo a giant batch of toffee. Saveur digital editor and ice cream savant Max Falkowitz will join in the fun, which includes a sundae party replete with Parks-crafted ice cream toppings and suds provided by Brooklyn Brewery.

End of Summer Shuck Off Governors Island; August 26; free Squeeze a few more moments out of summer with some fresh air and briny seafood at Governors Island’s Nolan Park. The Billion Oyster Project presents this fun shucking competition—and of course, you get to eat the farm-raised mollusks, too. Enjoy DJ-spun tunes and interactive activities, as well.

The Dark Tower It’s one of the longest-gestating projects in Hollywood: a big-screen adaptation of Stephen King’s fantasy series set in a magical land inspired by the Old West. The books are not exactly masterpieces, but if this film can tame King’s scattershot imagination, it might be something special. Idris Elba and Matthew McConaughey costar.  Opens August 4

The Glass Castle The Oscar drumbeat starts earlier and earlier these days, and this drama is bound to be a player. Brie Larson brings to life journalist Jeannette Walls’s memoir about a feisty young dreamer marked by her upbringing in an offbeat family of instability. The real draw here—a huge one—is Woody Harrelson as Walls’s alcoholic father: a performance of tremendous heart and range.  Opens Aug 1.  

The Hitman’s Bodyguard After  Deadpool , Ryan Reynolds has become Hollywood go-to guy for nonstop action wisecrackery. And Samuel L. Jackson? He’s been perfecting that shtick for years. Paired together in a semibuddy movie (see title), the two of them blow up many a European freeway on their way to the kind of empty-headed warm-weather entertainment that summers were made for.  Opens Aug 18

Logan Lucky It’s a big deal when gifted filmmaker Steven Soderbergh decides to break his self-imposed “retirement” to make a new movie. It’s an even bigger one when he decides to do it with a heist movie—this was, after all, the director who figured out a way to remake  Ocean’s 11 . Channing Tatum and Adam Driver play criminal brothers who hold up a North Carolina NASCAR race.  Opens Aug 18

Death Note We’ll go to the mat for director Adam Wingard, whose  You’re Next  and  The Guest  made him a major new voice in horror. (As for his ballsy reboot of  The Blair Witch Project ? We think it’s underrated.) Here, Wingard does his spin on the classic set-up of  The Monkey’s Paw , by way of a Japanese  manga : If your name gets inscribed in a supernatural notebook, you die.  Opens Aug 25

Music   

Fleet Foxes  at Prospect Park Bandshell; Aug 1, 2; $50–$55 The wildly popular indie folk band released its first album in six years,  The Crack-Up , and is back in Brooklyn for a set of benefit concerts.  

A$AP Ferg + Venus X + Southside + Nef the Pharaoh + Dave + DJ Diamond Kuts  at MoMA PS1; Aug 5; $18–$22 Harlem rapper and “Hood Pope” A$AP Ferg dishes out his no-frills trap at MoMA PS1 for the museum’s 20th Warm Up season.

Afropunk  at Commodore Barry Park; Aug 26–27; $45, $75 two-day passes For one weekend every summer Brooklyn plays hosts to this multicultural extravaganza that features big-name music acts including Anderson Paak, Gary Clark, Jr. and SZA.

Kendrick Lamar + YG + D.R.A.M.  at Prudential Center; Aug 25; $79.50–$545 K-Dot hits town behind his phenomenal fourth LP,  DAMN,  which features guest spots from the likes of Rihanna and U2 and, of course, absolutely searing lyrical insight from the MC himself.

Lady Gaga  at Citi Field; Aug 28–Aug 29; $113–$995 The self-proclaimed queen of art pop supports last year's country-tinged  Joanne  with ecstatic dancing, power-house singing (and sing-alongs) and plenty of fireworks, literally.

L ucky   at Dixon Place; Aug 1–16; $22–$25 A pratfall-prone young man in the big city tries to find his footing in this full-length work of acrobatic slapstick, conceived and directed by Henry Evans and Tommy McCarthy for Atlas Circus Company.

Prince of Broadway  at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre; Aug 3–Oct 22; $89–$165 This retrospective revue celebrates the peerless Broadway director and producer Harold Prince through numbers from such storied productions as  West Side Story ,  Fiddler on the Roof ,  Cabaret ,  Evita ,  Company ,  Follies  and  Sweeney Todd .

For Peter Pan on Her 70th Birthday  at Playwrights Horizons; Aug 18–Oct 1; $59–$99 Sarah Ruhl's latest play, directed by Les Waters, concerns middle-aged siblings gathered for the death of their elderly father. The steely Kathleen Chalfant plays the eldest child, who once upon a time played Peter Pan onstage. 

Fucking A  at Pershing Square Signature Center; Aug 22–Oct 1; $30 An abortionist tries to secure the freedom of her imprisoned son in Suzan-Lori Parks's 2000 play, a wild Jacobean parable that features Weimar-style songs and snatches of an invented language. Jo Bonney directs the Signature revival.

On the Shore of the Wide World  at Atlantic Theater Company; Aug 23–Oct 8; $66.50–$86.50 An English family tries to regroup after a course-changing event in this domestic drama by Simon Stephens ( The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time ). The Atlantic's Neil Pepe directs the New York premiere.

Lincoln Center Out of Doors  at Lincoln Center; through Aug 13; free Don't miss your chance to see major artists in shows devoted to Bollywood musicals, Eastern European and Central Asian folk music and dance, and West African and West Indian carnival culture.

Battery Dance Festival  at Robert F. Wagner Park (and the Schimmel Center at Pace University); Aug 13–19; free The 36th edition of this free annual celebration welcomes artists from across the United States as well as Spain, Sri Lanka, Dominican Republic, Botswana and Belgium, performing outdoors in front of the sparkling New York Harbor.

Olga Pericet  at  Repertorio Español; Aug 16–Sept 3; $35–$100 Flamenco dancer and choreographer Pericet returns to Repertorio with an evening of Spanish dance, joined by guitarist Antonia Jiménez and singers Manuel Lago and Miguel Lavi.

Beach Sessions  at Beach 86 St; Aug 19, 26; free Rockaway Beach's outdoor dance festival returns with free, sandy offerings by artists including Jodi Melnick, Jon Kinzel and Madeline Hollander, plus and anonymous work about pop iconography called  Fun Young God .

Drive East Festival  at Dixon Place; Aug 21–27; $15–$50 Navatman presents this weeklong festival of South Asian performing art, which includes a variety of classical Indian dance as well as concerts by noted musicians.

“Richard Gerstl” Neue Galerie New York; through Sept 25, $20, seniors $15, students and educators with valid ID $10. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, children under 12 not admitted. First Friday of each month 6–8pm free A small oeuvre (only 90 pieces in all) and an early death may account for why early-20th-century Austrian Expressionist Richard Gerstl (1883-1908) is not as well known as his contemporaries Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. This show, the artist first museum retrospective in the United States, showcases his groundbreaking style with 55 examples of his portraits and landscapes.  

“Hélio Oiticica: To Organize Delirium” Whitney Museum of American Art; through Oct 1, $22; seniors, students $18; 18 and under free A Brazilian artist who pioneered interactive art during the 1970s, Hélio Oiticica, spent his formative years in New York, starting out as geometric abstractionist whose paintings evolved into sensually immersive three-dimensional installations that relied on viewer participation. This is the first U.S. retrospective of his work.

“Mystical Symbolism: The Salon de la Rose + Croix in Paris, 1892–1897” Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum; through Oct 4, $25, seniors (65+) and students with valid ID $18, children under 12 free. Sat 5:45–7:45pm pay what you wish. $25, seniors and students with ID $18, members and children under 12 accompanied by an adult free With its dreamlike and visionary imagery, Symbolism is often cited as being a precursor to Surrealism. But while the Surrealists trafficked in the temporal and psychological discordances of modern life, Symbolists latched onto mythological and mystical subject matter from the past. This exhibition looks back at a series of Symbolist salons that were organized between 1892 and 1897 by Joséphin Péladan, an author, critic and Rosicrucian whose own fascination with mysticism informed his shows.

“Calder: Hypermobility” Whitney Museum of American Art; through Oct 16, $22; seniors, students $18, 18 and under free The important role sound and movement played in the sculpture of American Modern master Alexander Calder is given the spotlight in this roundup of the artist’s kinetic objects.

“Talking Pictures: Camera-Phone Conversations Between Artists” Metropolitan Museum of Art; through Dec 17, suggested donation $25, seniors $17, students $12, members and children under 12 free This exhibit features the results from 12 pairs of artists sending still images and brief videos to one another in a game of visual ping-pong.

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7 Great Things to Do in New York in August

It might almost be time for kids to return to school, but there are a lot of great things to do in New York in August.

Whether you want to enjoy cultural activities, the excitement of a fair, or taste some delicious food, there’s a lot to do in NY during the last full month of summer.

Check out our full list of things to do in New York in August, and start planning your adventures today.

(Article updated July 14, 2024 for events in August 2024.)

The Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in Jamestown – August 1-4

Honoring the vision of the late Lucille Ball, this festival supports and showcases both established and rising comedians in her hometown of Jamestown each year.

Promising to be one of the largest Lucille Ball Comedy Fests ever, this year’s festival will feature some of stand-up comedy’s biggest stars such as Nate Bargatze, Jeff Ross, and Nicole Byer. In addition to these large shows, there will also be dozens of other live events throughout the festival that are sure to keep you entertained.

To find out all the details, visit the festival’s Facebook page .

Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally in Binghamton – August 2-4

If you love Binghamton’s signature dish, the spiedie, you definitely won’t want to miss the annual Spiedie Fest and Balloon Rally being held for the 40th year this August.

This event draws tens of thousands of foodies and hot-air balloon enthusiasts to Central New York for this fun three-day festival. During the event, you’ll be able to sample delicious food, watch hot-air balloon launches or go for a ride, enjoy a car show, concerts with national recording artists, and much more.

For the kids, there will also be a huge kids area with carnival games, wild animals, and much more!

For more information, visit SpiedieFest.com .

Stony Creek Mountain Days Festival in the Adirondacks – August 3-4

If you have ever dreamed of becoming a lumberjack, then the Stony Creek Mountain Days Festival in the Adirondacks is a must-do in New York in August.

The highlight of this one-day festival is the New York State Lumberjack Competitions. You and your family can also enjoy live music, a town-wide garage sale, arts & crafts, free kids’ activities, and much more during this fun-packed festival.

To find out all the details, visit the festival’s website .

Summer Streets in New York City – August 3, 10, and 17

On three Saturdays in August from 7 am until 3 pm, Park Avenue and many connecting streets are closed to cars from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park.

This gives people a chance to not only stroll or run down these empty streets but there are also some great events that coincide with each Summer Streets date. These include live entertainment, free public art displays, and much more.

There will also be streets closed in Brooklyn and the Bronx on August 24.

To find out more, check out the city’s website .

Sterling Renaissance Festival in Cayuga County – Through August 18

Featuring themed weekends, a Queen’s Tea, jousting demonstrations, and much more, the Sterling Renaissance Festival transports you and your family to the English village of Warwick during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

Experience a royal feast with the Queen & members of her court. Shop for handmade and one-of-a-kind artisan crafts at the royal marketplace. Try your luck at authentic games of the Elizabethan period.

For more information, visit the event’s website .

Great New York State Fair in Syracuse – August 21-September 2

Join the over 1 million people who will enjoy the 13-day Great New York State Fair this year! In addition to fun midway rides, the fair will also feature thousands of animals and hundreds of commercial attractions.

Enjoy big-name entertainers like the Chubby Checker, Sister Sledge, and Blue Oyster Cult, among many others. All concerts are provided for free for those that have bought tickets for the fair.

Find out full details here . Note that tickets must be purchased online and are not sold at the gate.

Lewiston Jazz Festival in Niagara County – August 23-24

Head to the historic town of Lewiston, New York for the largest free outdoor jazz music festival in western New York. With over 40,000 visitors each year, this two-day jazz festival features over 30 live performances as well as food & wine tastings.

Looking for more events in New York? Check out our picks for the top things to do in New York in July and the best things to do in New York in September .

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

More places worth exploring in New York

How to Get to High Falls in Franklin County, New York

How to Get to President Chester Arthur’s Grave in Albany, New York

Climbing the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse Near Rochester

Touring the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site in the Hudson Valley

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.

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What to Do in August in NYC

Best events, attractions + activities.

I love that New York is world-class city, with an endless number of attractions, restaurants, parks, and things to do.

If you like to be outside when it's warm to hot, weather-wise, August  tends to run in low to mid-80s. Some days get into the 90s.

To help with your activity options, I've compiled this list. It will give you ideas as to what iconic attractions you can visit, what festivals and holiday events are happening, and what concerts and plays are taking place in June.

This post has been updated for 2024 and includes a top 10 list as well as sections on free events, family-friendly activities, and things to do at night.

For even more suggestions, see our comprehensive guide to things to do in NYC .

• Free Things to Do
• Nighttime Activities
• Family-Friendly
• Free Tours by Foot

TOP 10 ACTIVITIES, EVENTS, AND ATTRACTIONS IN AUGUST

This is our list of the ten best events and things to do in NYC in August.

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

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

• Walking Tours
• Boat Cruises
• Top NYC Attractions

1. Attend a Sports Event

The season may almost be over, but there's still a chance to enjoy baseball in August in addition to other sports.

To see New York's professional baseball teams in play check out the  Mets and Yankees .

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

Football  

If you're interested in football, check out either a Jets or Giants preseason game.

Soccer (Football)

To catch the world's most popular sport, head to a game with the  New York City FC or the New York Red Bulls .

The U.S. Open Tennis Tournament runs from August 26th -September 8th, 2024.

Check out Stubhub for other sports events in August .

For additional things to do in New York City with the family, check out the family-friendly section below.

2. Attend a Concert

Music is all around the NYC area in August!

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

• Imagine Dragons | August 2, 4
• Green Day | August 5
• The Doobie Brothers | August 6, 7
• Journey and Ref Leppard | August 7
• Melissa Etheridge and Indigo Girls | August 20

Check out this list of other August performances  in the New York City. You'll find artists such as Train, Missy Elliott, New Kids on the Block, Creed, Air Supply, Jennifer Lopez, Stray Cats, Violent Femmes, and many more.

• Sad Summer Festival 2024 | The Roodtop at Pier 17 | August 1
• Serpent Festival | The Rooftop at Pier 17 | August 4
• Summer Scream Festival | The Meadows | August 17
• TSQ Live | Times Square | August 20, 21, 22, 23

If you didn't already know, Madison Square Garden offers an  All Access Tour  where you can see behind the scenes.

3. Take in a Broadway Show

Seeing a performance on Broadway is a must-do activity when you're in New York City!

Here are a few popular musicals running in August 2024:

• & Juliet
• Aladdin: The Musical
• Back to the Future the Musical
• Book of Mormon
• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
• The Lion King
• Little Shop of Horrors
• MJ The Musical
• Monty Python's Spamalot
• Moulin Rouge! The Musical
• Shrek the Musical
• Sweeney Todd
• The Who's Tommy
• Search for the show here  and you'll find performance dates and times, as well as tickets.

On a budget? Check out our post on  how to get cheap tickets to Broadway shows .

TIP:  Broadway lovers can take  guided tours of Broadway (including Backstage Access )! 

4. Take a Walking Tour 

August is an excellent month to take a walking tour pretty much anywhere in New York City.

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

• Brooklyn Bridge
• Lower Manhattan
• Greenwich Village
• Central Park

For more ideas, check our schedule of pay-what-you-wish walking tours.

5. See a Free Performance of Shakespeare in the Park  | On Hold until 2025

Every summer, the Public Theater puts on two Shakespeare plays at the outdoor Delacorte Theater in Central Park. 

Tickets are entirely free but will require some work on your part to get one.

Be sure to check out our post explaining  the 5 ways to get tickets to Shakespeare in the Park .

If you do get a ticket, or even if you don't, make sure to spend some time in Central Park while you're in the area.

Read our post about  things to do in Central Park  for some ideas.

NOTE:  In 2024 the theatre is under construction so there won't be any Shakespeare in the Park. However, there will be a screening of Much Ado About Nothing in a few different parks in July.  Check here for more information.

6. Check out a Live Comedy Show

New York is place many of today's best comedians got their start.

It's chock full of comedy clubs where well known and on-their-way-up comedians are entertaining the crowds.

Stand Up Comedy

• Jared Freid | August 3
• John Oliver & Seth Meyers | August 18

Comedy Clubs

• Broadway Comedy Club
• Eastville Comedy Club
• The Comedy Cellar
• Greenwich Village Comedy Club

Note that there are tours of both Radio City Music Hall and Madison Square Garden , each of them included on at least one New York City Tourist Passes .

7. Soar to the Top of a Skyscraper

In summer, the city's tallest observation decks stay open late.

The Empire State Building | Top of the Rock | One World Trade Center Observatory | and Summit One Vanderbilt all give you fantastic views of New York City.

If you aren't sure which view is best for you, read our post about the pros and cons of each of them.

There are also free options and you can find them in our post, where to get the best free skyline views of NYC .

8. Attend Free Outdoor Movie Screenings

Free, fun, and occurring almost every night of the summer!

The most well-known is  Bryant Park Movie Night  which usually runs on Mondays from mid-June to mid-August.

This is an especially popular event, so go early to grab a spot on the lawn. Bring a picnic basket too!

Some other places to see movies outdoors are:

• Movies Under the Stars  - May - September nightly, outdoor movie screenings at parks all over the city!
• Central Park Film Festival  - last week of August on the lawn near the Sheep Meadow in  Central Park .
• Films on the Green  - June-September. French films are shown in various parks throughout the city.
• Flicks on the Beach  - July-August. Family-friendly screens at Coney Island Luna Park. Spend the day at  Coney Island  first!

For even more sites to visit, visit our post about a movie with a view .

Check out more free things to do , including more weekly outdoor movies, below!

9. View Great Street Art

New York City is undoubtedly one of the best cities in the world to see street art and murals.

You can see masterpieces for free if you know where to look. 

We can help you discover the latest, greatest pieces of street art around NYC if you join us on one of our pay-what-you-like Street Art Tours .

We have tours in both Manhattan and Brooklyn , including a tour of Bushwick and its highly-regarded  Bushwick Collective Street Art Gallery

If you can’t make it to one of our tours or prefer to move at your own pace, enjoy our Bushwick Collective self-guided tour to explore the area and find the best art.

10. Utilize a City Pass

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

Attractions Available on Passes Include:

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

These passes save you money by bundling dozens of popular attractions and tours into one discounted 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 .

FREE THINGS TO DO IN AUGUST

Below are just a few of the hundreds of free things you can do in NYC during August. And be sure to read the other sections of this post for more ideas.

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

Enjoy Free Music in Bryant Park

Each year Bryant Park presents Picnic Performances .

This free outdoor festival brings music and dance to the crowds.

Attire is casual, picnic blankets can be borrowed, and attendees may bring food or purchase it on-site.

If you miss these performances, find out how to get discount tickets for Broadway shows here .

Charlie Parker Jazz Festival in Harlem

This annual free event, now in its 32nd year, offers the public three evenings of free music featuring the music of jazz legend Charlie Parker.

Dates for 2024 haven't been released yet, but it's usually in late August. Events have taken place in Harlem's Marcus Garvey Park and Tompkins Square Park in the East Village.

For more details click here .

Parker used to play jam sessions in Harlem. You might also find our post on  things to do in Harlem  or come along on our pay-what-you one of our Harlem Tours .

Note that Harlem Week , a celebration of the best of Harlem, takes place August 7th - August 18th, 2024.

Kayak Under the Brooklyn Bridge

Head over to Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO to enjoy a free 20-minute kayak ride.  You can get an up-close look at the Brooklyn Bridge.

It's safe and unlike anything you have done before.

Click here for more information.

Find out about some other ways to get out on NYC's waters for free or cheaply, such as riding the Staten Island Ferry .

Summer Streets

Each August, on Saturdays, select streets are closed off from 7 am to 1 pm to vehicular traffic. This is Summer Streets !

While cars are not allowed, every other mode of transport is.

People can walk, run, bike, play, and generally enjoy nearly 7 miles (11 km) of Park Avenue between the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park.

There are an additional 13 miles of summer streets in the other boroughs as well!

2024 dates and events have not been posted yet, but details should be coming to their website soon.

Good Morning America Concert Series

Great for early birds and lovers of top pop stars! Many musical artists head to Bryant Park for the free GMA Summer Concert Series .

To see a taping of Good Morning America , see our post on how to attend a live TV show taping .

For More Free Things to Do

THINGS TO DO AT NIGHT IN AUGUST

Many of the activities included in our other sections can be enjoyed at night as well, but here are a few more ideas on how to spend a great night in August in NYC.

For even more ideas, see our post,  Things to Do in New York City at Night .

Take a Night Bus Tour

A night tour on an open-top double-decker bus is a wonderful way to see more of the city while giving your feet a break from all that walking!

With so many tours out there, you may want to read our post comparing New York City bus tours  as you might decide this is a good way to spend your night in New York.

Many tourist passes include a night tour by bus, so you may want to look at our post comparing NYC Tourist Passes  before buying tickets.

Walk over the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge can be walked over 24 hours a day, although we definitely do not recommend you take a 4 am stroll.

For those who want some guidance to enjoy the Bridge when the sun goes down, join us for our combined 911 Memorial and Brooklyn Bridge Night Tour . 

Enjoy an Evening Concert

Head to Bric Celebrate Brooklyn! to enjoy an annual festival of free concerts

The concerts are held at the Bandshell in Prospect Park in Park Slope .

The 2024 season line-up hasn't been announced as of May, but to be just as exciting as previous years.

For even more things to do in New York at might, see our New York City Summer Guide .

Stargaze with an Astronomer

Every Tuesday in August, head to the one-of-a-kind High Line Park to gaze at the stars, planets, and moon through high-powered telescopes.

The activity is free, and experts are on hand to answer any astronomical questions.

Click here for more information. 

You could go early and take a free High Line Tour !

Learn more about the High Line, with our  guide to the High Line  or our  GPS audio tour .

Enjoy a Movie on the Intrepid

For a view unlike any other, head to the Intripid, an aircraft carrier whose exhibits include a Concorde, a submarine, a space shuttle, and much more.

They have a Free Friday and Movie Night Series t on August 23, 2024.

This is a fun way to spend an evening in NYC. This is also a kid-friendly activity. Plan your visit and learn about additional discounts.

For even more ideas, see our post,  Things to Do in New York Ci t y at Night .

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN AUGUST

Many things in the other sections of this post are certainly family-friendly. Below are a few more things to do with kids in August in NYC.

Check out our posts  Top 10 Things  to Do with Kids in New York City  or our  3-day itinerary for families .

Summer Fun at Coney Island

Visit  Coney Island  and find out just how much there is to do at this legendary New York seaside spot.

Head to Luna Park , one of the best amusement parks in the NYC area to ride the Thunderbolt. This 115-foot-tall roller coaster reaches up to 55 miles per hour!

Don't worry there are plenty of rides for kids and those weak of heart.

Afterward, walk along the Boardwalk to the New York Aquarium , where you can see penguins, harbor seals, otters, and more.

TIP:  Luna Park is included with the NY Pass , while both Luna Park and the Aquarium are included in the  Sightseeing Pass .

Get out on the water!

Cool off with cool views of New York City. It doesn't cost much to get out into the beautiful NYC Harbor.

Xheck out the many New York Boat Tours and Excursions you can take, such as the Circle Line and other affordable, fun cruises.

Consider taking a ride on the East River Ferry which costs the same as a subway ride but with a much nicer view.

Visit Little Island

In Hudson River Park, near the Meatpacking Districk, you'll find Little Island Park .

This park sits on 132 "tulip-like" concrete piles in the Hudson river and is described as "a lush, seasonal, landscape with rolling hills, winding pathways, and dazzling views, coupled with programming that includes music, dance, theater, poetry, comedy and art workshops for all ages."

Items in the playground include spinning chairs, dance chimes, and a Sing for Hope piano.

Tickets for performances gains you entry to the park so no additional tickets are needed.

There are also free performances Wednesday-Sunday in The Glade.

Take a Bike Tour

With expanded bike paths and a bicycle-friendly attitude, NYC is a great place for kids to ride a bike and explore the city.

Consider joining us for a pay-what-you-wish bike tour!  

See our post about  New York Bike Tours + Rentals .

Visit a Farm

You'll find all sorts of four-legged friends at the Queens County Farm Museum, on land which has been farmed since 1697!

The farm offers free admission to the general public (except on special admission days).

They also offer hayrides from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm on weekdays, and 11:00 am - 4:00 pm on weekends.

You can stroll the fields and gardens, feed the animals, and enjoy a picnic. They also have a seasonal farmstand, an apiary, a farm store/welcome center, and more.

Visit their website to plan your visit.

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August in New York City: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Roman Königshofer / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0

While tourists flock to New York City for the last month of summer vacation, many residents flee to the cooler coastline or take country escapes during August, so the city feels less crowded. Just make sure to pack light to beat the rather hot and oppressively humid weather for most of the month.

If you visit New York City in August, you will find plenty of great activities, multicultural celebrations, free events, and summer fun while you're in town, including Shakespeare in the Park, Harlem Week, and Bryant Park Movie Nights.

Some events have been canceled or altered for 2020, so check event websites or below for details.

New York City Weather in August

August can be quite hot and humid. The average high for the month is 83 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius), although temperatures can reach upward of 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). Evenings cool off, with an average low of 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius).

When planning travel to New York City in August, prepare for the possibility of humidity and rain. With an average humidity of 66 percent, you can expect to really feel the wet heat this month. Additionally, rainfall is expected on at least 9.5 days of the month, meaning you might encounter a quick shower on at least one day of your trip.

What to Pack

If you're visiting earlier in the month when temperatures are at their hottest, it is helpful to pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable closed-toe shoes, which are water-resistant if possible. Bring items like shorts, T-shirts, tank tops, linen pants, sundresses, and loose clothing in general. However, you should also be prepared for chillier evenings later in the month and rain throughout August, so it is a good idea to bring an umbrella and raincoat. Don't forget a light sweater or waterproof jacket for keeping warm in the air-conditioned museums and stores—or after sunset. In addition, pack a picnic blanket for checking out free concerts and movies, and a water bottle to stay hydrated as you sweat.

August Events in New York City

While there are no official holidays in August, there are still plenty of free and ticketed events, festivals, and celebrations happening across the city. From cinematic showcases such as the Central Park Conservancy Film Festival and Bryant Park Movie Nights to theatrical performances like Shakespeare in the Park, you're sure to find something to do on your trip to New York City in August.

• Harlem Week : This annual celebration of the history, culture, and strength of the Harlem community will be held virtually in 2020 and runs from August 16 to 23. The festival theme this year is "Movement of the People." Typically the event includes seminars, music, food, sports, and more.
• Bryant Park Movie Nights : Whether the 2020 event will take place is undecided as of mid-July, so check the website for updates. Bryant Park's film showcase all summer screens favorite flicks at sunset time, with food and wine for sale.
• Major League Baseball and WNBA Basketball : The New York Yankees and the New York Mets play baseball in August but no fans are allowed to attend games in 2020, while the New York Liberty women's basketball team plays games elsewhere throughout the month.
• Central Park Conservancy Film Festival : These free evening film screenings take place at Sheep Meadow from August 11 through 14, 2020. The event is weather permitting.
• Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival : This event is canceled for 2020. Each year people gather in Flushing Meadows Park for a free parade and dragon boat races, global artists, traditional Asian folk arts and crafts demos, and more.
• Shakespeare in the Park : Events have been canceled for 2020. Since 1954, The Public Theater has presented Shakespeare plays annually at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park.

August Travel Tips

• If it's too hot for a walking tour, check out some of New York City's bus tours .
• Take advantage of the many summer concerts and outdoor film festivals, most of which are free. If you attend these events in New York City parks, bring a blanket and a picnic dinner, though there are often blankets for sale and dinners you can order nearby.
• Drink plenty of water, as it's easy to get dehydrated when it's really hot and you're out exploring the concrete jungle.
• Flights and accommodations are typically at lower prices this month . Also, since locals often go out of town on August weekends, it is usually easier to get reservations at some of the city's best restaurants.

Related Articles

More related articles.

New York in August

What to do in new york in august.

New York is an incredible city that can be visited all year round, and many tourists decide to go during the summer. But what does the city really look like in the middle of August? What is the weather like in New York in August? What to do in the city during that month? What is the budget? What are the big New York events in August? You'll find the answers to all these questions and more in the following lines 🙂

NEW YORK'S CLIMATE IN AUGUST

At the height of summer, New York is hot. On average, temperatures vary from 23°C to 29°C during the day. The thermometer even quite regularly exceeds 30°C in the middle of the day. Much like the rest of the year, the weather is relatively wet, with an average of 10 days of rain during the month. But these rainy spells are mostly very short and shouldn't bother you during your visits to the city, especially since New York has no shortage of indoor activities to do on rainy days.

August is the perfect month to go to the beach in New York and swim in the Atlantic Ocean . The water, which is freezing most of the year, can exceed 25°C during August.

There is also plenty of sunshine, with days lasting almost 14 hours on average. The temperatures remain mild in the middle of the night, and you will have no problem spending your mornings and evenings outdoors. All in all, the weather conditions are really favourable for travelling to New York in August .

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN NEW YORK IN AUGUST?

Before starting to describe the most enjoyable activities in August in New York, it is important to remember that all of New York’s major attractions remain accessible even during the summer holidays.

In August, you will as usual be able to visit the city’s emblematic monuments and museums (the Statue of Liberty , the Brooklyn Bridge , the Met, the Moma...), discover its most famous neighbourhoods  (Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Wall Street...), attend Broadway musicals , or go to the great panoramic observatories (Top of the Rock, the Summit, the Edge...).

But summer, and especially August, is the perfect time for a lot of outdoor activities and visits.

DO A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES IN THE CITY'S PARKS

On the hottest days of August, why not cool off and have a great time in one of New York's parks?

The most famous of them is of course Central Park , but other green spaces such as Hudson Square Park ,  Bryant Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park  are also very enjoyable during the summer. You can rent a bike or a rowing boat , or just relax in the shade and enjoy a nice picnic.

Many other activities are also organised in these parks, such as yoga or fitness classes, chess or backgammon games – and you may even join some of them for free.

Have you considered buying a tourist pass? 🎫 

If you want to discover the city’s main sites during your trip to New York, I recommend the New York City Pass . With this tourist pass, you will enjoy many benefits throughout your stay, including the access to 5 main tourist sites. You will even be able to pick the activities you prefer (2 fixed activities + 3 activities you can select) 🙂

ENJOYING THE BEACHES OF NEW YORK

New York is not like Los Angeles or Miami, where beaches can be enjoyed almost all year round. But if there is a time when swimming in the sea is possible in New York, it is during the month of August! In all, New York has more than 20 km of sandy beaches, not to mention the presence of other equally beautiful beaches nearby, in New Jersey. Here are some of the beaches where you can go to sunbathe and swim in the Atlantic Ocean:

• Coney Island   in Brooklyn, is the city's most famous beach. It's very crowded in the summer, and you'll find the Luna Park amusement park right next door.
• South Beach in Staten Island, is a beautiful two-mile long beach with a view of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge.
• Orchard Beach , in the Bronx, is located in the heart of Pelham Bay Park, and you will find many beach volleyball courts, basketball courts, and picnic areas.
• Rockaway Beach , in Queens, is a popular beach for water sports enthusiasts. It is the only beach in the city where surfing is allowed, and it is also possible to kayak and stand-up paddle.

SEE A BASEBALL GAME IN NEW YORK IN AUGUST

There are no NBA, NHL or NFL games in August, but that doesn't mean you won't be able to see some great matches during your stay in New York at this time of year. The MLB regular season is in full swing in July, and you'll be able to catch some exciting baseball games at the Yankee Stadium – home to the Yankees , New Yorkers’ favourite team.

Baseball is not a widely followed sport in Europe, but attending a game in New York is a unique experience that is sure to leave you with fond memories, even if you are not a specialist. In the Yankee Stadium, you will really feel the city's passion for the sport.

The best accommodation plan in New York

If you haven’t decided yet where to stay in New York during your trip, I recommend the Irving Manor , located in the Harlem district. It is probably one of the nicest and most affordable accommodations you will find in the city. It's also very close to the underground station, and it will take about 20 minutes only to get to the centre. On top of that, there are many restaurants in the area. Expect prices around £120  for one night 🙂

MAJOR EVENTS IN NEW YORK IN AUGUST

The us open.

Every year, this major Grand Slam tournament takes place in New York between the end of August and the start of September. The US Open brings together all the world's greatest tennis players in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park , for 2 weeks of competitions.

NEW YORK CITY RESTAURANT WEEK

Twice a year (once in winter and once in summer), it's possible to indulge in some of New York's best restaurants without making a huge dent in your budget. The summer edition of the New York City Restaurant Week is usually held in July or August, and actually lasts much longer than a week.

During this event, all menus at participating restaurants are at a fixed price. This means that you can have lunch or dinner at these restaurants for between $29 and $59 – which may seem expensive, but is actually much lower than the prices these restaurants normally charge.

Harlem Week

Harlem Week  is an annual celebration of African-American, Hispanic, European and Caribbean history and culture. The week-long event celebrates the heritage of New York's iconic neighbourhood with concerts, dance performances and street performers.

Summer Streets in NYC

In Manhattan, and on three consecutive Saturdays, an entire stretch of the island going from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park becomes entirely pedestrianised during the month of August. During Summer Streets , , the streets are closed to traffic usually from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., and many activities are organised such as concerts, dance contests, jogging or mini-golf courses.

GOING TO NEW YORK IN AUGUST: THE PROS AND CONS

To summarise, here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of travelling to New York in July. There are mainly two big disadvantages that might deter people who want to visit the city during that month:

• The prices are high .  Whether for airfare or hotel rooms, July is one of the most expensive times to travel to New York. However, this is somewhat offset by the fact that many activities are free during the summer.
• The tourist numbers are very high. July is the peak season in New York, so there are a lot of visitors and you may have to organise your days a little to avoid being hindered in your visits. Public sites are often crowded, and I recommend you book your tickets online whenever possible, so as to avoid having to queue up for the biggest attractions in New York.

Travelling to New York in August therefore requires a bit of planning and a slightly more comfortable budget than at other times of the year. Fortunately, there is more advantages of travelling to New York in summer that make up for these disadvantages:

• August is the hottest month of the year in New York. In fact, it can actually be too hot, but the weather is usually very pleasant – and there are plenty of activities to cool you down on those days when the temperatures get too high.
• All of New York's major must-see attractions are open for visits.
• You can also do a lot of free activities , especially in the city's parks or on New York's beaches.
• You will also have the opportunity to attend and participate in major annual events that take place only in August.

And here's the end of this article! Hope that gave you an idea of what to expect during the month of August. If you are still unsure about the best time for your trip, you can compare with other months. Check out my article New York in September for example!

Or for any other month of the year... Just type the month of your choice in the search bar and you will find the relevant article! 😉

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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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THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN NYC THIS AUGUST

August 1, 2022 | stefanie dimartino.

By: Stefanie DiMartino

August is here, but summer in NYC isn’t over yet! From the biggest dance party to champagne brunch to kayaking for free, there are tons of great things going on in the city this month! I’m sharing the best things to do and see, the best in dining/drinks, and the best entertainment and art/exhibits. These are my top NYC picks for this August!

The Top 16 Best Things to do in NYC this August

Things to do/see + parties, poster house block party.

Poster House, 119 West 23rd Street, New York, NY 10011

Saturday, August 6, 2022 | 12-5pm | FREE!

Poster House , the first museum in the United States dedicated exclusively to posters, is hosting their first-ever block party! 

“Join us on Saturday August 6 from 12–5pm in the Flatiron Plaza for a fun-filled day of activities, free museum tours, performances, giveaways, and more! Attendees also get free admission to Poster House all day. With a full slate of activations and performances, there’s something for everyone! Stay tuned for the full performance lineup, and be sure to register to be the first to receive exciting updates.” – Poster House 

DANCE PARTY NYC

Saturday, August 6, 2022 | Various locations | FREE!

The biggest, simultaneous dance party NYC has ever seen is happening on Saturday, August 6. Taking place at over 80 locations, New Yorkers across all five boroughs are encouraged to get on their feet and bust a move! This dance party is taking place to celebrate the comeback of New York! 

PEACHES AND WINE FESTIVAL

Weed Orchards & Winery, 43 Mount Zion Road, Marlboro, NY 12542

Every weekend in August! | 11am-5pm | $10+

For a city escape this August, head up north for the Peaches and Wine Festival! 

“The Peaches and Wine Festival will be a special experience where guests can pick-your-own peaches, enjoy delicious peach food & drinks specials, enjoy live music, and beautiful views at the farm and winery. Special menu items will include Peach Sangria, Drunken Peach Sangria, Peach Wine Slushies, Peach Bacon Pizza, Peach Balsamic Chicken Sandwich, and many more. This event is family and kid friendly. Children 5 and under are free.” – Weed Orchards & Winery 

SWINGERS CRAZY GOLF NOMAD

35 West 29th Street, New York, NY 10001

Tuesday-Sunday | $26+ | Age 21+

For adult-only crazy golf and fun, you must check out Swingers! This space has three crazy golf courses, six cocktail bars, and four gourmet street food brands! 

“ Swingers , the crazy golf club, has reinvented mini golf for an adult audience by adding gourmet street food, cocktails and a party atmosphere. The idea behind Swingers was to create the most ridiculously fun venue possible. That’s why we teamed crazy golf with delicious street food, sensational cocktails and top-notch service in a totally unique, theatrical space. We think it’s the perfect place to lose a few hours – come and try it for yourself!” Swingers/Matt Grech-Smith

GAME OF 1000 BOXES

Lightbox, 248 West 37th Street, New York, NY 10018 

Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays | $39+ 

Be sure to catch Game of 1000 Boxes this August! It’s NYC’s first and only live game show experience. It’s a fun experience to do with friends, family, coworkers, dates – anyone! 

“Game of 1000 Boxes is part live game show, part audio-visual thrill ride. Step into the projection-mapped venue, drenched in 360° visuals, for a 1-hour long experience with a dozen ever-evolving games! No two shows are exactly the same, with a narrative of twists and turns that go from raucous to sublime. Easy to play, but maybe impossible to master. Team up with your friends for a rollercoaster of high-energy party games that tap into teamwork, reaction time, puzzle-solving, trivia, social strategy and more!” – Game of 1000 Boxes

KAYAKING ON THE HUDSON

Pier 96 Boathouse, 56th Street in Hudson River Park, New York, NY 10019

Now – October 9, 2022 | Saturdays & Sundays, 12pm-6pm | FREE!

NYC is known as a concrete jungle, but you can enjoy time on the water too! August is the perfect time to enjoy some water sports. Manhattan Community Boathouse offers kayaking on the Hudson River, for free! Kayaking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not required, but you can sign up in advance. 

Note: You will get wet, so dress accordingly! 

111 West 32nd Street, New York, NY 10001

Extended until September! | Thurs-Sun, 10am-9:30pm | Adults $36 , Ages 4-12, $29 , Under 3, FREE! 

The sweetest exhibit in all of NYC has been extended through early September. Candytopia is museum exhibit meets art installation meets interactive show. The minute you step off the elevator, you know you’re in for a sweet treat. The space is 24,000 square feet with 17 detailed and interactive rooms. It’s a full sensory experience unlike any other. Some of the fun exhibits include the signature Candytopia marshmallow pit, a New York-centric candy art room, a colorful candy confetti room (and trust me, you will find confetti long after you leave), as well as an infinity mirror room, Ring Swing Garden, Sugar High Theater (where the s’mores pillows actually smell like s’mores), and an indoor zip-line! The exhibits are really thought out and detailed and everything in Candytopia provides an amazing Instagram-worthy photo opportunity! 

So, unleash your inner kid and enjoy the sugar rush! Candytopia is unbridled fun for all ages and sure to be an unforgettable experience.

SEA THE CITY HOT TUB TOUR

Liberty Landing Marina, 84 Audrey Zapp Dr., Jersey City, NJ 07305

Sea The City  is a unique experience all year round, but is the perfect summertime activity! They offer hot tub boat tours, yes, you read that right. Hot tubs ON a boat! Truly, this is a one-of-a-kind experience that you do not want to miss!

This boat has two full size hot tubs on it and sails to the Statue of Liberty and back, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. I went with about 20 friends (10 per hot tub). The ride is BYOB and 90 minutes long. Coolers, Ice, and Cups are provided free of charge. Don’t miss it this summer!

PS: For FREE towels on your tour, write  FUNK TOWELS  in the booking comments and let them know that you got the idea from me!

FUNKY EXPERIENCES

Saturdays, Sundays, Custom day + time |  Starting at $49+

I love New York City so much that I started a tourism company here. We offer a variety of tours around the city, from history, to sightseeing, to shopping, and one of my favorites – our food tour! 

Rated 5-stars on TripAdvisor and the winner of the “best of the best” award in NYC, you definitely do not want to miss out on any of these amazing tours! There are different tour options available to choose from to fit your interests AND your budget! For a truly unique experience, book a custom-designed private tour with our expert NYC guides!

Brand new to our tour lineup is the Must-See Manhattan tour with tickets to the Top of the Rock included ! That’s right, this experience not only shows you Manhattan’s most iconic sites during a 2-hour walking tour but also includes Top of the Rock tickets. You’ll end with breathtaking views of the city’s skyline on a historic skyscraper! How cool is that?

Visit and learn the unique history of iconic sites such as Times Square, Grand Central, the NY Public Library, Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and more! Plus, we’ll take you inside Grand Central for an exclusive tour of its secrets.

For the best of both worlds, with food and sightseeing, consider joining the  Best of New York Food Tour  offered on Sunday mornings. The tour includes  five  dishes at delicious restaurants and a historic walking tour through Brooklyn!

Another option is to join the  Secrets of New York Tour  on Saturday mornings and visit hidden locations in lower Manhattan and learn secrets most New Yorkers don’t even know! Tours book up fast, so get your tickets today!

Planning a vacation to NYC? If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to begin, we are here to help! With Funky Tours Concierge , our team of experts can help you plan your dream NYC vacation! You can make your NYC trip and experience more special with custom-designed plans that fit your budget and your unique interests.

DINING/DRINKS

Nyc restaurant week.

Now – August 21, 2022 

Restaurant Week is a New York City staple! Restaurant Week takes place twice a year, in summer and winter. This summer, NYC Restaurant Week is celebrating its 30th anniversary – how amazing is that? In honor of it’s 30th, it’s going to last for 30 days! There are tons of special prix-fixe menus to choose from at hundreds of NYC’s best restaurants across all five boroughs.

CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH

Gallow Green, 542 West 27th Street, New York, NY 10001

Saturdays & Sundays, August-September | 10am-2pm | $55+

Gallow Green is surely the dreamiest green rooftop in NYC! And what summer weekend is complete without brunch? Take it up a level and enjoy Champagne Brunch at Gallow Green every Saturday & Sunday in August and September! I love it so much because the vibes are amazing and the food is always delicious! 

“Included with your ticket will be live music by MK Groove, Gallow Green’s famous rooftop buffet and our flowing full champagne bar. Featuring a variety of savory dishes, omelette stations, carving station with whole baked Salmon and crispy Suckling Pig, vegetarian choices and homemade breads, french toast, and dessert.” – Gallow Green

MUSEUM + ART EXHIBITIONS

Whitney biennial 2022: quiet as it’s kept.

Ending September 5, 2022 | $25+ 

Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort Street, New York, NY 10014

“The Whitney Biennial has surveyed the landscape of American art, reflecting and shaping the cultural conversation, since 1932. The eightieth edition of the landmark exhibition is co-curated by David Breslin, DeMartini Family Curator and Director of Curatorial Initiatives, and Adrienne Edwards, Engell Speyer Family Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs. Titled Quiet as It’s Kept, the 2022 Biennial features an intergenerational and interdisciplinary group of sixty-three artists and collectives whose dynamic works reflect the challenges, complexities, and possibilities of the American experience today.” – The Whitney Museum of American Art

BROADWAY + SHOWS

Tina: the tina turner musical.

Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, 205 West 46th Street, New York, NY 10036

Last Chance! Ending August 14 | $94+

Broadway, music, and Tina Turner fans – this show is for you! It’s ending August 14, so if you haven’t seen it yet and it’s been on your show list, get tickets now! 

“With raw emotion in her voice and fire in her belly, Tina went from the little girl in small-town Tennessee to the legend that ignited the globe with hits like, “What’s Love Got To Do With It,” “Proud Mary,” “Private Dancer” and “River Deep.” She made her own rules—defying the world’s notions of race, age and gender. And it took blood, sweat, tears and triumphs to reach the top. This is Tina’s story, her way.” – Tina: The Tina Turner Musical 

BROADWAY SINGS SERIES

Whitney houston.

Sony Hall, 235 West 46th Street, New York, NY 10036

August 8, 2022 | 8pm | $40+

Hear Broadway powerhouses sing the songs of the iconic powerhouse Whitney Houston. 

“The team behind the acclaimed Broadway Sings concert series is thrilled to present its next large-scale show,  Broadway Sings Whitney Houston . Dubbed “sheer brilliance” by the  New York Times , Broadway Sings rearranges pop stars’ hits to highlight the spectacular vocals of major Broadway stars, backed by a full orchestra playing original orchestrations. Join us to hear this iconic music sung in a fresh, new way by the best voices Broadway has to offer, with songs including “I Will Always Love You,” “So Emotional,” “I Have Nothing” and “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” – Broadway Sings

Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street, New York, NY 10012

August 27, 2022 | 7:30pm | $50+

“Listen to Beyoncé’s best hits as performed by Broadway stars! Broadway Sings brings to life the greatest artists of our time in a fresh, new way. You’ll be singing along to all of your favorite songs and dancing the night away as the talented singers and orchestra pay homage to the pop superstar that is Beyoncé. It all makes for a high-energy musical party you won’t soon forget. Get your tickets for Broadway Sings Beyoncé: The Experience in New York!” – Broadway Sings 

COMPANY XIV: SEVEN SINS

Théâtre XIV, 383 Troutman Street, Brooklyn, NY 11237

Last Chance! Ending August  | $105+ | Age 21+

Sadly coming to an end this month is Company XIV’s Seven Sins. If you have not had the chance to see this show, do it now! 

Sinning has never been sexier! Seven Sins is based on the creation story of Adam and Eve – but with a provocative twist. Temptation is all around and it’s surely a feast for the senses. As is typical of a Company XIV show, it combines burlesque, acrobatics, aerial arts, theatre, dancing, and singing. All of this is rolled up into one incredible show and an unforgettable night. Seriously, there is no sexier date night than one spent relishing in Seven Sins. 

The show is enthralling, enticing, hedonistic, entertaining, imaginative, provocative, sexy, and simply put, ah-mazing! Enjoy a curated list of immersive cocktails, champagne, absinthe and treats. I highly recommend the Champagne Couch for Two! It offers a great stage view and with a half bottle of champagne included, you have the secret sauce to a sexy date night in NYC. Company XIV consistently puts on productions that rival Broadway. And, the show has the most talented and good-looking people I’ve ever seen. The seven sins are all distinct and easily identified and interpreted in the most creative ways. I really cannot say enough good things about this show. Get tickets while you still can! 

In conclusion, these are the top 16 best things to do in NYC this August. Have fun and stay safe!

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New York City in August: 10 Exciting Things To Do in NYC

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Weather in New York City in August

What to Pack to Visit New York City in August 

10 Things to Do in New York City in August

1. enjoy the sun in central park  .

Address: New York, NY, United States Hours: Everyday - 06:00 AM to 01:00 AM 

2. Have a day out at an NYC beach 

3. catch a broadway show , 4. enjoy the harlem week .

5. Witness the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival 

6. go sightseeing on a jet ski , 7. visit the new york city museums .

8. Shop at Fifth Avenue 

9. Pay a visit to the Bronx Zoo

Address: 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx Park, Bronx, New York, 10460 Hours: Monday to Friday - 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM, Saturday to Sunday - 10:00 AM to 05:30 PM 

10. Take a food tour 

Tips for travelling to new york city in august.

This post was published by Anwesha Nag

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New York City   Travel Guide

Best Times To Visit New York City

The best time to visit New York is anytime . Each season in Gotham offers visitors plenty of reasons to visit. Early fall offers crisp breezes, bright sun and comfortable temperatures while late fall and winter make merry with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and holiday decorations. Deep winter – January and February – is cold, but that also means cheaper hotel rates . Spring is glorious and New Yorkers celebrate the thaw by taking to the streets, shopping at outdoor markets, frolicking in Central Park and dining outside. Summer is hot, but hey, so are lots of places, and at least this is New York. No matter when you decide to visit New York City, consider travel protection – such as a  travel insurance policy or a cancel for any reason plan – in the event you encounter weather issues or trip delays.

Weather in New York City

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit New York City

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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

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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!

Solo Female Travel in New York: Is it Safe?

What NOT to Do in New York

The Best 124 Things to Do in Harlem

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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Telegram Becomes Free Speech Flashpoint After Founder’s Arrest

Pavel Durov, the founder of the app, which has more than 900 million users, was taken into custody by the French authorities.

By Adam Satariano Paul Mozur and Aurelien Breeden

Adam Satariano reported from London, Paul Mozur from Taipei, Taiwan, and Aurelien Breeden from Sigottier, France.

Telegram, founded in 2013 by the Russian entrepreneur Pavel Durov, has grown into one of the world’s largest online communication tools and is central to everyday life in countries like Russia, Ukraine and India for messaging, getting independent news and exchanging views.

The company’s growth — it now has more than 900 million users — has been driven partly by a commitment to free speech. Telegram’s light oversight of what people say or do on the platform has helped people living under authoritarian governments communicate and organize. But it has also made the app a haven for disinformation, far-right extremism and other harmful content.

Many were shocked when reports emerged on Saturday across French news media that Mr. Durov had been arrested in France on charges related to the spread of illicit material on the service. A French judicial official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation, confirmed on Sunday evening that Mr. Durov was in police custody. As word spread online over the weekend, news of his detention became a flashpoint in a continuing debate about free speech on the internet.

Elon Musk, the owner of X, which has adopted a similarly hands-off approach to content moderation, posted “#FreePavel” on his X account. “It’s 2030 in Europe and you’re being executed for liking a meme,” he also said.

Leonid Volkov, formerly a top adviser to Aleksei A. Navalny, the Russian opposition leader who died in prison last year, wrote on Telegram that although the platform had become a useful tool for criminals, Mr. Durov should be released. “Durov is not an ‘accomplice’ to the crimes committed by Telegram users,” he said.

The reaction over the news of the arrest showed how concerns about free expression, censorship and government oversight of online content are rising at a time when regulatory scrutiny of speech on the internet around the world has ramped up. National governments, especially those in the European Union, have intensified pressure on companies to address disinformation, online extremism, child safety and the spread of illicit material.

Telegram has long been on the radar of law enforcement agencies around the world because terrorist organizations, drug sellers, weapons dealers and far-right extremist groups have used it for communicating, recruiting and organizing.

Mr. Durov , 39, was arrested at Le Bourget Airport near Paris after landing on a private plane from Azerbaijan, according to French news reports. The French judicial official said on Sunday evening that his time in custody had been extended. Under French law, the initial 24 hours spent in custody can be extended to up to 96 hours, depending on the seriousness of the criminal accusations.

Representatives of the French police and Interior Ministry declined to comment.

In a statement on Telegram on Sunday, the company said, “Telegram abides by EU laws,” adding, “Telegram’s CEO Pavel Durov has nothing to hide.”

In an interview on Telegram, George Lobushkin, a former press secretary for Mr. Durov who remains close to him, wrote, “This is a monstrous attack on freedom of speech worldwide.”

The arrest of Mr. Durov risked intensifying tensions with Russia. The Russian Embassy in France said in a statement on Sunday that it had asked the French authorities for clarification on news of the arrest.

Vladislav Davankov, the deputy speaker of the State Duma, a chamber of Russia’s Parliament, called for Mr. Durov’s release. He said the arrest could be an effort to gain access to information held by Telegram and “cannot be allowed,” according to Meduza, an independent Russian news organization.

Mr. Durov, whose net worth was estimated by Bloomberg at more than $9 billion, has largely avoided the kind of public scrutiny faced by top executives of other large online platforms, including Elon Musk of X , Mark Zuckerberg of Meta, Shou Chew of TikTok and Sundar Pichai of Google.

Mr. Durov’s arrest has little precedent. While the European Union and United States government have summoned and questioned leaders of other social media firms, rarely has a major tech leader been arrested over what takes place on such sites. In 2016, the Brazilian authorities arrested a senior Facebook executive after the company failed to turn over information from WhatsApp as part of a drug trafficking investigation.

Of particular interest after Mr. Durov’s reported detainment in France could be what information Telegram would decide to share, or withhold. The French authorities may try to force Telegram to share information with them on criminal channels that, for instance, are used to sell firearms or coordinate terrorist attacks. Such a move could test Telegram’s claim to its users that it strictly safeguards their information.

A Russian national, Mr. Durov left Russia in 2014 after he lost control of Vkontakte , the rival to Facebook in Russia. The year before, he had founded Telegram, selling it as an uncensored and secretive way to communicate. The company is now based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Mr. Durov has citizenship in France and the U.A.E., according to Telegram.

Telegram works as a standard messaging app, like iMessage or WhatsApp, but also hosts channels and groups in which large numbers of people can broadcast ideas and communicate.

Telegram’s popularity is partly rooted in moves that it made to allow the hosting of huge chat groups of up to 200,000 people, at a time when other social media, like WhatsApp, were taking steps to cut back group sizes in efforts to combat disinformation. Other functions, like the sharing of large files, no limits on sharing links and bots that can interact with users within channels, have helped make it a powerful tool for social organization and coordination.

Those capabilities, combined with the app’s minimal moderation, made it a haven for individuals and groups that were banned from other platforms like Twitter and Facebook.

Telegram makes money through in-app purchases, advertising, subscriptions and other promotions. In March, Mr. Durov told The Financial Times that Telegram was nearing profitability and considering an initial public offering.

Reports of Mr. Durov’s arrest were immediately met with criticism by fans of the service as an example of governments trying to censor free speech on the internet. Mr. Durov has generally kept a low profile, not doing many media interviews. On his personal Telegram channel, he muses about various topics, including his ascetic lifestyle, the countries he travels to and, more recently, how as a sperm donor he now has more than 100 biological children. On Instagram, he occasionally posts photos of himself shirtless.

Although Mr. Durov portrays himself as a crusader for free speech, many security experts have said Telegram is not sufficiently encrypted. Disinformation analysts also say that, by taking a light touch with moderation, the app has become a major vector for the spread of terrorist propaganda and far-right extremism.

Mr. Durov has linked the creation of Telegram to a run-in he had with Russia’s security services, who he said broke into his apartment in an effort to force him to take down opposition political material on Vkontakte . More recently, he abandoned plans to issue a cryptocurrency through Telegram after scrutiny from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

After he left Russia in 2014, Mr. Durov said he traveled to Berlin, San Francisco, London, Singapore and other cities before making Dubai the headquarters for Telegram. Russia at one point tried to ban Telegram, but the company’s troubles appeared to ease after a top company executive appeared in 2020 on a tech panel with Russia’s prime minister.

Tucker Carlson, the far-right talk show host who interviewed Mr. Durov this year, said the arrest was “a living warning to any platform owner who refuses to censor the truth at the behest of governments and intel agencies.”

Adam Satariano is a technology correspondent for The Times, based in London. More about Adam Satariano

Paul Mozur is the global technology correspondent for The Times, based in Taipei. Previously he wrote about technology and politics in Asia from Hong Kong, Shanghai and Seoul. More about Paul Mozur

Aurelien Breeden is a reporter for The Times in Paris, covering news from France. More about Aurelien Breeden

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What's In Blue

Informal visit to geneva by members of the security council.

At Switzerland’s invitation , members of the Security Council are visiting Geneva today and tomorrow (25 and 26 August) to mark the 75th anniversary of the 1949 Geneva Conventions. According to a concept note prepared by Switzerland, the objective of this informal visit is to give member states, particularly those on the Security Council, an opportunity to reaffirm the ongoing importance of international humanitarian law (IHL) and to take collective political action to uphold the principles outlined in the Geneva Conventions. Additionally, the visit seeks to reinforce the cooperation between New York and Geneva, as well as to allow Council members to engage with Geneva-based experts who specialise in data collection and analysis and technological innovation on issues relating to conflict prevention. Fourteen Security Council members have joined the trip.

The four Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their additional protocols contain rules designed to protect civilians and those who can no longer engage in conflict, such as wounded and sick soldiers and prisoners of war. The Fourth Geneva Convention focuses on civilians and includes detailed provisions on their treatment, status, and rights. It also includes rules relating to humanitarian access, which are frequently referred to in contemporary discussions on the protection of civilians.

All four Geneva Conventions contain an identical Article 3, which applies to non-international armed conflicts and prohibits various acts against individuals not actively participating in hostilities. Among these prohibited acts are violence to life and person, the taking of hostages, and any outrages upon personal dignity, particularly humiliating and degrading treatment.

The concept note prepared by Switzerland says that despite the evolution of IHL to address changes in warfare, violations continue to result in severe humanitarian consequences. It argues that these breaches occur not because of inadequacies in the legal rules but due to the deliberate choices by conflict parties to ignore them, leading to human suffering and undermining the rule of law. In this regard, the concept note maintains that ensuring accountability is crucial for upholding IHL, deterring future breaches, and delivering justice to victims.

The Security Council’s normative role in promoting key principles underpinning IHL is highlighted in a 2024 policy brief by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). This brief says that the Council has consistently integrated protection language into country-specific resolutions, including in the mandates of peace operations, most of which are called upon “to investigate, monitor, analyse and report on IHL and IHRL [international human rights law] violations and abuses”. It adds that the most common protection of civilians-related listing criteria for Security Council-authorised sanctions “relate to violations of IHL and IHRL abuses”.

The Council’s pronouncements notwithstanding, OCHA offers a grim assessment of the status of the protection of civilians in armed conflict, finding that “the existing gap between the growing normative framework and the realities experienced by civilians in conflict-affected contexts across the world has remained, if not widened, in the past five years”.

In recent years, difficult Council dynamics on several issues—including Ukraine, the war between Israel and Hamas, Myanmar, and Sudan—have hindered effective Council action to uphold IHL and protect civilians. (For more information, see the In Hindsight in our August 2024 Monthly Forecast , titled “The Geneva Conventions at 75: Much Work to be Done” , and listen to our 21 August podcast episode .)

Informal Visit

On 12 July, Council members discussed the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions under “any other business”, at Switzerland’s request. After the meeting, Switzerland decided to arrange an informal visit to Geneva for Security Council members. Unlike official visiting missions , which require unanimous agreement among Council members and are funded by the UN, informal visits are typically initiated by a specific member state or group, with the participating countries covering the costs. (The most recent informal visit of Council members was to the Rafah crossing that connects Gaza to Egypt, which former Council member the United Arab Emirates organised on 11 December 2023.) Additionally, official visiting missions require consensus on the terms of reference and are followed by a briefing and a report prepared by the UN Secretariat.

Switzerland invited all Security Council members to participate in the visit, and 14 members accepted the invitation. Of these, eight are represented by their permanent representatives to the UN: Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, and Switzerland. The remaining six—China, France, the Republic of Korea (ROK), Slovenia, the US, and the UK—are represented by their deputy permanent representatives. Russia declined to attend.

During a 20 August press stakeout, Russian First Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Dmitry Polyanskiy said that Russia opted not to participate in the visit, considering it a less effective use of resources, time, and funds. He emphasised that the Council has other pressing priorities and suggested that a visiting mission to a more critical area might be more fitting.

The informal visit follows press elements agreed upon by all Council members concerning the situation of humanitarian personnel worldwide. On August 19, coinciding with World Humanitarian Day, Council members held discussions on the situation of humanitarian personnel under “any other business”, at the request of Slovenia and Switzerland. In the press elements adopted after the meeting, Council members highlighted the ongoing challenges and risks faced by humanitarian personnel, lamenting that 2023 was the deadliest year on record for aid workers, and reiterated the obligations of states and conflict parties to comply fully with IHL, including the need to respect and protect humanitarian workers.

The informal visit of Security Council members organised by Switzerland provides an opportunity to reflect on how the norms and values embodied by the Geneva Conventions can be implemented in today’s difficult environment. The visit’s programme aims to facilitate both formal and informal interactions among key stakeholders, with a focus on reinforcing the collective commitment to IHL and exploring innovative approaches to preventing security risks and protecting civilians in the 21st century.

Activities will begin this afternoon (25 August), with a guided tour of Geneva’s old town, titled the “humanitarian trail”, which is intended to provide participants with historical insights into Geneva’s significant humanitarian legacy. This tour will include a visit to the historical Alabama Room, where, among other things, the first Geneva Convention was signed, followed by an informal exchange with Florence Anselmo, Head of the Central Tracing Agency of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The formal programme will begin tomorrow (26 August). The first substantive session will be a panel discussion, co-hosted by the foreign ministries of Sierra Leone (which serves as August’s Council president) and Switzerland, titled “75 Years of Geneva Conventions: A Renewed Commitment to Upholding International Humanitarian Law”. Welcoming and opening remarks will be delivered by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Timothy Musa Kabba and Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland Ignazio Cassis, respectively. ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger will deliver the keynote address, setting the stage for discussions on how IHL remains relevant and essential. Several panellists, including legal and academic figures such as Cordula Droege, Chief Legal Officer and Head of the Legal Division of the ICRC; Andrew Clapham, Professor of International Law at the Geneva Graduate Institute; and Idriss Mounir Lallali, Acting Director of the African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism, will discuss issues such as ensuring the safety of humanitarian personnel and humanitarian access to civilians in need and the challenges of implementing IHL in modern conflicts, particularly in counter-terrorism settings. The discussion, which will be broadcast on UNTV, will be moderated by Emma O’Leary, Head of the Humanitarian Policy Unit of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC).

The afternoon programme will shift focus to “Preventing Emerging Security Risks through Innovation, Science, and Technology”, and will be organised in three sessions moderated by Swiss State Secretary Alexandre Fasel. The first session will explore the use of satellite technologies, data, and imagery, as well as early warning systems in addressing climate-related security risks. Presentations from the UN Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) will show how data is being used in geographic areas of concern to the Security Council. The second session, led by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), a member of the UN Climate Security Mechanism, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), will discuss how integrated environmental and socio-economic data analysis can inform preventive policies and programming. The session will highlight tools to enhance preparedness and the relevance of these tools to the Security Council and humanitarian actors. The third and final segment will focus on the importance of anticipating the impact of science and technology on future conflicts. Representatives from the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator (GESDA) will present insights from their work and highlight trends that may shape future international peace and security landscapes.

The afternoon programme builds on the Arria-formula meeting organised by Switzerland on 17 May, titled “Unlocking the Potential of Science for Peace and Security”. (For more information, see our 16 May What’s in Blue story.)

On 21 August, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and Switzerland—which hold successive Council presidencies from August through October—held a joint press stakeout in which they announced shared commitments related to conflict prevention. These commitments aim to advance implementation of the UN Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace and to build momentum for discussions on conflict prevention ahead of the anticipated adoption of the Pact for the Future in September.

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