The weather in New York is pretty consistent throughout the year, with quite significant temperature changes. As a result, the weather is undoubtedly one of the most important considerations when planning a trip to New York. We have compiled a list of the ideal dates to visit New York City so you can not only see the sights but also avoid paying exorbitant flight fees during the holiday season.
When is the best time to visit New York?
Summer in New York is hot and humid, and the many air conditioners that blow hot air back into the streets do not help matters. Mid-summer (July) is the wettest month, and the air in the canyons between the buildings often seems to stand still. However, the beginning and end of the summer season are very lovely.
New York’s winters are notoriously harsh, with plenty of snow and bitterly cold winds. New York has become a traffic nightmare as a result of these factors. The only saving grace is that the weather is a little dryer, so it does not seem quite as chilly — a rainy winter day in London can be far more terrible.
The greatest time to visit New York City, in our opinion, is from April to June, and then again from August to October. The weather is comfortable during these times, and you can enjoy outside activities without needing to wear or carry a jacket.
This is a particularly ideal season for families to visit NYC because the temperatures are more moderate than in the summer or winter. Tornadoes and hurricanes are not a threat to New York; most of these occur in the southeastern United States during hurricane season, which spans from June to November. On the other hand, Hurricane Sandy demonstrated that there are always exceptions.
New York Travel Forecast
Below are our suggestions on what to wear and what activities to do depending on the time of year you are visiting. Even if you visit NYC during one of the off-seasons, you will find that there is always plenty to see and do. There is a reason New York City is known as the city that never sleeps; there is always something to do, no matter what time of day or year it is.
January in New York City
The coldest month is January. For the majority of the month, temperatures are near or below freezing. The one advantage is that it is usually dry, which is considered preferable to a rainy day in London in our opinion. Even January can be enjoyable because most days have 5 hours of sunlight.
Snow is prevalent this time of year, and even if it does not snow while you are there, you will almost certainly witness piles of snow from the previous snow cleaning operation. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear, as much of the snow melts into slush, which, when mixed with the dirt on city streets, forms black sludge that damages everything it touches.
Even when it is bitterly cold outside, there is plenty to do and see, starting with ice skating at one of New York City’s many ice rinks and finishing with the final Rockettes performances at Radio Music Hall. There is one thing for sure: you will not be bored.
February weather in New York City
February is nearly as cold as January, with highs around 3°C and lows around -5°C at night. This month, you will have a decent possibility of seeing New York City dressed in white, but you should have at least a few hours of sunshine every day. However, do not forget to pack extra warm clothing, especially if you plan on walking around the city for a few hours each day. We certainly recommend warming up with a delicious cup of coffee at one of the many corner cafés.
The Super Bowl is a major event this month. Visit one of NYC’s many sports pubs to see the crowds roaring on their teams. Dinner cruises on the Hudson, Broadway performances, and shopping are all enjoyable activities to partake in throughout February.
March weather in New York City
In New York City, March is the first month that gives you a hint of spring. The highs average around 7°C, and the lows are rarely below freezing. Because of the warmer temperatures, there will be less snow and more rain. March is the wettest month, so carry a raincoat.
Despite the changing weather, the first outside activities begin. In March, the New York half marathon and the spectacular St. Patrick’s Day Parade are two of the most popular events.
April weather in New York City
Temperatures are on the increase in April, with highs in the double digits (12°C) during the day and temperatures rarely falling below freezing. From the middle of April to the end of the month, trees and flowers bloom, transforming New York City’s parks into lush green spaces. If you want to avoid the crowds, this is the best time to visit New York City.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Cherry Blossom Festival is a wonderful opportunity to spend some time outside. An umbrella is generally sufficient because April only has 12 rainy days (one every three days). Celebrating Easter in New York City is also a fantastic option; from the Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival to egg hunts, there is much to do over the weekend.
May weather in New York City
May is a very pleasant month to visit New York City. Everything is flowering and blossoming, and the abundance of sunshine means everyone is happy. May is a popular tourist month for a reason: daytime temperatures are around 20°C, and the sun shines for roughly 8 hours every day. For the first time, nighttime temperatures are in the double digits (11°C).
Memorial Day is the most important holiday in the month of May, and it is a must-see event. The Memorial Day parade is a significant event that draws visitors from all around the world as well as within the United States. May is also Bike Month in New York City, which means there are numerous pedal-powered events to attend or participate in. The whole itinerary for this year has yet to be released.
June weather in New York City
June is an excellent month to visit New York City. The weather is pleasant but not scorching, and you receive 10 hours of sun per day. The parks are lush with greenery and brilliant blooming flowers, inviting you to relax on their lawns. The evenings are warm enough for dining and drinking alfresco. The average temperature is 24°C during the day and 18°C at night. Due to the moderate but comfortable weather outside, this is a very popular time to visit NYC.
Because of the weather in June, many outdoor activities are possible for the first time. We propose taking a helicopter tour of the city, stopping by one of the city’s numerous rooftop bars, or strolling around one of the city’s many parks. There are plenty of people who share your viewpoint, yet June is one of the busier months of the year.
July weather in New York
July is one of the hottest months in New York City. You get around 10 hours of sun every day, and the humidity is rising in tandem with the temperature. Heat and humidity are often trapped in the streets, making it uncomfortable to walk between the towers. However, many tourists are unconcerned because July is one of the busiest months. The average daytime temperature is around 30°C, and the nighttime temperature is around 20°C.
The numerous beaches in and around New York offer fantastic opportunities to cool down! Also, do not miss Independence Day on July 4th, which is one of the most important annual holidays in the United States and is often marked by parades, parties, and other Independence Day-themed activities that will clearly demonstrate how Americans celebrate.
August weather in New York
New York City’s warmest months are July and August. You will be sweating from the sun and the humidity. During the day, temperatures hover about 30°C; at night, temps drop to a delightful 20°C. During this time of year, the sun shines for 11 hours every day, allowing you to sit outside late into the evening.
Many of NYC’s rooftop bars are open during the month of August. You can also see a movie during the HBO Summer Film Festival in Bryant Park, which is free to the public and consistently ranked as one of New York City’s top attractions. If you adore tennis, you should definitely attend the US Open!
September weather in New York
September is one of the busiest tourist months in New York City since the weather is perfect for touring. It is still hot (average daytime temperatures of 25°C) but not as scorching as the rest of the summer. The nighttime temperatures are nice, averaging around 17°C. This is the best time of year to go on a boat trip, rent a bike, or eat dinner at a rooftop bar because you get roughly 9 hours of sun each day.
9/11 is a national day of sorrow and meditation, and there are many moving memorial ceremonies held on Memorial Day. The holiday begins with the Steuben procession, which is not to be missed. Oktoberfest (yep – held at the end of September) is also fantastic in NYC.
October in New York City
Traveling to New York City in October is a fantastic idea. Despite the cooling temperatures, New York City offers a variety of activities, amazing music, and thrilling events. Temperatures will range between 18°C during the day and 10°C at night. Fall in New York is bathed in golden hues, making the parks even more appealing. The sun only shines for around 7 hours each day in September, so bring some warmer clothing for the afternoons and evenings if you are visiting towards the end of the month.
Columbus Day, which has a large procession, and Halloween are two major October celebrations. Both are celebrated in grandeur in New York City! The ice rinks have reopened — fantastic fun!
November in New York City
The pre-Christmas season is approaching, and New York City may get quite cold – snowfall is not uncommon. November is still an excellent month to visit New York City, with 6 hours of sun each day and average daytime temperatures of roughly 10°C. The temperature drops dramatically at night. It is only 3 degrees above freezing.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is the city’s biggest event, and the following day is the busiest shopping day: Thanksgiving Day.
December weather in New York
In New York City, the Christmas season, and hence December, is a delightful and romantic time. Snow blankets the city, bringing a sense of tranquility. During the day, the temperature is around 10°C, while it is just below freezing at night. But do not fear, you will still get enough sun each day! During this season, the Christmas markets are also a must-see; many of them are very stunning and give you a strong sense of Christmas in the weeks leading up to the holidays.
The winter markets are open, the ice rinks are open for skating, and the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is shining brightly.
If you are interested in more articles like this, here’s one on celebrating the new year with the Chinese new year’s parade.