The Best Time To Visit Manhattan

Manhattan is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. However, the best months to travel to Manhattan are arguably during the fall, from late September to early November. During this period, the temperatures are comfortable, perfect for strolling outdoors and partaking in activities such as strolling through Central Park. The crowds have also thinned out, and prices for accommodation are lower compared to the peak summer and winter seasons. Additionally, fall offers the beautiful fall foliage, with leaves changing colour, creating a vibrant backdrop for Halloween festivities in October.

Weather in Manhattan

Manhattan experiences all four seasons, with temperature extremes and unpredictable weather. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and the purpose of your trip. Here is a month-by-month breakdown to help you decide:

January

January is the coldest month in Manhattan, with average temperatures ranging from 27°F to 39°F (-3°C to 4°C). You can expect snow and multiple major snowstorms, as well as a range of wintry precipitation. Despite the cold, there are plenty of fun winter activities, such as ice skating in the city's parks and enjoying rooftop igloos or indoor spa days.

February

February is another cold and snowy month, with average temperatures ranging from 28°F to 41°F (-2°C to 5°C). It is one of the cheapest months to visit, as tourist crowds tend to be smaller. It's a great time to experience New York's indoor attractions, such as museums and Broadway shows, without the peak-season rush.

March

March is when spring starts to arrive, with temperatures warming up to a range of 36°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C). It is still considered part of the low season, so you can take advantage of lower hotel rates and fewer tourists. There are also fun events, such as the St. Patrick's Day Parade and the New York International Children's Film Festival.

April

April is when spring is in full swing, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures ranging from 45°F to 61°F (7°C to 16°C). It is a great month to explore outdoor attractions, such as Central Park and the Bronx Zoo. However, you may need to prepare for some rainy days.

May

May is a pleasant month to walk around Manhattan, with highs ranging from 67°F to 75°F (19°C to 25°C). It is a good time to enjoy outdoor concerts and picnics by the waterfront. Boat tours are also popular, offering a unique perspective of the city.

June

June marks the start of summer, with mild temperatures at the beginning of the month, gradually increasing to highs of 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 29°C). It is a great month to attend outdoor events, such as the NYC Pride March and Shakespeare in the Park. However, summer in Manhattan can be very hot and humid, so be prepared for sticky days.

July

July is the hottest month, with average temperatures ranging from 68°F to 85°F (20°C to 29°C). It is a popular time for families to visit, as kids are out of school. It is a good month to enjoy the city's beaches, such as Coney Island, and outdoor activities.

August

August is another hot and humid month, with temperatures reaching up to 84°F (29°C). It is a good time to seek relief from the sun and explore indoor attractions, such as the Wall Street Bath & Spa.

September

September marks the start of fall, with more pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. The highs range from the low 80s°F at the beginning of the month to the low 70s°F toward the end. It is a great month to enjoy outdoor activities, such as boat tours and biking in Central Park, as well as indoor events like Broadway shows.

October

October offers crisp weather and gorgeous fall foliage. The temperatures start with highs in the lower 70s°F and drop about 10 degrees by the end of the month. It is a perfect month for Halloween festivities and spooky ghost tours.

November

November brings chillier temperatures and sweater weather, with daytime highs ranging from 59°F at the beginning of the month to 50°F by the end. It is a great time to enjoy indoor activities, such as streaming a baking class or indulging in dessert bars.

December

December is a festive month, with average temperatures ranging from 42°F to 49°F (6°C to 9°C). Manhattan neighbourhoods are decorated for the holidays, and there are plenty of festive events, such as the iconic production of The Nutcracker ballet and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting.

Overall, the best months to visit Manhattan for mild temperatures and fewer crowds are September, October, and the beginning of November. However, each season has its own unique attractions and charm, so your ideal travel period will depend on your preferences and the activities you plan to do.

Events and attractions

New York City is a bustling hub of activity all year round, with each season offering something unique to visitors. Here is a breakdown of the events and attractions you can expect during different times of the year:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a popular time to visit New York City, with many tourists taking advantage of the mild and enjoyable temperatures. The average daily high temperatures range from 52°F to 72°F, making it perfect for exploring the city's outdoor spaces such as Central Park and the city's botanical gardens. Spring is also a great time to visit the Central Park Zoo and enjoy the blossoming flowers. However, tourists should be prepared for higher hotel prices and rainy days. Spring offers a range of festivals and events, including:

• St. Patrick's Day Parade (March)
• Easter Parade (April)
• Burt's Bees Earth Day (April)
• Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden (April)
• Ninth Avenue International Food Festival (May)
• Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit (May)

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the most popular time to visit New York City, with warm temperatures and children being out of school. The average high temperatures range from 80°F to 84°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The city comes alive with festivals and events during this time, including:

• NYC Pride March (June)
• Coney Island Mermaid Parade (June)
• Shakespeare in the Park (June)
• Metropolitan Opera in the Parks (June-July)
• New York International Fringe Festival (August)
• US Open (August)
• Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival (August)

However, summer in New York City can be hot and humid, with high hotel and travel prices.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is considered one of the best times to visit New York City, with pleasant temperatures and the famous fall foliage. The average temperatures are usually in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for spending time outdoors. Crowds tend to be smaller as children go back to school, and prices are lower compared to summer. Fall offers a range of events and attractions, including:

• Festival of San Gennaro in Little Italy (September)
• New York Film Festival (September-October)
• New York Comic-Con (October)
• Halloween festivities and the NYC Village Halloween Parade (October)
• New York City Marathon (November)
• Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (November)

Winter (December to February)

Winter in New York City is a magical time, with holiday decorations and festive events. The period between Thanksgiving and New Year's is the busiest, with tourists flocking to see the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and other attractions. After the new year, crowds decrease and hotel prices drop. The average daily high temperatures in January and February are around 39°F and 43°F respectively, so visitors will need to bundle up. Winter offers unique events and activities, including:

• New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square
• Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatown (February)
• Tribeca Film Festival (early to mid-June)
• Ice skating at Rockefeller Center
• Broadway shows

Pros and cons of visiting in fall

Pros and Cons of Visiting Manhattan in Fall

Pros

• The weather is fantastic, with nice, warm and cool temperatures that are perfect for strolling around outdoors.
• Crowds have thinned out, as families are less likely to travel early in the school year.
• Prices have dropped, with hotel prices much lower than during the summer and the peak season between Thanksgiving and New Year.
• You can see the fall foliage in Central Park, Prospect Park, and Fort Tryon Park.
• The fall colours are at their peak in mid-October to early November.
• It's a great time for fashion lovers, with the chance to explore different neighbourhoods and their local cuisines.
• There are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy as well, such as Broadway shows and museums.

Cons

• The temperature can vary a lot, making it hard to pack for your trip.
• It's not the best time for a beach trip, as the weather is cooler.
• It can be difficult for families to travel once the school year has started.
• Towards the end of autumn, crowds may increase due to events such as the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade and the New York Marathon.

Pros and cons of visiting in winter

Pros and Cons of Visiting Manhattan in Winter

Winter in Manhattan is a magical time, with the city adorned in festive decorations and lights. However, there are some drawbacks to visiting during this chilly season. Here are the pros and cons of visiting Manhattan in winter to help you decide if it's the right time for your trip.

Pros:

• The city is beautifully decorated for the festive season, with Christmas lights and holiday cheer all around.
• You can enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds as it is the low season for tourism. This includes cheaper hotel rates and better deals on attractions and flights.
• There are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as world-class museums, art galleries, restaurants, and bars.
• If you're a sports fan, you can catch a basketball game with the New York Knicks or Brooklyn Nets, or even try your hand at ice skating at the famous Rockefeller Center rink.
• For those who love winter fashion, it's the perfect opportunity to bundle up in stylish coats, scarves, and boots.

Cons:

• The weather can be extremely cold, with temperatures frequently below freezing. This may be uncomfortable for those who are not used to such low temperatures.
• There is a higher chance of snowstorms or rain, which can put a damper on outdoor activities and cause travel disruptions.
• The days are shorter, with the sun setting around 4:30 pm, so you'll need to plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
• While there are many indoor attractions, walking between locations can be challenging due to the cold. You'll need to be prepared with warm clothing and perhaps a cosy blanket for in-between destinations.
• Some people may find that the cold weather limits their exploration, as they prefer to spend more time indoors.

So, while winter in Manhattan has its charms, it is also a time of extreme cold and unpredictable weather. If you're happy to brave the chill and take advantage of the indoor offerings, then it can be a wonderful time to visit, with the added bonus of lower prices and fewer tourists.

Pros and cons of visiting in spring

Pros and Cons of Visiting Manhattan in Spring

Spring in Manhattan is a popular time for tourists, with its mild and enjoyable temperatures, ideal for exploring the city on foot. With average daily highs of 52°F to 72°F from March to May, you can comfortably walk around the city, enjoying the fresh air and blossoming flowers in Central Park and the city's botanical gardens.

However, spring allergies may flare up, and there is a high probability of rainy days. You'll need to pack a light jacket and an umbrella, as the weather can still be a little chilly, especially in early spring.

Spring is a great time to enjoy the many festivals and outdoor events that take place in Manhattan. The Brooklyn Botanical Garden, for example, holds a cherry blossom festival in April, and there's also the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival. There's also the Tribeca Film Festival in early to mid-June, and the New York Film Festival in late September to mid-October.

Hotel prices may be higher in the spring, but you'll miss the peak of summer tourism, so crowds will be smaller than in the warmer months.

Spring is a cheerful time in Manhattan, a welcome relief after the cold winter. However, if you're looking for guaranteed warm and dry weather, spring may not be the best time to visit.

Frequently asked questions