7 reasons to visit New York in summer

Is summer a good season to visit New York? Here are 7 reasons to take the leap and fly to New York!

1/ For the most sunshine

According to weather statistics, summer is the best season in New York, with up to 10 hours of sunshine possible per day in July and August, compared to 5 hours in December and January.
Rain can still happen, but on paper, July in New York and August in New York offer the best chances for pleasant weather. If you’re a photographer, summer gives you long days to work with.
Explore the different neighborhoods of New York. And definitely climb to the top of the observation decks in New York: the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, One World Observatory, The Edge, and Summit on Vanderbilt.

In summer, bars and restaurants in New York invite you to enjoy the weather on their terraces. Nearly every restaurant joins in, from famous rooftops like 230 Fifth to smaller spots like The Marshal, an intimate venue with a terrace overlooking the action on 10th Avenue.

In summer, New Yorkers spread out on the lawns of Central Park, the city’s largest park. Do the same and take a nap in the heart of New York’s green space.
Summer also brings Central Park to life: it’s peak season for rowboat rentals and baseball games. Visit on the weekend for an especially vibrant atmosphere.

Summer is by far the best season for cruises in New York Harbor. Choose the one that appeals to you most.
For something more adventurous, try jet skiing. Head to New Jersey for a ride down the Hudson, around Liberty Island, and under the Brooklyn Bridge. I’ve done it myself and shared all the details in this article on jet skiing in New York.

In New York, summer sales run through July 4. It’s a great time to find deals. Check out our shopping guide for New York to find which stores are offering discounts.
For year-round discounts, visit New York’s outlet stores, which offer steep markdowns. The largest outlet in New York is Woodbury Common Outlet, with over 220 shops.

July brings two special dates. July 4 marks American Independence Day, and New York celebrates in grand style. This year, don’t miss the fireworks launched from 5 barges in the middle of the East River, at the level of Midtown.
Another highlight: July 14, Bastille Day. The French community takes to the streets to celebrate. The Empire State Building lights up in the colors of the French flag.

Summer is baseball season in full swing. Head to Yankee Stadium to cheer on the famous New York Yankees. The rules are easy to pick up, and you’ll enjoy a typical family atmosphere. You can book tickets for New York Yankees games on our site.
Each August marks the start of the American football season. It begins with preseason games to get teams back in shape. Here’s a tip: preseason tickets are much cheaper than regular-season games, and the action is just as exciting. For dates and ticket prices, visit our American football page.
In winter, discover the NHL, North America’s professional ice hockey league. A sport hugely popular in the USA and Canada. Cheer for the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden or the New York Islanders in Queens.