Guides · 108 guides
NYC by Season
My NYC by Season guides, with my verdict on each.
Start with these
What I’d read first in NYC by Season- Things to Do for Christmas in NYC30 places, 23 worth it
- Christmas-Decorated Restaurants in New York City11 places, 10 worth it
- Celebrating Thanksgiving in New York City18 places, 15 worth it
- Things to Do in NYC in November 2026
- Fall Activities in New York City23 places, 16 worth it
- Spots for Christmas Decorations In New York City16 places, 13 worth it
The Best of New York
Every list- The best things to do for Christmas in New York City
- The best Christmas-decorated restaurants in New York City
- The best fall things to do in New York City
- The best Christmas decorations in New York City
- The best free things to do at Christmas in New York City
- The best hot chocolate in New York City
- The best beer gardens in New York City
- The best Thanksgiving dinner restaurants in New York City
- The best rooftop bars in New York City
- The best things to do in New York City in December
- The best ice cream in New York City
- The best Christmas lights in New York City
What readers asked about NYC by Season
Ask meClosed due to a fire.
Thank you so much for telling me, Linda! You’re right. Papillon had a kitchen fire in July and it’s still closed, with no reopening date yet. I’m so sad about it, because it’s my top pick at Christmas. If you want a…
Christmas-Decorated Restaurants in New YorkOh how fun! I hope you have the most wonderful trip -- this city really is magical. Enjoy every second!
Things to Do for Christmas in New YorkHello, I am coming to NYC March 17-21 with my daughter and three granddaughters. We are all native Californians. I'm 69-years old and haven't been to NYC since 1979. I live in San Luis Obispo, CA along the Central Coast…
Oh, five of you in NYC in March, what a trip. Coming from 65 to 75 every day, you'll feel it, and wind is the real enemy in March, not snow. Pack like it's winter with one lighter layer for a warm afternoon. Wool coat…
What to Wear in New York in MarchEvery guide in NYC by Season
108, by topicChristmas 20
- Things to Do for Christmas in NYCNew for 2026. Every place in this guide is on my Christmas tracker, a map and a calendar of the whole season with the dates the morning they are…30 places, 23 worth it · Updated Mar 22
- Christmas-Decorated Restaurants in New York CityI love the way restaurants decorate for Christmas in New York City. On par with the city’s reputation for extravagant decor, restaurants don’t play…11 places, 10 worth it
- Spots for Christmas Decorations In New York CityAs a local, there’s nothing I love more than Christmastime in New York City when the city transforms into a winter wonderland. The magical holiday…16 places, 13 worth it
- Free Things to Do in New York City During ChristmasIt’s no secret that the Big Apple is expensive, so finding free Christmas activities in New York City Admiring the interior is a no-brainer, so swing…19 places, 16 worth it
- New York in DecemberSo you’ve decided to visit New York City in December, lucky you! This month just might be the best time in the Big Apple, especially for those who…19 places, 15 worth it
- New York City Christmas Light DisplaysAs a local, I’m always on the lookout for the best Christmas lights in New York City. Luckily, the city is full of dazzling displays that never cease…10 places, 9 worth it
- Iconic NYC Holiday Markets First Time Visitors Can’t Afford to MissCelebrating the holidays in New York City is something everyone should make an effort to experience firsthand. On par with the city’s soaring…10 places, 9 worth it
- Christmas Performances in New York CityAs someone who’s enjoyed more than two dozen holiday shows in NYC firsthand, I thought it might be helpful to share my personal list of favorites.8 places, 8 worth it
- Visiting NYC During Christmas with Kids: 2026 Family GuideNew York City during the holidays is just as magical as you can imagine. For families with kids, visiting NYC at Christmas can be a core memory in…14 places, 12 worth it
- New York City Christmas Activities for KidsVisiting New York City during the holidays with kids will leave you with a lifetime of cherished memories. But let’s get real, adequate planning is…14 places, 12 worth it
- Holiday Window Displays in New York CityOn brand with the city’s reputation as a holiday destination, the famous Christmas window displays in New York City are known the world over. Every…10 places, 10 worth it
- New York City Christmas TreesThe Big Apple’s holiday decor is hard to beat and nothing embodies the holiday spirit more than the striking Christmas trees in New York City. But…10 places, 10 worth it
- Impressive Ice Skating Rinks in New York CityThe winter months bring more than just the misery of cold weather and gray skies, they also usher in the joy of ice skating in New York City! If…10 places, 7 worth it
- Things to Do at Rockefeller Center During ChristmasLet’s play out a hypothetical. You land in New York the week of Christmas and have a few hours to seize as much holiday magic as possible, where do…11 places, 6 worth it
- Bars Open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in NYCThanks to shoe-box-sized apartments and insane room-service prices, celebrating Christmas day in New York City can prove to be difficult. Not to…10 places, 10 worth it
- Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in New York CityNote from Antonina about 2024 Christmas Itineraries. Some of you have asked if I’ll be offering the custom 4-day itineraries that sold out last year.…14 places, 14 worth it
- Holiday Treats You Must Try During Christmas in New York CitySome would argue that having a food bucket list is just as important as having an experience bucket list. Finding great Christmas desserts in NYC can…10 places, 8 worth it
- Christmas Pop Up Bars in New York CityThe abundance of Christmas pop-up bars in New York City is proof that the holidays in the Big Apple are unmatched. The popular haunts use over the…12 places, 12 worth it
- Christmas Movies Filmed in New York CityAfter years of binging movies filmed in New York City during Christmas, I finally had the chance to experience the season firsthand after moving to…
- NYC Christmas Photo SpotsIf you’re spending the holidays in New York City, chances are you’ll want to share the magic with everyone. And who can blame you? The city is every…10 places, 9 worth it
Spring 8
- Guide to Visiting New York City in MayIf you’re planning a visit or looking for fresh ways to enjoy the city, May is one of the best months to be in New York City. The weather is…19 places, 16 worth it
- Where to Find Cherry Blossoms in New York CityNew York City never runs out of ways to surprise me, and Cherry blossoms New York City are a perfect example. After calling this city home for years,…9 places, 8 worth it
- Amazing Things to Do in New York City in AprilApril in New York City bursts with vibrancy, painting streets with pinks, reds, and yellows under the warm sun. Locals emerge from hibernation, eager…10 places, 10 worth it
- Things to Do on St. Patrick’s Day in New York CityCelebrating St. Patrick’s Day in New York City is an experience you didn’t know you needed. From the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the world to…10 places, 4 worth it
- Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Central ParkCatching cherry blossoms in Central Park is one of the highlights of living in New York City. Central Park is pure magic and visiting in the spring…6 places, 5 worth it
- Spots to See Tulips in New York CityWhat is more romantic than New York City in the spring? Here’s my honest take on where to find tulips in New York City , the tips, the tricks, and…10 places, 7 worth it
- The NYC Spring Bucket ListI start getting antsy around mid-February. The days are getting slightly longer, there’s the occasional random 50-degree day that tricks you into…23 places, 21 worth it
- Magnificent Things to Do in New York City in MarchAs March unfolds in the City That Never Sleeps, New York City blossoms with all sorts of exciting activities. From vibrant St. Patrick’s Day…20 places, 20 worth it
Fall 6
- Fall Activities in New York CityAs Central Park bursts with vibrant fall colors and the city slowly prepares for the holiday season, the humdrum of daily life in NYC takes on a…23 places, 16 worth it
- Things to Do in New York City in OctoberSecretly I think October is the best month to visit New York City. The weather is still enjoyable, the season isn’t fully into fall just yet and the…23 places, 20 worth it
- The BEST Time to Visit New York CitySo you’ve decided to make the trip, but are struggling to decide on the best time to visit New York City. There are so many things to consider like…20 places, 0 worth it
- Fall Treats in New York CityThere’s only one time a year I look forward to spam e-mails.fall. After countless meals across the five boroughs, here’s my honest guide to the best…15 places, 13 worth it
- Spots to See Fall Foliage in Central ParkFall in Central Park Let’s dive in is a sight to behold. But Central Park spans 843 acres and it’s hard to know exactly where to go to see the best…13 places, 8 worth it
- Breathtaking Spots for Fall Color in New York CityDespite the city’s reputation as a Concrete Jungle, there are plenty of great spots to see beautiful fall foliage in New York City. There’s no…13 places, 9 worth it
Summer 6
- NYC Summer Bucket ListSummer in New York City is my favorite season in the city, which I realize is a controversial opinion given that the subway platforms in July are…16 places, 15 worth it
- New York City Summer Bucket ListSummer in New York City teems with possibility. Whether you’re visiting NYC in summer for the first time or returning to rediscover old favorites,…26 places, 23 worth it
- Things to Do in New York City in JuneSummer in New York City is a vibrant time, especially in June. Longer days and warm sunshine create the perfect backdrop for a plethora of exciting…21 places, 21 worth it
- EPIC Guide to the 4th of July in New York CityThere’s nothing like the 4th of July fireworks in NYC. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holiday weekend, the Macy’s Fireworks Show over the…16 places, 9 worth it
- (FUN) Things to Do in New York City in AugustVisiting New York City in August is not for the faint of heart. The summer heat and (intense) humidity requires a certain gumption.24 places, 24 worth it
- Things to Do in New York City in JulyIn July, New York City bursts with summer vibes, offering a plethora of fun activities. The challenging part is deciding which ones to do. From…20 places, 19 worth it
Winter 5
- Special Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in New York CityEmbrace the romance of Valentine’s Day in the heart of the Big Apple. From leisurely strolls through iconic parks to candle-lit dinners in…11 places, 8 worth it
- Things to Do in New York City in JanuaryIf you’re visiting New York City in January, you’ll be happy to learn that there’s never a shortage of great things to do. Over the past decade, I’ve…14 places, 13 worth it
- Essential Winter Coats New Yorkers Swear ByA lot of readers have reached out asking about the best winter coats for New York City. As a 10-year local, I figured why not give it a shot? After…4 places, 3 worth it
- Worthwhile Winter Activities in New York CityWinter in New York City is an ideal time to visit the Big Apple for those who like to explore new cities at a slower pace without mind-boggling…16 places, 12 worth it
- Things to Do in New York City in FebruaryNavigating New York City during the chilly month of February may seem like a challenge, but fear not , as a seasoned local, I’m happy to share ways…22 places, 17 worth it
Rooftop bars 4
- The Best Rooftop Bars in NYCI’m going to be honest with you. Most rooftop bars in NYC are overpriced tourist traps where you pay $25 for a mediocre cocktail and fight for a spot…9 places, 8 worth it
- Rooftop Bars in ManhattanIn New York City, space is precious, so New Yorkers are forced to build up, not out. This vertical growth means plenty of skyscrapers and (luckily…15 places, 15 worth it
- Lower East Side Rooftop BarsVisiting a rooftop bar is a must-do in New York City. Whenever friends come to town, they always ask me for rooftop bar recommendations (yes, I’m the…5 places, 5 worth it
- Rooftop Bars in BrooklynA city of iconic skyscrapers, there’s no shortage of incredible bars for a scenic drink in New York City. As any local will tell you, Brooklyn has…8 places, 8 worth it
Halloween 4
- New York City Halloween Events in 2026New for 2026. Every place in this guide is on my Halloween tracker, the parade, the haunted houses, the pumpkin blocks and the bars, with this year’s…20 places, 14 worth it
- Terrifying Halloween Bars in New York CityAs the autumn air rolls in and jack-o’-lanterns start glowing, NYC transforms into a haunted playground filled with eerie pop-ups, gothic…12 places, 11 worth it
- Terrific Things to Do on Halloween with Kids in NYCCelebrating Halloween with kids in New York City is a blast, so long as you know where to find the best events and activities. As someone who just…12 places, 12 worth it
- Spooky Spots for Halloween Decorations in New York CityI’m probably not the first to tell you that New Yorkers never do anything half way. Case in point. The epic Halloween decorations in New York City.10 places, 10 worth it
Desserts 3
- The Best Hot Chocolate in New York CityI love hot chocolate just as much as the next person, so believe me when I tell you I did my due diligence when searching for the best hot chocolate…14 places, 13 worth it
- Spots For The Best Pumpkin Pie in New York CityI have a soft spot for New York City, and its Pumpkin Pie scene is a big reason why. From hole-in-the-wall gems to neighborhood staples, these are my…10 places, 10 worth it
- Amazing Apple Cider Donuts in NYCNew York City may not have the small-town charm of Vermont or Massachusetts, but that doesn’t mean it can’t deliver on flavor. If apple cider donuts…17 places, 16 worth it
Thanksgiving 2
- Celebrating Thanksgiving in New York CityBeyond turkeys and parades, Thanksgiving heralds the start of the city’s cherished holiday season. I’m lucky enough to call the city home and have…18 places, 15 worth it
- Tantalizing Thanksgiving Dinner Restaurants in NYCI’ll be honest. I’m a little obsessed with Thanksgiving dinner in this city. I’ve tried more spots in NYC than I can count, and these are the ones…14 places, 13 worth it
New Year’s 2
- The Complete Guide to Celebrating New Year’s Eve in NYCIt’s no secret that New Year’s Eve in New York City is a bucket-list item for thousands of folks all around the globe. If you’re making the trek and…14 places, 4 worth it
- Restaurants Open on New Years Day in New York CityAfter a late New Year’s celebration, waking up with a potential headache and cooking might be the last thing on your mind. No worries! There are tons…16 places, 16 worth it
Beer, pubs and breweries 1
Ice cream 1
Date night 1
Things to do with kids 1
At night 1
Shops 1
Landmarks and history 1
Pools and beaches 1
More 40
- Things to Do in NYC in November 2026The dates that are set for November 2026, with Antonina Pattiz's own guides to the parade, Thanksgiving week, the early holiday openings and what to wear.
- What to Wear in NYC in December and the Rest of WinterWearing.Jacket | Jeans | Cashmere Scarf | Sweater | Shoes It's no secret that winters in New York City can be "a bit much," so in an effort to make…
- Moving to NYC in the FallThe first fall my husband and I spent in New York, I made a very specific mistake. I moved in September with a tote bag of summer dresses, one…
- NYC in September Is the Best MonthSeptember is the best month to be in New York. Not one of the best. The best. The heat breaks, the tourists thin out, the city comes roaring back to…
- Is NYC Worth Visiting in Winter?Every winter I watch visitors from somewhere warm step off a subway grate onto a midtown sidewalk in February and question every decision they have…
- My NYC Christmas PlaybookThere's a moment every December when the city shifts. The lights go up on Fifth Avenue, the air smells like roasted chestnuts and cold pavement, and…
- Spring in NYCEveryone talks about New York at Christmas. The tree at Rockefeller Center, the window displays, the ice skating. And it is lovely, truly. But it is…
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2026New for 2026. Every place in this guide is on my Thanksgiving tracker, the parade route, where to stand, the balloon inflation and the restaurants…
- How to Celebrate SantaCon in New York CityLove it or hate it, there's no denying that SantaCon draws an enthusiastic crowd come December. Festively clad New Yorkers take to the streets for…
- Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Guide 2026The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights have been captivating locals for four generations. As a seasoned explorer of this cherished tradition, I'm here to…
- Complete Guide to Macy’s Santaland in NYCOf all the cherished holiday traditions in New York City perhaps none is more magical for children than visiting Santa in real life at Macy's. Tucked…
- Autumn in New York City: Outfit IdeasPost Overview.What to Wear in New York City in Fall This What to wear in New York in fall guide has you covered.
- The Spookiest Halloween Decorations on the Upper West SideNew Yorkers strive to be the best in everything they do and the epic Halloween decorations on the Upper West Side (UWS) are proof that. I currently…
- The Spookiest Halloween Decorations on the Upper East SideThe Halloween Decorations on the Upper East Side (UES) are often considered some of the best in New York City. After seeing them for myself, I can…
- 4th of July in NYC: Where to Watch Fireworks and What to Do All DayThe 4th of July in New York City is one of those experiences that is simultaneously incredible and absolutely miserable. You'll be hot. You'll be…
- Prospect Park Guide: Brooklyn’s Best Kept Not-So-Secret
- Guide to Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Times SquareImage Courtesy Time Square Celebrating New Years Eve in Times Square is a bucket-list item for folks all around the globe, and for good reason.…
- Ice Skating in Central ParkIce skating in Central Park is a blissful, memorable experience regardless of The city skyline serves as a magnificent backdrop to a cherished…
- New York City Spring Bucket ListSpring in New York City always feels like a reward. After months of gray skies and bundled-up commutes, the city finally opens back up , parks…
- How to Dress an Infant for Winter in New York CityLet me be honest. Dress an Infant for Winter in New York City can feel overwhelming when you're trying to plan the perfect trip. I've done the…
- What to Wear in New York City in the SpringWearing.Trench Coat | Sweater | Sunglasses | Similar Shoes | Good pair of jeans Packing for NYC in the spring can be a confusing affair. The days…
- What to Wear in New York City in JuneI've spent more time than I'd like to admit exploring every corner of What to Wear in New York City in June Local's. And everything you need to know…
- What to Wear in New York City in MayThere's a reason What to Wear in New York City in May (Helpful Packing keeps pulling me back. It's not just the obvious attractions, it's the feeling…
- What to Wear in New York City in AprilI'm the kind of traveler who walks an extra mile for the right coffee, the right view, the right light. What to Wear in New York City in April…
- What to Wear in New York City in MarchI've spent more time than I'd like to admit exploring every corner of What to Wear in New York City in March Local's. And everything you need to know…
- Question from a reader: How do I prep for the winter weather in NYC?Hi there! There’s a lot of new faces on here (welcome!) so please allow me to (re)introduce myself.
- The Charming West Village in AutumnI recently took a stroll through my favorite neighborhood during my favorite time of year, the charming West Village in autumn. There's never a…
- The New York City Cherry Blossom Tracker – What to Expect 2026Article Overview. New York City Cherry Blossom Tracker 2023 This new york city cherry blossoms tracker guide has you covered.
- Is the US Open Worth Going To? The Grounds-Pass TruthTennis was never supposed to be my thing. I grew up an Oregon soccer kid, and for the first few of the six years my husband and I lived in New York,…
- NYC in August: What Locals Actually DoEvery August the same thing happens. My husband and I would be walking to our subway on a Tuesday morning, and the sidewalk that usually made us…
- Where to Eat at the US OpenAs a food writer who has lived in New York for six years, I have a confession. I love the US Open, and I resent the US Open, in roughly equal…
- Fall in NYC: The Weekends I Plan My Whole Autumn AroundI have lived in New York for six years, and I can tell you exactly which weekends I clear my calendar for. Not the big obvious ones. The ones the…
- Labor Day Weekend in NYC: The Local’s PlaybookHaving lived in New York for six years, I can tell you the secret nobody puts on a postcard. The best weekend to be here is the one everyone leaves…
- Where to Find Cherry Blossoms in NYCThe first time I saw the cherry blossoms in New York City I wasn't expecting them. I was walking through Central Park in early April during my first…
- What to Wear in NYC in SpringI have been defeated by New York City spring weather more times than I can count. I'm talking about those mornings where you walk outside in a light…
- Trick-or-Treating on the Upper West SideTrick or treating on the Upper West Side is not for the faint of heart. I live in the neighborhood and can tell you from first hand experience that…
- Halloween in NYC with Kids: Best Events & Parades for FamiliesHalloween in New York City is truly magical with kids in tow. From our first haunted hayride in Central Park to trick-or-treating under the Brooklyn…
- The Ultimate Guide on Spring Activities in New York City with KidsSpring is such a great time to explore New York City with kids. As the city wakes up from winter, it's the perfect time to get outside and rediscover…
- What’s the Weather Like in New York City in March?The weather in New York City in March can vary widely yearly. In this quick article, I'll tell you all you need to know about New York City's weather…
- The Magic of Fall in New York CityFall is in full swing around here and I, for one, couldn’t be happier. There have been so many “pinch me” moment over the past week because of the…
