If 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 (finally) warm, the parks are in full bloom, and the city feels noticeably lighter—like it’s collectively exhaling after a long winter. From Memorial Day weekend events to street fairs, museum exhibits, and outdoor dining, there’s no shortage of things to do in NYC in May.
This guide covers the top activities, seasonal events, and local favorites happening across all five boroughs. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a date, or exploring solo, you’ll find something here to make the most of the month. Expect rooftop drinks, blooming gardens, spring art shows, and a few lesser-known gems only locals talk about.
If you’re wondering what to do in New York City in May, this list has you covered—with both can’t-miss highlights and quiet ways to enjoy the city before summer crowds roll in.
May Weather in NYC
Best Things to Do in New York City in May
Table of Contents: May Activities in NYC
Table of Contents: Visiting New York City in May
- May Weather in NYC
- Best Things to Do in New York City in May
- Enjoy a Cocktail at Grand Banks
- Watch the Memorial Day Parade
- Snap an Epic Photo of Manhattanhenge
- Celebrate Harry Potter Day
- Celebrate Cinco De Mayo in NYC
- Check Out What’s Left of the Cherry Blossoms
- Cheer on the Five Boro Bike Tour
- Catch the Japan Parade
- Mother’s Day Brunch
- Eat Your Way Through the New York City Night Markets
- Soak in the Epic Skyline Views From the MET’s Rooftop
- See the Spring Blooms on the High Line
- Dance your Heart Out at the Dance Parade
- Eat Your Weight in Food at Smorgasburg
- Indulge on National Hamburger Day
- Ring in the Spring Season at a Rooftop Bar
- Catch a Movie at the Rooftop Cinema Club
- May Festivals in New York City
- Map of New York City May Activities
Enjoy a Cocktail at Grand Banks
Website: Grand Banks
Neighborhood: Tribeca
Location: Pier 25 Hudson River, New York, NY 10013
Date: Reservations start May 1st
The menu features sustainably harvested oysters, small plates, and signature cocktails (order the “Salt Air Margarita” or a glass of rosé). Time it right and you’ll catch sunset while ferries drift by and the city lights begin to flicker on. It’s a distinctly New York experience: slightly nostalgic, a little glamorous, and ideal for couples or solo travelers alike.
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!
Watch the Memorial Day Parade
Date: May 26, 2025
While there are several parades throughout the five boroughs, one of the largest and most historic is the Little Neck–Douglaston Parade in Queens. Held annually since 1927, it includes marching bands, veterans’ groups, fire departments, and local schoolchildren walking the tree-lined streets in a display of civic pride.
The Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade—one of the oldest in the country—is another standout, beginning near Sunset Park and featuring military units and community groups. Both are family-friendly and offer a look at NYC’s local side.
If you’re wondering what to do in NYC during Memorial Day weekend, the parades offer a thoughtful counterpoint to rooftop parties and picnics. They’re also a reminder of the city’s rich history and diverse communities.
Need a memorial more catered to our fallen heroes? Here are a few war memorials in New York City.
- Brooklyn War Memorial: Dedicated to the 300,000+ men and women from Brooklyn that fought in WWII
- 369th Regiment Memorial: Honors the Harlem Hellfighters of WWI and WWII, a largely African American New York Army National Guard regiment.
- East Coast Memorial: An Eagle Statue in Battery Park, the memorial is a tribute to service members who died in the Atlantic Ocean in WWII.
- Korean War Veterans Memorial: A tribute to the service members that passed during the Korean War, located in Kissena Park, Queens.
Snap an Epic Photo of Manhattanhenge
One of the most photogenic—and surprisingly moving—things to do when visiting NYC in May is watching Manhattanhenge, a phenomenon when the sun aligns perfectly with the east–west grid of Manhattan’s streets. It happens just twice a year, and late May is your first chance to catch it.
On the evenings of May 29 and May 30, the setting sun will appear centered between skyscrapers, casting a glow down cross streets like 42nd, 34th, and 23rd. It lasts only a few minutes, but the effect is striking: golden light framed by concrete, as if the city was built for this exact moment.
The best spots to watch are wide streets with clear westward views—try Tudor City Overpass, Park Avenue at 42nd Street, or 11th Avenue in Midtown. Photographers, tourists, and locals all gather, turning it into an impromptu celebration of urban design and natural beauty.
If you’re visiting NYC in May and want to see something uniquely New York, Manhattanhenge is one of those fleeting moments that’s worth planning around. Bring your camera—and get there early.
We created a guide covering everything you need to know about Manhattanhenge!
Celebrate Harry Potter Day
Website: Harry Potter New York
Neighborhood: Flatiron District
Location: 935 Broadway, New York, NY 10010
Date: May 2nd
Harry Potter Day—May 2nd—is a surprisingly fun and festive date to be visiting NYC in May. While it’s not an official city holiday, New York’s deep love for the wizarding world means there are plenty of ways to join in. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just looking for something different to do, it’s a quirky way to mark your visit.
Start with a stop at Harry Potter New York, the flagship store near the Flatiron Building. This immersive retail shop includes VR experiences, a Butterbeer bar, and themed photo ops. On Harry Potter Day, the store often runs special promotions or limited-edition merchandise drops.
Afterward, head to one of the city’s themed trivia nights or pop-up events (past years have seen Potter-themed drag shows, pub crawls, and costume contests). Check listings at Caveat NYC, The Cauldron, or House of Yes.
If you’re visiting NYC in early May and want to mix in something playful and offbeat, Harry Potter Day adds a touch of magic to your itinerary (literally).
Celebrate Cinco De Mayo in NYC
Across the city, you’ll find block parties, bar specials, and live performances. Neighborhoods like the East Village, Williamsburg, and Bushwick host street festivals or pop-up events, while Mexican-owned restaurants offer special menus and mezcal tastings. Don’t miss the scene at Casa Mezcal or La Contenta, or head to Sunset Park, home to one of NYC’s largest Mexican communities, for a more local experience.
Expect mariachi bands, tacos, and rooftop dance parties that go late into the night. Whether you’re in it for the food, the music, or the atmosphere, it’s a fun way to experience another facet of the city.
Love margaritas? Us too! Check out 18 Magnificent Margaritas in New York City (That’ll Satisfy Any Craving).
Check Out What’s Left of the Cherry Blossoms
Date: First week of May
Not only are the blooms beautiful, but they make for the most magical photo-ops. The inner-influencer in you is bound to find its way to the surface, and it’s near impossible not to look like a stereotypical tourist dad taking photos of every single tree you walk by.
Be sure to read our article on 10+ Breathtaking Spots for Cherry Blossoms in New York City. Don’t have time for the full article? Make a beeline toward Central Park’s idyllic spring blooms.
Cheer on the Five Boro Bike Tour
Website: New York Five Boro Bike Tour
Date: First Sunday in May
If you’re visiting NYC in May and love active sightseeing, the TD Five Boro Bike Tour is one of the most exciting events of the month. Held annually on the first Sunday of May, the tour covers all five boroughs—Manhattan, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island—in a 40-mile, car-free ride that draws thousands of cyclists from around the world.
Whether you’re participating or just cheering along the route, it’s a great way to experience New York City from a completely different angle. Streets that are usually packed with traffic are transformed into open bike paths, and the views (especially across the Queensboro and Verrazzano-Narrows Bridges) are unmatched.
If you’re not riding, grab a spot along Central Park, Harlem, or the Lower East Side to take in the energy and cheer on participants. The finish line festival in Staten Island also includes food vendors and live entertainment.
For anyone visiting NYC in early May, this is a uniquely local event that captures the city’s scale, diversity, and spirit—all on two wheels.
Catch the Japan Parade
Website: Japan Parade NYC
Date: May 11th
The parade celebrates Japanese culture, arts, and friendship between Japan and the United States. It typically starts near 81st Street and travels down Central Park West, with colorful floats, traditional dancers, taiko drumming performances, and cosplayers filling the streets.
Before or after the parade, stop by the Japan Street Fair on 72nd Street, which features food stalls, artisan goods, cultural demonstrations, and kid-friendly activities. You’ll find everything from matcha lattes and mochi to calligraphy workshops and anime fan booths.
Mother’s Day Brunch
Some of the city’s best restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus or seasonal dishes just for the occasion. Favorites include Buvette in the West Village for a cozy French brunch, Claudette near Washington Square for sunny Provençal vibes, or Le Crocodile in Williamsburg for a chic yet relaxed setting.
If you’re looking for rooftop views, RH Rooftop or Electric Lemon offer a stunning backdrop to your mimosa. For a quieter alternative, pick up pastries from Levain or Daily Provisions and enjoy a picnic in Central Park.
Eat Your Way Through the New York City Night Markets
The most famous is the Queens Night Market, held on Saturday nights in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. It features dozens of food vendors from around the world—Filipino barbecue, Peruvian ceviche, Korean fried chicken, and more—plus live performances, local makers, and an incredibly welcoming crowd.
In Manhattan, newer markets like Uptown Night Market (in Harlem) and Bronx Night Market are also worth checking out. These events often include DJ sets, pop-up shops, and family-friendly programming. They’re an excellent way to explore local neighborhoods and support small businesses.
Soak in the Epic Skyline Views From the MET’s Rooftop
Website: Cantor Rooftop Garden
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
Location: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Spring is when the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Cantor Roof Garden reopens for the season—and if you’re visiting NYC in May, this is one of the most stunning and serene views in the city. Located on the museum’s rooftop, the space features an annual art installation, bar service, and panoramic views of Central Park and the Midtown skyline.
The rooftop is included with general museum admission, so after browsing through the galleries, take the elevator to the top floor and step outside. Past installations have included mirrored sculptures, oversized bronze statues, and experimental architecture—all set against a sweeping city backdrop.
It’s the kind of settiure, architecture, and open air. Bonus: the rooftop bar serves wine and light snacks, so you can linger with a drink and soak it all in.
See the Spring Blooms on the High Line
The High Line, a unique park in NYC born from abandoned railroad tracks, opened in 2009 and spans 1.5 miles. If you’re wondering what makes visiting the High Line one of the few can’t miss things to do in New York City in May I’m going to give you more than 150,000 reasons: plants.
Indeed, more than 150,000 plants adorn the park and in the spring they’re a sight for sore eyes. Just take a gander at the High Line’s website and you’ll learn all about the curated “garden zones” meant to inspire. They didn’t just throw seeds and hoped they’d stick, the park truly made an oasis in the city.
My favorite of which are the magnolia trees, which bloom in May. You’ll find them in the “Flyover” garden zone, between 25th and 27th Streets (around the middle of the High Line) and the blooms can grow up to 12 inches. They single-handedly draw me to the High Line every New York City spring.
Dance your Heart Out at the Dance Parade
Website: Dance Parade NYC
Date: May 18th
If you’re visiting NYC in May and want to experience pure joy on the streets, don’t miss the NYC Dance Parade, happening this year on May 18. It’s one of the city’s most colorful, high-energy events—and unlike anything else you’ll find in the spring.
The Dance Parade features over 100 dance styles and thousands of participants, from salsa and samba to hip-hop, ballet, and African drumming. The procession starts on Broadway around 17th Street, winds through Union Square, and ends at Tompkins Square Park, where the celebration continues with live performances, workshops, and open dance areas.
Whether you’re dancing or just watching, it’s hard not to get swept up in the energy. The creativity and diversity on display make this one of the most inclusive and feel-good events of the season.
If you’re wondering what to do in New York City in May that’s festive, family-friendly, and unmistakably local, the Dance Parade is an easy pick. Wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and prepare to move—even if you didn’t plan to.
Eat Your Weight in Food at Smorgasburg
If you’re visiting NYC in May, don’t miss Smorgasburg—New York’s largest outdoor food market and one of the most beloved weekend events in the city. With over 60 vendors representing cuisines from around the world, it’s a dream afternoon for food lovers, casual wanderers, and anyone who enjoys eating outside with a view.
The main Smorgasburg location in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is open on Saturdays and sits right on the waterfront, with views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. Sundays in Prospect Park are just as lively, offering a more laid-back, neighborhood feel.
Expect everything from birria tacos and hand-pulled noodles to vegan donuts and gourmet burgers. Portions are small enough to sample multiple items, and the crowd is a mix of locals and tourists doing exactly that.
If you’re wondering what to do in New York City in May, Smorgasburg is a top-tier choice—affordable, family-friendly, and walkable. It’s also easy to pair with a stroll through Domino Park or Prospect Park, depending on your location.
Come hungry, wear sunglasses, and prepare to stand in line. It’s worth it.
Locations: Marsha P. Johnson State Park in Williamsburg, World Trade Center in the Financial District and Prospect Park in Brooklyn
Indulge on National Hamburger Day
Hamburger Day falls on May 28 each year, and if you’re visiting NYC in May, there’s no better city to indulge. From classic diners to gourmet takes, New York’s burger scene is full of contenders—and May’s warm, eat-outside weather makes it a great excuse to sample the best.
Start with the tried-and-true: J.G. Melon on the Upper East Side is a NYC institution known for its no-frills, perfectly cooked cheeseburger. Emily in the West Village (or Clinton Hill, Brooklyn) serves a dry-aged burger that’s developed a cult following, while 7th Street Burger offers late-night satisfaction with thick, griddled patties wrapped in foil.
For a rooftop experience, try Harriet’s Rooftop in DUMBO or The Ready in the East Village—both offer solid burgers and skyline views.
Even if you’re not a meat-eater, the city’s best veggie burgers (like the one at Superiority Burger) hold their own.
Ring in the Spring Season at a Rooftop Bar
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon or a lively evening, there’s a rooftop for it. For something upscale and scenic, try Harriet’s Rooftop in DUMBO, where you’ll get unobstructed views of the Brooklyn Bridge and lower Manhattan. If you’re staying in Midtown, The Ready Rooftop Bar at Moxy East Village is a laid-back option with string lights and frozen cocktails.
Want something more under the radar? Lohi in Brooklyn is a newer spot that feels like a backyard party with better drinks.
Catch a Movie at the Rooftop Cinema Club
One of the best things to do in NYC in May—especially once the evenings start staying warm—is to see a movie under the stars at Rooftop Cinema Club. Located in Midtown at the Skylawn Embassy Suites, this open-air cinema combines classic films, skyline views, and cozy deck chairs with personal headphones for a uniquely urban movie night.
May is prime time to go: the weather is reliably pleasant, and the rooftop setting makes it feel like summer has already started. The lineup often includes a mix of nostalgic favorites (think Clueless, Ferris Bueller, or Notting Hill) and new releases, with multiple screenings each week. Food and drinks are available on-site, and you can arrive early to catch golden hour before the movie starts.
If you’re visiting NYC in May and looking for something relaxing but memorable, this is a great option. It’s fun for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends, and feels like one of those only-in-New-York experiences—watching a movie while the Empire State Building glows nearby.
May Festivals in New York City
Taste of Tribeca Festival
To gain access you’ll purchase a ticket to the festival online, and a general admission ticket comes with six tastings. There are early bird deals too, so book sooner rather than later.
It’s easy to jump from one stand to another sampling bites and stuffing your face. Plus, the proceeds from Taste of Tribeca go to Primary Schools 150 and 234. So try it all because it goes to a good cause! The list of participating restaurants has already been released and includes Michelin rated restaurants as well as a diverse array of food. For the map of all the stalls check out Taste of Tribeca’s website.
Ninth Avenue International Food Festival
In previous years the festival has had events for kids (like bouncey houses) making this one of the best festivals in New York City in May for families. The event goes on rain or shine, and there are no tickets needed for entry so swing by!
Fleet Week
Fleet Week is an annual celebration of our armed forces, specifically those who spend time on the water. The Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard all participate, docking ships and bringing their servicemen and women to New York City in the spring.
Civilians can take a peek behind the curtain and tour active military ships. You’ll also get to attend events meant to showcase the skills of our armed forces (like a martial arts class that took place in Times Square in 2010).
During the spring festival in New York City military personnel also get to explore the Big Apple. Some for the first time. The city becomes littered by thousands of military members in uniform! Locals take advantage of Fleet Week and stop the servicemen and women in the streets for a photo or to shake their hands. It’s also not uncommon to buy the military members a drink as a show of thanks for their service.
Visit the Military News website for a rundown of events and where they’re taking place. Most are free and kids are welcome, which makes this one of the best things to do in New York City in May with little ones.
Frequently Asked Questions: May Things to Do in NYC
Yes, May is a great time to visit New York City! The weather is close to perfect, the locals are retiring their winter coats and flocking to the nearest park. The city comes alive during the springtime.
Gawk at ships during Fleet Week
Attend Ninth Avenue International Food Festival
Peruse the VOLTA Art Fair
Taste of Tribeca Festival
Snap an epic photo of Manhttanhenge
Watch the Memorial Day Parade
Welcome back the Spring season with rooftop bars
Eat a juicy burger for National Hamburger Day
Spend the evening eating your weight at Smorgasburg
Dance your heart out at the Dance Parade
Stroll the blooms at the High Line
Have a drink at the Cantor rooftop
Eat your way through night markets
Take your mom out for a memorable brunch
Sample cocktails at NYC Margarita Rumble
Catch the Japan Parade
Enjoy a live Jonas Brothers Performance
Challenge your friends to a game of pickleball
Cheer on the Five Boro Bike Tour
Check out what’s left of the cherry blossoms
Celebrate Cinco De Mayo
Catch a movie at the Rooftop Cinema Club
Cheers with butterbeer for international Harry Potter Day
Welcome back Grand Banks
May in New York City is springtime, meaning plants are in full bloom, folks are happy as can be and the city is vibrant and full of life. The Weather is ideal for exploring and outdoor seating areas fill up quickly. Visiting NYC in May is a no-brainer and one of the best months to explore the city.
Depending on when you visit, May in New York City is the start of the busy season. Towards the end of May, flight and hotel prices start to rise and the city gets littered with tourists. If you want to avoid crowds, the beginning of the month is your best bet.
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