In this article I’ll give you my local’s take on the best things to do for St. Patrick’s Day in NYC, including what to do with kids, where to drink, and fun events. Let’s dive in!
The list, in my order
4 I’d go back to and 6 only if it suits you. 3 cost nothing. My verdict on every one, and the ones nearby from my other lists.
St. Patrick's Day Parade
- AddressFifth Avenue between 44th and 49th Streets
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade, dating back to 1762, is a cherished tradition older than America itself. Organized by New York City’s robust Irish community, the event celebrates the Patron Saint of Ireland and has evolved into a broader celebration of Irish culture as a whole. With 150,000+ marchers, and more than 2 million spectators, it stands as one of the most popular events in New York City in spring.
The procession along Fifth Avenue is unique, it bans all cars and floats (allowing only marchers). The parade begins at 11 AM at Fifth Avenue and 44th Street, and ends between 4:30 and 5 PM at Fifth Avenue and 79th Street. The optimal viewpoint is near St. Patrick’s Cathedral but anticipate sizable crowds, as this parade is a highlight of spring in NYC.
Empire State Building
- Address20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
They don’t call New York City the Empire State for nothing! Soaring to dizzying heights of 1,454 feet, the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world for 40 years (from 1931–1971). It’s one of New York City’s most iconic buildings, and odds are if you’re visiting you’ll snap at least one photo of it.
Why not celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC by take a photo with the Empire State when it’s lit up green? That’s right! The top of the building will be illuminated by green lights to commemorate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC. And, if you look extra close, you’ll also notice the mast has a rotating Irish flag.
Loreley Beer Garden
- Cost$9 pours
- Address7 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002
There are plenty of Irish pubs to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC (and we’ll get to them), but you’re going to want to stop by Loreley Beer Garden, too. From the 15th to the 19th of March, the Lower East Side beer garden serves green beer!
There are also $9 pours of Guinness, Irish coffees, and green margaritas, to help you get the full St. Patrick’s Day boozy experience in New York City. Loreley’s also does a great job offering specials, and each day brings a new deal to splurge on.
Tenement Museum
- Address103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
There’s more to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in NYC than just a party. The Tenement Museum in NYC offers a captivating lens into Irish history, particularly for those keen on exploring the immigrant experience. Located on the Lower East Side, this museum is housed in a restored tenement building that once accommodated thousands of Irish immigrants in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The museum’s “After the Famine” tour tells the life stories of Joseph and Bridget Moore, Irish immigrants who arrived to New York City in 1869, in search of a better life. By better understanding the history of the Irish in America, celebrating them and their contributions to America becomes a much richer experience on St. Patrick’s Day in NYC.
New York Irish Whiskey Festival
- Address1 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10004
The New York Irish Whiskey Festival presents a unique and spirited celebration for St. Patrick’s Day enthusiasts in NYC. Taking place the weekend before the holiday (on March 9th), the festival is a showcase of Ireland’s rich whiskey-making tradition. Attendees have the opportunity to savor more than 25 premium Irish whiskeys, from well-known brands and boutique distilleries.
Masterclasses and presentations delve into the artistry behind Irish whiskey production, providing both novices and aficionados with a deeper understanding of the spirit. Moreover, the live entertainment, cultural performances, and a festive atmosphere help pay homage to Irish heritage, making it a delightful St. Patrick’s Day celebration in New York City.
Try Serendipty 3’s Frozen Hot Chocolate
Serendipity 3, a famed NYC dessert destination, is renowned for its iconic Frozzzen Hot Chocolate. Created in 1954, this chilly delight blends a secret recipe of 14 types of cocoa, and serves it in fun setting reminiscent of the kind of restaurant Willy Wonka would run.
And if you’re looking for one of the best things to do on St. Patrick’s Day in NYC with kids, Serendipity 3 will be making their Frozzzen Hot Chocolate with a twist. During St. Patrick’s Day weekend the dessert shop makes a green version of their sweet-treat, perfect for celebrating the occasion.
Serendipity 3
- Address225 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022
The Dead Rabbit
- Address30 Water St, New York, NY 10004
Opened in 2013, The Dead Rabbit was named after an Irish gang that ran rampant in lower Manhattan. The founders hail from Belfast and had a simple goal, to create one of the best upscale cocktail bars in New York City with the atmosphere of Irish pubs, and they delivered.
Winning several awards (most notably #1 bar in the world in 2016) it shouldn’t come as a surprise the pub is one of the best places to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC. The bar usually celebrates the holiday with live music performed by Irish artists that help set a festive, high-spirited atmosphere.
The St. Paddy’s menu will feature five Irish whiskey cocktails that are sure to get you in a celebratory mood. And if you visit on St. Patrick’s Day itself one dollar of every cocktail sold will be donated to NYC’s Irish Arts Centre.
Sober St. Patrick's Day
- Address59 Park Ave, New York, NY 10016
Sadly, most of America correlates St. Patrick’s Day with booze. If you want to participate in a more PG version of the holiday the organization Sober St. Patrick’s Day is here to help. At the The Church of Our Saviour, the organization hosts a family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day party.
There will be music by award-winning Irish singers and dancers, and you won’t need to worry about tripping over inebriated locals. The lack of alcohol makes the event one of the best things to do on St. Patrick’s Day in NYC with kids.
The celebration consists of three parts: a pre-parade reception, participation in the St. Patrick’s Day NYC parade, and a post-parade get-together. The reception and marching are free, but you’ll need to purchase tickets (which will be available closer to the holiday) for the post-parade celebration.
Summit One Vanderbilt
- Address45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Summit One Vanderbilt is New York City’s newest observation deck and has immediately become a fan favorite. Part of that success has to do with the observation deck’s constant events, including an annual St. Patrick’s Day party that’s become a bit of an NYC tradition.
The observation deck will light up green in honor of the holiday all while offering some of the best views of the city. Furthermore, their 93rd floor cafe Après will be offering green beer for those of age. Tickets generally become available the closer we get to the holiday, I’ll update this post when I have the link.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
- Address5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
Located right off 5th Avenue, St. Patrick’s is a Neo-Gothic style cathedral has been stopping folks in their tracks since its completion in 1879. Welcoming more than 5 million visitors per year, the iconic church offers free entry for those who are interested (step inside so long as the doors are open).
Albeit not necessarily an Irish church, it was named St. Patrick’s in response to New York City’s rising population of Irish immigrants. Exploring the church of the best ways to observe St. Patrick’s Day in NYC, and if interested you can sign up for a tour.
Visit an Irish Pub
Heading to an Irish pub is just about the best way to soak up the St. Patrick’s Day festvities in NYC. Picture this: you walk into a cozy spot with Irish tunes in the air, a friendly crowd, and maybe even some dancing. The Irish pubs in New York City really know how to throw a St. Paddy’s party!
Plus, you’ve got that authentic Irish feel – dark wood, warm atmosphere – and they’re serving up all the Irish drinks you’d want. It’s not just about the drinks though; it’s the whole experience of sharing good times with friends and locals. But fair warning: these parties are known to get a little wild.
Frequently Asked Questions: St. Patrick's Day NYC Guide
Where to go on St Patrick’s Day NYC?
On St. Patrick’s Day in NYC, head to the lively Irish pubs scattered across the city for an authentic and festive celebration.
Is St Patricks Day busy in New York?
St. Patrick’s Day in New York City is typically bustling with activity and attracts large crowds, especially around events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and festivities at Irish pubs.
Where is the best place to see the St Patrick’s Day parade in NYC?
The best viewing spot for the St. Patrick’s Day parade is on Fifth Avenue across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Does NYC have a St Patrick’s Day parade?
Yes, NYC hosts one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parades in the world, a vibrant annual event along Fifth Avenue celebrating Irish heritage.
How many hours does the NYC St Patrick’s Day parade take?
The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade typically takes around 5 to 6 hours to traverse the route along Fifth Avenue, starting at 44th Street and ending at 79th Street.
