Memorial Day weekend in New York City is the perfect time to fully embrace the last few weeks of spring. This is a long weekend that most people tend to leave the city for but for those that will be in the big apple and are looking for a great way to spend the three-day weekend with warm weather, this is the post for you! The holiday weekend is the perfect time to explore the city and enjoy the best things NYC has to offer. Warmer weather brings more outdoor activities for this popular destination. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, here are some must-do activities to make the most of this exciting holiday.
Central Park
Kick off your long weekend with a peaceful walk or bike ride through Central Park. With the trees blooming and temperatures perfect for outdoor activities, it’s an iconic spot to relax, have a picnic, or even rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse. We have a picnic post linked here for recipe ideas and another post for different parks to enjoy a picnic at with the entire family.
Memorial Day Parade
Catch the annual Memorial Day Parade on Fifth Avenue, which honors fallen military heroes. It’s an inspiring event filled with patriotism and pride. For a more laid-back experience, check out smaller parades and ceremonies around different neighborhoods. This is a great activity for the whole family!
Take a Boat Tour Around The City
With the weather warming up, there’s no better time to see NYC from the water. Hop on a Statue of Liberty or Circle Line tour and enjoy breathtaking views of the skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building. A lot of these boats have live entertainment, dining options or offer drinks to enjoy the view of the city. We recommend the dinner cruises for sure but you’ll have to get them before fireworks begin!
Rooftop Bars
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in NYC. Head to one of the city’s stylish rooftop bars, like The Press Lounge or PHD Terrace, for incredible views, refreshing cocktails, and a laid-back vibe. If you can get rooftop pools, too it’s the perfect way to end spring and look forward to the summer season!
Memorial Day Events at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
For a more reflective experience, visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Special programming over Memorial Day honors the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the military, providing a moving way to spend the holiday. It’s a local museum that is full of history and a great place to mark off your bucket list as it’s such a must-see for anyone visiting.
New York Botanical Garden
The NY Botanical Garden in the Bronx is perfect for nature lovers. With spring in full swing, you’ll find beautiful flowers in bloom, interactive exhibits, and serene walking paths to help you reconnect with nature. We love the NYBG and think it’s not only a great time but the best way to immerse yourself in nature for New Yorkers or anyone visiting.
Beach
NYC beaches are ready for the summer crowd, and Memorial Day is the perfect time to kick off beach season. Check out Coney Island for a nostalgic vibe, or visit Rockaway Beach for great surf and laid-back vibes. Here is our post on the best beaches New York City beaches for a day trip and the best times!
Food Festivals
Enjoy some of the city’s best food festivals, such as Smorgasburg in Williamsburg or the Grand Central Food Market. It’s a great way to sample NYC’s diverse culinary scene while soaking up the lively atmosphere. Food trucks are a great way to have little tastes of various iconic spots we have to offer in the city. It’s also a great opportunity for everyone to find something they like!
No matter your interests, the city offers a perfect blend of relaxation, celebration, and reflection during Memorial Day weekend. Make the most of it with these top activities and enjoy the magic of the city!
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