New York City holidays

Best time to go to New York

New York has a classic continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be bitterly cold, especially in January, when average temperatures range from highs of 4°C to lows of -3°C – perfect conditions if you’re hoping to see the city blanketed in snow. Summers, by contrast, can be sweltering, with July temperatures often reaching highs of 29°C.

While that might not sound extreme on paper, the urban heat island effect means it can feel much hotter on the streets. For a more comfortable holiday, spring and autumn are the ideal times to visit. May sees average highs of 20°C and lows of 11°C, while October offers similarly pleasant weather with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. You’ll also dodge the crowds that descend during the summer holidays and festive season – it’s a win-win.

How to get to New York

New York is served by three major international airports – JFK, LaGuardia and Newark. Direct flights to New York are available from Dublin, with services also departing from Shannon on certain routes, often with a stopover. JFK and LaGuardia are both located in Queens, while Newark is situated across the river in New Jersey and tends to be less busy, making it a handy option for some travellers.

While the USA isn't famous for its train network, the Amtrak East Coast service is an exception, offering reliable connections between New York City and other major destinations like Boston and Washington, D.C.

Getting around New York

New York holidays are full of energy, but getting around is more straightforward than you might expect. The city is roughly half the size of London, and its extensive subway system – with 472 stations – makes it easy to reach every borough and major attraction.

A standard fare on the subway is $3.25 per journey, or slightly cheaper at $2.90 when using a pre-loaded MetroCard. For more direct travel, you can hop into one of New York’s iconic yellow (or green) taxis, or book an Uber for door-to-door convenience.

What to Do in New York

New York, the city that never sleeps, and honestly, you'll find it hard to catch a wink with all there is on offer! From the stunning Metropolitan Museum of Art, where you could spend a whole day and still not see everything, to the modern flair of MoMA and the fascinating exhibits at the Museum of Natural History, there's something for everyone's taste. Be sure to visit the 9/11 Memorial, a heartfelt tribute to resilience and remembrance, and finish off with breathtaking views from One World Observatory, where the city unfolds like a giant playground just waiting to be explored.

New York Nightlife: From Broadway to Brooklyn

The nightlife in New York is as diverse as the weather back home. Broadway is calling, with popular shows like "Hamilton" – you can grab discounted tickets at the TKTS booth if you're looking for a good deal. If you're after a pint with a bit of history, McSorley's Old Ale House has been serving locals since the 1800s. Get dressed up for the stylish clubs in the Meatpacking District or venture into Brooklyn’s trendy spots in Greenpoint and Williamsburg, where the craft beer flows as freely as the East River.

Freebies in the Big Apple

You can soak up the essence of New York without spending a cent. Marvel at iconic buildings like the Empire State and Flatiron, steer clear of the chaos of Times Square, and dive into the cultural vibes of Little Italy and Chinatown. For a bit of greenery, stroll along the High Line, an urban paradise that proves New York really does have something for everyone – all without breaking the bank.

Family Fun in NYC

Central Park is the ultimate place for families, featuring a zoo, playgrounds galore, and enough green space for you to forget you're in a bustling city. Head over to Battery Park for lovely views of the Statue of Liberty, and make sure to take a walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. For a taste of American sports culture, a day out cheering on the Yankees or Knicks is sure to be a memorable family experience.

Romance in the City That Never Sleeps

New York is wrapped in romance, whether it's a picturesque boat ride in Central Park or catching sunset views from the Empire State Building. Grab tickets for a Broadway show for a night filled with drama and laughter, stroll hand-in-hand across the Brooklyn Bridge, and treat yourselves to a lovely dinner cruise around Manhattan. If you're lovers of art, lose yourselves in the masterpieces at the Met or MoMA. To wrap up the night, find a cozy jazz club where the music is as soulful as your love story.

The Best Beaches in New York

New York may be famed for its skyscrapers and Broadway shows, but it also offers a selection of beaches for those looking to escape the city buzz on their New York holiday.

Public Beaches

• Coney Island Beach: A classic New York experience with amusements and iconic boardwalk.

• Rockaway Beach: Known for its surf culture and boardwalk, it's a favourite for New Yorkers during the summer.

• Orchard Beach: Located in the Bronx, this man-made beach offers calm waters and a pavilion with food and facilities.

Private Beaches with Charges

• Manhattan Beach Club: Offers a private strip of sand with amenities for a day-use fee.

• Silver Gull Beach Club: A member-based beach with facilities such as pools, cabanas, and sports courts.

Beaches with Sunbeds and Facilities

• Long Beach: A short train ride from the city, it provides sun loungers, umbrellas, and a boardwalk lined with eateries.

• Jones Beach State Park: Features more than 6.5 miles of sand, with sunbed rental, food stands, and outdoor showers.

Nearest Beaches to New York City

For those on a holiday to New York looking to quickly dip their toes in the sand, there are several beaches within easy reach.

• Brighton Beach: Adjacent to Coney Island, this beach is quieter and known for its Russian eateries and shops.

• Jacob Riis Park Beach: Part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, it's a popular spot for its art deco bathhouse and food vendors.

• Fort Tilden Beach: A more secluded option, this beach is ideal for those looking for a tranquil spot to unwind.

Whether you're after a beach with all the amenities or a quiet stretch of sand, New York's beaches offer a refreshing break from the concrete jungle, perfect for those on a holiday to New York wanting a taste of the seaside.

What to eat in New York

Delve into the culinary heart of New York City on your holiday, a true melting pot of flavours and cuisines. New York's food scene mirrors its cultural diversity, ranging from quintessential street food to exquisite fine dining. Explore our top picks for must-try dishes in New York, each offering a taste of the city's vibrant and varied gastronomic landscape.

Classic New York pizza

No holiday to New York is complete without trying the classic New York-style pizza. Characterised by its thin crust, rich tomato sauce, and generous toppings, it's a staple of the city's culinary landscape. Famous pizzerias like Di Fara and Lombardi's offer a taste of this quintessential New York dish.

Authentic bagels and lox

Experience a New York breakfast tradition with a fresh, hand-rolled bagel topped with cream cheese and lox (smoked salmon). Bagel shops like Russ & Daughters and Ess-a-Bagel serve up some of the best in the city, offering a variety of bagels and schmears to start your day the New York way.

International cuisine in Chinatown and beyond

Explore the diverse flavours of New York's international cuisine. Chinatown offers an authentic experience with its myriad of Chinese eateries, while areas like Little Italy and Jackson Heights are hotspots for Italian and Indian cuisines, respectively. These neighbourhoods provide a glimpse into the city's rich cultural and culinary diversity.

Savouring the Best Ramen in Town

New York's ramen scene has blossomed, offering an authentic taste of Japan in the heart of the city. From rich, creamy tonkotsu broth to lighter shoyu-based soups, the variety is astounding. Ramen joints like Ippudo and Totto Ramen have gained cult status among locals and visitors alike for their exquisite, flavourful bowls. These spots, often with queues out the door, serve up not just a meal but a true culinary experience, complete with freshly made noodles and a variety of traditional toppings like char siu pork, nori, and soft-boiled eggs.