Things to do in New York City

Public transport can help you get around New York City, but many of its most famous sights and vibrant neighborhoods are best discovered on foot. With a bit of planning, you can experience diverse neighborhoods, from the Brooklyn Bridge’s skyline views during the day to lively jazz clubs in Harlem at night. Each walk gives you a unique look at the area you’re exploring.

Featuring bold flavors and creative twists, the best desserts in New York City leave nothing to be desired. From creamy classics to modern inventions, the city’s sweet treats reflect its innovative flair and diverse origins.

Savor a slice of New York-style cheesecake, dense, creamy, and perfect with coffee. If you’re on the go, grab a piece of chocolate babka from a local bakery or stop at Chelsea Market, where doughnuts, cookies, and pastries can all be found under one roof. Discover more unmissable sweet treats in this guide to the most famous desserts in New York City.

Whether you’re strolling the picturesque neighborhood of Greenwich Village or hiking in Central Park, you can feel the fall in the air in New York in September. Sandwiched between the city’s busiest seasons, September offers the chance to explore the top things to do in NYC at your own pace, while still enjoying sunny days and clear skies.

Spot changing leaves on a helicopter tour, catch a show during NYC Broadway Week, or see the Statue of Liberty without the crowds. From seasonal events to iconic city views, discover what to do in New York in September.

Why go to New York in September?

In September, New York hosts an array of cultural events

As summer festivities wind down, New York kicks off the fall with the annual Labor Day Parade, held on Manhattan’s famous Fifth Avenue on the first Monday in September. Other seasonal events include the San Gennaro Feast, a celebration of Italian American culture in Little Italy, New York Fashion Week, and NYC Broadway Week. Book lovers can also attend America’s largest free literary event at the Brooklyn Book Festival.

New York’s early-fall weather is ideal for outdoor activities

September is the sweet spot between the city’s scorching hot summers and frigid winters, and with little chance of rain, there’s no better time to enjoy outdoor activities in New York City. Enjoy a game of chess at Bryant Park, sign up for a yoga class on the Great Lawn in Central Park, or rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels. On the off chance of rain, there are also plenty of great indoor attractions in New York to keep you occupied, with many world-renowned museums and historical landmarks.

Enjoy New York’s unmissable sights with fewer crowds

New York gets a little less hectic after Labor Day, with smaller crowds compared to the peak tourist season of summer. You can expect shorter lines and fewer people at New York’s top sights like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. As school starts back up, museums and parks are also less busy, especially on weekdays in September.

See vibrant fall foliage in New York’s parks and gardens

As the transitional month between summer and fall, you may be asking; What is New York like in September? New York’s parks and gardens begin their slow transformation into a tapestry of color, creating a vibrant blend of lush summer foliage speckled with orange, yellow, and red. Central Park is the best place to see the first signs of fall in NYC, especially in wooded areas such as the Ramble.

What’s the weather like in New York in September?

New York weather in September is pleasant, with warm days and cool evenings. September is one of the driest months to visit, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Dress in a few light layers to prepare for day-to-night temperature changes.

• Average day temperature: 73 F (22 C)
• Average night temperature: 60 F (16 C)
• Average days of rain: 7
• Average days of sun: 21

Top things to do in New York in September

The best churches in New York City offer a blend of beauty, history, cultural significance, and some of the best architecture in NYC. Standouts include the gargantuan Cathedral Church of St. John in Morningside Heights, while Saint Paul's Chapel in the Financial District was once attended by George Washington.