New York City FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting New York City.

When is the best time to visit New York City?

New York City is a year-round destination with a busy programme of events every month, but the best time to visit is May to October when the weather is warmest and sunniest. Summer (June-August) has average temperatures of 20-29°C and can get very hot, while autumn (September-October) is the best time to explore the countryside of New York State for the Fall colours. Spring (March-May) ranges from cold to mild with temperatures 4-20°C. Winter (November-March) has temperatures from 10°C down to -5°C with snow most common December-February.

What is the time difference between the UK and New York City?

New York uses Eastern Standard Time (GMT – 5), observing Daylight Saving Time (GMT – 4) March to November.

What places combine well with New York City?

New York City is easily combined with other destinations in New York State, as well as New Jersey and New England. The Catskills are 2.5 hours’ drive north, Albany three hours north, while Rhode Island is three hours north-east and Boston four hours away. Philadelphia is about two hours’ drive south-west.

What are the main cultural events in New York City?

January/February – Chinese New Year with parades, performances and fireworks
March – St Patrick’s Day: huge parade and celebration of New York’s Irish American heritage
June – NYC Pride: one of the world’s biggest LGBTQ+ celebrations
October – Columbus Day: Italian-American celebration with parades, music and parties
December – New Year’s Eve – iconic celebrations in Times Square