The Big Apple is a top travel destination that enjoys the distinct characteristics of all four seasons. Each season offers visitors a host of unique New York sightseeing experiences. In warmer months New Yorkers relish their time outdoors, whether at a beach, or in a park, or on the Hudson. And as the song goes, autumn in New York is “inviting” with colourful displays of fall foliage. Winter in Central Park brings horse-drawn carriage rides, sledding, and ice skating. And then, you have the famous stand-up comedy culture in New York which could be an experience worth trying out! With a variety of clubs such as the West Side Comedy Club NY opening up its doors to patrons by hosting multiple shows for the the veteran and the newbies in the comedy scene, this is an experience you would not want to miss out on! Check out these activities categorized by season, and plan your travel time in NYC in advance, so you get the best out of each season.

Take a look at each month and its corresponding weather patterns to find your favorite seasonal activities in New York City:

January-March

The period between January-March is usually the coldest in NYC and is not for the fainthearted. This time of year, however, is when tours and travel prices are significantly reduced. So if you’re looking for a good deal, this is the time to plan a visit. Grab your gloves and winter gear and enjoy immersing yourself in the chilly weather, because a little snow never stopped any New Yorker from having fun. See The Nutcracker or the Rockettes, enjoy a Winter Jazz Festival, or the Lunar New Year celebration in Chinatown. Many of the parks offer ice skating and sledding or join in the winter magic at the rink at Rockefeller Center. You’ll have so much fun you won’t even notice how cold it is.

April-May

The period between April-May brings warmer weather and often spring showers, but rain doesn’t keep a New Yorker from having a great time. Cherry blossoms are blooming in April, and a bevy of activities are in full swing like: the Easter Parade, the Tribeca Film Festival, and the Famous Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden. May ushers in Japan Day celebrations and Memorial Day, which kicks off the beginning of summer and Fleet Week, a festival on the water that honors members of the US Navy, Coast Guard, and Marines, while a flotilla of vessels and tall ships cruise the Hudson. Gardens in Central Park draw admirers from all over to see an array of flowers in all their glory.

June-August

Everyone heads for the outdoors to soak in the long-awaited sun while they can. Free outdoor concerts and performances abound throughout all five boroughs. See Shakespeare in the Park in Central Park, take a ride on the Cyclone roller coaster in Coney Island. Watch a Fourth of July firework show on the Hudson, or join the throngs on blankets at one of the many parks. Catch a movie under the stars at one of the many outdoor film screenings or a Yankees or Mets game. Summer is chalk-full of entertainment and activities, so book at least one month in advance to enjoy the best New York sightseeing has to offer.

Sept-Oct

Autumn in New York is unparalleled. The brilliantly colored fall foliage at any of the parks makes for stunning backdrops to photographs. The temps begin to cool, but outdoor dining is still in full swing and has plenty to enjoy. You can relish the best food by visiting an Indian or japanese restaurant of your choice. Visit a local Vineyard on Long Island, or a farm in upstate NY. Fall means new shows on Broadway, Oktoberfest, and the Halloween parade. It’s a good time to enjoy some discounts and visit the city at the cheap also.

November-December

November brings a chill that creates the ideal setting for Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Explore one of the many holiday markets throughout the city for unique gifts. Don’t miss the experience of ice skating at Rockefeller Center or riding in a horse-drawn carriage through Central Park. Jets or NY Giants football game or see the Rockettes perform in a holiday extravaganza