The world has shrunk over the last few decades, owing to science. Different parts of the globe have come together to form a Neo-Pangea. And if a global consensus is taken to elect a capital of this new world, it would unquestionably be New York. Michael Scott of the U.S. television comedy, The Office, calls New York the “heart of civilization”. If you visit the city, you will understand why this description is poignant. The city forms a reservoir of global art and architecture. It brings together people from every culture around the world. And for these people, it offers food that feels close to home, if not exactly homemade. It also has one of the best nightlife on the planet. In short, New York is a perfect travel destination for almost anyone, even in the July heat.
What makes New York in July special?
Around 65 million tourists make it to New York every year. During the summer months, New York is hot and humid. Yet, the city feels like one big party during the summer months. Aided by the school holidays, the Big Apple indulges with the tourists to give in to the feverish nightlife the city is famous for. Although July sees quite a few rainy days, it is still one of the clearest months of the year, ideal for catching a glimpse of the city skyline. The city also offers enough indoor activities for you to enjoy during the hot day time only to complete your sightseeing after sundown. And finally, July is one of the best times to visit New York if you are planning to sense the quintessential American spirit on the Fourth of July.
New York weather in July
July is the hottest month in New York. The mercury keeps climbing throughout the month. You can expect temperatures above 30°C/86°F on three days in July. The nights are relatively pleasant and good for walks. July sees moderate rainfall in New York. It is also not very windy during this month.
New York in July: Things to do
1
Central Park
There are a number of landmarks in New York that have been made popular by the media. Central Park is one of them. The rectangular stretch of greenery gives the city its unique aerial appearance. Irrespective of the time of the year, Central Park is a delight. Central Park hosts numerous events all around the year, which makes it one of the best places to head to if you want to kill some time.
July Timings
Daily: 6am to 1am
New York, NY
USA
Getting There ›
2
9/11 Memorial & Museum
The tragic events of 9/11 rocked the whole world. The 2977 victims of the tragedy have been honored at 9/11 Memorial and adjacent Museum. The aesthetically pleasing twin reflecting pools stand at the site of the twin towers. The museum is dedicated to the lives of the victims and the impact of the tragedy on the world. This is a must-visit site in New York no matter when you are in the city.
July Timings
Daily: 7:30 AM -9 PM (Memorial)
Sun - Thu: 9 AM - 8 PM (Memorial Museum)
Fri - Sat 9 AM - 9 PM (Memorial Museum)
Z180 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10007
USA
Getting There ›
3
Top of the Rock
July is a good time to head up the observation decks of New York. Top of the Rock is situated at the top of the Rockefeller Center. The cruise ship like structure gives it a unique visual appeal. The vantage point will offer you a breathtaking view of the New York skyline. Top of the Rock also lies in the vicinity of numerous happening shopping and dining destinations where you could head to later.
July Timings
Daily: 8am to 12am
30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112,
USA
Getting There ›
4
Helicopter Tour
The magnanimity of New York’s skyline cannot be understated. This is why a number of attractions in the city revolve around this selling point. A helicopter tour of New York is one way to see the entire city of New York and the greater New York area. From the Statue of Liberty to Times Square, you’ll see it all in just under 30 minutes. The high visibility in July will aid this aerial tour.
Helicopter Flight Services Inc, Downtown Manhattan Heliport pier 6
New York, USA
Getting There ›
5
Empire State Building
The stunning panoramic views of New York City and the ocean are a treat for the eyes, which is why the open-air 86th-floor observatory is ideal for you to appreciate it. The Empire State Building is the most famous skyscraper in the world, soaring 1,454 feet (including antenna) above midtown Manhattan.
July Timings
July 1-18, 2024: 9am to 12am
July 19-30, 2024: 9am to 1am
Empire State Building, New York, NY 10001,
USA
Getting There ›
6
Circle Line NYC Landmarks Cruise
While a dive in the Upper Bay might not be quite pleasant, a cruise is certainly a recommended experience. With this cruise, you will be able to look upon the grandeur of Manhattan from the water bodies surrounding it. You will be able to see all five boroughs, many of the famous bridges, and get up close to the Governor’s Island and the Statue of Liberty.
July Timings
Depends on the tour you pick
Pier 83, West 42nd Street , New York City
USA
Getting There ›
7
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
At the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), you may immerse yourself in the very best contemporary artwork. It contains works from the early 1800s to the present day by artists such as Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol. With Museum of Modern Art tickets, go throughout all exhibits without limits.
July Timings
Mon to Fri & Sun: 10:30am to 5:30pm
Sat: 10:30am to 7pm
11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019,
USA
Getting There ›
8
Broadway Shows
When at the melting pot of international culture, you have to indulge in art. Broadway forms an important part of New York’s persona. It is wildly popular and watched by millions each year. Musicals like Aladdin, King Kong, The Lion King, Wicked, Mean Girls, The Book of Mormon, are just a few of Broadway’s offerings. There is one for everyone and it is definitely not one to miss out.
July Timings
Timings vary depending on the show & availability
Theater District New York, NY
USA
Getting There ›
9
Statue of Liberty
Lady Liberty has valiantly guarded the harbors of New York and in doing so, has made herself a necessity for every tour of the city. The Statue of Liberty is another such landmark that represents New York. It was named a National Monument in 1924. You can explore the Liberty Island and the Museum on a single tour, which will help you save some time in the high season of July.
July Timings
Daily: 9am to 6:30pm
New York, NY 10004,
USA
Getting There ›
10
American Museum of Natural History
If the history of civilization is of any interest to you, the American Museum Of Natural History is one of the best places in the world for you. Founded in 1869, this famous institution has done a brilliant job in collating the history of the planet under one roof. Not only that, it has fun and interactive activities for the young at heart as well. In July, in spite of the crowd, you will be well rewarded at the American Museum of Natural History.
July Timings
Daily: 10am to 5:30pm
Central Park West & 79th St, New York, NY 10024,
USA
Getting There ›
New York in July: Events to look out for
Fourth of July
July 4, 2024
New York doesn’t hold back when celebrating its independence. The largest fireworks display in the country takes place in New York and you can witness it from just about any vantage point in the city. There are also numerous concerts and film screenings going on in addition to the parade in Staten Island. The true American spirit is on display on the Fourth of July.
Summer on the Hudson
All of July
Organized by the New York City Parks, Summer on the Hudson comprises of a number of activities that take place on the Hudson River. This includes yoga, dance, martial arts, karaoke, science and culinary workshops, among others. The Hudson River provides a brilliant view of the Manhattan skyline which makes these events a bit more rewarding.
NYC in July: 5-day itinerary
5-7 Days in New York Itinerary
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3
NYC July essentials
LanguageEnglish
Time zoneGMT-4
Country Code917 | 212 | 718
Socket Type A & B
CurrencyDollar ($)
New York Weather in July
New York is at its hottest in July. In recent times, the mercury has even soared to 39°C in New York. The average high remains at 29°C and the average low hovers around 22°C. There is a 40% chance of rain on all days throughout July. Humidity is moderate during the month and visibility is high.
Where to Stay in July
Despite the high volume of tourists in July, especially around the fourth of July, there will not be a dearth of hotels or rooms in New York. Rates may be slightly inflated, but that is a risk you run when you come during the summer. If you have your itinerary ready, choose the hotel according to your sightseeing route
- Luxury: The Whitby Hotel, The Towers at Lotte New York Palace, Crosby Street Hotel
- Mid–range: Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection, The Sherry–Netherland Hotel, The Langham New York Fifth Avenue
- Budget: Hotel 50 Bowery NYC, NobleDEN Hotel, EVEN Hotel Times Square South
What to Pack in July
Cut all of your warm clothes loose and only pack light and breathable clothes for July. Shorts may be a good idea for overcast hot days. Remember to carry sunblock if you are planning to get some of the walking tours done during the day. In that case, you will also need a bottle of water that you can carry around. Do not forget to carry an umbrella and a set of waterproof clothing as the chance of you encountering rain is high.
Getting Around New York in July
New York handles a lot of traffic every day. Therefore, over time, it has developed a vast network of public transport. It is reliable and economical. The MTA has done a wonderful job to connect the five boroughs. Take the subway if you prioritize speed over everything else. They run on all days of the year. The buses are also a good way to travel, if not the fastest. It can afford you a certain degree of sightseeing. The yellow cabs are the fastest surface means of transport within New York. The fleet is quite large too. You may also opt for the ferry to take you across the East River, Hudson River, and the Upper Bay.
New York in July: Seasonal delicacies
New York is famous for its street meat and it even finds mention in NBC’s Brooklyn Nine-Nine. You will find New Yorkers queuing up for hours to eat this roasted meat delicacy. The roasted meat is served with fragrant basmati rice and a special sauce.
Where to eat: The Halal Guys
How could you expect to leave New York without trying at least one of the many famous sandwiches? The BEC, or the bacon, egg and cheese sandwich is a breakfast staple in New York. You can also try it after a night of heavy drinking.
Where to eat: Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner
New York has been home to a large Jewish community. It has had its impressions on the city’s culinary offerings. The bagel is basically a hand-shaped bread that is baked crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside.
Where to eat: Russ & Daughters
Admittedly, chocolate chip cookies are available everywhere in the world now. But certain places in New York put a little extra effort in perfecting this cookie. With a gooey interior and a crunchy exterior, this baked delicacy tastes like a small piece of heaven.
Where to eat: Levain Bakery
The New York Cheesecake has had the honor of carrying the name of this esteemed city because of its unique spin on the classic dessert. In addition to its original form, you get a generous amount of fruit puree and a delicate sponge base on this one.
Where to eat: Junior’s
Tips for visiting New York in July
- Make your flight and hotel bookings as early as possible because July sees a lot of tourist flow in New York. Last minute bookings could be expensive and altogether improbable.
- Book your tickets to the attractions in advance as some of the New York landmarks allow a limited number of visitors at a time.
- Plan your walking tours and outdoor activities as early in the day as possible or hold off until sundown. The July sun can be unforgiving.
Discover New York through the year
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Planning to visit New York in July?
For more fun things to do in NYC, check out our detailed guides and plan your trip better!
FAQs
July is the best time to visit New York City – the weather is warm and there are plenty of activities to enjoy outdoors. However, July can also be a very busy month in the city, so if you are looking for a more relaxed trip, you may want to consider visiting New York at another time of year.
Since New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it can be expensive to visit during peak times in the month of June, July and August.
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in New York in July, include the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge. If you're looking for something a little more off the beaten path, consider taking a walk through Central Park or visiting one of the city's many museums.
The easiest way to travel within New York City is by using the city's mass transit system. This includes subways, buses, and trains. You can purchase a MetroCard, which allows you to use all of these transportation options with one card.
