Visiting New York in

September

What to expect
Getting around
Things to do
Rainy day

New York City in September is a time of transition. It's still technically summer until around the 21st, but the city takes on an autumn frame of mind after Labor Day. Most New Yorkers are home from vacation, and the number of tourists in town is dwindling. NYC weather in September is pleasant and brings a bit of autumn color to Central Park and other green spaces, and a certain excitement is in the air as everyone looks forward to fall and September events in the city.

What to expect

Wetter

Average Daytime Temperatures: 77F (25C)
Average Overnight Temperatures: 60F (16C)
Sunny or partly sunny days: 21
Rainy days: 7-9, 2 with significant rainfall

What to wear

Pack sweaters or a light jacket for the evenings
Short sleeves will work during the first part of the month
Wear comfortable walking shoes, closed toe shoes and water resistant, so you can enjoy your walking tours, as well as something a bit more fanciful for the nightlife.
If you love the beach, throw in a swimsuit, water is particularly warm in early September

New York Prices in September

Hotel prices begin to inch up slightly as the peak visitor season starts, but with so many free things to do in New York in September, you'll barely feel the blow.

Book your flights and accommodation in advance for best prices, midtown & times square are the most popular choices, but there are plenty of other options, especially in Brooklyn with convenient transport options to Manhattan attractions.

Planning your trip is a key to a balanced budget, use free online resources like our maps & guide or the itinerary tool, if you are going to visit some iconic attractions, get a sightseeing pass, it will easily save you 50% on regular admission prices – see more

Getting around

New York is easy to navigate, but if you can't walk to your destination there are plenty of options

Subway

The quickest way to travel around, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from as low as $2.75 per ride, with stops usually every 8-10 blocks.

Taxis

If the top taxi number is illuminated it's available, minimum metered fare is $2.50, which increases 50 cents every fifth of a mile or every minute.

Hop on, Hop off Buses

These buses connect major attractions all over the city and provide many photo opportunities, it's also a good way to catch a break or eat your sandwich while still sightseeing.

New York Travel Tips

Perks

New York City Subway Map

New York Tourist Map

Things to do in September

Check out the following list of ideas for fun things to do in New York in September:

1. New York City Parks

One of the most beloved Labor Day events in New York is the annual Carnival held in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. The main event is the West Indian Day parade with around three million participants. Held on the Eastern Parkway, the day-long march is one big colorful party with crazy costumes, nonstop music, and Caribbean eats.

Since Labor Day weekend of 2009, the Electric Zoo has been one of NYC's largest music festival. Some top names in electronic music that have performed at the 3-day festival include Above & Beyond, Armin Van Buuren, and Zedd. The festival is held at Randall Island Park centrally located in New York City along the East River. Amenities at the festival include an open bar, shaded seating area, and locked cell phone charging stations.

2. Rockaway Beach

September is a good time to squeeze in a beach trip before the end of the season, and the perfect place is Rockaway Beach. Located on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, this is one of the quieter beaches and known for good waves and surfing. Play along the surf, walk the boardwalk and relax during the last warm days of summer.

3. Governors Island

This former military quarters in New York Harbor has been turned into a park, and September is the last month of the season you can go there. It's a pleasant place to spend a day in September, a good place to gaze on Lady Liberty in the distance.
Rent a bike and explore old military sites, and check out the hammocks to loll around in at Hammock Grove. You will find lots of food and drink options on the island. Catch the ferry to the island from 10 South Street.

4. San Gennaro Festivals

This is a lively festival that takes place on the streets of Little Italy for 10 days around mid-September. It's a very old festival, and the crowds are loyal. Play carnival games and sample delicacies like deep fried Oreos, sausage and pepper sandwiches, and tasty Italian treats. Look for the Gennaro Festival on Mulberry Street between Canal and Houston Streets.

5. 9/11 Museum and Memorial Sites

Take some time to pay tribute to the strength and resilience of New Yorkers. Visit the 9/11 Museum and Memorial site. The atmosphere here is sad yet special. Keep in mind that the purpose of the museum is to recognize and honor triumph over human corruption. On September 11th, the Tribute in Light is lit after the sun goes down. The illumination takes place near where the Twin Towers once stood. Many people around the neighborhood light candles. It is a touching, solemn sight.

6. Oktoberfests

This popular event is so beloved New Yorkers can't wait to get started. Hence the official beginning of Octoberfest is near the end of September. The idea is, well maybe to make the most of September weather, but it could be people just can't wait to sample all the best beers in NYC along with plenty of traditional German dishes. Look for celebrations all around the city from the best beer gardens to the parks with trees tinged in autumn color.

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Rainy Day Options in New York

Broadway Shows

Taking a Broadway show will chase away any rainy day blues during your visit to New York City. It might not be possible to get last minute tickets to every show, but you can find something a couple of hours before the show starts by visiting the box office of the theatre.

NYC Museums

Your weather app says it’s going to be raining the whole day? Head over to one of the best NYC Museums. Whether your interest is in art, science or city history, there’s something for everyone in just about every neighbourhood. Pick from MoMA, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Whitney Museum of American Art, Museum of the City of New YorkorEl Museo del Barrio.