60 Marvelous Things To Do This May In NYC

Island Oyster — Instagram/ @islandoyster

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to take advantage of the cooler days before the city turns into a massive oven. There’s so much to look forward to in May, from “cinco de Mayo” to exciting new exhibitions and of course, all the city’s gorgeous spring blooms.

That said, we’ve put together a giant list below of all the must-do activities happening this month in the city. Get to it!

1. Unlock your power at the mind-bending ‘Stranger Things’ experience in NYC

Join your favorite characters and explore a medley of locations and fan-favorite moments at NYC’s epic ‘Stranger Things’ experience. Uncover dangerous secrets about Hawkins Lab and see what it’s like in the Upside Down—but beware of the demodogs lurking! There may also be the occasional testing, analysis, or psych evaluation. But don’t worry—it’s safe… perfectly safe… Check out this totally tubular event and score your tickets today.

2. Pose on the iconic orange couch at NYC’s The FRIENDS Experience

Orange couch from FRIENDS — The Friends Experience

Get your gang together and enter into the classic NYC sitcom like never before at The FRIENDS Experience. Take a load off on the iconic orange couch, order a coffee from Central Perk, and even take a seat at Monica & Rachel’s kitchen table. There’s tons of memorable set recreations, costumes, and props to explore. Buy your tickets today!

3. Explore 20 years of Banksy’s work at this new gallery-style exhibit

Delve deeper into the mysterious career of Banksy as visitors will get a rare opportunity to explore over 100 pieces of original and verified art! The exhibit will take you on an incredible journey through 20 years of work, from exclusive posters to Banksy of England banknotes. Buy tickets now!

4-6. Experience breathtaking music by candlelight in beautiful NYC spaces

If you’d like to hear beautiful melodies surrounded by the flickering glow of candlelight in a stunning NYC church, this one at St Ann & the Holy Trinity Church from Bach to the Beatles or this one at the Church of the Heavenly Rest that’s a tribute to Coldplay will surely impress.
If you’d rather listen to more modern jazz, try this Amy Winehouse tribute at the Williamsburg Hotel
Or, for anime lovers, take in the greatest anime songs of all time at Candlelight: Favorite Anime Themes

7. Get transported to the Star Wars universe at the largest fan-made Star Wars exhibition

Travel to a galaxy far, far away at NYC’s out-of-this-world Star Wars fan exhibit. See more than 600 official items from the Star Wars Universe that have been collected and displayed by the franchise’s biggest fans. Stand next to replicas of your favorite characters and see iconic movie recreations. Get your tickets here.

8. Explore the life of Andy Warhol at this outdoor theatrical experience

Chasing Andy Warhol is an outdoor theatrical experience that will give you a deeper look into the life of one of the world’s most iconic artists. Travel through the East Village and see how it was in the 1960s as you discover businesses, street corners, and other secret locations reminiscent of Andy Warhol’s life. Get tickets here.

9-11. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Here are some events going on in NYC (that yes, involve margarita deals!):

12-15. Appreciate the best in art around NYC

Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure — Courtesy of Ivane Katamashvili

One of NYC’s best assets is its accessibility to beautiful art. Everywhere you look there’s new installations popping up and incredible museums to visit. Here are some you should check out this May:

16. Be the first to score tickets to NYC’s dining in the dark

Embark on a tantalizing experience for your tastebuds with Fever Original’s Dining in the Dark. You’ll be completely blindfolded while you enjoy a unique tasting experience that livens your remaining senses. Be the first to know when tickets go on sale and join the waitlist here.

17. Listen to Queen’s best songs reimagined at NYC’s ‘Broadway Sings’ concert

Hear a nostalgic reenactment of all your favorite Queen hits like We Will Rock You, Another One Bites The Dust, and Bohemian Rhapsody at this unforgettable concert coming to NYC. Broadway stars will take to the stage alongside a giant 15-piece orchestra for a night that will have you rockin’ out. Get your tickets here.

18-21. Beat the Sunday scaries with brunch!

Brunch at Lamia's Fish Market — Facebook/ Lamia’s Fish Market

Everyone knows the only way to do a weekend right in NYC is to brunch. Whether you’re looking for insta-worthy spots or bottomless options, East Village locations to West Village favorites, we know just the spots. See below for some favorites:

22. Explore the dazzling depths of NYC nightlife at this critically-acclaimed cirque variety show

Enter into the magical blend of old-world supper club meets New York’s underground queer circus scene at The Rose Room. This cirque variety show will keep you on your toes all night long with an array of mind-blowing performers from America’s Got Talent, Broadway, Cirque Du Soleil, The Box, House of Yes, Company XIV and beyond. Take in the world-class entertainment while enjoying delicious cocktails at this one-stop shop night of adventure in the city! Tickets can be found here.

23. Do a downward dog atop the highest observation deck in the Western Hemisphere

Take your yoga training 1,100 feet above the city at the return of the Edge’s popular Sky High Yoga series. Move your body while you admire the unbeatable view from the sky deck. Tickets are $50 for a one-hour class and mats are included. Find out more details here. The sessions fill up quick so if you miss your chance, don’t worry, they will release tickets on a monthly basis.

24. Get your boogie on at Rockefeller Center’s “Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace”

Travel back in time to L.A.’s iconic Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace that’s been reinvented right here in NYC’s Rockefeller Center. Though Rockefeller transforms into a magical ice rink every year, it’s the first time in over 80 years that it has transformed into a roller rink! Skate all summer long at this exciting pop-up activation. Find out all the details to get your groove on here.

25. Or skate alongside a 1950s airplane on JFK Airport’s retro roller rink

Lace up your skates and glide on over to JFK’s TWA Hotel for an endless amount of fun. From a roller skating rink right on the tarmac to a cocktail lounge inside a historic 1950’s plane, make an entire day out of your time at the hotel. And don’t forget about its rooftop pool as well! Learn more here.

26. Take in amazing views at NYC’s best waterfront parks

With the warmer weather arriving, there’s no better place to enjoy a spring breeze than at one of NYC’s gorgeous waterfront parks. Whether you’re looking out onto the Hudson or perched near the East River, there are picturesque parks to soak in the sun everywhere you look. Check out these 10 best waterfront parks in NYC with the most amazing views here.

27. Pick everything from peaches to pears at NYC’s giant new fruit orchard

Trees in The Open Orchard nursery on Governors Island before being planted at the project site, via Sam Van Aken

Say goodbye to the days of having to leave the city to pick your favorite fruits! Governors Island has welcomed a new fruit orchard, commissioned by artist Sam Van Aken, that is comprised of 102 NYC-native trees that have gone extinct due to climate change. Open Orchard features different types of apples, peaches, plums, and pears. Visitors can stroll through the orchard and have the opportunity to taste these fruits that have not been available for generations. Find out more here.

28-30. Treat the mother figure in your life to a special Mother’s Day

Another big May holiday is Mother’s Day of course! Here are some fun ways to celebrate mama in the city:

For more ideas, see here.

31-33. Catch a breeze at a waterfront bar or restaurant

On a nice day, there’s nothing better than a refreshing drink or bite to eat on the waterfront. From a historic air craft carrier ship to sweeping rooftops, try one of our favorites below:

See our entire list here.

34-38. Listen to vintage tunes under the stars at this rooftop concert series

Enjoy elegant venues across the city for a whimsical night of live music bathed in starlight. From Sinatra to Ella Fitzgerald, hear all your favorite songs from some of the most remarkable jazz musicians of all time with a martini in hand. See concerts below:

39. Or rock out at one of Pier 17’s rooftop concerts

Pier 17’s exhilarating rooftop concert series is back for the season and tickets to the 60+ shows are now available. Watch some of your favorite artists take the stage while you marvel at the endless views of Brooklyn and the East River around you. Find out more here.

40. Roar across the Hudson on The Beast

Circle Line The Beast — Instagram/ @thebeastnyc

Calling all adrenaline junkies! Take a spin on this splash-tastic thrill ride that revs down the Hudson River at 40 knots. The Beast is NYC’s only jet-powered speed boat ride and it’s the perfect way to see the city for daredevils. Learn more here.

41. Shop at Bryant Park’s spring market

We sure love Bryant Park in the winter with all of its vendors, and lucky for us, this spring we won’t have to wait another winter for their return. Explore over 80 vendors at an exciting spring version of the beloved shopping destination by Urbanspace titled “Makers Market.” Discover artisanal items from local businesses on select weekends this month. Get more details here.

42. Try making (and/or just order) Magnolia Bakery’s famous banana pudding

Head over to Magnolia bakery or get their famous banana pudding shipped or delivered to see their brand new logo! Otherwise, you can test your skills in the kitchen and try making your own batch at home! And it’s really quite simple. Okay, it does require a whopping eight hours of chill time, but we swear it’s worth it. Check out the recipe here.

43. Take a day trip to Governors Island

NYC’s favorite local island getaway awaits! Catch a ferry and pretend you traveled a lot farther. Our suggestions? Zoom down the longest slide in NYC, relax at the spa, and visit this waterfront oyster bar! Plus, glamping has returned again!! Read more here.

44. See the last of the cherry blossoms

NYC’s magical cherry blossom bloom is almost ending, but you can still catch the beautiful flowers and their confetti on the ground for a little while longer! Check out our top spots in NYC here.

45. Immerse yourself in Korean pop culture at this euphoric pop-up

immersive korean exhibit nyc — Photo courtesy of Yun Lee (FITZ & CO)

For all you K-pop fans, there’s an imaginative pop-up in NYC that will transport you right into the world of Korean pop culture. Through 15 different immersive environments, you’ll be able to explore all the best in Korean art and design, music, film, and more. And yes, there will be a jaw-dropping BTS installation! Read more here.

46. Roam Pier 57’s new rooftop park

Pier 57's Rooftop Park — HudsonRiverPark.org

Explore the 80,000-square-foot stretch of Pier 57’s new rooftop park, completely free to the public! The 12 year project is mixed-use and shares a home with Google offices plus a a City Winery on the pier. Learn more here.

47. Eat like an Italian at Piazza di Belmont…

You might be familiar with Manhattan’s Little Italy, but did you know NYC is actually home to another Little Italy? That’s right, head to the Bronx for another opportunity to feast on traditional Italian cuisine as ‘Piazza di Belmont’ will return with Piazza-style al fresco dining starting this month from East 188^th Street to Crescent Avenue. Beyond indulging in some Italian classics, be sure to catch acapella group “The Belmont 4” for a variety of tunes on the last weekend of every month through September. See more here.

48-50. Or discover mouthwatering bites at one of NYC’s many outdoor food markets

Another perk of warmer weather in NYC is being able to check out all of the mouthwatering outdoor food markets. These are some of our favorites:

51. Ride to LaGuardia Airport for free

The Q70 bus, also known as the “LaGuardia Link,” is now offering free, year-round trips to the LGA Airport. Ridership was normally free on certain days and holidays, however, Governor Hochul just announced the bus service will no longer charge riders from now on! Read all the details here.

52. Dine at secret outdoor spots

Yes we all agree that people watching while dining can be very entertaining, however, some nights we understand you just want some privacy. At times like that, you definitely should check out all of the city’s hidden outdoor dining spots. These secluded spaces will help you avoid the crowds as you have to enter through secret staircases and unseen patios. Uncover our full list here.

53. Drink alongside friends at Slate NY‘s Nerd Nite

Head to Slate NY on May 20th for a special evening of games, drinks, powerpoint presentations and more. You and your friends will have to put your brain power together at trivia, followed by three fun-yet-informative presentations. The educational yet amusing event will be easily enjoyed with Slate NY’s delicious cocktails and access to their many exciting games like mini bowling, giant Pac-Man, pool, and foosball. Learn more at their website.

54. Try every rooftop in NYC

It’s rooftop season, NYC! From Midtown mainstays to backyard escapes, there are tons of amazing options on our top rooftops of NYC list here.

55. Visit Central Park’s most enchanting hidden garden

Looking for your next peaceful refuge? We know just the spot! Located on the East Side of the park between 104th and 106th street, is the magnificent Conservatory Garden unlike any other spot in Central Park. Read more about it here.

56. Explore The Netherlands’ breathtaking tulip fields in full bloom

A kaleidoscope of color awaits you in these gorgeous tulip fields. If you’ve already explored the ancient city of Petra, or marveled at the Northern Lights, you can now see the full bloom of spring with a little online excursion to the Keukenhof Flower Exhibit in The Netherlands.

57. Or, get the same experience in NJ!

This tulip farm only an hour and fifteen minutes from NYC also mimics Holland’s gorgeous fields a lot closer to home! Find out more here.

58. Pack a picnic

Grab the gingham and take advantage of NYC’s many gorgeous parks and gardens with a lovely picnic. Here are some of our favorite, under-the-radar spots.

59. Stock up on local produce at the farmer’s market

Get all of the fresh produce you need at one of your local farmer’s markets. You’ll find some of the freshest ingredients that will pair perfectly for whatever you decide to cook up at home. Find one near you here.

60. Cool off with some delicious ice cream

Minus Celsius ice cream — Instagram/ @minuscelsiusicecream

We already have heard the ice cream trucks blaring their tune on the street so it’s definitely ice cream season. Explore all of the sweetest offerings around town with our 12 must-try ice cream shops in New York City.

Tags: arts/exposition, family focused, sweets, tours