Looking for the best things to do in NYC this weekend? With the record warm weather we’ve been experiencing this week, we can’t wait to celebrate! Here are our top plans we know you’ll enjoy this weekend:
1. Fill your calendar with these 60 spectacular things to do in New York City this June
With Memorial Day weekend behind us, it’s now the (un)official start of summer! From unmissable Pride happenings to Juneteenth celebrations and the return of ‘Museum Mile Festival,’ find all the ways you can fill your days this month with our guide to June in NYC here.
2. Watch thousands of toy elephants fall from NYC skies
NYC’s annual Dumbo Drop is happening on Friday, June 2. Thousands of toy elephants will parachute down onto Washington Street in a competition to land nearest to the target for some incredible prizes. This spectacle only happens once a year and proceeds from the event go towards PS307 Elementary School and The Dock Street Middle School. Learn more about this year’s fifth annual Dumbo Drop here.
3. Be wowed by this dynamic Dracula ballet
The epic and dark tale of Dracula is getting a unique twist through a new ballet performance. Produced by the Ajkun Ballet Theatre as part of their “Theater Series,” Ajkun Ballet Presents: Dracula is coming to the Theater at St Jean. Part fiction, part history, the ballet explores the stories surrounding Prince Vlad Dracul III, his explosive fights, and a story of passion, betrayal and drama. Get your tickets here.
4. Experience the stunning world of Bridgerton at this decadent ball, now open
“The Queen’s Ball: A Bridgerton Experience” has arrived in NYC, and you’re on the invite list! Prepare for an unforgettable night out in a decked-out ballroom with delicious themed cocktails, countless photo ops, and jaw-dropping theatrical performances while listening to talented musicians play hits from the Bridgerton soundtrack. You won’t want to miss this unforgettable ball, so grab your tickets here!
5. Check out Yayoi Kusama’s all new infinity mirrored room
Yayoi Kusama’s largest gallery exhibition to date is now open. Titled I Spend Each Day Embracing Flowers, the exhibition features an all new infinity mirrored room, paintings and sculptures. We got a first look, and let’s just say it’s not to be missed! It’s located at David Zwirner Gallery in Chelsea. Read more here.
6. Check out some of the best concerts coming to NYC this month
As the summer sun starts creeping out, concert season gets even better! This month, NYC will host a plethora of talented artists on stages across the five boroughs. From Governors Ball to Ed Sheeran, see the entire roundup of concerts coming to the city this June here.
7. Step into a world of miniatures at Small is Beautiful
Explore more than 130 miniature works of art from 30+ artists at the now open Small is Beautiful exhibition in NYC. The miniature world previously toured cities like Paris and London, collecting rave reviews along the way. You won’t want to miss it during its time in New York so grab your tickets here.
8. Visit some of NYC’s community gardens to enjoy free programming
This weekend, GreenThumb will host the the sixth-annual Open Garden NYC. That means hundreds of community gardens throughout NYC will be open for free activities and exploration. Learn more about the event here.
9. Explore the catacombs of Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral by candlelight
Travel beneath the depths of Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City’s only catholic catacombs by candlelight. The unique tour gives you insight on the rich history and spirituality hidden with a church that’s hundreds of years old. Grab your tickets now.
10. Ride the newest attractions at Coney Island’s Luna Park
Get ready for all the roller coasters, cotton candy and fun you can handle because Coney Island’s Luna Park is now reopen for the season. Be one of the first to ride the park’s newest attractions: Tony’s Express roller coaster and Leti’s Treasure log flume. Read all about the 2023 season at Luna Park here.
11. Catch a concert on the rooftop of Pier 17
Spend your weekend jamming out to your favorite artists while taking in jaw-dropping views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge with Pier 17’s rooftop concert series. Find the weekend’s lineup here.
12. Have an adventure at the best immersive experiences in NYC right now
From teasing your tastebuds by dining in complete and utter darkness to taking a journey through space and time, NYC is host to tons of incredible, immersive experiences right now. Find them all with our complete guide here.
13. Dive into the world of Titanic: The Exhibition
Step into the world of The Titanic, and walk through artifacts, recreations, and so much more at this exhibition and experience. Walk next to life size replicas of some of the ship’s interior and learn about debunked facts you probably didn’t even know about. Giving a very emotional and human-first side of the 1912 tragedy, this experience over a century later recapping the lives of passengers and the crew is worth your money. Buy your tickets here.
14. Check out NYC’s first all digital museum
Tickets are now on sale to the Museum of Digital Experiences, which puts artists of the future at the forefront and showcases unique digital installations! The museum has a variety of installations that guests can enjoy and interact with–and of course, snap some pics of! You can snag your tickets here.
15. Learn calligraphy at this “Sip & Script” class in NYC
Forget paint & sip, this is paint & script! Grab your friends and practice your penmanship at this uber unique class offered in NYC. You’ll learn the techniques of calligraphy and hand lettering while sipping on a refreshing cocktail and hanging with your crew. Everyone is welcome from amateurs to hobbyists to professionals. Learn more about sip & script here.
16. Enjoy a stunning concert bathed in candlelight
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like you’ve never seen before all across NYC! From a tribute to Lana Del Rey to a concert celebrating Black America – Jazz, Soul, and Blues, you truly can’t go wrong with which one you choose to go to–and if you can’t pick, just attend them all! Find more candlelight concerts here.
17. Step into a world of giant playing cards, secret rose gardens, and mad tea parties
Wonderland Dreams is taking New Yorkers on an epic adventure through 20 different rooms, each hand painted from floor-to-ceiling. The interactive art experience will allow visitors to become the subject of each painting as they step into new worlds everywhere they walk. After exploring, people can grab a story-themed drink and bite to eat at the wine bar and café. It’ll be like a true fairytale. Book your visit now!
18. View gorgeous outdoor art installations around NYC
This year NYC has been adding many wonderful outdoor public exhibitions for visitors to explore , offering an alternative to museums, art galleries, and art exhibitions. These open-air installations are all free to check out and reside in the great outdoors of our city, and we put together the top 13 must-see ones. Find them all here.
19. Experience the joys of spring with our bucket list of things to do this season
Though this winter (can we even call it that?) was rather mild, it doesn’t take away from our excitement for warmer weather as summer approaches. From outdoor food markets to a jazz lawn party, find out what else to look forward to with our NYC spring bucket list here.
20. Be part of a sitcom at The FRIENDS™ Experience
Relive your favorite sitcom and hop into the world of FRIENDS™ like you never have before! Lounge out on the iconic orange couch, sit at Monica & Rachel’s kitchen table, kick back and relax in Joey and Chandler’s comfy chairs, and take photos with an iconic cup of coffee from Central Perk. If you’re a fan of this show, it’s an absolute must-do this weekend! Buy your tickets here!
21. Take a weekend stroll in DUMBO
From breweries perfect for summertime to flea markets where you’re bound to discover hidden treasures, DUMBO is one of our favorite neighborhoods to explore on a warm sunny day. You’re sure to find everything you’re looking for in this iconic NYC neighborhood. Find more of our favorite spots in DUMBO with our complete guide here.
22. Check all these must-do activities off your NYC bucket list
New York City is a one of a kind place, and whether you’re a newbie or have been living here for years, there’s a few things that you have to do at least once! From visiting NYC’s most iconic landmarks to eating the best food out there, we’ve got a mix of “touristy” and “local” recommendations that we think everyone should follow, and you can find them all here.
23. Dine al fresco on a sun-soaked atrium at Soho’s dreamy new dining destination
The weather is warming up in more places than one, especially in Soho, where a new restaurant is claiming the title of the neighborhood’s hottest new dining destination. For shareable–and absolutely crave-able–dishes that exude carefree energy in the best way possible, this is the place to be. Read all about Twenty Three Grand here.
24. Head to Red Pavilion, a Chinese teahouse apothecary by day and Neo-Noir club by night
Opened on Wednesday, March 8, Red Pavilion combines theatrical cabaret with alchemical sound journeys and wellness workshops. From Sunday dim sum brunches to live Chinese and American jazz on Fridays, this “retro-futuristic” will for sure be Bushwick’s newest go-to. Learn more about it here.
25. Step into the incredible Rose Room realm for The Late Night Circus
Not for the faint of heart, this experience brings together circus, cabaret, cocktails, magic, and much more for a wild night of entertainment. Led by the Ringmaster you’ll experience a circus dance party with a bit of danger and debauchery! Snag your tickets to this must-experience event here.
26. Save your money with these 75 free activities to do in NYC right now
We understand it’s easy to step outside your door intending to spend no money, and somehow be out $70 by the end of the day in NYC. That’s why we created an incredible guide of fabulous things to do in the city that costs absolutely nothing. View it here and your wallet can thank us later!
27. Go wisteria hunting around NYC
With cherry blossoms already past peak, it’s time to move our attention towards the magical wisteria painting the city purple. Find some of the best spots to discover these gorgeous blooms in the city here.
28. Check out NYC’s Museum of Failure
If failure is the mother of success then this is one heck of an exhibit! This fun and insightful exhibit brings together over 150 products and services that were a total flop, and it’s now open in Brooklyn! Grab your tickets here.
29. The Brooklyn Art Book Fair will return for its second year
Discover independent publishers, emerging artists and cartoonists at this literary event sure to stimulate your brain. The fair will take place at Amant from June 2-4, ending with an all-day street fair. Find more information about The Brooklyn Art Book Fair here.
30. Explore all of NYC’s best food trucks
New York City is no stranger to awesome street food, and you can find virtually any type of cuisine you could imagine being cooked up right on the streets! And as the warm weather comes back and you’re out on the go, you may want to stop by one to give it a try! Find some of our favorite food trucks here.
31. Soak in Amalfi Coast vibes at this dreamy new cocktail bar in Chelsea
If you’ve been dreaming of an Italian getaway but your bank account is barely getting you a ride on the subway, let us introduce you to Alba Accanto, which is whisking NYers away on an Amalfi Coast adventure without having to leave NYC. From pastel decor and a menu of raw bites to all the classic aperitivo, spritz, and negroni selections, this is the hottest new spot to be. Read more about it here.
32. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Levain Bakery’s sweet new spring cookie flavor
There’s no New York City cookie crawl without Levain Bakery, and just in time for spring there’s something new baking in the kitchen! Just in time for spring, Levain is now offering their brand new cookie flavor–Caramel Coconut Chocolate Chip–and it’s everything we’ve ever hoped and dreamed of. Read more about the delicious new flavor here.
33. Travel to the center of the universe at this out-of-this-world immersive exhibit
Hall des Lumières, Manhattan’s first permanent immersive art center, is partnering with NASA to launch the limited-time exhibition Destination Cosmos: The Immersive Space Experience, and if you’ve ever dreamed of jumping on a spaceship and heading to outer space, this one’s for you! Displayed throughout 13 different sequences guests will find themselves right in the middle of skies filled with constellations, the 1960s American Apollo missions, and more! Read more about this fun new experience here.
34. Grab a bite to eat at this secret sushi restaurant hidden inside a hotel suite
Sushi Suite 1001 is NoMad’s best kept secret, and an exclusive hotel key card gives you access to the 10th floor suite that’s been fully transformed into the city’s coolest omakase experience, and the first of its kind! Enjoy a 17 course meal at the 4-seat omakase counter before enjoying the terrace (open year-round) and it’s breathtaking 10-story high view with a cocktail in hand. Learn more about this must-visit spot here.
35. Book your next European vacation
With warmer weather ahead and travel on the mind, it’s about time to start booking your summer trips! And thanks to budget airlines, you won’t have to break the bank to have the vacation of your dreams. Whether it’s Paris, London or Rome, choose from a variety of low-cost flight prices you can’t pass up! See more escapes here.
36. Head to pastaRAMEN’s month-long dinner party for a Japanese-inspired Italian omakase dinner
pastaRAMEN is a secret, speakeasy-style experience that serves up a one-of-a-kind Wafu (Japanese-inspired) Italian omakase dinner from James Beard Nominated Chef Robbie Felice. The 10-course meal features dishes like Cacio e Pepe Fritti, Truffle Porcini Ramen, and Dry Aged Japanese A5 Wagyu. For more info and to (try to) snag a reservation head to their website.
37. Spill a secret at this new exhibition–it may be painted and displayed
Contemporary painter Sonya Sklaroff’s new exhibition Secrets of New York portrays the little-known treasures of NYC, and, if you’re willing to spill a secret of your own, Sklaroff may just bring it to life! A box at the exhibition allows guests to drop their own secrets in to then be pulled out and painted by Sklaroff. The painting will be on display for the second half of the exhibition. Learn more about it here.
38. Check out this sultry, Shanghai-style speakeasy hidden beneath a ramen shop
Tucked beneath Shaku Ramen is a secret speakeasy ready to serve you a drink after devouring a steaming bowl of ramen. The Shanghai-style bar seats 25 people, offering a menu of soju cocktails, sake and champagne. And if you’re still hungry, you can order menu items offered a floor above like their Tempura Enoki, Spam Fingers, and Bao Buns. Learn all about this covert cocktail lounge here.
39. Find out what’s hidden behind this locksmith shop on the UES
Come in closer, we’re gonna let you in on a little secret! What if we told you this locksmith and shoe repair shop is just a disguise? What lies behind the very convincing front of the shop and neon sign in the window is actually one of the most elegant and chic speakeasy’s in the city. Order from their creative cocktail menu and definitely make sure to get some focaccia for the table. We recommend you check the space out on one of the nights they host a magic show. Trust us, we can promise you will leave absolutely astonished. Learn more about Key & Heels here.
40. Get funky at Brooklyn’s newest, retro sound room
Disco, house and techno lovers listen up! A brand new 150-person sound room in Williamsburg is opening on Thursday, March 16th. Reviving a nightclub scene reminiscent of the 70s and 80s, Jolene will transition between a lounge to a club vibe based on performers. Read more here.
41. Enjoy the weather at the best outdoor dining restaurants & bars in NYC
Beyond grabbing a drink at a rooftop, this weekend is also the perfect opportunity to dine outdoors. From backyard patios to floral set-ups, there’s never a lack of choices around the five boroughs to dine outside. Find some of our favorite outdoor bars and restaurants here.
42. Hop aboard NYC’s floating oyster bar, Grand Banks
If the forecast turns around this weekend we encourage you to soak up the sun and indulge in oysters at Grand Banks, NYC’s hottest summertime destination. The beloved spot just opened for the season earlier this week and it’s known to fill up fast, so be sure to reserve a spot asap. Learn more about Grand Banks here.
43. Brush up on your dance moves at these fun classes in NYC
Whether you were born to move those hips or have trouble finding any rhythm at all, dance classes are a wonderful way to get your blood pumping and call upon those endorphins. Find a bunch of studios across NYC to dust of your dance moves here.
44. Check out NYC’s very own cannabis museum
In honor of it being the week of 4/20, be sure to make a trip to House of Cannabis, the city’s first-ever permanent cannabis museum! The multi-sensory space spans three floors and is home to 10 exhibitions. It’s meant to celebrate high culture’s impact on music, art, fashion, social reform, and cultivation. Read all about this exhilarating museum here.
45. Find your zen at one of Central Park’s yoga classes
Bring out your inner yogi this weekend with the return of Central Park’s public yoga classes. Let the sun warm up your muscles as you focus on your breath work and flexibility. Participants must register online prior to arrival. Classes are around $18-$20. More details for Central Park’s drop-in yoga classes here.
46. Go for a splash at QC NY’s lavish pool on Governors Island
With weather in the 70s all weekend long, it’s looking like the perfect time to lay by the QC NY pool on Governors Island and soak up some sun. Not to mention, you’ll get to take in the most stunning views of Lower Manhattan while you cool off. Learn more here.
47. Go glamping on Governors Island
If you like the idea of camping but think you’re looking for something a bit more boujee, Collective Retreats is just the place for you. This luxurious glamping experience on Governors Island will have you waking up to breathtaking views of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. Take part in their offered activities from roasting s’mores at their fire pits, to stretching out with morning yoga classes and mingling at happy hour. Read more here.
48. Go roller skating at “Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace”
Rockefeller Center rink has turned into a massive retro roller rink for a second year in a row. Now “Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace,” the rink will be open from April 14 through October. The 80s-era roller skating rink will be the perfect way to enjoy NYC’s warmer weather. Read more about the rink transformation here..
49. Decide whose itinerary to SoHo is better: ours or ChatGPT
We’ve challenged ChatGPT to come up with an entire itinerary to SoHo that is under $50, and we’re willing to bet our recommendations are better. I mean, who wants touristy recommendations when you get them from a hyper-local source like us? Read and decide for yourself which one you prefer here.
50. Get creative with watercolor, clay & collaging at Happy Medium
Happy Medium is a quaint space where, ranging from $15-24, customers can pick from a variety of mediums, including charcoal, pastel, clay, watercolor, and even collage-making! The experiences are self-guided, so it is entirely up to you what your finished piece looks like, but if you’re feeling lost there are fresh flowers, art books, and objects strategically placed around to help you find inspiration. Learn more about this fun space here.
51. Escape on your Euro vacation without catching a flight
With a ginormous city such as New York, it’s incredible how each neighborhood or even corner can feel like you’re in an entirely different place in the world. So if you’re itching for your European vacation to come a little sooner, we recommend checking out these 11 spots in and around NYC that could be Europe at a first glance.
52. Soak in the summer vibes & chow down on delicious bites at a NYC night market
Summertime is coming and that means the return of our beloved night markets! Spanning from Manhattan to Brooklyn, we’re exciting that our annual outdoor festivities are back–especially all the delicious night markets! Find all our fav ones here.
53. Chow down at this Korean pizzeria in the East Village
Appas Pizza is a new Korean pizza parlor serving mouthwatering pies topped with ingredients like bulgogi, kimchi bacon, and sausage and shrimp. As of now, the spot is still operating in soft opening mode, with around 20-30% of their menu available. However, their menu will expand in the future! Read more about Appas Pizza here.
54. Grab a coffee from this dancing robot barista
Did you know NYC is now home to a robot barista!? Botbar Coffee, a robot-run coffee shop, is now serving drinks ranging from $3 for an espresso to $5 for a cold brew, and typical, go-to café bites like croissants and pastries. And though the bot can serve 50 cups of coffee per hour, it isn’t here just to serve drinks–when it isn’t busy working it can dance! Read all about Botbar here.
55. Shred at the recently reopened NYC skateboarding mecca, Brooklyn Banks
Grab your skateboard and knee pads–Tony Hawk’s The Skatepark Project has partnered with NYC non-profit Brooklyn Bridge Manhattan to return the iconic Brooklyn Banks skate spot (that has been closed for 13 years) to the neighborhood! Phase one of the project was to reclaim shuttered open space, with a focus on restoring the Banks skate area and rebuilding adjacent basketball courts that were being used to store construction materials, and this area is now open! Read more about the project here.