Sure weekday plans are important, but with NYC’s hustle culture, we know the weekends are most people’s time to enjoy all the wonderful happenings in the city. So if you’re looking for the best things to do in NYC this weekend, we’ve got you!
Here are our top plans we know you’ll enjoy this weekend:
1. Make the most of Memorial Day weekend
Whether you’re planning a trip out of the city or just want to spend your extra day off relaxing somewhere peaceful, these are our recommendations for making the most of the unofficial start to summer.
2. Explore the world’s largest collection of Banksy’s work at The Banksy Museum
Roam 15,000 square feet of artwork at The Banksy Museum in New York City. Expect beautiful projections and visual surprises at every corner, highlight beloved work from one of the world’s most enigmatic artists. Grab your tickets today!
3. Listen to your favorite songs by Queen reenacted with Broadway Sings
Hear Queen favorites like We Will Rock You, Another One Bites The Dust, and Bohemian Rhapsody at Broadway Sings Queen, an unmissable concert featuring Broadway singers, backed by a 14-piece orchestra, performing the best songs from the band’s most popular hits. It’s only running for a limited time so grab your tickets while you still can.
4. Check out NYC’s best AAPI-owned restaurants & businesses
AAPI Month is a month where we recognize the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. Thankfully there are tons of AAPI-owned businesses that contribute to the culture of NYC that we can be supporting every day, and you can find all our favorite ones here.
5. Admire Union Square’s massive technicolor street mural
Union Square Partnership’s fourth rendition of their Street Mural Program debuts today, Friday, May 17th. Volunteers are painting 14th street from Broadway to University Place in Queens-based artist Talisa Almonte’s vision. It’s titled “Flowing Together.” Read more about it here.
6. Snag this deal for Jazz Age Lawn Party
Get transported back to the roaring 20’s when you attend this epic annual Jazz Age Lawn Party returning for its 2024 iteration. Enjoy live jazz orchestras, snap memorable pics with 1920s-style photo ops, and of course, there will be plenty of drinks and bites to enjoy. Plus, honor the jazz legend Miles Davis with us and get 25% off your festival pass this special weekend. Promotion only valid until May 26th by using the code MDJAZZ25. Score your tickets today!
7. Try Greenberg’s Bagels x Partanna Olive Oil collaboration
Indulge in whipped olive oil cream cheese from Sunday, May 19th to Sunday, May 26th only with a special collaboration between NYC bagel shop, Greenberg’s Bagels, and fifth-generation olive oil brand, Partanna Olive Oil. The whipped olive oil cream cheese will go on The Partanna Classic Smoked Salmon sandwich, priced at $18. New Yorkers can also purchase the cream cheese separate from the sandwich by the pound or half-pound. Grab yours at either Greenberg’s Bagels’ Bed-Stuy or West Village location.
8. Get tickets to this authentic Spanish Flamenco Tour–almost here in NYC
Last year, NYC was lucky enough to get multiple installments of the very successful Authentic Flamenco world tour put on by one of the most notable artistic institutions in Spain. This year it’s returning but only for one day only–and it’s coming up fast! Get tickets here.
9. Join our exclusive Secret Club to enjoy brilliant benefits across NYC
Secret Club NYC is gearing up to provide our Facebook followers with some exclusive ways to experience the city that never sleeps. This must-try subscription service provides unbeatable deals and discounts, giveaways, as well as a community-driven space for spreading that New York City love, guaranteed to make you feel like a true NYC VIP. Join Secret Club NYC today!
10. Grab a ticket to this sensual circus-style burlesque show
Enjoy dinner and a show with all the excitement of a cabaret show at AirOtic Soirée in NYC. World-class acrobats will dazzle you with their talent for a performance you surely won’t forget. Secure your tickets today!
11. Catch the latest entertainment and/or sports event at Barclays Center
Some of the hottest events are happening in Brooklyn and you do not want to miss out! Whether you’re a die-hard Nets fan or love grabbing tickets to the next concert in town, you can find it all at Barclays Center. Plus, while you’re over there be sure to grab a slice at Fini Pizza! Find all the events on the Barclays Center website.
12. Turn up on the weekends at this unforgettable jazz brunch
Get ready for a jam-packed weekend filled with dynamic tunes, delectable drinks and bountiful brunch! Tickets for this experience include entry into the event and your choice of a complimentary cocktail or glass of wine and, of course, the magical melodies of jazz. The brunch is happening every Saturday this April. Learn more and grab your tickets here.
13. Check out some of the best concerts coming to NYC
This November, NYC will host a plethora of talented artists on stages across the five boroughs. From Candlelight Concerts to Doja Cat, see the entire roundup of concerts coming to the city here.
14. Find treasures at Bryant Park’s fabulous spring market
An exciting spring version of the wildly popular Winter Village at Bryant Park returns to Bryant Park once again this May! Titled “Makers Market” it focuses on one-of-a-kind handmade items, featuring 150 local vendors offering one-of-a-kind handmade items you can’t find in stores. This is the last weekend it’s happening! Learn more about it here.
15. 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.
16. Have a picnic on Central Park’s Great Lawn, now reopen to the public
Back in October 2023, 12-acres-worth of Central Park’s Great Lawn closed to the public after September’s Global Citizen Festival and heavy rain caused substantial damage, but it’s finally reopen to the public! $622,000 worth of repairs was done to the lawn, more of which you can read about here.
17. 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! Here are some of our favorites:
18. Grab a bite to eat at the most beautiful restaurant in New York
In honor of PEOPLE’s 50th anniversary the editors at OpenTable and PEOPLE paired up to crown the most beautiful restaurant in each state, and as for New York, NYC’s very own Verōnika took that title! Though the fact that it’s tucked away in a 19th century building within Fotografiska New York, NYC’s Swedish photography museum, we totally can understand why. Read more about Verōnika here.
19. Get your hands on a pastrami pierogis, the latest limited-time creation from Katz’s Deli & Veselka
Two iconic establishments have decided to collaborate together on a deliciously mouthwatering treat–pastrami pierogis! The pastrami pierogis, aptly named Pastrogis, are made with Katz’s legendary pastrami as the filling of the signature Ukrainian dumpling, and will be available for only one month at Veselka’s new Williamsburg location. Learn more here.
20. Undergo an emotional detox in your own personal ‘cry room’
If you’ve lived in NYC long enough, you know that there are times where you simply just need to let out a substantial sob, and this cry room lets you do that in private! Whether you’re undergoing stress from work (or life in general) or you’re getting over a bad breakup, you can simply just let those tears flow. Learn more here.
21. Treat yourself to a meal at the country’s most expensive Michelin Star restaurant here in NYC
The most expensive Michelin Star restaurant in the city–holding three Michelin stars, which is quite rare–was first established in 2004. And though the meal will run you almost four figures per person, it has those Michelin stars for a reason! Read more about the restaurant 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. 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!
24. Race down the Hudson River on this exhilarating speed boat ride
After months of hibernation Circle Line’s exhilarating speed boat ride The Beast is back for the season! As NYC’s only jet-powered speed boat ride, The Beast is best suited for thrill seekers and daredevils looking to roar through NYC waterways past iconic landmarks. Read all about it here.
25. 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 now that the weather is warming up it’s easy to stop by one to give it a try! Find some of our favorite food trucks here.
26. Escape on a 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.
27. Dance the night away at NYC’s hottest clubs
Break a sweat and cool off with delicious cocktails at one of NYC’s hottest clubs this weekend. Whether you’re looking for a wild night at House of Yes or DJ sets at Wiggle Room, you’re sure to have a good night. Find some of our favorites NYC clubs here.
28. Grab a slice at the country’s best pizzeria, located in NYC
Us New Yorkers sure do have a sense of humor, but one thing we don’t take lightly is our pizza, and NYC’s Una Pizza Napoletana has officially been dubbed the Best Pizzeria in the United States for the second time. Una Pizza Napoletana is the sixth iteration of owner Anthony Mangieri’s pizzeria that focuses on naturally-leavened, wood-fired pizzas. Learn more here.
29. Feel like you’re in a fairytale at these spots around New York
New York City has a beauty of its own with its greenery-filled parks, beautiful streets, and stunning architecture–but beyond the city we call home is an even bigger world of stunning places to explore, some of which don’t even feel real. And, as always, we’re sharing them all with you! 10 places around New York that look like they’re straight out of a fairytale can be found here.
30. See a movie for a discounted price at any NYC Regal Cinemas
You can now grab discounted tickets to any Regal Cinemas location so you no longer have to worry about breaking the bank next time you go to catch a movie! The discounted movie tickets are valid at any Regal Cinemas location in the United States and have no expiration date. Premier tickets are valid for any 2D movie, on any day, at any time, at participating Regal Cinemas! Learn more here.
31. Take advantage of the many museums that offer free admission days
A New York City outing can quickly get expensive, but it’s true when they say some of the best things in life actually are free. Whether it’s free admission every day or a once-a-month sort of deal, you can view some amazing art, without spending a penny, at these free museums in NYC.
32. Score tickets to your favorite TV show tapings in NYC
Always wanted to be an audience member in your favorite late night talk show? We’re here to let you know that dream can become a reality! Find out how to score tickets to your favorite shows filmed in NYC here.
33. Get past those first date jitters at these NYC spots
We don’t know about you, but we’re ready to find that special someone! And since first dates can also be beyond exciting, we can definitely let you in on the best spots in NYC to go on a first date. From cute places to dive into personal traumas over drinks to outdoor activities for nature lovers (or a quick escape if you’re not into it), see all of the best first date spots in NYC here.
34. Head to all of NYC’s newest openings
From a meatless Italian market serving up vegetarian and pescatarian bites to a Hong Kong café serving “slippery eggs,” these are some of our favorite new openings:
- This airy Fort Greene restaurant where wood-fired Mediterranean fare takes center stage
- This bar spinning records and slinging compost cocktails
- This new Chelsea cocktail bar where 70’s italian disco & ‘cold ass martinis’ collide
- This restaurant solely focused on fungi
- A new spot from the Don Angie team specializing in seafood
35. Travel to Dublin without taking a flight…sorta
A sculpture known as The Portal recently opened in NYC’s Flatiron neighborhood, and through groundbreaking technology it forms a visual bridge connecting NYC to Dublin, Ireland! The Portal creates a real-time, visual live stream connecting the two iconic cities, allowing people to meet others outside of their usual social circle and culture. Read all about it here.
36. Fall in love with yourself on a solo date
Dating in NYC can be hard; it’s easy to forget that you have the most eligible company with you at all times—yourself! So ditch the date and fly solo one night with these incredible ideas for one. You can head to dinner or take a cooking class, buy flowers or head to a flower arranging class!
37. Get some much needed R&R at this parking-garage-turned-bathhouse
Bathhouse, a beloved Williamsburg gem, has officially opened the doors to its second location in the heart of Manhattan’s Flatiron neighborhood, completely transforming a 35,000-square-foot underground parking garage! The bathhouse features six heated pools, a steam room, a Russian style banya, and three saunas, along with 19 treatment rooms, perfect for both individuals and couples. Read more about Bathhouse here.
38. Stuff your face at Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg has returned for the 2024 season with more delicious vendors than ever. All locations (Williamsburg, WTC, Prospect Park) have opened, so if you can’t make it to one, you should be able to check out another. Find what vendors you can expect and more specific times and dates here.
39. Check out all of NYC’s current outdoor art installations and public sculptures
This year New York City has been adding so many wonderful outdoor public exhibitions for visitors to explore…and now you can too! 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! Find our top must-see installments in the city here.
40. Pick up a new hobby at these fun classes offered in NYC
It’s always important to learn something new. So why not kick off the new year with a fun and exciting class in NYC? From pottery to culinary delights, flower arranging, and dance, check them all out here to find what interests you!
41. Catch comical renditions of classical plays at Drunk Shakespeare
Five fearless actors will entertain you with Shakespeare classics, all the while getting entirely inebriated throughout the performance. Feeding off the audience’s energy and the various alcohol consumption, each show is unique and different. It’s all happening at The Ruby Theatre NYC. Grab your tickets now.
42. Get an inside look at Swizz Beatz & Alicia Keys’ private art collection
Though musical and cultural icons Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz (née Kaseem Dean) are known for their hit records and multiple Grammys, but what many people may not know about them is that they’re avid art collectors–and we can get an inside look at their massive collection now through July 7th, 2024. Get all the details here.
43. Meet strangers at this passing notes wine bar
Attend one of Lavaux Wine Bar’s Secret Message Parties and pass notes with a stranger for what might be a life changing meet-cute. All guests will be given a piece of paper and asked to write anything from a poem, love note, or a simple conversation starter that will be given to a stranger via your waiter. Find out more and when the parties are held here.
44. Have the ultimate millennial experience: a fun night out & bed before 11pm
Millennials listen up! You may have used to love your 4am nights out in NYC, but let’s face it—we’ve grown up. It’s now the era of starting the night early to ensure you’re in bed well before midnight. And Matinée Social Club is dedicated to bringing you a fun night out, yet promising you’ll be in bed before 11pm! Learn all about it here.
45. Get a free rice dumpling (zongzi) at Dragon Fest
Dragon Fest is NYC’s first and largest outdoor Chinese food and culture festival, offering over 100 varieties of Chinese cuisine to New Yorkers each year from spring through fall, and this Saturday, May 25th, they’re giving away 1,000 free zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) on a first come first serve basis! Learn how you can get yours here.
46. Enjoy drinks and tunes at NYC’s first vinyl record craft beer bar
Established in 2017—becoming the first vinyl record craft beer bar across the boroughs–the establishment has over 5,000 vinyl records on-site, ranging from hip-hop, funk, soul, and jazz, alongside an extensive yet carefully curated tap list. Read all about this hotspot here.
47. Grab a drink at one (or all) of these NYC bars named among the 50 best in North America
The annual World’s 50 Best Bars list was recently unveiled, and twelve NYC bars made the ranking—more than any other city in the country–so gather your friends together and go get some drinks! Find out here which ones made the list here.
48. Take advantage of all the free perks from your library card
Did you know you’re privy to tons of incredible and free perks by having a New York Public Library card? Learn a new language, rent out an instrument, even record a hit single in a music studio, all with your card. Find more free things you can do with a New York Public Library card here.
49. Splash around at the beach
NYC Beaches will open right on time for the season, as New Yorkers can enjoy the sand & surf once again starting this Saturday, May 25th! Not sure where to head to enjoy the sunshine? Look no further. The best beaches in NYC can be found here.
50. Uncover unique finds at NYC’s largest and oldest weekly market
Grand Bazaar is THE place to shop on weekends, whether you’re on the hunt for vintage pieces, eclectic pottery or more! More than 100+ independent vendors are lined up each Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm. Learn more here.
51. Explore hidden waterfalls in Central Park
Sometimes you just need some peace and quiet from the city. We get it! But did you know you can find all of that actually still within the city? More specifically in Central Park. If you know where to look, you can find Central Park’s hidden waterfalls in The Ravine. For a more detailed location, read here.
52. Take in waterfront views on these giant swings
We’re still hoping the weekend weather forecast turns up, and if sunshine comes like we hope it does, there’s no better way to enjoy waterfront views in NYC than on the giant swings. They’re perfect to sit and chat, read a book, or meet a stranger. Find out more details here.
53. Spend the day sightseeing around NYC on a walking tour
It’s no secret that New Yorkers see much of the city by foot, but walking the same route day in and day out keeps you from seeing some of the most unique parts of the city! Whether you’re looking for new hidden gems in your neighborhood, wanting to learn more about the city, or explore somewhere you’ve never been, we’ve got some guided tours that’ll do the trick! Find our fav picks here.
54. Eat your way through NYC’s best night markets
As the weather warms up in NYC that also means the return of the city’s best night markets! From Queens to the Bronx and everything in between, New Yorkers can indulge in local, delicious food from NYC vendors all summer long–some every single weekend! Find some of the city’s best night markets here.
55. Grab your crew and sing your heart out at Baby Grand
It’s time to warm up the pipes with a good ol’ night of karaoke at one of NYC’s most beloved karaoke bars, Baby Grand! Located at 29 W 17th St, you can choose to live out your pop star fantasy on the main stage or book a private room with friends. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable night.
56. Enjoy live music, drinks, & endless art at The Met Date Nights
If you’re looking to take in some culture, The Met Museum will once again be hosting date nights in the comfort of their beautiful indoor space every Friday and Saturday night! They invite you to bring your special someone, a friend, or come solo for an unforgettable night at one of the most enchanting and iconic establishments in the city. The evening will go from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., for three magical hours of live music, drinks, and sweeping gallery exhibits.
57. Plan out your month with all the exciting May events in NYC
May is a very special month in NYC. It’s a time when the weather consistently warms and there’s an air of excitement around every block. Therefore, we’re here to make sure you jam-pack May with all the exciting happenings going on in the city, like Manhattanhenge and Mother’s Day brunches! See them all here.
58. Escape to ‘Bubble Planet,’ a sensorial, pastel interactive landscape
A whimsical experience is opening just outside of NYC at American Dream Mall that will awaken your inner child in a bubble wonderland. Explore 10 wonderfully themed rooms, full of photo-ops, VR adventures and an indoor playground. Snag a spot on the waitlist here.
59. Enjoy a secret 12-piece “omakase” menu while blindfolded
Embark on a sensorial journey with a unique 12-course sushi tasting experience with a surprise menu. What makes this really so special? You’ll be dining entirely blindfolded! Dining in the Dark will heighten your senses of taste and smell for a culinary tasting you’ll never forget. Reserve your spot now.
60. Get your hands on a flight to Europe starting at just $99, available only through Monday (5/27)!
PLAY, the budget-friendly airline from Iceland is carrying out a massive Memorial Day sale this week, and they’re giving New Yorkers a chance to book their dream vacations to Europe for an absolute steal! Now through Monday, May 27th New Yorkers can get their hands on flights to Europe starting at just $99. Learn more about the deal here.
61. …or book a $500 roundtrip flight from NYC to Edinburgh
To celebrate JetBlue’s new transatlantic routes from JFK Airport to Dublin and Edinburgh, the airline is giving New Yorkers a chance to book a roundtrip flight to Edinburgh starting at just $499! Hurry up though, because it’s only for a limited time. Learn more here.
62. Dance under the sun at Brooklyn Mirage’s first day party of the season Hot Honey Sundays
Brooklyn Mirage is having its first day party of the season this weekend with Hot Honey Sundays kicking off their season opener. Tickets are only $10 and it’s the perfect opportunity to check out one of the country’s must-see music venues for an all day dance party. This weekend’s party takes place on Sunday, May 26th, from 4 pm to 10 pm. Get your tickets here.