May in New York City is one of my favorite months. The cherry blossoms are fading, but everything feels fresh, warm, and alive. It’s the kind of weather that makes you want to be outside all day.
If you’re planning a trip (or just looking for ways to enjoy your own city), here are some of the best outdoor things to do in NYC in the month of May.
Photo credit above: T-photography / shutterstock.com
1. Stroll the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Location: 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225
Website: bbg.org
May is peak bloom time for tulips, peonies, lilacs, and more. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the best places to enjoy spring flowers. Don’t miss the Rose Garden or the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. You can easily spend a full afternoon wandering the grounds.
2. Take the Ferry to Governors Island
Website: govisland.com
Governors Island reopens in May and it’s a dreamy place to spend a sunny day. Ride a bike around the island, bring a picnic, or just lay in a hammock. There’s art installations, pop-up food vendors, and amazing skyline views of Lower Manhattan.
3. Walk the High Line
Entrances at: Gansevoort St. to W 34th St., Manhattan
Website: thehighline.org
The High Line is one of my favorite places for a relaxed spring walk. This elevated park is filled with blooming plants, public art, and gorgeous views of the Hudson. Start downtown and walk north to Hudson Yards, where you can grab a snack or do some people-watching.
4. Explore Central Park (Beyond the Tourist Spots)
Location: Manhattan (Multiple entrances)
Of course Central Park is on this list, but hear me out: May is the perfect time to explore the less crowded parts. The Ramble, the North Woods, and Conservatory Garden (on 105th & 5th Ave) are quieter and full of lush greenery. Pack lunch and take your time.
5. Rooftop Drinks With a View
Try: Westlight at The William Vale (111 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249)
Website: westlightnyc.com
Warmer weather means rooftop season is back! Westlight in Williamsburg has panoramic views of the NYC skyline and a great cocktail list. It does get busy, so I recommend going early or making a reservation if you can.
6. Visit Little Island
Location: Pier 55 at Hudson River Park, Manhattan
Website: littleisland.org
Little Island is a fun, architecturally beautiful public park that feels like a floating garden. It has walking paths, grassy knolls, and sometimes live performances. It’s free to visit and a great spot for a chill spring afternoon.
7. Go to Smorgasburg
Location: Marsha P. Johnson State Park, Williamsburg (Saturdays)
Website: smorgasburg.com
Smorgasburg is a massive open-air food market with vendors selling everything from Korean fried chicken to vegan donuts. It’s the ultimate Saturday activity in May. Come hungry and maybe bring a blanket to picnic by the water afterward.
8. Watch a Movie Outdoors
Check: rooftopfilms.com
May is when Rooftop Films kicks off its season. They host outdoor screenings in unique locations around the city — often on rooftops, of course. It’s such a cool NYC experience and a great date idea or night out with friends.
9. Rent a Rowboat in Central Park
Location: Loeb Boathouse, East 72nd Street and Park Drive North
Website: centralparknyc.org
Rowboats start running in spring and it’s such a classic, sweet NYC activity. It’s $25 an hour, and you can row around the lake surrounded by blooming trees and skyline views. It’s honestly kind of magical.
10. Explore DUMBO and Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Start in: DUMBO, Brooklyn
End in: Lower Manhattan
Start your day in DUMBO with a coffee from Butler or % Arabica, then walk along the waterfront at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Head across the Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan for a super scenic, breezy afternoon walk. Pro tip: go earlier in the day to avoid crowds.