New York City in July

July is a busy summer month in New York City, with warm to hot temperatures and lots of outdoor activities and sights to see.

After living in NYC for more than 10 years, we’ve found it to be a hot month with lots of fun outdoor activities. July is a great time to visit for Fourth of July festivities at the beginning of the month, outdoor festivals, and sightseeing.

I like to go for runs and bike rides in the mornings and enjoy museums and indoor activities when the temperatures get hotter in the afternoons.

If you’re traveling to New York City in July, this guide will help you know what weather to expect during each week of the month.

Additionally, we compiled a list of July’s top NYC attractions to help you plan your trip. From hidden gems to well-known attractions, our recommendations are filled with insider tips that only a true New Yorker would know.

Weather Overview

The average high temps. Photo: Sunset in July in Manhattan, Roosevelt Island, NYC.

The New York City weather in July ranges from warm to hot, with the highest degrees in late afternoons. The average high temperature ranges from 83°F to 84°F (28-29°C). In general, it gets hotter as the month goes on. The average amount of rainfall is 3.5 inches (89 mm)

💡 The humidity can get high in July, so it’s important to stay hydrated and cool off in the shade or with air conditioning inside during the hottest parts of the day.

July is one of the hottest months, but still not as hot as August.

The nights are usually warm and mild, and sometimes there may be a cool breeze coming off the waterways surrounding the city.

Temperatures

The New York weather in July is usually warm and hot, with mild temperatures in the mornings and evenings and the hottest times in the afternoons. The beginning of July is warm and temperatures rise throughout the month.

It can be humid throughout the month of July and usually rains for several days. You may also experience the urban heat island effect in NYC in July, which is when the buildings absorb heat and make the temperatures feel hotter (up to 2 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit warmer during the day and up to 22 degrees Fahrenheit warmer at night).

The coolest times of day are in the early mornings and late evenings in the first week of July in NYC. I like to get errands done in the mornings before it gets too hot.

Here are the daily temperature progressions on a typical July day in New York City:

  • Morning (8 AM): 74°F (23°C)
  • Afternoon (3 PM PM): 83°F (29°C)
  • Evening (10 PM): 77°F (25°C)

Tip: When you visit NYC in July, be prepared for hot, humid afternoons and lots of walking. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle with you to stay cool. I like to wear sunscreen, a baseball-style hat, and sunglasses in July to stay protected from the sun.

Here are the average high temperatures during July in New York City:

  • Early July: 83°F (28°C)
  • Mid-July: 85°F (29°C)
  • Late July: 84°F (29°C)

In July in NYC, daily high temperatures increase by an average of 2°F, from 83°F (28°C) to 85°F (29°C). The sun can be especially strong in the afternoons, so always wear sunscreen.

Rain
While July is typically sunny, the month has a few rainy days as well.

July in NYC usually includes several rainy days, with an average of 8-10 days of rain, 3 of those days having heavy rainfall. Rain also often comes with higher humidity, which makes the temperatures feel hotter.

The total rainfall for the month was once over 11 inches, however, that was a rare occurrence. Typically it rarely exceeds 5.3 inches.

More details on rain later in the weekly weather details.

Sunrise and Sunset

July in NYC has still early sunrises between 5:30 and 5:50 AM. The days are longer early in the month and get slightly short toward the end with sunset times between 8:12 and 8:30 PM.

Evenings are a great time with plenty of light to enjoy outdoor dining at local restaurants and bars

Is July a Good Time?

NYC is beautiful during this month

If you like warm weather and outdoor events, July is the perfect time to visit New York City. It can get hot and humid in July, but with some preparation, you can stay protected from the heat and sun. The mornings and evenings in July are usually warm, with the hottest temperatures in the afternoons.

Weather Details | First Week

The first week of July in New York typically is warm, with hot temperatures in the afternoons, and milder temps in the mornings and evenings.

I like to do outdoor exercise in the mornings to avoid the peak heat times. The nights are a good time to go out and enjoy rooftop bars and outdoor dining.

This week is a good time to go on morning bike rides and go out for patio brunches in the late mornings before it gets hot.

Temperatures

The first week of July has milder temperatures in the early mornings and after sunset, with the hottest times in the afternoons. I like to get errands done early before noon to stay cool and go to air-conditioned places in the afternoons. Evenings are perfect for outdoor dining and bar patios.

Now you can also enjoy Fourth of July festivities, with evening fireworks displays and rooftop bars to enjoy when the temperatures are mild, in the evenings. More about the 4th of July fireworks later.

Mornings are a good time to explore the city before it gets hot. I like to enjoy art museums in the afternoons and relax in the A/C.

Rain

There are usually one to two rainy days in the first week of July in New York City. It’s a good idea to bring an umbrella on days there may be rain storms, or wear a baseball hat for light rainy days.

Pack a lightweight poncho in your daily purse or bag so you have protection on rainy days.

Daily Progression

On a typical day in the first week of July, the average temperature progression from early morning until late evening looks like this:

  • 5:30 AM: 71°F (21°C), coolest time
  • 12:00 PM: 80°F (27°C), already warm
  • 2:30 PM: 83°F (28°C), hottest time
  • 6:30 PM: 80°F (27°C), still warm
  • 10:00 PM: 75°F (24°C), outdoor dining and bar temperature

Weather Details | Second Week

Central Park (top photo) is gorgeous in mid-July.

The weather gets a little hotter in the second week of July, and it’s a good time to cool off with outdoor pools or beaches in the afternoons.

Temperatures

The second week in July in NYC stays warm, with hot temperatures and humidity usually setting in by the afternoons. It’s a good time to go out for a late dinner if you want to do outdoor dining or enjoy an early brunch.

Rain

The second month of July usually has one or two rainy days. Bring an umbrella with you on days with heavy rains expected.

Daily Progression

On a typical NYC day within the second week, the average temperature progression from early morning until late evening often looks like this:

  • 5:30 AM: 71°F (21°C), best time for outdoor exercise
  • 12:00 PM: 81°F (27°C), warmer temps
  • 2:30 PM: 83°F (28°C), hottest time
  • 6:30 PM: 81°F (27°C), patio weather
  • 10:00 PM: 77°F (25°C), rooftop weather

The afternoons continue to get hot during the second week of July, with the highest temperatures around 3 pm in the afternoons, where it’s often around 83°F or warmer. Temperatures tend to be the coolest around 5:30 pm; when it’s a mild 71°F.

Weather Details | Third Week

The third week in July is warm after sunset and in the mornings, with heat and humidity usually setting in by early afternoon. It’s a good time to enjoy outdoor activities in the mornings and get in some sightseeing before noon to stay cool. I like to go to movies or theater shows in the afternoons for air-conditioned entertainment.

Temperatures

The third week of July gets warmer, with the afternoons often getting hot and humid. The best time to do strenuous outdoor activities is in the mornings or evenings, and the long daylight hours give you plenty of time to go out in the evenings.

Rain

It usually rains one day in the third week of July. There are generally less rainy days than in early July. But the weather in New York City can change fast so always check the weather before going out for the day or evening.

Daily Progression

This is the temperature progression on a typical NYC day in the middle of the third week from nighttime/early morning until late evening:

  • 5:30 AM: 72°F (22°C), the coolest time to go outside
  • 12:00 PM: 81°F (27°C), indoor A/C time
  • 2:30 PM: 84°F (29°C), hottest time
  • 6:30 PM: 81°F (27°C), still quite warm
  • 10:00 PM: 78°F (26°C), enjoy outdoor bars

The afternoons get hotter in the third week of July. I like to go swimming or shopping in the afternoon when it’s hot.

Weather Details | Fourth Week

  • The fourth week of July is increasingly warm as we get closer to July in New York. It’s a good time to make the most of early sunrises and do outdoor activities early, then take a break inside during the afternoons and go to museums or shopping.

It’s another great time to visit iconic attractions like Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building. Just keep in mind that the conditions in the lobby of the Empire State Building and the first lines can be excruciating there when the temperatures are higher during this last week of the month. However, it’s fine on the upper floors.

Evenings have long daylight hours and are good for going out to eat or to bars and nightclubs.

Temperatures

The fourth week of July is usually hot in the afternoons. If it rains, the humidity can get more intense and humidity often lingers even at nighttime at this time.

I like to cool off with some fun indoor activities like art and history museums and shopping during the afternoons this week.

Rain

There is an average of two days of rain in the fourth week of July. Carry your poncho in your bag so you’re prepared for rain. Wearing a hat is also a good way to protect your head from the rain.

Daily Progression

The temperature progression on a day in the fourth week of the month typically looks like this:

  • 5:30 AM: 72°F (22°C), coolest time
  • 12:00 PM: 81°F (27°C), getting hot
  • 2:30 PM: 83°F (28°C), hottest time
  • 6:30 PM: 81°F (27°C), rooftop weather
  • 10:00 PM: 77°F (25°C), warm and breezy

The fourth week of July is usually hot and humid, with most days being hot in the late afternoons and temps reaching 80°F. Temperatures cool down at night but are still warm, which is great for walking around. Typically, you can leave your light jacket at home during this week.

I like to stay in the shade and do indoor activities in the afternoons in late July and go for runs in the early mornings, around sunrise.

However, it’s still not too hot or even unbearable for all kinds of explorations in the city. To cool off, you can enjoy the cool A/C in museums or go to a Broadway or off-Broadway play.

Outfits / What to Pack

For this month you should pack jeans, short-sleeved shirts or tank tops, a light jacket, shorts, and comfortable shoes. Additionally, lightweight summer clothes as the days a usually very hot. Bring a light jacket for evening outings when it gets windy and a little cooler at night.

If you plan to go to clubs or theater events, bring some evening wear such as a nice pair of shoes, flats, heels, or low boots (not tennis shoes or open-toed sandals), a button-down shirt for men, and a dress or skirt for women.

July is a hot time of year in NYC, with hot and humid days and slightly cooler temperatures in the early mornings and at night.

It rains occasionally, so bring an umbrella or a poncho. It’s a good month to wear tank tops, shorts, and summer skirts and dresses.

💡 For a complete guide on what to wear in the month of July in the city, see our article on What to Wear in New York City in July.

Shoes

New York City is a walking city. Even if you take the subway, you will be walking and standing a lot so bring comfortable shoes.

Make sure you “break in” your sneakers and walk in them regularly for at least a week before your trip so you know they’re comfortable.

The Best Things to Do in July

Aside from visiting world-class museums, and seeing all the iconic attractions, there are many underrated and unusual things to do in New York City in the summer months. It took us a long time to put together a list of the best popular must-do things, as well as some really unique and unusual activities.

Make sure to read our insider tips for each tip:

Viewing the 4th of July Fireworks

The fireworks display that takes place in New York City on July 4th is considered to be one of the most important events in New York throughout the entire year. You should see the at least once in your lifetime.

Macy’s 4th of July fireworks in NYC is the largest Independence Day display which dazzles the shorelines of Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn with a breathtaking display of color, light, and sound.

Interesting facts about Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks:

  • A team of 50 pyrotechnicians is in charge
  • There are almost 2,000 launched shells per minute
  • A total of more than 60,000 shells are launched
  • There are 17 different firework patterns and 14 effects

The officially recommend viewing spot is: FDR Drive at East 23rd Street, East 34th Street, and East 42nd Street Fireworks Viewing

Go Roller Skating

  • Cost: $17-$23
  • Best Time: July (also great in June and August)
  • Google Maps Location: Wollman Rink

Enjoy some outdoor fun at one of NYC’s outdoor roller skating rinks in July. DiscOasis offers roller skating, music, dancing, and good vibes at Wollman Rink in Central Park. If you already have skates and want to go on your own, you can skate on the Central Park Loop circling the park for free.

Tip: Get evening tickets to beat the summer heat.

Visit a Rooftop Bar

NYC is known for its rooftop bars, and for good reason. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a drink with a stunning view of the city skyline. Whether you’re looking for a fancy cocktail bar or a more casual hangout spot, there’s a rooftop bar for every mood.

Insider Tip: The Rooftop at Pier 17 in the Seaport District is a great spot to catch some live music while enjoying a drink and a view of the Brooklyn Bridge. If you’re a music lover, check get tickets to one of the summer concerts on the Rooftop at Pier 17.

Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park

  • Cost: Free
  • Best Time: Great in July. Otherwise between May and October
  • Google Maps Location: Brooklyn Bridge Park

See the best Manhattan skyline views and the Brooklyn Bridge for free from Brooklyn Bridge Park in July. This waterfront park in Dumbo, Brooklyn, is just one stop from Manhattan on the subway and offers iconic views, lots of walking paths, restrooms, and snack options.

Tip: Go on a weekday morning to beat the crowds and get the best photos.

Take an Evening Cruise to See NYC Lit Up
  • Cost: $44 per person
  • Best Time: Excellent in July. Otherwise from May to September
  • Google Maps: Location

New York City comes to life at night in the summer, and you can see the whole city lit up on a nighttime cruise during July. Grab your travel partners and enjoy drinks on board as you snap shots of the city’s best nighttime views. We’ve gone on summertime evening cruises in NYC and love the brilliant sunset views of the skyline and the fun atmosphere.

Tip: Try Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-the-Box-Office for an unforgettable boat tour to see NYC’s most iconic landmarks lit up at night, including the Statue of Liberty, Freedom Tower – One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and more.

Kayaking on the Hudson River

Paddling on the Hudson River offers an entirely different perspective of Manhattan. It’s a unique way to explore the city’s skyline, bridges, and waterside parks.

The best part? It’s completely free! NYC Parks hosts free kayaking events all summer in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island. Check out Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse for the best city views from start to finish. The parks provide kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, and no prior experience is required.

Brooklyn Bridge Park is the most scenic location for kayaking! You’ll get incredible views – and photos – of the NYC skyline from the waterways and enjoy a fun summer workout. Just show up, sign a waiver, and hit the water.

Note: This tip is based on last year’s events but it should still apply.

Tip: Wear water-resistant clothing and bring a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.

Explore the Abandoned City Hall Station

  • Cost: Free
  • Best Time: Sundays are generally the least crowded on the subway
  • Google Maps: Location

Did you know that New York City has an abandoned subway station that’s been closed to the public for over 70 years? The City Hall Station is a hidden gem that’s worth exploring. The station’s architecture is impressive, with vaulted tile ceilings, arched windows, and brass chandeliers.

It’s free to see it by taking the subway. You can only see the City Hall Station by taking the 6 train to its final stop and staying on the train as it makes its turnaround. When the train makes its last stop at the Brooklyn/Bridge City Hall Station, the conductor will say to exit the train.

If you duck down and stay on the train, you will pass through the abandoned subway station as the train turns around.

Tip: For a more in-depth tour of the abandoned station on foot, the NYC Transit Museum offers private tours to museum members. Tickets are $50 and sell out quickly. You can find out more here.

Take a Helicopter Tour of the City
  • Cost: $180 per seat to $329 per seat
  • Best Time: July is a perfect time. Otherwise every warm and mild month from May to October.
  • Google Maps: Manhattan Helicopters Location

Seeing the city from the sky is an unforgettable experience, and taking a helicopter tour is an excellent way to do it. You’ll get to see the city’s landmarks from a new perspective, including the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. Try Manhatten Island Helicopter for breathtaking aerial views of the city. Book your tour in advance and before the end of your trip in case you need to reschedule due to weather conditions.

Tip: Bring a camera or your smartphone with enough free space to capture the views.

Visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
  • Cost: $39 for general tickets, $73 for VIP experience
  • Best Time: Early morning or one hour before sunset for the best views
  • Google Maps: SUMMIT ONE Vanderbilt Location

The SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is the newest observation deck in New York City, and it offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. The experience is immersive and takes you on a journey through experiential art and views of New York City. The multi-floor exhibits include 30,375 square feet of mirrors and mind-bending art by Kenzo Digital.

Tip: Visit during the late afternoon for the best lighting and views of the sunset.

Visit Edge Observation Deck
  • Cost: $40-$58
  • Best Time: Mornings year-round
  • Google Maps: Edge Location

The Edge Observation Deck is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, and it offers unobstructed 360-degree views of the city. The experience is exhilarating, with a glass floor and angled glass walls that give the illusion of floating above the city. You can see all the iconic landmarks in NYC from the observation deck, including the Statue of Liberty and Central Park.

Tip: Visit in the morning hours to avoid the crowds and get a more intimate experience.

Watch a Movie Outdoors
  • Cost: Free
  • Best Time: June, July, and August evenings
  • Google Maps Location:

Bryant Park, McCarren Park, Intrepid Museum

There’s something special about watching a movie under the stars, and NYC has several outdoor movie screenings during the summer. Some of the most popular locations include Bryant Park in Midtown Manhattan, McCarren Park in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and the Intrepid Museum on the West Side in Manhattan.

Note: Check for new movies for this year here: https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/free_summer_movies

Tip: Bring a blanket, snacks, and insect repellent.

Picnic in Central Park
  • Tip: Arrive early and go on a weekday to get a great spot.
  • Cost: Free
  • Best Time: Great in July. Otherwise from April to September
  • Google Maps: Location Central Park

Central Park is the heart of New York City and a perfect spot for a picnic. You can enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery, people-watch, and even catch some live music or theatre performances. The park’s Great Lawn is an ideal spot for a picnic, and there are several vendors selling food and drinks nearby. You can easily get to the Great Lawn by entering the park at the West 81st Street entrance across from the Museum of Natural History.

Visit the High Line

The High Line is a public park built on an abandoned elevated rail line on Manhattan’s west side. The park’s elevated walkway offers unique views of the city and features beautiful gardens, public art, and plenty of seating. End your High Line walk with a visit to historic Chelsea Market for window shopping or some tasty local eats.

Go on a Queens Food Tour
  • Cost: $95-$150, depending on the tour you choose
  • Best Time: April, May, June, July, August, September, October
  • Google Maps Location: Flushing

Queens is known for its diverse culinary scene, and taking a food tour is an excellent way to sample the best of it. Food tours will take you to some of the neighborhood’s hidden gems, where you can try everything from dumplings to Colombian empanadas.

Culinary Backstreet Walks offers delectable food tours covering different parts of Queens – you can pick your cuisine, with options including southeast Asia and Latin America.

Tip: Try the Flushing Food Tour for an inside look at NYC’s largest Chinatown.

Stargaze at the Hayden Planetarium
  • Cost: $16 per child, $22 for students and seniors, and $28 for non-resident adults
  • Best Time: Year-round
  • Google Maps: Hayden Planetarium Location

The Hayden Planetarium is one of the best places in the city to stargaze. The planetarium is located in the Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The planetarium’s “Dark Universe” show takes you on a journey through the universe, and its Space Show presents the latest in space exploration.

Tip: Reserve your tickets in advance.

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is an iconic New York City landmark and offers incredible views of the city from its observation deck. The building’s Art Deco architecture and history make it a must-visit attraction.

Tip: Purchase the VIP pass for a more exclusive experience, skip the lines, and gain access to additional exhibits.

Statue of Liberty
  • Cost: $12 – $25
  • Best Time: Great in July! Otherwise in the mornings from May to October
  • Google Maps: Statue of Liberty Location

The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and an essential part of New York City’s history. Visitors can take a ferry to Liberty Island and explore the statue’s pedestal, museum, and observation deck.

Tip: Reserved tickets go fast so book well in advance of your trip. General Admission tickets are the most widely available and include entry to both the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

Ellis Island Tour
  • Cost: $12 – $25
  • Best Time: Great during July in the mornings. Otherwise from May to October
  • Google Maps: Ellis Island Location

The Ellis Island Tour takes visitors on a journey through the history of immigration in the United States. The tour includes a visit to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, where you can learn about the experiences of immigrants who came to America in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Tip: Plan your Statue of Liberty tour to include a visit to Ellis Island. General Admission tickets include your ferry to see the Statue of Liberty and entry to both the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

Museum of Ice Cream

The Museum of Ice Cream is a fun and interactive experience that’s perfect for all ages. The museum features several rooms that celebrate ice cream and other sweets, with interactive exhibits and samples along the way. It’s the perfect place to capture colorful social media photos and videos for souvenirs of your trip.

Tip: Book tickets in advance, and bring a change of clothes as some of the exhibits are interactive and may get messy. Book a daytime ticket to save 30 percent off for visits before 12:30 pm.

NYC: Lower East Side Food Tastings and Culture Tour
  • Cost: $70-90
  • Best Time: Great in July. Otherwise between May and October
  • Google Maps Location: Lower East Side

Take a Lower East Side Food Tastings and Culture Tour to learn about the vibrant history and culture in downtown Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Taste quintessential New York pizza and learn about the eclectic mix of immigrants who settled in the area. The three-hour tour hits the diverse neighborhoods of Chinatown, Little Italy, and the Lower East Side.

Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather.

Coney Island
  • Cost: Free
  • Best Time: Excellent in July. Otherwise great from May to August
  • Google Maps: Coney Island Location

Coney Island is a uniquely Brooklyn place where you can stroll on the boardwalk, lounge on the beach, or enjoy some local eats from favorite spots like Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs.

Tip: Ride the iconic Dino’s Wonder Wheel, a vintage ferris wheel that offers beautiful views of the boardwalk and beach from 150 feet in the air.

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