Wonderbox.com
  • Celebrations
    • Christmas
    • Valentine’s day
    • Mother’s day
  • Entertainment
  • Travel & Getaway
  • Food & Drink
  • Spa & Wellness
  • Sport & Adventure
  • Cities
    • Los Angeles
    • New York
    • Las Vegas
    • Miami
    • Orlando
    • San Francisco

What to do in NYC for Memorial Day weekend 2025

5/21/2025
7/2/2025
memorial day

Memorial Day weekend 2025 is fast approaching, and there’s no better place to spend it than New York City.

From iconic parades and outdoor concerts to beach days, rooftop dining, and hidden local gems, NYC turns into a dynamic playground during this three-day weekend.

Falling on Monday, May 26, Memorial Day 2025 marks not only a time to honor U.S. military heroes but also the unofficial start of summer.

Whether you’re a local looking for weekend plans or a visitor ready to explore, this guide rounds up the best things to do in NYC for Memorial Day weekend.

Attend the Memorial Day Parades in NYC

memorial-day-NYC-parade

Start the weekend with purpose by experiencing one of the city’s Memorial Day parades.

These long-standing tributes honor veterans, active-duty military, and those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice.

Top parades to catch:

  • The Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade – Now in its 157th year, this is NYC’s oldest and one of the largest. It marches through Bay Ridge with marching bands, vintage cars, and military units.
  • Little Neck–Douglaston Parade (Queens) – This patriotic favorite draws huge crowds and includes performances, floats, and public tributes.
  • Staten Island Parade – Smaller, more intimate, and just as heartfelt.

Tip: Arrive early for the best viewing spots—these events fill up fast!

  • Escape the ordinary with a luxurious hotel stay for two at over 52,000 destinations nationwide

Head to the Beach: Yes, You Can in NYC

new-york-beach

If you’re wondering whether NYC has beaches, the answer is yes—plenty!

With Memorial Day weekend marking the official opening of city beaches, it’s the perfect time to pack your towel and sunscreen for the perfect beach getaway.

Best beaches to check out:

  • Coney Island – A classic. Grab a Nathan’s hot dog, ride the Cyclone, and watch street performers light up the boardwalk.
  • Rockaway Beach – A surfer’s paradise with a laid-back vibe and great food trucks.
  • Orchard Beach (The Bronx) – Known as “the Riviera of New York,” it’s family-friendly and full of energy.

All NYC public beaches open Memorial Day weekend with lifeguards on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

  • Escape to paradise with a dreamy beachside hotel stay for two

Take in Rooftop Views & Outdoor Dining

Memorial Day weekend is prime time for rooftop season.

NYC’s skyline shines brightest when you’re sipping something cold under the open sky.

Best rooftop spots for Memorial Day weekend:

  • Harriet’s Rooftop (Brooklyn) – Chic, scenic, and perfect for a date night.
  • 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar (Manhattan) – Iconic views of the Empire State Building.
  • Time Out Market Rooftop (DUMBO) – Great for foodies with stunning river views.

Pair the skyline with some al fresco brunch in neighborhoods like West Village, Williamsburg, and the Upper West Side.

  • Discover your dream New York escape with a luxurious hotel stay for two

Festivals, Fireworks & Free Outdoor Fun

New York City in late May comes alive with free outdoor events, live music, and cultural festivals.

Top picks for Memorial Day weekend:

  • Governors Island – Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan, it’s perfect for picnics, biking, and even glamping.
  • Hudson River Park – Catch impromptu performances, kayaking, or a sunset stroll.
  • Fleet Week NYC (May 21–27, 2025) – A celebration of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Expect ship tours, military demos, and sailor sightings all weekend long.

And yes—while not guaranteed, Memorial Day fireworks in NYC are a possibility. Keep an eye on city announcements for official events.

  • Experience the magic of Manhattan with this top-rated guided tour for two

Make It a City Escape!

Turn the long weekend into a mini-vacation.

Many New Yorkers book a hotel in a different borough just to see the city from a new perspective.

Ideas:

  • A night in Manhattan and catch a Broadway show
  • Stay in Brooklyn for indie shops and waterfront parks
  • Explore Harlem or Astoria for food, music, and culture

  • Unlock the magic of Manhattan with an unforgettable family getaway in the heart of New York City

Whether you want to honor history at a Memorial Day parade, relax on a New York beach, catch sunset views from a rooftop, or dive into NYC’s vibrant street culture, Memorial Day weekend 2025 offers something for everyone.

From parades to parties, this is the weekend to celebrate the start of summer in the city that never sleeps.

Travel & Getaway, Cities, New York

Lifestyle & Travel expert for Wonderbox

Niloufar W.

As a travel enthusiast, I curate unforgettable experiences around the world- blending culture, gastronomy and wellness to inspire your next adventure.

Moulin Rouge The Musical – 2 Tickets

Chicago The Musical – 2 Tickets

Broadway Show – 2 Tickets

  • miami
    7/9/2025
    7/10/2025

    Top wedding gift getaway ideas: Miami edition

Escape to paradise with a luxurious spa retreat in the heart of Las Vegas
Escape to paradise with a luxurious spa retreat for two at premier hotels nationwide
Escape to paradise with your special someone and create unforgettable memories in luxury hotels nationwide
Experience luxury in the wild with this unforgettable glamping adventure for two
Experience the magic of glamping under the stars with your special someone
Escape to the bay city with a dreamy hotel stay for two in San Francisco

More posts you may like

  • Celebrations Spa & Wellness Travel & Getaway Wedding
    las vegas
    7/8/2025
    7/10/2025

    Give the perfect wedding gift: a spa getaway in Las Vegas

  • Celebrations Travel & Getaway Wedding
    beach-getaway
    7/7/2025
    7/9/2025

    Why a beach getaway is the ultimate wedding gift to offer

  • Celebrations Entertainment Travel & Getaway Wedding
    wicked-broadway-show-wedding-gift
    7/6/2025
    7/9/2025

    The ultimate wedding gift: Broadway show & one night stay in NYC

  • Celebrations Travel & Getaway Wedding
    new-york-getaway-wedding-gift
    7/5/2025
    7/9/2025

    Wedding gift idea: surprise your favorite couple with a New York getaway

1 2 3 … 6
Next Page→
  • Gift ideas
  • Gift idea for her
  • Gift idea for him
  • Gift idea for couples
  • Gift idea for kids

Occasions

  • Birthday gift
  • Mother’s day gift
  • Congratulation gift
  • Father’s day gift
  • Wedding gift
  • Valentine’s day gift
  • Christmas gift
  • Getaways
  • Family getaway
  • Romantic getaway
  • Wellness getaway
  • Pet-friendly getaway
  • Europe getaway
  • Experiences gifts
  • Broadway show
  • Movie ticket
  • Driving course
  • Culinary course
  • Care & Massage

Notifications