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
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!
Head to the Beach: Yes, You Can in NYC
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
