June is a wonderful time to visit New York City—the weather is warm, but not usually terribly hot, and the crowds of summer vacationers have yet to invade the city. Some of the city’s well-known summer events begin in June, allowing visitors to enjoy the benefits of summer without the downsides.
Sports enthusiasts can catch the excitement of opening day games at Citi Field (home of the NY Mets) or Yankee Stadium. Additionally, on the second Tuesday in June, visitors and locals can experience the free Museum Mile Festival, New York’s largest block party, providing access to some of NYC’s finest museums for free. June also offers the perfect weather for exploring the many walking tours in the city, including some that are free.
NYC Weather in June
The warm weather in June invites visitors who want to enjoy walking the streets of New York City and visiting some of its fantastic parks and engaging in numerous exciting summer activities.
- Average High: 79°F (26°C)
- Average Low: 64°F (18°C)
Spring (April through June) and fall (October through November) are mild and ideal times to visit NYC. In contrast, July through August can be hot and humid, accompanied by larger crowds. Consequently, June stands out as a prime time for exploration.
The Summer Solstice falls on June 21st, granting visitors 5 hours and 50 minutes more daylight compared to the Winter Solstice in December. Expect around 14 hours of sunlight for sightseeing adventures, with an average of 4.4 inches of rain over 11 days throughout the month.
What to Pack
June offers warmth, though occasional rain showers are possible. Therefore, layering is key; a sweater or light jacket would come in handy when visiting air-conditioned museums or during evenings out.
- Pack an umbrella.
- A sweater, windbreaker, or light jacket for layering during cooler moments.
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking; opting for water-resistant options is advisable.
- A picnic blanket is great for enjoying free concerts and movies.
- Prepare for a range of temperatures; mornings/evenings can be cool, while midday can be warm. Having a light layer increases comfort significantly.
- Casual clothing such as shorts and t-shirts is acceptable for most tourist attractions; however, if planning for nicer evening dinners, consider packing slacks or dresses.
June Events in NYC
As the warm weather sets in during June, it becomes an excellent opportunity to explore New York City while enjoying various sights, concerts, and events. Here are some highlights:
- Take advantage of NYC’s numerous walking tours.
- The annual Museum Mile Festival provides free admission to nine museums and the excitement of a large block party.
- Attend captivating summer concerts and enjoy outdoor film festivals, most of which are free. Bringing a blanket and packing a picnic dinner creates a delightful local experience.
- The renowned Belmont Stakes occurs in early June, showcasing a thrilling Thoroughbred horse race at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York.
- Experience the vibrant Puerto Rican Day Parade as it marches down Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.
- Immerse yourself in culture outdoors at the Met Opera in the Parks performances or during the Bryant Park Film Festival.
- Support local teams during baseball season by cheering on the New York Yankees or New York Mets.
- Join in on the festivities of Pride Week and the Pride Parade, celebrating an important anniversary since the Stonewall Uprising.
June Travel Tips
To secure accommodations, it is wise to reserve hotels early, especially for weekend outings in NYC, as many may flock to the city for an overnight stay.
Prepare for outdoor experiences; consider having a picnic in Central Park, enjoying a cocktail at a rooftop bar, or attending an outdoor sports event. A stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge is also highly recommended.
If planning to visit the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island, early reservations and ticket purchases online are advisable. Additionally, schedule time to appreciate NYC from the water with the iconic Circle Tour.
