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5 Things To Do In NYC This Memorial Day Weekend 2016

Spending Memorial Day weekend in New York City? We’ve rounded up the Big Apple’s top activities for the long weekend. 

Published on: May 17, 2016


Spending Memorial Day weekend in New York City? We’ve rounded up the Big Apple’s top activities for the long weekend. 

1. See a Parade

People marching in uniform holding different flags
Photo by: Time Out New York

Photo by: Time Out New York

With 5 parades to choose from, the biggest actually takes place on Sunday, starting at 1PM on Grand Ave. at 72nd St. in Queens. The most iconic Kings County Memorial Day Parade in Bay Ridge will take place on Monday for their 149th year in Brooklyn at 11am at 78th St and Third Ave.

2. Bask in the rays at New York’s biggest beach, Jones Beach

A small boat by a lifeguard station on Jones Beach

Photo by: AndrewandMaryMartha.blogspot.com


New York’s Jones Beach is known for it’s 6.5 miles of sand, two swimming pools, a two-mile boardwalk, miniature golf and the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center which offers educational tours. 

3. Dine al fresco

A table served with salads and cocktailsKick off the unofficial start of summer and the season of eating outdoors at a few of our favorite eateries around New York City. 

Breakfast: The Butcher’s Daughter – Nolita

With a menu that changes daily, you’re able to find vegetarian, dairy-free, healthy options 100% of the time. Looking for a green juice to start the day? Look no further, head downtown to The Butcher’s Daughter and enjoy your greens on their lovely sidewalk terrace.  

Lunch: Jams – Midtown West

Located on the ground floor of our New York City property 1 Hotel Central Park, Jam’s patio seating is now available. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste Chef Jonathan Waxman‘s California-inspired dishes including his famous chicken. Did we mention that Jonathan was recently named Best Chef in NYC by the prestigious James Beard Foundation? Make your reservations ahead of time, as outdoor seating is limited. 

Dinner: Bobo – Greenwich Village

Tucked away in the heart of Greenwich Village, you’ll find that Bobo is as charming as it’s name. Enjoy delicious French cuisine and sustainably-produced wine any night of the week. Tip: request garden seating for a more romantic setting. 

4. Take in eclectic art in New York’s diverse neighborhoods

A man standing in front of a photo of monks at a temple
Photo by: www.wsoae.org

Photo by: www.wsoae.org


Washington Square Art Exhibit

Stop by the Washington Square Art Exhibit on the first weekend open this year to check out fine artists and craft artisans from around the New York metropolitan area, the nation and the world. 

Lower East Side Festival of the Arts

“LES is a tribute to all the artists who lived and created on the Lower East Side and in the East Village in the past, a showcase for its current stars, and a glimpse at its up and coming talent of the future.” Celebrate this Memorial Day weekend as LES turns 20 this year, with a free-for-all of theater, music, dance, comedy, film and art multi-cultural cavalcade. 

5. Jump aboard the ferry to Governors Island

People biking on a bike path on Governors Island

Photo by: Govisland.com


Governors Island opens to the public on May 28th, so be of the first to visit the seasonal destination in the New York Harbor. Get a hard-hat preview of the soon-to-open Hills and enjoy grilling under the sun for the first time on the island. Don’t forget to reserve your grill, which also includes a Radio Flyer wagon to transport whatever groups need for their BBQ or gathering.

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