Although August may be drier and slightly cooler than July, it is nevertheless a hot and humid month in New York City and visitors should take that into account when packing for their trip to the Big Apple. This is a wonderful time of the year to enjoy long summer nights, a multitude of cultural events and beautiful parks.

August is a great time to enjoy many free concerts and activities in the many parks scattered around the city. Shakespeare in the Park, for example, is a much-loved summer time theatrical event that has brought some of the best plays written by the Bard to over four million people since it began in 1954.

Central Park SummerStage is another venue that culture vultures should head out to during August. This location hosts numerous shows, dance and musical events throughout the summer, many of them for free. Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets to spread out on the grass and enjoy the magical atmosphere.

Film buffs will love August’s Bryant Park movie screenings, when a huge screen is put up in the park every Monday night, and some of the best film creations are shown under the open stars. Movies begin typically at sunset and this type of excursion makes a romantic night out for those looking for something a little different.

Harlem Week is an event that actually covers nearly the whole month of August and pays tribute to the urban, culture, ethnic and recreational contribution of the colorful neighborhood of Harlem to the nation. This event is America’s largest cultural celebration and attracts literally millions of visitors each year to enjoy the smells, tastes and trends of what many see as the epitome of New York.

Other things to look out for August include baseball season and Women’s Liberty Season.

From July to October, 2008, visitors to New York and residents alike will be able to enjoy a breathtaking artistic creation in the form of “New York City Waterfalls.” The city’s non profit Public Art Fund, a leading presenter of artists’ projects for over thirty years, has commissioned renowned Icelandic artist, Olafur Eliasson to produce four waterfalls in the East River, the intention being to draw attention to the waterfront area of New York.

On display each day from 7 am. to late at night, the 90 – 120 feet tall waterfalls can be viewed from a number of strategic points around the city, although the best way to see them up close would be from the water. Visitors have the option of taking a half hour Waterfalls Water Tour that runs over a dozen times a day from Southstreet Seaport. Another alternative would be to take the free daily Staten Island Ferry or the free Governors Island Ferry that runs over the weekend.

The four waterfalls, situated at Brooklyn Bridge, Governors Island, Pier 35 in Manhattan and Piers 4 and 5 in Brooklyn, can also be viewed from the waterfront.

Eliasson, whose work is inspired by the natural elements such as wind, light and water, and who is considered one of the world’s most influential contemporary artists, has taken great care to produce his four masterpieces with an environmental agenda. Filtering systems protect the fish and aquatic life in the water around the waterfalls, and green energy and building practices were used at all times.

The project’s curator, Rochelle Steiner said: “He has found a way to integrate the spectacular beauty of nature into the urban landscape on a dramatic scale.”

After sunset, the four waterfalls will be illuminated to allow visitors from miles around to enjoy these magnificent man-made creations and the beautiful New York City shoreline.

Click for the official site of the New York City Waterfalls.

Although many people tend to avoid New York City in July because of the heat and for the infamous fact that it is the wettest month of the year, there are actually many good reasons to make it your destination for the summer. As long as you know what to expect and what to take along, New York City in July can be a pleasant surprise.

Firstly, remember that average highs are 29 degrees and average lows dip to 21 degrees. With these facts in mind, you should pack for your visit accordingly. Lightweight cotton clothing, comfortable, closed walking shoes and an umbrella are definite essentials. You might also want to pack a light sweater to keep you warm in stores and museums where the air-conditioning might be turned on too high for your liking. Remember to drink a lot more water than you usually do, as you don’t want to dehydrate!

One of the reasons that people visit New York in July is because there is so much to do and see, and many of the events are absolutely free. Check out the schedules for the many outdoor festivals and concerts in the park such as the Met Opera in the Park and Shakespeare in the Park. Don’t forget to pack a picnic blanket to make yourself comfortable on the grass while you watch. The 4^th of July is a great day to be in New York and enjoy the festivities, including the traditional Macy’s Fireworks Display. July is also a good month to get in some walking tours.

To get in a different city experience this summer, head to the Big Apple this July and feel like a true local! New York Journey features lots of interesting articles and information along with several hotel reviews.

New York City is known for its multi-faceted food industry – from fast food to gourmet delights. At the top of the ladder, one will find a handful of the best food gift shops in the city, and possibly the world. Visitors to New York should take some time to pay some of these a visit.

Zabars on Broadway at 80^th Street is considered by many to be a New York icon. This family-owned store, which has been providing New Yorkers with top quality specialty food for over 70 years, caters to over 40,000 people each week and it is not difficult to understand why. Zabars offers unique coffee blends, pastries, imported products, smoked fish and an impressive selection of cheeses, to name just a few. Visitors can sample the food or purchase gift baskets to take home as a special New York memento. Click for Zabars.com.

Any cake lover can tell you that the best cheesecake in the world is Junior’s Cheesecake. The secret recipe for this cake has been in the Rosen family for generations and visitors to the Big Apple can now sample this delicious masterpiece and other offerings by visiting one of three Junior’s Cheescake stores in the city – in Brooklyn, at the Grand Central Station and at Times Square.  Click to go to JuniorsCheesecake.com.

Finally, Murray’s Cheese and Specialty Store, considered New York’s best cheese shop for decades, has two stores for visitors to enjoy – in Greenwich Village and at Grand Central Terminal. The stores offer an array of some of the best food in the world, from chocolate and confections to olives and antipasto, fruits and bread. However, their focus is on cheese and these stores present a mind-boggling selection, where knowledgeable staff can guide visitors about making their best purchase. Click to visit MurraysCheese.com.

For great reviews on NYC shops, visit NewYorkJourney.com.

Visiting New York in June is a must for those who like a taste of everything. The weather isn’t too hot and although the city is bustling yet it’s not unpleasantly full with the summer rush of tourists.

Average highs and lows of 79F (26C) and 64F (18C) still means the occasional sweater and umbrella use is necessary, but with outdoor season starting in New York, the colder days are few and far between.

The numerous outdoor music and film festivals which include the Bryant Park Film Festival, JVC Jazz Festival and Shakespeare in the Park should give travellers a great taste of New York’s cultural scene. Most of these festivals are also free. It is advisable to pack a picnic basket and a blanket to make the festivals just that much more comfortable.

June also welcomes Restaurant Week back, where New York’s top eateries offer 5 star meals at discount prices. There is also the Annual Lesbian and Gay Pride Week and the Puerto Rican Day Parade to look out for - entertainment in true cosmopolitan New York style. June in New York is definitely a time for the outdoors and cultural experiences.

The W New York Union Square is a luxury hotel situated in Union Square’s landmark 1911 beaux arts Guardian Life building and surrounded by shopping, music art and more. Reinvented by architect David Rockwell, the 270 room W Union Square offers perfect service and amenities, making this hotel one of the city’s top lavish choices for corporate and pleasure travelers.

Restaurants at the W Hotel Union Square include Mediterranean-inspired edibles at Todd English’s Olives or get cozy in the curtained alcoves at UNDERBAR. For those looking to people watch or relax, they can do that Living Room.

The hotel is just moments from New York City’s finest shopping, dining and sightseeing, as well as many of New York’s most important corporate offices. Within close walking distance are Greenwich Village, Rockefeller Center, Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden and Radio City Music Hall.

Click for a review of W New York Union Square at NewYorkJourney.com or to make an online booking.

May is a month of celebrations and commemorations in New York City. Get into the swing of spring with the delightful Cherry Blossom Season at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens (April to May), peaking with the Cherry Blossom Festival on May 3^rd and 4^th, 2008. This two day event pays tribute to Japanese culture and arts, and visitors can enjoy over 50 authentic performances in honor of the stunning flowering cherry trees in the gardens – the largest collection outside of Japan. 

Mother’s Day also appears in May and New Yorkers know just how to spoil their moms! The most important woman in one’s life can be pampered with a wide range of unique options, including a fabulous brunch or dinner aboard a luxurious New York cruise ship. The sights and sounds of New York can be viewed from the private dining room or the wide observation decks, as the cruise winds its way past the city’s classic skyline. Cruises depart from the New York Marina. 

Last year’s Dance Parade brought together over 4000 dancers from all over the world to celebrate all forms of dance. This year’s parade on May 17^th promises to be bigger and better than ever, starting on 32^nd Street and finishing off with a unique Dance Festival at Washington Square. Visitors will be able to enjoy all forms of dance, from African to Salsa, from Irish Step to Hip Hop and from Japanese to Clogging.  

Fleet Week is always an impressive celebration in the month of May, when the city celebrates the national sea services, including sailors, marines and coastguardsmen, and gets to witness their dedication first hand. Military demonstrations, public visitations of participating ships and musical performances are just some of the attractions offered during Fleet Week. This event always coincides to incorporate Memorial Day, a federal holiday on the last Monday of May, to commemorate the fallen in the US armed forces.

For more great NYC attractions, visit New York Journey’s attractions information page.

A trip to New York City is incomplete without taking in a show on Broadway! It is here where stages have been graced by some of the greatest actors, composers and dancers in American history. Read about the history of Broadway here. Let me know what your favorite Broadway show is, either current or past.

April is a buzzing month in New York City. Spring weather is in the air and some exciting events and festivals are definitely worth a visit.

The Tribeca Film Festival is one of the city’s most successful cultural events, and is held each year as a tribute to Manhattan’s contribution to film. The festival was created in a post-911 era as a means to contribute to the long-term recovery of the city and its morale. The Festival features an impressive line up of independent films, including documentaries and family-oriented movies, many of which will be premiering for the first time during the event (April 23^rd to May 4^th, 2008). In addition, there are many activities around the city that are geared towards children and families during the time of the Festival, making this a not-to-be-missed event. Some hotels in the Tribeca area include the luxurious Tribeca Grand Hotel and the moderately priced Cosmopolitan Hotel.

What would New York City be without its baseball action? Each year in April, the city celebrates Opening Day at two of its home team stadiums – Yankee Stadium and Shea Stadium. Yankee Stadium was officially opened on April 18^th, 1923 after less than a year of construction work. The Opening Day back then featured an inaugural game between the home team and the Boston Red Sox. Throughout the years, the stadium has undergone major construction and renovations to handle the crowds that come each year to watch their favorite teams. In 2006, ground was broken to construct a new Yankee Stadium, which is due to open in 2009. This year therefore marks the last Opening Day at the present stadium.

Shea Stadium, home of the New York Mets, opened up on April 17^th, 1964 with a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, before nearly 50,000 fans. Over the years, Shea Stadium has hosted spectacular baseball games, as well as non-baseball events. The stadium served as a relief center in the days following September 11 and is seen by many to be a true symbol of New York’s spirit and energy.

April is a fantastic time to visit New York City. The weather is in the process of turning warmer, outdoor activities become more inviting and the general mood is one of moving one step closer to spring. Despite better overall climate, there are still no major crowds in the city and visitors can still enjoy shorter lines, great deals and good travel weather.

Average highs in April are a comfortable 60°F (16°C), while low temperatures average at 45°F (7°C). While it may still rain in April, the warmer weather makes it that much more bearable. Of course, it is still highly recommended to pack a long trench coat or rain jacket, as well as an umbrella. The weather also justifies packing sweaters and long pants for cold nights. Closed-toed, waterproof and comfortable walking shoes are also a must to take in all the great sights in New York.

April is one of the most beautiful months in the city, when the largest collection of cherry blossom trees outside of Japan comes into full bloom, creating a magnificent display of nature. The Cherry Blossom Season kicks off in the second week of April and lasts an entire month, with interesting Japanese cultural activities planned for its duration.

The Tribeca Film Festival is another event that begins in April, and is an event that celebrates New York City as a major filmmaking center. Over 200 movies, many of them premieres, will be screened during the festival, and visitors are sure to bump into several top stars during the 10 day event.

Baseball season kicks off in New York City during the month of April with Opening Days at both the Yankee Stadium and Shea Stadium, the official home of the Mets. This is the last season that the Yankees will play at their present stadium, making 2008 a bitter-sweet curtain call for this majestic sports center.

Click to find some great hotel deals through NewYorkJourney.com.