A Local's Guide to NYC's Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend in NYC kicks off the unofficial start of summer, and locals know there's no better time to soak up the city's energy during this long awaited 3 day weekend. While tourists stick to Times Square and packed ferry rides, New Yorkers are diving into rooftop hangs, waterfront walks, and neighborhood gems that make the city what it is. Here's your ultimate guide to make the most of your Memorial Day Weekend in the Big Apple while staying at The Moderne Hotel.

1. Kick off the weekend with a rooftop toast

Nothing says "Memorial Day Weekend" like catching happy hour and golden hour cocktails above the New York City skyline. Avoid the tourist traps and check out these options within walking distance of Moderne Hotel.
- Dear Irving on Broadway: Chic midcentury modern decor with views of Midtown Manhattan. 
- The Empire Rooftop: Laid back and relaxed destination spot with views of the Upper West Side and Lincoln Center.

2. Catch the largest and oldest Memorial Day parade in the nation

Take a trip on the LIRR from Penn station to Little Neck, Queens (just a 35 minute ride away) and see the Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade in action. You will see veterans, marching bands, military trucks and neighborhoods showing love and respect.

3. Partake in Fleet Week festivities

Memorial Day weekend in the city normally overlaps with Fleet Week, which means the city is full of sailors, naval ships and public events. 
- Tour the Navy and Coast Guard vessels that dock on Pier 88.
- Visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, they usually host special programming and demonstrations during this special weekend.

4. Picnic in the Park

A safe option for this would be Central Park, but if you're feeling a little more adventurous, we would recommend taking a trip to Brooklyn and having a picnic in Prospect Park or Domino Park. Both parks located in Brooklyn, sure to set the mood right with some bagels, fruit and your choice of drinks.

5. Hit the beach!

Sure it might not be hot enough to get into the Atlantic ocean but Memorial Day Weekend is one of the most popular dates to dip your toes in the sand, the NYC way. 
Some public transportation friendly beaches are Rockaway Beach (ferry from Wall Street), which is known as a surfing destination in New York City and Coney Island beach (Q train from Moderne), known for it's famous boardwalk which is home to the Cyclone (Luna Park) and the New York Aquarium.

All in all, whether you're kicking back in a quiet park, clinking glasses on a rooftop or sun bathing in one of our beaches, Memorial Day Weekend in NYC is about finding your slice of the city and making the best memories while honoring the past. Don't over-plan and just let this long weekend unfold!