Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for St. Patrick’s Day
Top Things to Do in New York City for St. Patrick’s Day
1. St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Fifth Avenue fills with marching bands, dancers, and civic groups in a sea of green as New Yorkers line the sidewalks for a storied celebration of Irish heritage.
✓ Why Go:
It’s one of the world’s most iconic St. Patrick’s Day traditions—pure NYC energy, pride, and pageantry in the heart of Midtown.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
March 17; arrive by 9:30–10:00 am for good views as the parade steps off late morning and rolls into early afternoon.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the subway and enter from east–west side streets in the 40s–60s; bring layers, hand warmers, and a thermos for the long stand.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Electric and festive; families praise the atmosphere and music, while veterans recommend planning for crowds and street closures.
2. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
The Neo-Gothic landmark glows with stained glass and soaring spires—an inspiring stop for quiet reflection amid the day’s revelry.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the spiritual centerpiece of the holiday in NYC and a breathtaking architectural icon steps from the parade route.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning or late afternoon on March 17 for calmer moments; weekdays around the holiday for fewer lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Enter from Fifth Avenue and circle the aisles to admire side chapels; be mindful of services and dress respectfully.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Awe-inspiring and serene; visitors love the craftsmanship and say it’s a must during St. Patrick’s week.
3. Irish Hunger Memorial
This contemplative landscape transports you to rural Ireland with stones, flora, and poetry honoring lives lost in the Great Famine.
✓ Why Go:
It deepens the day with historical context and skyline views over the Hudson—quiet, moving, and free.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning light on March 17 or golden hour the week of the holiday for reflective photos and fewer people.
✓ Insider Tip:
Follow the winding path to read inscriptions; it can be breezy, so bring a jacket even on sunny days.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Thought-provoking and beautiful; travelers appreciate the storytelling and space to pause amid city bustle.
4. McSorley’s Old Ale House
A sawdust-strewn, history-soaked saloon pouring its signature ales—alive with songs, stories, and camaraderie every March.
✓ Why Go:
It’s New York’s classic Irish-American pub experience—convivial, no-frills, and endlessly photogenic.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or early afternoon on March 17 to beat peak lines; weekdays around the holiday are friendlier.
✓ Insider Tip:
Expect a wait and shared tables; have a backup nearby and order efficiently at the bar.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Lively and nostalgic; guests love the atmosphere and tradition, noting it gets packed but worth the squeeze.
5. Tenement Museum
Restored Lower East Side apartments and exhibits illuminate immigrant life, including the Irish who helped shape the city.
✓ Why Go:
It connects St. Patrick’s Day to real stories of arrival, work, and community in 19th- and 20th-century New York.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning slots the week of March 17; evenings tend to be quieter outside weekends.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book timed entry in advance during holiday week; browse the shop’s curated books on Irish NYC history.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Engaging and eye-opening; visitors praise knowledgeable staff and emotive storytelling.
6. Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
Grand halls, records, and exhibits trace journeys of millions—many Irish—who entered America through this gateway.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a powerful, panoramic look at the Irish diaspora and the wider immigrant experience that defines NYC.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
First ferry of the day during St. Patrick’s week to enjoy quieter galleries and clear harbor views.
✓ Insider Tip:
Allocate at least 3 hours and consider lunch on-site so you’re not rushing through the exhibits.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Moving and meticulously curated; travelers call it a highlight that pairs well with holiday reflections.
7. Irish Arts Center
A modern cultural hub presenting Irish music, dance, literature, and community events—especially vibrant in March.
✓ Why Go:
Experience contemporary Irish creativity beyond pubs and parades, from trad sessions to readings and workshops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings the week of March 17; check the calendar for special holiday programming.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive early to mingle in the lobby and discover pop-up installations or merch tied to seasonal shows.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Warm and welcoming; audiences rave about intimate performances and top-notch acoustics.
8. Irish Repertory Theatre
An acclaimed Off-Broadway company staging Irish and Irish-American plays—often with special March runs.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a smart, soulful complement to the festivities, spotlighting playwrights and stories that resonate today.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evening performances during St. Patrick’s week; matinees are ideal if you plan to celebrate at night.
✓ Insider Tip:
Seats are intimate—book ahead and consider post-show talks when offered.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Impeccable productions and friendly staff; theatergoers love the intimacy and craft.
9. The Dead Rabbit
A celebrated Irish bar marrying heritage with award-winning cocktails, lively tunes, and hearty bites near the harbor.
✓ Why Go:
It’s festive without being generic—perfect for a post-parade toast or a refined evening out.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday or late night on March 17; earlier in the week for easier seating.
✓ Insider Tip:
Downstairs is first-come and buzzing; head upstairs for a more relaxed, cocktail-forward experience.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Buzzing and polished; guests praise the drinks, service, and holiday vibe.
10. Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral
The original cathedral of the Archdiocese offers hushed courtyards, historic stonework, and centuries of Irish NYC history.
✓ Why Go:
It links the holiday to early Irish roots in Lower Manhattan and provides a peaceful counterpoint to Midtown crowds.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or early afternoon during St. Patrick’s week; weekends can be busy with weddings and services.
✓ Insider Tip:
Wander the surrounding Nolita blocks for cafés and bakeries when you’re done; check service schedules before you go.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Historic and atmospheric; visitors love the sense of place and neighborhood charm.
