April, may, september, october are the sweet spots. Weather is nice (60-75°F), crowds manageable, hotel prices not insane like summer or december.

May is particularly great - central park in bloom, perfect outdoor dining, avoiding winter cold and summer humidity. October gives you fall foliage plus cultural events starting up.

Avoid june-august (sweltering hot, tourist peak) and december (holiday crowds, expensive everything). January-march cheapest but youre dealing with snow and freezing. If you dont mind cold, february has lowest hotel rates.