Spring in New York City is a great time to visit – the streets buzz with energy and tourists haven’t taken over (yet!).
Our list of epic activities combines classic NYC moments with under-the-radar gems that’ll make you feel like a true insider.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden turns into a cotton candy dream as over 200 cherry trees flaunt their pink and white petals.
Time your visit between early April and mid-May to catch the Kanzan Cherry Trees in full glory along Cherry Esplanade.
Insider Tip: The garden stays open late through May 12, hosting “Weekends in Bloom” with pop-up music, dance shows, and family activities.
Nothing screams “NYC spring” like catching the Yankees in action. The energy at Yankee Stadium is next-level electric as fans welcome baseball season back to the Bronx.
The stadium’s just a quick 25-minute subway ride from Midtown Manhattan, and trust us – there’s something magical about munching on those famous stadium hot dogs while watching America’s favorite pastime.
Want the most jaw-dropping photos of NYC? Head to The Edge observation deck during golden hour. You’ll be floating 1,100 feet above the streets with 360-degree views.
April sunsets happen between 7:20 and 7:50 PM, painting the city in gorgeous warm light as day turns to night.
Splurge on a glass of bubbly from the champagne bar while you watch the city lights twinkle to life.
Insider Tip: Morning people, take note: visiting around mid-morning means smaller crowds and equally stunning views.
April is absolutely packed with Broadway premieres. Catch Jonathan Groff rocking it as Bobby Darin in “Just In Time” (opens April 23), or see the much-hyped “Real Women Have Curves” musical adaptation (opens April 27).
For something totally different, check out The Lion King on Broadway and relive a Disney classic on stage.
The theater district buzzes with opening night energy, and you’ll be among the first to see these shows before they become the next big thing.
Wander through 15 different cherry blossom spots scattered across Central Park’s 843 acres.
The first blooms pop up along the Reservoir’s west side in late March, while the Great Lawn’s white cherry trees create perfect picnic spots in early April.
Insider Tip: Download the interactive bloom tracker map to catch these fleeting flowers at their peak.
Score the ultimate NYC photo op 162 steps up at Lady Liberty’s crown! Book your tickets 3 months ahead – they sell out super fast. The climb might leave you breathless, but those harbor views are worth every step.
Cool fact: You’ll pass through the original torch display and a life-sized replica of Liberty’s giant foot on your way up.
This elevated park stretches 1.45 miles from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards, packed with art installations and gorgeous gardens.
Join the free “From Freight to Flowers” tour (Wed 10 AM, Sat 12 PM) to discover hidden stories of this former railway.
Bonus: The park stays open until 10 PM April through November, perfect for sunset strolls.
Start your night at Death & Co in the East Village, where mixology magic happens in a super cozy dark space. Bounce over to Amor y Amargo for standing-room-only vibes and killer cocktails.
Cap off the night at one of NYC’s stunning rooftop bars – Ophelia Lounge offers 360° views of the East River and Manhattan skyline.
When the sun sets, Times Square cranks up the energy with its massive LED billboards lighting up the night.
Catch an evening comedy show at Broadway Comedy Club, groove at rooftop parties at Vue 180, or join the crowds for the nightly “Midnight Moment” – the world’s largest digital art show on 92 synchronized screens.
The dazzling displays run until 1 AM, making this the ultimate nighttime hotspot.
Snag a spot on this 3-hour culinary tour where you’ll skip the lines at NYC’s hottest food hall.
Munch on everything from Japanese tacos to mini doughnuts, plus authentic NY pizza with killer sauce.
Between bites, you’ll get fascinating stories about the market’s history as the birthplace of the Oreo cookie.
Zip up 70 floors to three levels of jaw-dropping views that’ll make your Instagram followers drool.
The outdoor deck gives you unobstructed 360-degree panoramas of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the entire Manhattan skyline.
Insider Tip: Book for an hour before sunset to catch the golden light washing over the city, then stay to watch the urban lights twinkle to life.
Grab a set of wheels and cruise the park’s 6.1-mile loop, where you’ll pass iconic spots like Bethesda Fountain and Belvedere Castle.
Follow the counterclockwise flow of traffic and take the lower loop if you want to skip the challenging north hill. The path is super bike-friendly with plenty of spots to stop for photos.
Get your art fix at this world-famous museum where Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans share the spotlight.
Five floors pack in everything from Picasso to Pollock, plus rotating special exhibitions that’ll blow your mind.
Visit on Friday evenings when NYC residents get in free, or hit the fifth floor first thing to see the most famous masterpieces before crowds roll in.
Score the best free show in NYC on this 25-minute harbor cruise. Grab a spot on the back deck around 7:30 PM to catch the sun dipping behind Lady Liberty while Manhattan’s skyline glows in amber light.
The ferry runs 24/7, but avoid the rush-hour crush (5:30 PM is peak chaos). Bonus: You can grab a cold beer onboard to toast the views.
Picking the right neighborhood in NYC can make or break your April trip. Let’s dish on some prime spots to rest your head.
Midtown Manhattan is a classic choice for first-timers. You’re smack in the center of it all, with easy access to major attractions. The Arlo Midtown offers sleek rooms and killer views of the Empire State Building.
For a more laid-back vibe, check out the Upper West Side. This leafy neighborhood borders Central Park and has a real local feel. Book a room at the Hotel Beacon for spacious digs and a kitchenette to whip up late-night snacks.
Want to channel your inner hipster? Williamsburg in Brooklyn is calling. The Wythe Hotel, housed in a converted factory, oozes industrial-chic charm and boasts a rooftop bar with Manhattan skyline views.
If you’re after luxury without the sky-high price tag, consider Long Island City. It’s just across the river from Manhattan, offering stellar views and quick subway access. The Boro Hotel combines minimalist design with panoramic cityscapes.
For a slice of old-school New York glamour, the Upper East Side can’t be beat. The Lowell Hotel feels like your own posh apartment, complete with wood-burning fireplaces in some suites.
Greenwich Village beckons with its quaint streets and vibrant nightlife. The Walker Hotel Greenwich Village captures the area’s artistic spirit with Art Deco-inspired decor and cozy nooks perfect for people-watching.
The city shakes off its winter chill in April and New Yorkers emerge from hibernation. You can expect average highs around 60°F (16°C) and lows near 46°F (8°C).
The weather can be a bit of a tease. Mornings might start crisp, but by afternoon you could be basking in warm sunshine.
Rain showers are part of the April package. On average, NYC sees about 4 inches of rain spread over 11 days this month.
A week in the Big Apple can cost anywhere from $1,800 to $6,600 for two people.
Hotels in New York City can gobble up a big chunk of your budget. Expect to shell out $900 to $2,000 for a week’s stay. Want to save some dough? Look into vacation rentals or hostels.
Food is where the fun begins. From street carts to Michelin stars, NYC’s got it all. Budget around $500 to $1,400 for the week. Mix high-end dinners with cheap eats to strike a tasty balance.
Getting around is a breeze with public transport. A weekly MetroCard will set you back about $64 per person. Taxis and rideshares are pricier but sometimes worth the splurge.
Now for the good stuff – activities! Museums, shows, and tours can cost $300 to $1,000 per person for the week. Many attractions offer free or discounted days, so keep your eyes peeled for deals.
Packing for New York City in April requires a mix of layers to handle the changeable spring weather.
Start with the essentials: underwear and socks for each day of your week-long stay. Bring 3-4 pairs of comfortable jeans or trousers, and 5-6 tops that can be easily layered.
Don’t forget a warm jacket for chilly evenings. A lightweight raincoat is crucial for those April showers. Pack a couple of sweaters or cardigans for layering. Throw in a scarf and a pair of gloves just in case.
For footwear, bring 1-2 pairs of comfortable walking shoes. New York is a walking city, so prioritize comfort over style. A pair of dressy shoes is nice to have for evenings out.
Essential toiletries include your toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any medications you need. Sunscreen is a must, even in spring. A small umbrella is a smart addition to your bag.