nyc travel in april

Exploring New York in April: A Complete Guide

New York in April , does it get any better? The city shakes off its winter slumber and greets spring with open arms. Picture this: Clear blue skies, cherry blossoms painting the streets in hues of pink and white, and the city buzzing with an energy that’s contagious. That’s NYC in April for you.

Visiting New York in this splendid month is all about embracing the vibrant spirit of the city, with its endless list of events, festivals, and outdoor activities. From the iconic Easter Parade to the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival, there’s never a dull moment in the city that never sleeps.

But wait! What about navigating the unpredictable weather or dealing with peak tourist season prices? Don’t fret! We’ve got you covered. Consider this guide your travel companion, offering insider tips on everything from understanding weather patterns to smart planning for a memorable exploration of New York in April .

So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with grand architecture, lush green parks, delectable food trucks, stunning observation decks, and much more? Let’s dive into the world of things to do in NYC in April and create your perfect spring adventure!

Understanding the Weather and Seasonal Vibes

April weather in New York is a playful mix of mild afternoons and crisp mornings, setting the scene for a cityscape that’s bursting back to life after the winter chill. Visitors can expect average temperatures to dance between a cozy low of 46 degrees Fahrenheit and a pleasant high in the low 60s.

Embracing Spring in New York

Spring weather brings more than just a gentle warmth; it ushers in an explosion of cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, transforming the Big Apple into a canvas of pink hues and verdant tones. These iconic signs of spring are not just a visual treat but also embody the city’s renewal and energy:

• Cherry Blossom Magic: The delicate petals of cherry blossoms create ethereal tunnels at places like Brooklyn Botanic Garden, an absolute must-see.
• Greenery Galore: April’s mild days are perfect for strolling through parks dotted with new leaves and spring flowers.

Best Spots to Experience Nature in the City

For those keen on blending nature with urban exploration, these spots offer the best of both worlds:

• High Line Park: An elevated park built on historic rail lines, providing unique views framed by contemporary landscape artistry.
• Central Park: A classic choice that never disappoints, especially when its meadows and walkways are painted with spring colors.

Whether you’re captivated by the architectural marvels or enchanted by seasonal blooms, New York in April is an invitation to witness the city as it shakes off winter’s hold and dresses up for spring.

Top Events and Festivals to Attend in April

1. easter parade nyc.

Imagine a promenade where the hats are the stars of the show – welcome to the Easter Parade NYC ! This vibrant tradition dates back to the 1870s and continues to draw crowds with its playful spirit. Fifth Avenue transforms into a stage for the most imaginative and whimsical bonnets, as New Yorkers showcase their creativity. Picture hats adorned with flowers, towering feathers, and even miniature replicas of landmarks – it’s a fashion fiesta under the spring sun!

2. Tribeca Film Festival

Lights, camera, action! The Tribeca Film Festival rolls out its red carpet, hosting a constellation of stars and showcasing indie gems alongside blockbusters. Film buffs rejoice as they enjoy exclusive screenings, director Q&As, and the buzz of discovering the next big thing in cinema. Be part of an audience that shapes film industry conversations through interactive panels and votes for audience awards.

3. Baseball Season NYC

Swing into the heart of American culture with the start of baseball season in NYC . Feel the exhilaration at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field as you join local fans cheering on their beloved teams. Hot dogs, cold drinks, and home runs – it doesn’t get more quintessential New York than this!

4. Earth Day Events NYC

Earth Day paints NYC green with eco-friendly initiatives and events that inspire sustainability. Parks host fairs with environmental workshops, while citywide clean-ups rally communities together. It’s not just about awareness; it’s a hands-on experience where you can contribute to conservation efforts and learn ways to lead a greener lifestyle amidst the urban jungle.

With each event offering its own unique flavor, April promises a kaleidoscope of experiences that embody New York City’s dynamic culture.

Embracing Outdoor Experiences

New York City is a treasure trove of experiences and the springtime vibe in April makes it ideal for exploring every nook and cranny. So, lace up your sneakers and let’s get moving!

Discover on Foot with Walking Tours

Are you ready to pound the pavement? Walking tours are your golden ticket to uncovering the city’s eclectic neighborhoods. Dive into the rich tapestry of cultures in areas like the vibrant Lower East Side, historic Harlem, or artsy Bushwick. Each step is a chance to learn something new, snap that perfect Instagram shot, or simply soak up the local flavor.

Culinary Delights at Food Festivals

Foodies, rejoice! April serves up an array of food festivals that’ll have your taste buds doing cartwheels. Whether you’re all about that street food vibe at food truck rallies or prefer the upscale twist of curated dining events, NYC has got you covered. Imagine savoring that perfect bite under a canopy of cherry blossoms – it’s pure bliss!

Panoramic Views from Observation Decks

Elevate your NYC experience – literally. Head to famous observation decks like the Empire State Building or One World Observatory for views that will take your breath away. Picture this: you’re standing high above the bustling streets, gazing out as the skyline stretches infinitely before you. It’s a moment where time stands still.

Nightlife at Rooftop Venues

As dusk falls, the city lights flicker to life. What better way to experience New York’s glittering nightlife than from one of its chic rooftop bars or lounges? Toast to an unforgettable day with a craft cocktail in hand, surrounded by panoramic vistas of an illuminated cityscape. Each venue comes with its own unique flair – from trendy DJ sets to serene spots perfect for intimate conversations under the stars.

Get ready to immerse yourself in all the outdoor magic that April in New York has to offer!

Essential Travel Tips for Your April Adventure

Heading to New York in April? Sweet! But before you start packing those bags, let’s talk smart travel moves that’ll make your trip as smooth as a New York cheesecake.

Pinch Those Pennies: Budget Like a Boss

• Get Event Savvy : Snagging tickets to hot events? Remember, prices can soar faster than a Broadway star’s high note. Set aside some dough for those must-see shows and festivals.
• Dine Smart : Sure, that Michelin-star spot looks tempting, but so do food trucks with their wallet-friendly eats. Mix it up to keep your wallet from weeping.

Sleep Tight: Finding Your Perfect NYC Nest

• Location, Location, Location : Pick a place that’s a hop, skip, and a jump away from the action. It’s all about easy access without the hassle of long commutes.
• Style for Miles : Boutique hotel? Cozy Airbnb? Your call! Just make sure it screams ‘you’ and fits snugly within your budget.

Skip the Line, Save Some Time

• Fast Track Fun : Long lines? No thanks. Skip-the-line passes are like a golden ticket to the city’s best attractions.
• Timing is Everything : Hit popular spots during off-peak hours. Why jostle with crowds when you could be dancing through museums and gardens with room to twirl?

With these pro tips, you’re all set to navigate New York like a seasoned local. Keep your wallet happy, your nights cozy, and those lines short.

April in New York City offers a colorful palette of springtime charm, cultural events, and outdoor adventures. The weather might be a little unpredictable at times, with occasional showers and slight chill after sunset. But don’t let that deter you. Instead, think of it as nature’s way of adding an element of surprise to your trip!

The city in April is like a beautifully wrapped gift box filled with delightful experiences waiting to be unwrapped:

• Lush parks adorned with cherry blossoms invite leisurely strolls.
• Vibrant festivals like the Easter Parade and Tribeca Film Festival add cultural richness to your visit.
• Top attractions like the Empire State Building and One World Observatory offer breathtaking views.
• Food trucks and upscale dining events promise a culinary journey like no other.

This guide was created with one goal in mind – to help you make the most of your trip to NYC in April. It’s packed with insights on everything from understanding the weather to choosing the right accommodation and navigating popular attractions.

Ready to embark on your own exciting adventure? There’s no time like the present! Start planning your unforgettable April trip to the vibrant New York City now!

Born and raised amidst the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, I’ve witnessed the city’s many exciting phases. When I’m not exploring the city or penning down my thoughts, you can find me sipping on a cup of coffee at my favorite local café, playing chess or planning my next trip. For the last twelve years, I’ve been living in South Williamsburg with my partner Berenike.

10 Things To Know About Visiting NYC In April

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: November 25, 2022

UPDATED: May 21, 2024

If you visit New York City in April you can expect mixed weather, fewer crowds, lower hotel prices and cherry blossoms blooming. We’ve lived in NYC in April and we think it’s a great time of year for you to visit if you want to avoid overcrowding and save money, as long as you don’t mind risking cold temperatures.

In this guide we walk you through the 10 most important things you should know about visiting New York City in April based on our experiences.

Our NYC Experience

We lived in New York City between December 2020 and April 2021, and we’ve revisited many times since, including in April 2022. During our extensive time spent in the city we’ve seen and done almost everything there is to do. It’s one of our favorite places on the planet and we’ve written lots of NYC travel guides to help you plan various aspects of your visit.

What we love about New York in April is that the city is transitioning out of its cold and snowy winter season, green grass and cherry blossoms are bursting into color and the atmosphere begins to buzz once again. But it’s still the shoulder season, so you can pick up great deals on flights and hotels, and top attractions remain quiet, which is a huge deal! Read more about us .

New York City is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, so naturally it attracts year round crowds. But some months are busier than others, and the good news for your visit in April is that it’s a transition month so you get some of the major benefits without most of the drawbacks, including crowds.

April is typically busier than March, but not as busy as May when the numbers really begin to increase. If you’re deciding between visiting NYC in spring or summer, you can rest assured that the crowds in April will be far fewer compared to the likes of July or August.

Our Experience : We found April to be almost perfect for exploring the city’s attractions and neighborhoods crowd-free and in reasonable weather conditions. There were no lines at observation decks or museums, we could walk straight into most restaurants and hotels had low occupancy rates, so they were priced more reasonably.

Annual Visitors

In 2019 New York City hosted 66.6 million tourists with roughly 1 in 5 visitors being international travelers. It was a record high but it marked the end of 10 years consistent growth because of the covid lockdowns in 2020.

This NYC tourism and conventions pdf shows that visitor numbers have steadily been returning since the end of the lockdowns, and it’s expected that 2024 will be the first year to surpass 2019 and become a new record year of tourism in New York City.

What Does That Mean For You?

Well, it means that NYC is going to be even more overrun by tourists in the years to come. Crowds will be bigger than ever at top attractions and hotels will likely increase prices as demand begins to offset supply. But visiting in the should season month of April means you should be just ahead of the rush.

READ : 4 days in NYC itinerary ideas

New York City’s weather transitions from cold to cool in April, with a 10 degrees Fahrenheit increase in average high and low temperatures from the start to the end of the month. April is also the wettest month of the year in NYC, which means the risk of rainfall scuppering your plans is a factor to consider. And lastly, you’re very unlikely to see any snowfall in April, so you’d need to visit earlier in the year to see snow.

Our experience : During the month of April we’ve experienced lots of different weather systems in New York, including freezing cold but clear blue sky days, non-stop rainy days and beautifully warm days when shorts and t-shirts were perfect. So, the key is to pack lots of layers!

NYC April Temperatures

Here are the high, low and average New York City temperatures in April:

April 1st :

• High Temperature – 56°F (13°C)
• Average Temperature – 48°F (9°C)
• Low Temperature – 42°F (6°C)

April 30th :

• High Temperature – 67°F (19°C)
• Average Temperature – 59°F (15°C)
• Low Temperature – 51°F (11°C)

Source : Weather Spark

So as you can see, there’s a fairly significant increase in average temperatures throughout the month, which means visiting later in April will give you a better chance of warmer weather. To finish, one of our top tips to consider is that the grid-style streets in Manhattan are like wind tunnels, so when the wind picks up it can make the “real feel” temperature plummet significantly.

READ : What it’s like to visit NYC in winter

The magic combination of lower occupancy rates and lower average nightly costs for hotel rooms in Manhattan and Brooklyn is up there with the very best reasons to plan a vacation to New York City in April. There’s hundreds of hotels that will fill between June and September, but they’ll be much emptier during your trip in April, so you can take advantage of great deals.

Our experience : We’ve stayed at a lot of hotels in New York over the years, and we’ve found that it’s definitely a place that heavily inflates prices based on seasonality. In winter and through April, we were able to stay at quality hotels with excellent guest ratings for prices that we felt offered good value for money. And we’ve written about the best NYC hotels our site Best Hotels Anywhere if you need help figuring out where to stay.

Hotel Recommendations

If it’s going to be your first visit to New York, we recommend booking a hotel around Midtown Manhattan near Times Square, Bryant Park or the Empire State Building. This way you’ll have a central location, lots of transport links and countless places to eat out.

Here’s four excellent Midtown hotels to consider:

• The Archer – One of our personal top picks near Bryant Park with views over Empire State Building.
• CitizenM – Centrally located in Times Square, close to Broadway and Rockefeller Center.
• MOXY NYC – Rooftop bar and good value between Penn Station and Times Square.
• Cambria Hotel – Highly rated cheap hotel with rooftop terrace between Midtown and Chelsea.

READ : Best places to stay in New York City

4. The Foodie Scene

April is a fantastic time to be out and about eating food in New York City. The weather is beginning to warm, which means outdoor dining becomes more comfortable and you’ll see the streets fill with tables outside restaurants and cafes. But it’s still quiet enough to get into most restaurants without reserving months in advance!

Three classic NYC foods you can’t miss include pizza, breakfast bagels and hotdogs from a street vendor. If you like food markets, don’t miss Smorgasburg , which is the largest weekly open air food market in America. Every weekend beginning in April, dozens of vendors set up food stalls in Williamsburg, Prospect Park and the World Trade Center.

Our experience : For us, it’s all about the classics. We love pizza and bagels, so we always try new places when we’re in town. And in April, we’ve always walked straight into any restaurant we liked the look of. It’s another huge bonus to visiting New York City in spring.

Restaurant Recommendations

Okay, New York City is home to some of the finest restaurants on the planet, and there’s thousands of cheap, expensive, unique, fun, hidden or exclusive places you can eat at. So we think you’d have to live in NYC for a good few years before being able to profess that you’re an expert on food in the city.

But we can offer you the following suggestions to consider based on our experiences so far:

• Italian – Carmine’s Italian (Times Square)
• New American – Gramercy Tavern (Flatiron)
• Ukrainian – Veselka (Ukrainian Village)
• Italian – Rubirosa (Nolita)
• Korean – Thursday Kitchen (East Village)
• Steak – Keens Steakhouse (Midtown South)
• Deli – Katz’s Delicatessen (Lower East Side)
• Bakery – Dominique Ansel (SoHo)

READ : Where to find best pizza in NYC

5. Expenses

We’ve been traveling the world non-stop since 2018, so we’ve visited hundreds of cities, towns, national parks and excursions. And we think the whole “New York City is so expensive” thing is a little bit of a myth. Sure, it can be outrageously expensive if you make it that way, but it can also be done on the cheap.

And in April, you certainly can visit NYC without breaking the bank. It’s a great time of year to book cheap flights with low-cost airlines domestically or internationally. We already discussed cheaper hotels earlier but that’s another huge factor. And flash deals tend to run on attractions and broadway shows in the quieter months, so you can pick up discounted prices.

Our experience : During our most recent April trip to New York we booked cheap flights, stayed at a great hotel for reasonable rates and visited lots of attractions with our NY Sightseeing Pass which also had promotional rates because it was still the shoulder season. Overall, we don’t think NYC is any more expensive than other major cities like San Francisco, Tokyo or London.

How Much Spending Money Do You Need?

Well, we think everyone visiting New York City arrives with a different budget, goals and itinerary ideas. There’s no one size fits all budget calculator because you might want to eat and drink your way through the city, or you might want to just visit attractions and museums, or you might want to keep costs down.

But generally speaking, let’s say the average couple spends the following (excluding flights):

• $300/night on a hotel
• $150/day on food
• $150/day on attractions
• $50/day on miscellaneous things

So we think the average couple planning a 3-night and 4-day trip to NYC would need around $2,300 USD. But remember, you absolutely can do it much cheaper than that.

Here’s a few ways you can save money:

• Book a hotel offering free breakfast to cut out one meal a day
• Eat cheap pizza slices, hotdogs or truck stand food for lunch (not the healthiest but cheap)
• Don’t splurge on dinner, keep it simple instead
• Book a cheaper than average hotel (there are highly rated hotels at lower prices)
• Stay away from alcohol, the drink price + tax + tip adds up very quickly!
• Stick to the free attractions like Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park
• Walk instead of using the subway every time

Finally, we recommend you buy an attractions pass like New York Sightseeing Pass or New York CityPASS to save as much as 30-40% if you plan to visit lots of observation decks, museums and attractions.

Want To Save Money In NYC?

Click the button below to get our exclusive 5-10% discount on NY Sightseeing Passes.

READ : Our comparison of the 4 NYC attractions passes

6. Things To Do

Another great reason to visit New York in April is being able to do all of the same things you could do in summer, but without the crowds. So in terms of attractions, you wouldn’t be missing out on anything except nicer weather. And it’s also a wonderful time to explore New York’s neighborhoods because they’re not overrun by tourists, the air is crisp and the famously pungent smells of summer haven’t yet begun.

Our experience : We’ve been up the observation decks when they’re busy and it’s hard to enjoy the experience. Not being able to get a ferry time slot for the Statue of Liberty is frustrating, lining up just to get into a museum grows tiresome and standing in even longer lines just to get a bagel is worse yet! But in April we walked straight into everything with no line at all, which made a huge difference.

Top NYC Attractions

There are so many fun things to do when you visit New York, but here are some of the most iconic:

• Walk around the famous NYC neighborhoods (free)
• Soak up the atmosphere walking Brooklyn Bridge at sunset and night (free)
• Explore the best spots in Central Park (free)
• Take the ferry to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (cheap)
• Visit several of the best museums in NYC (cheap)
• Go up one or two of the best NYC observation decks (moderately cheap)
• Watch a broadway show (expensive – but often cheaper in April)

Oh, and April has one more wonderfully unique activity that you can’t do any other time of year, and we’ll cover it next.

READ : Best free and cheap things to do in NYC

7. Cherry Blossoms

Seeing vibrant cherry blossoms bursting into life might be the reason you’re visiting New York in April, and we can’t argue with your reasoning! You can explore various parks and green spaces across the city to see beautiful cherry trees erupting into a pink light show.

Our experience : We made a point of finding as many cherry blossom spots as we could the last time we were in New York in April. Naturally, we thought Central Park would be the best place (and it was great!), but actually the New York Botanical Gardens in The Bronx had the most amazing display. And it was full of other lovely flowers so we highly recommend you visit in spring.

Where To See Cherry Blossoms In NYC

• New York Botanical Gardens
• Central Park
• Sakura Park
• Flushing Meadows Corona Park
• Brooklyn Botanic Garden
• Roosevelt Island

Need help planning your visit to NYC?

Our popular New York City travel guidebook will help you with planning every aspect of your trip, including airport links, the subway, top attractions, itinerary ideas, restaurants, hotels and map!

8. Central Park

Central Park is one of the most famous green spaces on the planet and we think it’s a must-visit for your trip in April. You already know there’ll be cherry blossoms in Central Park but here’s where you can find them according to Central Park :

“The cherry blossom trees in Central Park can be found mainly between 72nd Street and 96th Street, with the highest concentrations around the Reservoir , Cherry Hill , Pilgrim Hill , Great Lawn , Cedar Hill , and the area just south of Cedar Hill between 74th and 77th Streets.”

Our experience : Central Park is one of our favorite spots in the city and we always have a walk around no matter the season. We had a magical snow day in the depths of winter which felt like we were in a movie, but in April we actually found a lovely cherry blossom spot near Bethesda Fountain so don’t miss that area.

Where To Go

Central Park is gigantic and diverse, and there’s a lot more to do outside of photographing cherry blossoms. Remember that The Met, Guggenheim and American Museum of Natural History are on either side of Central Park. And if you only have to do one we recommend The Met .

Follow this exact path through Central Park:

• Wollman Ice Rink
• Bethesda Terrace
• Wagner’s Cove
• Strawberry Fields
• Belvedere Castle

You’ll end up a few minutes walk from The Met. And that’s how you plan! Most tourists will only visit the southern part of Central Park. But we encourage you to explore further up, as long as you have enough time on your itinerary.

READ : What to see in Central Park in the snow

9. Photography

New York City has one of the most iconic urban landscapes on Earth, and we’re confident you’ll be endlessly impressed by towering skyscrapers and unique architecture. But walking around New York with a camera is both a blessing and a curse because there’s a photo to be taken at every turn, every building and every iconic landmark!

Our experience : We’re travel photographers and NYC is exceptionally photogenic, so we’ve taken thousands of photos in the city and we’re sure there’ll be a few thousand more to come! We think any month is a good month for photography in New York City, so don’t forget your camera.

What Can You Expect In April?

• Fewer crowds in April make photography easier and more relaxing
• Much quieter at observation decks and top attractions
• Cherry blossoms scattered across the city
• Diverse range of weather including clouds, sun, rain etc
• Steam billowing out of vents and drains on cold mornings
• Brooklyn Bridge is quieter than summer at sunrise and sunset

READ : The best photo spots in New York City

10. Packing

Packing for a trip to New York City in April can be tricky because the weather and temperatures can be extremely changeable. You’re likely going to experience cold, mild, warm and cold again throughout the day. And let’s face it, this is NYC, so you’re going to want options!

Some important questions to ask yourself include how much you plan to go out drinking and partying, how many classy restaurants you plan to visit and if you’ll be using the hotel gym at all. Then throw in your casual daytime clothes for walking (considering the changeable weather) and you’ll have a pretty full suitcase.

Our experience : We always try to pack multi-purpose clothes that can be dressed up or dressed down when we visit NYC. And we always walk as much as we can, so we wear running shoes with lots of spring and bounce during the day.

Basic NYC April Packing List

• Underwear and socks
• Shorts, pants, leggings, dresses and jeans
• Moisture wicking t-shirts
• Light and medium layers
• Sweaters and hoodies
• Smart casual gear for dinner and drinks
• Even smarter clothes for upscale restaurants
• Sunglasses and hats
• Heavy coat, gloves and scarf for sunrises and sunsets
• At least 2 pairs of shoes for walking and evenings
• Camera, lenses, tripod and plenty of data storage

After that it comes down to your personal travel style. Some people like to dress up smart for walking around the city, whereas others go all out for comfort. There’s no right or wrong in New York, everyone just does whatever they feel comfortable doing!

The Morgan Conclusion

April is a fantastic time to visit New York City because you’ll benefit from a wonderful blend of affordable hotel prices and crowd-free attractions. Plus, you can see cherry blossoms and save money when compared to the summer months.

As far as we’re concerned, the only downside is changeable weather conditions and having to pack more clothes as a result. So if you’re happy to take on the risk, we can tell you from experience that NYC is refreshingly quiet in April, and you’ll have a better time for it.

More Seasonal Guides

• Acadia National Park in the fall
• Death Valley in December
• Grand Canyon in winter
• Lake Tahoe in November
• Las Vegas in November
• New York City in winter
• Sedona in December
• Yellowstone in April
• Yellowstone in October
• Yosemite in October
• Zion National Park in winter

Want more New York content?  Head over to our  New York Travel Guides  to explore the Finger Lakes, the Adirondacks and all of our popular NYC travel planning guides.

We hope this guide to visiting New York City in April helps with planning your trip to the Big Apple!

Please let us know if you have any questions in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

6 thoughts on “10 Things To Know About Visiting NYC In April”

Wow, nice blog 🙂 We have just booked our 11 day stay in April 2024 (11th – 22nd) and can’t wait to experience this incredible city!!!! This blog gives me the confirmation that I have chosen the right time to visit!

Greetings from Germany

Hi Samet, Thanks so much for reading! We hope you have an amazing April trip to NYC and let us know if you have any questions! 😊

Wow thank you for all this helpful information! Lovely, enjoyable blog to read and super useful.

Thank you so much for the very kind comment Victoria! We are happy you found our guide useful and hope you have a wonderful time in New York City. 🙂

Thank you so much for this information! I love this blog!

You are very welcome Kristen and have a wonderful time in NYC!

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Local’s Guide to Everything You Need to Know about New York in April

Wondering if New York in April is really as magical as it sounds? If so then this mega epic insider’s guide is deffo for you.

After all, I’ve spent 30+ Aprils here and April in NYC is a next-level beautiful thing. I mean, not only is the weather starting to warm up, but the flowers will begin to come into full bloom.

And they can be best enjoyed during iconic events like the Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden.

Additionally, the crowds of summer haven’t quite arrived yet so you can still enjoy sweet sweet deals on tours, hotels, airfare, etc.

However, if you’re still not quite sure whether April in New York is right for you then keep reading to learn about this magical month up in NYC.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Why Visit New York in April

If you’re planning to visit New York in April, you probably have a lot of questions. Like, which New York hotel should I book? What’s the weather in New York in April like?

And above all, is April a good month to visit New York?

Well, you’ll be delighted to know that April is one of the best months to visit NYC since the city is starting to move out of a long, cold winter into a warm, blossom-filled Spring.

So, NYC in April means that the city is returning to life again. Therefore, there are a lot of fun things to do in April in New York.

But crucially, April is also a transition month, or shoulder season, which means you won’t see the sort of tourist numbers that NYC has in the summer months.

So, why is April such a good month to visit New York?

1. Less Crowds and Shorter Lines

New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the USA, both for domestic and international travelers.

And this can mean that it gets very crowded, especially during peak summer months when the numbers of tourists around places like Central Park and Midtown Manhattan are super intense.

However, if you’re planning to visit New York in April then the good news is that prime tourist season doesn’t kick off until May.

So, the city will be a little quieter in April, which means less crowds and shorter lines for top attractions.

Of course, booking tickets ahead of time still makes sense, especially for any must-see attractions or popular events.

2. Fantastic Deals on Flights

Flights to New York in April are generally cheaper than flights in the summer or right before Christmas.

However, it’s still a good idea to search for flights as soon as possible since prices will increase as you get closer to your planned travel dates.

Now, if you’re a domestic visitor, cheap flights are available to JFK, Newark, or La Guardia from pretty much anywhere in the US.

And if you’re traveling light, you can find some really great deals on flights to New York.

In contrast, international travelers need to do a little more work. However, there are still some fantastic deals on flights to NYC to be found.

So, instead of only searching for direct flights, try searching for flights via a major hub airport to help you find cheaper flights to the US.

3. Hotel Rates are More Affordable

Two major advantages of visiting New York in April are the availability and affordability of hotel rooms in New York City.

See, April is right at the tail end of the quiet winter/early spring season in NYC since the number of tourists in the city starts to swell come May.

Therefore, this means more hotel rooms will be available for your visit to New York in April compared to the peak tourist season between May and September.

As a result, hotels often reduce their April rates to try and fill empty rooms, which means better deals for you!

Best Things to do in New York in April

There are tons of fun and unique things to do in NYC regardless of when you visit. But, if you are visiting New York City in April, it feels like there’s even more fun to be had.

After all, spring is finally here and it’s time to enjoy the great outdoors once again as you tackle some of the best hikes near NYC .

Of course, there are year-round things to do when you visit New York in April. You know, classic NYC tourist activities like visiting the Statue of Liberty or going up to the observation deck at the Empire State Building .

But, there are also some seasonal activities and things to do in NYC in April. So, here are some of the best things to do when you visit New York in April:

1. Explore the New York City Food Scene

As the weather gets warmer in April, you’ll see New York’s outdoor dining scene come to life.

Therefore, the streets outside of local restaurants will fill up with tables, as the air fills with the chatter of eager outdoor diners since eating outdoors becomes a more appealing option.

In fact, Smorgasburg open-air food market runs weekly in Williamsburg, Prospect Park, and the World Trade Center is worth checking out at this time of year.

So much so that thousands of people visit weekly to sample tasty treats from various food stalls.

And, FYI, I’m a huge fan of the Mantu from Nansense and the Italian Rainbow Cookie ice cream from Bona Bona.

Anyway, April is also an ideal time of year to book a food tour of New York , as the city is less crowded than in the summer months.

So, be sure to grab a slice (Lombardi’s) and hot dog (Grey’s Papaya for the win) from one of the many food stands around the city since they’re some of the must-eat foods in NYC .

2. See a Broadway Show

Of course, you can see a Broadway show at any time of the year but more affordable tickets are another great bonus of visiting NYC in April.

See, Broadway theaters are keen to fill as many seats as possible for each performance. And while they offer some discounted tickets all year long, there are fewer flash deals around in the summer months.

However, you can check out sites like Get your Guide to see what deals are available during your April visit to New York, or head to Times Square to snap up tickets on the day from the TKTS Ticket Booth (TodayTix is also a great app that you can use to instantly get cheap Broadway tickets).

Also, don’t forget to check out the shows playing in smaller off-Broadway theaters as well. They might not be the big names that you’ll see on Broadway, but you can still see a fantastic show.

3. Macy’s Flower Show

Springtime in New York City really starts with the spectacular flower show at Macy’s in Herald Square.

After all, you’ll see extravagant displays of over 30,000 different varieties of trees and flowers.

Add in cooking and centerpiece design demonstrations, workshops, and competitions, and you have one of the best things to do in NYC in April.

Plus, entrance to the Macy’s Flower Show is free, and guided tours are also available if you want to learn more about the exhibits.

4. Easter Parade

If your April visit to New York coincides with Easter weekend, be sure to catch New York’s famous Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival on Fifth Avenue.

If you just want to watch the Easter Parade though, St Patrick’s Cathedral offers the best views.

But why not take part in the festivities yourself? All you need to join the parade is your own unique Easter Bonnet!

And when the parade is over, you can head to one of the area’s restaurants for a delicious Easter brunch.

5. Easter Egg Hunts

The Easter weekend fun continues with Easter Egg Scavenger Hunts. So, turn New York City into your backyard as you solve clues, complete puzzles, and collect yummy Easter eggs.

Just Google ‘New York Easter Egg Hunt’ to find out what’s on when you visit New York in April.

Trust me, you’ll find an array of events that are suitable for adults and family-friendly options for kids. So, it’s perfect Easter fun if you’re visiting New York with friends or family.

6. Cherry Blossom Festival

The traditional cherry blossom festival in Japan is a fabulous Spring celebration. And now you too can join in on the festivities at NYC’s Brooklyn Botanical Garden.

Because in addition to viewing these beautiful bright pink flowers, this NYC April favorite also includes cultural performances, shopping opportunities, family-friendly fun, and more.

The festival is very popular though, so be sure to buy your tickets for this fantastic event well in advance.

You can also visit the Brooklyn Botanical Garden website to see how the blossoms are developing on their cherry blossom tracker.

7. Earth Day

Earth Day is celebrated each April 22nd, and New York hosts many events in April that tie into the theme of protecting/preserving the planet.

So, over in Union Square, you can watch live performances, learn how to live a more earth-friendly life, and take part in activities with an environmental angle.

Yup, there’s sure to be something exciting going on during your visit.

8. Visit a New York Museum

New York weather in April can be unpredictable. But, the fun doesn’t have to stop once the rain starts.

So, head over to one of the best New York museums to indulge your passion for art, history, or science.

You’ll find that the crowds will be smaller in April, and with over 100 fantastic museums to choose from, there’s sure to be one you’ll enjoy.

However, some of the best museums in New York include the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) , the Metropolitan Museum of Art , and the American Museum of Natural History .

9. Explore New York’s Parks

New York in April is a floral masterpiece in full bloom. Therefore, it’s a perfect time to explore many New York City parks.

Because despite all the concrete and skyscrapers, as much as 14% of Manhattan is covered in parkland, and NYC Parks cares for more than 30,000 acres of land across the city, including Central Park .

So while the weather is warmer, why not enjoy a picnic lunch outdoors or book a walking tour of Central Park ?

10. NYC sports in April

April in NYC means the start of the baseball season. And there’s no better celebration of Spring for New York baseball fans than spending opening day at the Yankee Stadium or Citi Field.

So why not grab tickets to see the Yankees or the Mets play while you’re in New York in April?

You could also try and catch an NBA Basketball game or an NHL ice hockey game. In fact, the playoffs begin in April in for both sports. So, check to see if any New York teams are involved.

Local Tip: Use Stubhub and search for sporting event tickets just a few hours before the game. Prices are usually super reduced as sellers try to get rid of all their remaining tickets.

What’s the Weather in New York for April?

The weather can change throughout April in New York City, and you’ll probably see better weather if you plan your visit towards the end of the month.

However, in general, April days are usually comfortably warm, with the New York temperature in April ranging between 46°F and 62°F (8°C and 17°C).

That being said, early morning and nighttime temperatures can still be quite chilly, with the temperature feeling lower on a windy day since the grid-style blocks in NYC act like wind tunnels.

Additionally, April can be pretty rainy. But, you’re much more likely to see a short, intense rain shower than a prolonged downpour.

Also, because humidity is relatively low in April, the air will feel crisp when it’s not raining. Plus, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll see any April snow in NYC!

What to Wear in April in New York

Because the April weather in New York can be unpredictable, it’s best to give yourself plenty of options and check the weather forecast RIGHT before you visit.

However, it should be safe to leave your winter clothes at home. So, no need to pack gloves and a scarf.

Still, April in New York can feel cool in the mornings and evenings, especially if you go up on an observation deck to enjoy the best views in NYC .

Therefore, light layers are the best way to go and packing for New York in April means T-shirts, jeans, sweaters, and jackets.

But, if the weather forecast for your trip is warm and sunny, you might also want to throw in some shorts to wear to the park.

Additionally, comfortable closed-toe shoes are vital for walking around the city. Also be sure to take water-resistant ones if possible, just in case you get caught in the rain.

A lightweight, waterproof jacket is also helpful to have on hand, but you won’t want to be carrying anything too bulky around the city.

As a result, something like this NORTH FACE Women’s Venture 2 Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket would be ideal as it packs down into its very own mini storage pouch.

A compact umbrella can also be handy when it starts raining but can end up being a nuisance on busy streets or when you’re riding the subway. So, whether or not you pack one is a personal choice.

By the way, if you are planning to use the subway a lot during your visit to New York, the 7-day unlimited Metrocard is a great value way to get around the city.

You can buy a Metrocard from one of the MetroCard ticket machines which are in most subway stations.

Local Tip: It’s worth noting that they are slowly phasing out MetroCards. So, as of now, you can use a contactless credit card to pay for public transportation.

And when you purchase twelve rides using the same device/bank card within one week, all your additional rides are automatically free.

Additional NYC Resources You’ll Love

• Best NYC Souvenirs
• Best Cafes in SOHO NYC
• Cute Cafes in NYC

There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to New York City in April.

Tell me, did your fave things to do in nyc in april make the list if not then let me know in the comments below., and if you found this post useful, be sure to join our email list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later..

April in New York: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

 TripSavvy /  Madelyn Goodnight

• NYC Weather in April

What to Pack

• April Events
• Travel Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions

Spring is one of the best times to be in New York City since the coldest days of winter are fully in the past and New Yorkers are venturing out again to local parks, restaurant terraces, and rooftop bars. It's not quite as warm as summer, but it's also not as muggy, which is a perk for those who don't like the extreme heat. However, spring weather is also notoriously wet and unpredictable, so you should be ready for anything.

In addition to the rising temperatures, there are plenty of events happening throughout New York in April to stay entertained, including some that are celebrating the seasonal blossoms popping up around the city.

New York City Weather in April

April is full spring weather in New York City with mostly sunny days, climbing temperatures, and flowers in bloom across the city. Days are often comfortably warm, but evenings and nights are still chilly so don't underestimate the cold after dark. Temperatures are also rapidly rising throughout the month and a visit at the end of April is likely to be much warmer than a visit at the beginning of the month.

• Average High Temperature : 62 degrees Fahrenheit (17 degrees Celsius)
• Average Low Temperature : 46 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius)

The only downside is that April can be rainy with an average of about 4 inches of precipitation. However, showers are usually short and intense, briefly interrupting a month of generally sunny weather instead of watering it down. There is also very little humidity this time of year, so when it's not raining, the air is clear and crisp.

April weather is fickle in New York, so pack a varied wardrobe and be sure to check the forecast before leaving. Staples like T-shirts, jeans, sweaters, and jackets are the go-to clothing items, but you should also throw in some shorts in case the weather is warm enough to sit out in the park. Most important are some comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking around the city, ideally ones that are water-resistant in case you get caught in a rainstorm.

A compact umbrella may be nice to carry around in case it starts raining, but it can also be a hindrance when navigating busy streets or getting on the subway . If you forgo the umbrella, make sure you at least have a waterproof jacket as an outer layer.

April Events in New York City

Warmer weather means outdoor activities are more inviting. You can visit some of New York City's great parks , take a walking tour, or just enjoy taking a stroll down Fifth Avenue.

• The Easter Parade is a great chance to have an "only in New York" experience. Millions of people walk down Fifth Avenue in their holiday bonnets on Easter Sunday and some of them even have costumed pets. Unlike most parades, this isn't an officially organized event and anyone can walk in the parade.
• The start of baseball season marks the official start of spring for many sports fans, and there's no better way to celebrate than heading to Opening Day at either Yankee Stadium or Citi Field for the Mets.
• Earth Day officially takes place on April 22, but NYC hosts a variety of events around town throughout the week to educate the public about how to live a greener and more earth-friendly life.
• The Macy's Flower Show is a celebration of spring inside the iconic department store. The Macy's in Herald Square creates elaborate displays made entirely out of flowers and it's a sight to behold.
• Sakura Matsuri is the name for the cherry blossom festival at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. It's one of the best places to see these bright pink flowers in bloom in all of New York City.
• The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx stages its annual Orchid Show in the spring. In addition to seeing these gorgeous flowers, there is music, dancing, and food.
• The Tribeca Film Festival is one of the premier film festivals in the world. This annual film festival has grown since its inception in 2002 and now features roughly 300 films with screenings at a variety of locations around Manhattan.

April Travel Tips

• Many American schools have spring break in early April, especially when Easter falls in this time. The city may be extra crowded during the first half of the month with families on vacation, but the second half of the month is considered shoulder season and one of the best times to find travel deals.
• Brunch is always a big deal in NYC , but the sunny days in spring make weekend brunch extra enjoyable. Seek out an outdoor spot on warm weekend days to enjoy the sunshine, or pick a restaurant with bottomless mimosas if you're looking for boozy brunch. Wherever you go, definitely make reservations if possible.
• Make sure you have a Metrocard in case you need to get around and it starts raining. If you're staying for at least a few days and plan on using the subway, the seven-day unlimited pass is a great deal for easy riding.

For planning out your trip to New York City, read more about the best time to visit NYC .

April is an excellent time to visit New York City, especially toward the end of the month. Daytime temps are warming up, the city is blooming with flowers, and events like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden's Cherry Blossom Festival and Opening Day at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field bring the city back to life after a long, cold winter.

In April, daytime temperatures are often warm, with New York City experiencing average highs in the low 60s. However, the average low is 46 degrees F, so it can be quite chilly in the early morning and evening.

NYC sees an average of 4 inches of precipitation in the month of April. On the upside, rain showers are typically short, with the weather being sunny in general this time of year.

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42 Stellar Things To Do In NYC This April

Spring has sprung in NYC! From cherry blossom hunting to delicious food festivals, the activities are endless as the weather continues to warm

As colorful blooms brighten every corner of NYC, there are so many amazing things to put on your to-do list. Have a look below at a selection of our top activities for April, to fully embrace spring in NYC:

1. Step into the roaring 20s at this unforgettable Jazz Age Lawn Party

Transcend time at the 19th annual Jazz Age Lawn Party is returning to Governors Island this April. Show off your moves on the expansive dance floor, listen to incredible jazz at two different stages, play Pétanque, shop Paper vintage clothes and bring home pics from Moon photo booths. Get your tickets for this Prohibition-era party .

2. Be awed by acrobats at this circus-style cabaret dinner

A sensual burlesque-style circus meets a cabaret dinner at AirOtic Soirée, where audiences will experience world-class acrobats in a mesmerizing performance you can’t miss. Enjoy celebrity chef tapas, innovative drinks, beautiful costumes and seductive choreo. Reserve your spot now .

3. Step out of your comfort zone and dine while blindfolded

Why would anyone choose to eat a meal in the dark? Psychologists have said this is an ‘amplified’ way to enjoy food, and you can try it out right in Brooklyn! Choose from a meat, seafood, or vegan menu and let your tastebuds fully guide you through your meal. This experience is definitely one you won’t want to miss, and you can get your tickets here .

4. Explore Pier 57’s 80,000-square-foot rooftop park

The largest outdoor rooftop park can be found at Pier 57 right next to Little Island! The pier has been under reconstruction for nearly a decade and more exciting features are still on their way. The park also features 80,000 sq ft of expansive greenery and sweeping views. See more here.

5. …or check out Pier 57’s 16,000-square-foot food hall

The renowned culinary nonprofit the James Beard Foundation opened its first-ever food hall at the site of Google’s forthcoming Manhattan campus! 15 women- and BIPOC-owned food concepts are showcased alongside a modern showcase kitchen operated by the James Beard Foundation and series of community educational spaces. Read more about the food hall here .

6. Hear renditions of your favorite artists backed by a live orchestra

This unique concert series is bringing the best of Billy Joel , Taylor Swift and Queen to the stage with performances from Broadway’s best, alongside a full orchestra. Grab your tickets here .

7. Unwind at a glamorous concert by candlelight

The wildly popular Fever Originals Candlelight series is the perfect way to unwind on a spring evening! Whether you’re looking for a beautifully unique classical music performance or a romantic candlelit experience, there’s a concert for everyone. Connect with our musicians for an evening gently illuminated by candlelight, and prepare to be taken into the clouds with history’s most treasured masterpieces!

• Candlelight Spring: A Tribute to Adele
• Candlelight Spring: A Tribute to Beyoncé
• Candlelight: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and More at Church of the Heavenly Rest

8. Go face to face with animated dinosaurs at Dinos Alive

Searching for something to do with the family? Well, look no further than Schenectady’s Dinos Alive Exhibit! This jurassic experience will bring you face to face with the historic dinosaurs that used to roam the earth many years ago, including the T-rex, Stegosaurus, Ankylosaurus, and Velociraptors. Plus, visitors will get a glimpse at underwater sea giants with a virtual aquarium. Grab your tickets today !

9. Discover secret concerts popping up at surprising NYC locations

Sofar Sounds is bringing live concerts to unexpected and private locations across NYC, from art galleries to rooftops. Even more interesting, it won’t be revealed who you’ll be entertained by until the day of the performance! Grab your tickets today .

10. Spend your weekends at brunch…duh!

When the weekend calls, so does ( bottomless ) mimosas. NYC is famous for its brunch culture, and it makes sense—who wouldn’t want to spend their Saturdays and Sundays catching up with friends while scarfing down Eggs Benedict and champagne? Here are some of our favorite brunch plans across the city:

• Jazz Brunch by Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra
• Sunday Jazz Brunch
• Upper West Side Socialite Bottomless Brunch at Allure

11. Explore this music and wellness experience every Sunday in Brooklyn

Sonic Sanctuary Sundays is a wellness experience where music and other healing techniques merge to help you on your personal journey. This serene event includes meditation and breath work, but also a very special sonic experience salt cave. Learn all about it and grab tickets here .

12. Celebrate the start of rooftop season at these amazing spots

Though March is the official start of springtime, we all know the weather hasn’t been the greatest. Yet come April, NYC tends to experience fairly consistent days of warm temperatures and sunshine, which means one thing—rooftop season is in full swing! From cocktails in the clouds to enormous elevated patios, we created the ultimate springtime rooftop list for you and all of your friends. Our full list can be viewed here, but see below for some standouts.

• Magic Hour Rooftop, Midtown
• The Ready, East Village

13. Visit jaw dropping spots you won’t believe exist in NYC

As springtime rolls around, a sense of wanderlust seems to strike after a long winter of hibernation. Lucky for us, there are plenty of magical places to explore around the city that don’t even feel like NYC. From Italian villas to striking waterfalls, see our entire list here .

• This Lovely NYC Neighborhood Was Modeled After An English Village
• This Hidden Part Of Central Park Is Full Of Enchanting Waterfalls
• The Met Cloisters

14. Dine al fresco on a sunny day

When the weather turns warm, there’s no better way to enjoy a meal than out in the fresh air. This NYC springtime staple got even more popular since the beginning of the pandemic, and tons of restaurants across the city have turned their outdoor spaces into a gorgeous oasis. See here for a list of our favorites.

15. Read a book under the sun at Brooklyn Library’s outdoor reading rooms

Three years ago, they created “BPL Outdoors” — which basically mimics the function of their indoor space, “offering places for people to sit and talk, read, use our WiFi, or just relax” —  and tried it out at their Red Hook and Flatbush branches with great success. They have since worked on expanding the program to20 branches across Brooklyn. Some locations even have book carts outside for browsing! Learn more here.

16. Relax by the waterfront at NYC parks

It’s easy to forget that NYC is surrounded by so many beautiful parks on the waterfront. Check out all of the spots along the Hudson or East River, uptown or downtown, and take advantage of their killer views on a gorgeous spring day. See our list here.

17. Go cherry blossom hunting

Cherry blossoms are about to arrive in NYC! Once you see the first signs of blooming you can head over to any of the places around NYC listed here to enjoy the spectacular cherry blossoms in person. But don’t take too long! The trees only stay in bloom for about a week.

18. Or, discover all the other blooms around Central Park

One of the best spots to find some of spring’s most beautiful flowers are of course in Central Park! Central Park Conservancy has even created a map to help New Yorkers enjoy all the season has to offer across the 843 acres of the park. See more here!

19. Admire waterfront views at these beautiful bars and restaurants

From eating on historic boats with insane views of the sunset to checking out secluded seafood hotspots on NYC’s smaller surrounding islands, these are some of our favorite spots for a breezy cocktail and bites. Not all may be open yet, but see some standouts below. Check out the entire list here.

• Grand Banks
• Baylander Steel Beach
• Island Oyster

20. Take a quick trip to Holland to see gorgeous tulip fields

Holland Ridge Farms, located about an hour and ten minutes from NYC in Cream Ridge, New Jersey, brings Holland’s tulip magic to the tri-state area. Every year, visitors can take in beautiful, vibrant fields filled with millions of tulips, and it’s supposed to open sometime in April! Learn more about this must-visit spot here .

21. Or to Paris for wine and croissants!

Sure, we all know about Little Italy and Chinatown, but did you know about Little Paris tucked away on Centre Street in Nolita/SoHo between Broome & Grand St.? This little row of French businesses are your quick trip to Paris right here in NYC. Shop the French boutiques, stop for a glass of wine and be sure to fill up on pastries all along the way. Learn more here.

22. Admire the many outdoor art installations

This year New York City has been adding so many wonderful outdoor public exhibitions for visitors to explore…and now you can too. Offering an alternative to museums, art galleries, and art exhibitions, these open-air installations are all free to check out and reside in the great outdoors of our city, including:

• “The Bean” by Anish Kapoor
• The Big Button

23. Go hiking with llamas & alpacas

Only 2 hours from NYC, wander through bucolic pastures with adorable llamas and alpacas. This cute adventure is a unique take on your average hike, and is sure to be unforgettable. Find out more here.

24. Pack a picnic with friends

When the sun is shining down on NYC, there’s nothing better than packing a picnic and spending your day surrounded by one NYC’s gorgeous parks and gardens. Read a nice book and stretch your limbs while you lay under the blooming magnolias and cherry trees. See some of the most underrated picnic spots around NYC here .

25. Stroll through some of the best museums for FREE

Spending money in NYC is as easy as breathing, but there are tons of ways you can still enjoy all the city has to offer, without breaking the bank. Many museums across the five boroughs offer free admissions, be it once-a-month specials or specific dedicated days, and they’re a great way to affordably appreciate NYC’s rich art scene. See the full list of museums here .

26. Zipline at night at this glow-in-the-dark park only an hour outside NYC

Strap in and whoosh through the trees at Long Island’s Glow in the Park. What makes this particular zipline experience so epic? You can do it at night beneath twinkling lights! See how you can soar through the sky here.

27. Or during the day between New York and Massachusetts

This ones for the adrenaline junkies! Ride the longest zipline in America, better known as the Cata-monster, that spans just over one mile long. Sandwiched between New York and Massachusetts, adventurers will get to take in unbeatable views of the Tri-State area. Learn more here .

28. Check out NYC’s live music scene

Home to some of the most iconic music venues in the world, NYC is the perfect place to be in when you want to hear live music. Pro tip: we recommend you ditch the lines and catch some incredibly talented musicians across different bars and restaurants. See where you can here .

29. Throw some back at a beautiful beer garden

Nothing quite pairs like a nice day and a cold pint! NYC has tons of energetic beer gardens that serve as an awesome spot to meet up with friends or for a date. Look through our full list here .

30. …or enjoy a more low-key drink & meal in a hidden garden or patio

If you want to avoid the crowds and have a secluded dining experience in peace while still enjoying the great outdoors, we know just where to go. Some aren’t secret-staircase level hidden (though some are!), but rather have backyard patios or gardens you wouldn’t necessarily know about just walking by. Find all our go-to spots here .

31. Sing your heart out at karaoke

Get your gang together and head to one of NYC’s many karaoke bars for a night of fun, laughter, and off-tune renditions of your favorite songs. Call on your inner rock star and sing to your heart’s content, either in a private room or with an audience of strangers. Check out some great places to do karaoke here .

32. Take a scenic train ride from for a quick getaway

Looking for a spring getaway but not sure where to go? There are tons of trains you can hop on in NYC that will take you to some gorgeous spots. Two of our favorites are:

• Amtrak’s Adirondack line with service from NYC to Montreal
• Ride a 1940s train from NYC with breathtaking views of the Hudson River

33. Eat your way through all of NYC’s delicious food trucks

New York City is no stranger to awesome street food, and you can find virtually any type of cuisine you could imagine being cooked up right on the streets! And as the warm weather comes back and you’re out on the go, you may want to stop by one to give it a try! Find some of our favorite food trucks here .

34. Take a break from the city with a romantic lakeside escape

With spring in the air, it’s hard to ignore the travel bug biting at our ankles to ditch the city for a little getaway. Lucky for you, we know just the escape! Mirror Lake Inn, in Lake Placid, NY (just five hours from the city) is the perfect romantic weekend away, and it offers beautiful grounds and gardens, award-winning dining options, a relaxing spa, a 60-foot indoor lap pool, a private beach, yoga classes, and more! Learn more here .

35. Soak up the spring sunshine and go on a bike ride

When the sun’s out, there’s no better way to kill two birds with one stone by getting you’re work out in and enjoying the great outdoors! These are some of our favorite spots for a springtime bike ride .

36. Beat your friends at mini golf

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or one that’s great for the friend group, why not go for a round of mini golf? From outdoor courses to underground venues, these are the best places to go mini-golfing in NYC .

37. Score free Gov Ball tickets

NYC’s favorite music festival is set to return this June, and before it arrives we’re letting you know how to score free tickets! The festival actually runs an earn-a-ticket program that teams up with philanthropic organizations to make a difference. Read all about the fine details here .

38. Grab an underground slice at See No Evil Pizza

Ever considered the subway isn’t just a means to get home but a prime spot for dinner? See No Evil Pizza just opened up at the 50th Street subway station, serving up subterranean pizza that’ll definitely have your mouth watering. Learn more here .

39. Catch opening day at Yankee Stadium via a vintage subway train

The New York Transit Museum is transporting Yankees fans to the stadium on opening day via a vintage subway train with the return of Nostalgia Rides. Find out all the details and how you can ride here .

40. Ride the world’s tallest indoor water slide just 30 mins from NYC

The Thrillagascar & Jungle Jammer at DreamWorks Water Park (just a 30 min drive from NYC) is the world’s tallest indoor water slide—plus it even has a trapped door. It’s the perfect ride for adrenaline junkies. Learn more here .

41. Eat your way through NYC’s many mouthwatering outdoor food markets

There’s not much New Yorkers get more excited about than food, and lucky for us, there are tons of open-air food markets returning to the city this April. See below for some of our favorites:

• Queens Night Market
• Smorgasburg

42. Catch the rare total solar eclipse

New York is on the path of totality for April’s super rare total solar eclipse! Be sure to grab your free eclipse glasses while supplies last from I Love NY to protect your eyes while you catch this incredible spectacle. Learn everything there is to know about the total solar eclipse here .

Written by Justine Golata & Brianna Perry

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

The 15 Best Things to Do in New York City in April

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April in New York City means that spring has, at last, sprung! The snow is melting away, and in its place are flowers blooming around every corner, especially in New York City’s famous parks and botanical gardens. 

Also gone are the winter markets. Instead, night markets and food festivals are making their springtime debut as the city readies for the start of summer. It’s no wonder April brings about so many annual events that allow New Yorkers to get outside and enjoy the sunny days to come. 

Planning a trip to New York in April? We’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in April in New York City, from ballgames to blooming displays. Pick your favorite spring activity from this list, and you’re bound to have an amazing April trip.

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in New York City in April

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

1. See Cherry Blossoms During Hanami Nights

Typically arriving toward the end of April, Hanami Nights at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the best NYC events in April. Take a stroll under lit-up cherry blossom trees, enjoy a curated display of bonsai, watch live performances, snack on Japanese treats, and sip on Japanese beer and cocktails throughout the two-night event. 

2. Experience Thrills at Coney Island

The legendary Luna Park at Coney Island typically opens up for the spring and summer season around the end of March or the beginning of April. Riding the rides at Luna Park is one of the best things to do in NYC in spring and a must-do if you’re bringing little ones on your trip. While it’s not exactly beach weather in NYC in April, Luna Park goes to show there’s still plenty to do by the beach when spring starts.

3. Trade in Your Ice Skates for Rollerblades

Most people know about the famous ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center that arrives with winter, but did you know that the ice turns into a roller rink come April? Back in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, there was a famous roller rink called Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace in West Hollywood. 

As of 2022, Flipper’s made its debut at Rockefeller Center, running from mid-April through the end of October. Flipper’s is a fun, high-energy thing to do in April in New York City, offering a chance for those who missed the ice rink to still ride around the iconic space.

4. Play Pickleball in Central Park

With pickleball continuing to gain traction around the US, it only makes sense that NYC embraced the growing sport. In 2023, CityPickle came to the Wollman Rink in Central Park. With 14 courts, it was the largest pickleball installation in the Northeast, running from early April until early October. Keep your eyes peeled for the return of this new springtime tradition.

5. Eat Your Way Through Smorgasburg

You can’t celebrate spring in NYC without Smorgasburg . This massive food market, which has two locations in Brooklyn and one at the World Trade Center, typically arrives each year around the end of March or early April. 

There are over 100 vendors between the three locations, with the World Trade Center location running on Fridays, the Williamsburg one on Saturdays, and the Prospect Park market on Sundays. 

6. Nosh on Japanese Food at Japan Fes

Like Smorgasburg, Japan Fes is another huge food market that usually arrives at the end of March or early April in NYC. However, this market, which has locations all around the city, is focused on East Asian street food. 

You’ll eat your way around bites from over 750 vendors, as well as shop around handcrafted goods from Japanese artisans. Keep an eye out for where Japan Fes will pop up next.

7. See Orchids at the New York Botanical Garden

If you’re looking for cherry blossoms in NYC in April, head to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. But if you’re looking for orchids, you’ll want to pay a visit to the New York Botanical Garden . 

Each year, the botanical garden hosts an incredible display of themed orchid installations, as well as interactive experiences for guests. The Orchid Show typically runs until late April.

8. Take Your Family Out to the Ballgame

Going to a baseball game is one of the best things to do in NYC in spring, and you have two MLB teams to choose from. Both the New York Mets and the New York Yankees usually have their Home Openers in late March or early April, which means you’ll have several chances to see them play on their home fields throughout April.

9. Fight For Our Planet During Earth Day

There are several NYC events in April that celebrate Earth Day, but one of the best and biggest can be found at Union Square. During the Earth Day Festival , you’ll learn about the work of dozens of environmental nonprofits and climate activists, participate in eye-opening workshops, and enjoy live entertainment. 

10. Take Part in EarthFest 

Around or on Earth Day each year, the American Museum of Natural History is home to one of the best family-friendly things to do in New York City in April. EarthFest is a full day packed with interactive activities, performances, and expert talks that put the focus on our planet. 

There’s something for every age, whether you’re bringing a child just learning about the world around them, coming with a teen who is starting to think about their impact on the planet, or simply visiting by yourself and want a day of expanding your mind in new ways.

11. Have an Ol’ Fashioned Pillow Fight

If you thought your days of pillow-fighting fun were behind you, we have some good news. A massive pillow fight takes place in Washington Square Park every year, usually arriving in April in New York City. The pillow fight is most often themed, so keep an eye out for this year’s guidelines for what to expect from the big brawl. 

12. Race Around Brooklyn

New York City in spring means the return of the NYCRUNS Brooklyn Half Marathon . Usually happening each April, runners will race from North Brooklyn toward the waterfront, where they’ll enjoy the view of Manhattan from under the Williamsburg, Manhattan, and Brooklyn bridges. They’ll pass by historic streets and storied landmarks as they make their way to the finish line in Prospect Park.

Whether you want to race yourself or just want to enjoy supporting the runners from the sidelines, the half marathon is one of the best things to do in NYC in April.

13. Go to the New York International Auto Show

The New York International Auto Show is one of the best NYC events in April. Typically arriving around Easter weekend, this nine-day auto show invites you to experience the creativity and craftsmanship of the automobile industry. 

Check out the most anticipated new vehicles, take part in interactive experiences to see the future of the industry, see incredible custom cars, and much more. It’s a true playground for automobile lovers! 

14. Enjoy the Return of Rooftop Dining

Some rooftop bars and restaurants stay open all year long with the help of outdoor heaters and cozy igloos. But many of the best rooftop dining spots in NYC close up shop for the city’s notoriously cold winters. 

By the end of April, many of these locations spring to life for spring, which means you’ll be able to take in incredible views without needing to bundle up and rely on a heater for warmth. 

15. Catch the End of Macy’s Flower Show

For one more of the best floral-themed things to do in NYC in April, head over to the giant Macy’s in Herald Square to see the annual Macy’s Flower Show . This event sees the department store celebrate springtime with window displays and indoor installations featuring thousands of vibrant, blooming flowers. Macy’s Flower Show typically runs until mid-April.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in NYC in April. What’s your favorite thing to do in April in New York City? Let us know in the comments!

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Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

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24 Reasons Why April is the Perfect Month to Visit New York City

New York City is fabulous in the Season of Spring in April. It's the best season to visit and explore, and tourists can find the Best Things to do in NYC . However, it's a pretty expensive trip to New York in April, the Spring season. All the hotel's and restaurants’ rates are the highest. The streets, parks, and sidewalks are crowded with visitors and locals in the city after the winter season.

Hotels, Restaurants, Bars, Cafes, and Clubs are full of bustling crowds, outdoor dinners, Patio parties, Dance and music, open-air Cinema and theater shows, Cruise dinners and parties, flower exhibitions, cherry blossom festivals, and much more fun.

List of Exciting Events in NYC and Things to Do in April

New York Weather in April comes with various colorful blooms around the city, and there are several vibrant events, and festivals, at various Places to visit in New York this season.

1. Cherry Blossom Festival in April, NYC

The Spring season in April is lovely after the cold breeze of winter in NYC. Bright blossoms and lush greenery are everywhere in the city. You must visit to explore the fascinating beauty of nature in NYC parks. The Cherry Blossom Festival is the most vibrant and colorful event in the Spring season at Brooklyn Botanical Garden, New York City. It's a magnificent festival and one of the Best activities to do in New York .

The Japanese festival has colorful flowers and plant species rare in the world. People love to explore the lush greenery and floral beauty around the garden. The Botanical Garden is in Prospect Park, Brooklyn.

2. The Queens Ball in April, NYC

The Queens Ball is a Bridgerton experience held in April in Times Square , NYC. The exclusive and elegant interiors and decors with pleasant Bridgerton costumes, music and dance performances, smashing cocktails, and exquisite recreations from the renowned series. Please reserve your tickets before it is the last and get the most remarkable snapshot of the great Queens Ball in New York City.

3. The Coast Tasting Event in April, NYC

The City National Bank organizes the Coast Tasting event in NYC. The top-rated chefs of the Los Angeles Times' popular restaurants show their talents on display in NYC, and New York City chefs also present their talent at the tasting event. If you're a food lover, visit the Coast tasting event and check out the delicious food from famous chefs.

4. The Pier 57 Rooftop Park in April, NYC

Pier 57 rooftop Park is a lush green park with lovely Hudson River, Little Island, and NYC views. The rooftop park offers delicious food, live music, and art. The waterfront food market in Hudson River Park presents NYC's diverse food culture. A cultural art gallery and open classes for wildlife and community activities exist. During the Spring season in April, this waterfront rooftop park becomes lovely green and the best spot to explore in this season.

5. The Easter Parade in April, NYC

The Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival is held in the Spring season, April. The bright colors painted easter eggs are renowned for the Parade in NYC. The Parade begins from 49th Street to 57th Street in New York City to celebrate the festival of Easter. Suppose you're Planning a trip to New York ; it must be worth visiting New York City in April to experience the joy and lively colors of Spring.

6. The Central Park in April, NYC

The vibrant colors of Spring covered Central Park in April. The cherry blooms, sweet floral fragrance, and lavish green trees look dazzling, and you'd love to stay at the turtle pond with lush greenery around. The lavish lawn of Sheep Meadows is the best spot to enjoy the largest NYC music concerts and Spring festivals in April. The Cherry Hill Bow Bridge in Central Park is famous in Hollywood movies. You'd love to explore the iconic views of the lake from the bridge and get some lovely clicks for Instagram.

Exploring Central Park in the Spring season is one of the most fascinating Things to do in New York for first-timers and new visitors to the city.

7. The Orchid Show in April, NYC

The Great Orchid Show is held in the New York Botanical Garden in April. The Botanical Garden has more than one million plant species of rare vast collections and various plant exhibitions and floral shows held in the spring season. The most popular is The Great Orchid Show which is held in April and presents the orchid blooms for the show. The locals and visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature with their kids and family in the events, festivals, and shows with live music, food, and fun.

8. The Earth Day in April, NYC

Earth Day is celebrated in April in New York City everywhere to honor the impact of nature on the planet Earth and a tribute to its beauty. Various events and shows perform in the parks, open spaces, and seashores to celebrate Earth Day in NYC. Union Square Park celebrates Earth Day with live music concerts, food stalls, and other activities.

9. Food Markets in April, NYC

The most delicious and mouthwatering food menus are available in the Open-air food markets in NYC in the Spring season, April. The Queens Night Food Market, Smorgasburg food festival, and Japan Fest are the famous food markets open in April, during the Spring season in New York City, offering delightful things to do in NYC at night .

10. Macy's Flower Show in April, NYC

Macy's Flower Show is an exhibition held at the Macy's Department Store, Spring celebrations in April, in Herald Square, NYC. The vibrant floral show has various flower species and fascinating colorful blooms. The city's Macy's Flower Exhibition is renowned for its extensive collections of rare and bright flower blossoms with beautiful exteriors.

11. Luna Park in April, NYC

Luna Park in Coney Island is the best spot to visit in Summer and Spring, especially for those seeking things to do in NYC this summer with kids. The thrilling rides of Luna Park are popular in the city. It is a lush green park with colorful blossoms, live music shows, food, and fun around, providing an ideal destination for families and kids to enjoy a day of excitement and entertainment during the warm summer months.

12. Bird Watch in Prospect Park in April, NYC

The Bird Watch in the Spring is the best activity in NYC in April. The Audubon Center in Prospect Park is the Birds Sanctuary to protect bird species in NYC. You can enjoy free events like bird games, learn about the Park's wildlife, and watch the birds of the sanctuary via binoculars.

13. National Burrito Day in April, NYC

National Burrito Day is celebrated in April for the delicious Burritos in NYC. The Burritos are famous in the Big Apple for their yummy taste. You can find Burritos in the food stalls, street food markets, and restaurants in NYC. Electric Burrito and Summer Salt are the famous Burrito points for the delicious food.

14. New York International Auto Show in April, NYC

The New York International Automobile Show is held in April at Javits Center, NYC. The show exhibits the latest luxurious and affordable new cars. You can explore the latest models, features, and prices of the various cars from the dealers.

15. New York Tartan Day in April, NYC

In April, New York Tartan Day Parade celebrates American-Scottish culture and traditions in NYC. The Parade is held at Sixth Avenue from 45th to 55th Street in NYC. The Parade has thousands of participants wearing Scottish Tartan costumes, bagpipers, music, and Highland dances, and Scottish Dogs in the Parade march over the streets of NYC.

16. Roosevelt Island Cherry Blossoms in April, NYC

You can explore the cherry blossoms on Roosevelt Island by taking a Tram, bus, or walking tour along the East River sidewalk.

17. Randall's Island Cherry Blossom Festival in April, NYC

Randall's Island Cherry Blossom Festival begins with the Earth Day celebrations in April. People can enjoy various activities, food stalls, music, face paintings, and explore the lovely blossoms from the farms and gardens.

18. Little Island in April, NYC

Little Island spring scenes are exploding with Daffodils, Lilies, Tulips, and various other blooms, and visitors can get great sight scenes by the sidewalks around.

19. Pelham Bay Park in April, NYC

Pelham Bay Park is in the Bronx. It is the largest in Central Park. The Park exploded with the lush greenery and floral blooms around. The great cherry blossoms over the park can be viewed from the City Island Bridge.

20. Queens Botanical Garden in April, NYC

Queens Botanical Garden has lovely green trees, colorful flowers, and cherry blossoms. It has a cherry circle of various green trees and flower blossoms.

21. Corona Park in April, NYC

In April, the Flushing Meadows Corona Park is also bustling with lush greenery and floral blooms in the park. Get some ideal snapshots around the Queens Museum and Queens Theater with rainbow colors.

22. Rainey Park in April, NYC

The Okame Trees blossom all around Rainey Park in Long Island. The Park gets alive in the Spring of April with lavish green lawns and lovely flowers.

23. Silver Lake Park in April, NYC

Silver Lake Park in Staten Island has the glory in April. Get stunning views of the lake surrounding the Lush green lawn, maple trees, and vibrant flowers. It's one of the great Tourist Attractions in New York , on Staten Island, NYC.

24. Famous Concerts and Theater Shows in April, NYC

These are some famous music concerts, and theater shows in the Spring season, April.

• The Madison Square Garden Music Concerts in April; Depeche Mode, Reba Mcentire, Billy Joel, and Juan Louis Guera. The theater shows are Okean Elzy, Laura Pausini, and Night of too many stars.
• The Comedy shows in April at Comedy clubs in NYC are Seth Meyers at Paramount Theater, Jerry Seinfeld at Beacon Theater, Jeff Dye at Funny Bone Comedy Club, Eric Andre's Birthday Party at Knockdown Center, All-Star Stand Up Comedy at Broadway Comedy Club, and Top-Secret Stand Up Confidential at Helium Comedy Club. For those exploring things to do in Beacon , NY, these comedy events in nearby New York City offer a diverse and entertaining array of options.
• The Concerts at Barclays Center are Anna Gabriel and The Legends of the Streets Tours.
• In April, the Radio Music Hall Shows Lewis Capaldi, Ricardo Montaner, and John Fogerty.
• Carnegie Hall Concerts in April are Tape Face at Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall, New York International Music Festival at Isaac Stern Auditorium, and Orchestra of St. Luke's Bernard Labadie - Handel's Royal Fireworks at Isaac Stern Auditorium.
• Kings Theater concerts in April are Nils Frahm, Verka Serduchka & Band, Omer Adam and Vic Dibitetto & Eric D'Alessandro.
• Mercury Lounge Concerts in April are Holden Miller, Dinner Time Band, The Bobby Lees, and Little Stranger.
• Irving Plaza Concerts in April are Maggie Lindemann, Jake Wesley Rogers, and Electric Feels.
• Apollo Theater Concerts in April is Brian Culbertson.
• Some other concerts in April are The Coco and Clair Clair Concert in the Music Hall of Williamsburg, Wilder Woods in Bowery Ballroom, and Amy Irving at City Winery.

The weather in April is average, not so hot or cold. After the cold winter, locals come out to enjoy Spring. The public parks, streets, sidewalks, and roads are buzzing with crowds. Hotels and Restaurants have rush hours, so the price rises more than in other seasons. But it's a fascinating time to visit NYC and enjoy the beauty of nature, open-air patios, rooftop parties and concerts, cruise dinners, and various events and festivals in New York City.

If you're a new visitor in NYC, you must check here How to plan a trip to New York . You will get a complete guide to help you to make a perfect plan for the tour to New York City according to your interests and credibility. Beware that the perfect time and duration of the visit will affect the cost of the trip. Check for the season in which events, festivals, and places you'd like to visit and enjoy all the cherished moments in your NYC tour.

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New York City in April: Weather, Packing List, Unique Things To Do in NYC

Wondering if you should visit New York City in April? April in New York City is warm and exciting, with warmer weather, flower blooms and sporting events happening. This April in New York City guide shows you what the weather is like, best things to do and what to pack for New York City this month.

With the Easter holiday as the unofficial start of spring, April in New York City is when the weather becomes consistently warmer, greener, and prettier. With the start of spring, all the outdoor activities, concerts, sporting events also come back to New York City, making it an exciting and interesting month to visit.

If you are wondering how warm (or rainy) New York City is in April, and whether there are seasonal specific events, festivals or things to do, then you are in the right place.

As a New York City local, I’ve spent the last 10 Aprils in the city, exploring and capturing different aspects of the city, so I can give you a practical and useful April in NYC travel guide. So without further ado, let’s explore the beautiful April here.

Planning a trip to New York City this spring?

I have a TON of blogs on New York City, from NYC itineraries to bucket list items to detailed guides on observatories , food markets and many more.

Whether you are looking for practical NYC planning tips, hotel recommendations, restaurant reviews and seasonal articles, you can find them on this blog.

PS: Don’t forget to get a New York City Pas s to save on attractions in NYC.

This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

How is the Weather in New York City in April

Overall, April is not a bad time to visit New York City in terms of weather. You can expect warm(ish) weather, with some rain showers. The weather is not too hot or humid, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Flowers start blooming in April and everywhere turns green.

April Temperature in NYC: Daily High

The average daily high in April (based on 2023 data) is between 60 to 73 F (15.5 to 23 C) throughout the month.

Honestly, the weather in April is all over the place, with some days super hot whereas other days much cooler. Therefore it is a bit difficult to dress for April since you just don’t know what you are going to get.

In general though, you can expect to not wear a thick jacket during the day, especially under the sun.

April Temperature in NYC: Daily Low

The average daily low in April in NYC (based on 2023 data) is between 42 to 52 F (5.5 to 11.5 C) throughout the month.

As you can expect, you can expect warmer days as it gets closer to May.

There are occasional heatwaves in April, making the days feel like summer, but only to be brought back down by 10 to 20 F a few days later.

Again, always prepare for colder evenings in April when you are in New York City.

Is New York City Humid in April?

Humidity is not an issue at all in April for New York City. In fact it is one of the most comfortable months to travel to New York City.

Even on warm days, you won’t experience much humidity, making it ideal to explore the city all day long and engage in outdoor activities.

Does it Rain a Lot in April in New York City

New York City can be rainy in April, but it ultimately depends on your luck.

In fact there is a 30% chance of rain throughout the month of April. The saying “April showers bring May flowers” is quite accurate when it comes to New York City.

On average, you can expect about 3.7 inches of rainfall in April, which is actually not too bad compared to the summer months of July to September. There will be days that rains nonstop and other days with completely clear and sunny skies.

Therefore, it would be good to bring a small umbrella with you when visiting New York City in April, but know that it’s usually not a downpour in April.

What to Wear and Pack for April in New York City?

Since April weather can be all over the place and temperature can vary as much as 20 degrees (F) or 11 degrees Celsius in a matter of days, you need to pack for both hot weather and cold weather.

Jacket for New York City

You need a jacket for spring in New York City, but it should be a somewhat warm jacket since early mornings and evenings can be quite chilly in April. In fact there have been days that I wore my winter parka last April!

You don’t necessarily need to bring a winter jacket, but I would recommend bringing a fleece jacket or a quilt jacket and maybe a leather jacket with you.

If you are not sure what type of jacket you should bring, check out this , this , and this jacket for some inspiration.

Long Sleeve Shirt or Thin Cardigan

Even if you have a thin jacket and the days are cold, you can still stay warm with layers!

My favorite go-to for April outfits include cardigans and long sleeve shirts, as they are both versatile and can be cute.

I would not recommend bringing thick sweaters with you for an April trip, since you probably will be sweating in that.

Short Sleeve Shirt

When it comes to April, there can be days that feel like summer (without the humidity). Instead of sweating in your long sleeve, always be prepared with some short sleeves as well. Yeah I know, April is really annoying to dress and pack for!

Cute Dresses

April is when cherry blossoms bloom all over New York City and what better way to take photos with them than to wear a cute dress?

Even though it can still be cold in April, you can always wear a maxi dress (or wear a thick coat over your dress and take it off just for photos, like what I did)!

Personally, I would recommend wearing light colored dresses (better if it’s a long sleeve dress) if your goal is to photograph cherry blossoms.

If you really want to wear a dress or skirt but are too worried about the cold (there are still more cold days than hot days in April), then bring a pair of tights!

While there are always the fleece lined fake sheer tights , you might want to wear some thinner ones like this with cute patterns on them.

Jeans can never go out of style and it is the perfect pants to wear in April in NYC.

Best Shoes for Walking in New York City

You will be walking a lot in New York City, and since weather will be nice in April, you can expect to spend most of the days exploring the city.

Walking shoes are essential for New York City and trust me, cute shoes like Converse are not great for your feet when there is a lack of arch support.

In general, if you are looking for comfortable walking shoes for NYC, I would recommend the following based on personal experience (hint: they are comfy but not sexy):

• Hoka : Hoka is one of the most discussed shoes out on the market and for good reasons. They are super comfortable (even my podiatrists recommended them) but they are not cute.
• On Cloud : Another New Yorker favorite, super comfortable and trust me, your feet will thank you at the end of the day.
• ASICS : This is another recommendation from my podiatrist (he was in fact wearing them).

Of course, if you already have a pair of really comfortable walking shoes, bring them to New York! The best advice I can give you regarding shoes is to never wear a new pair of shoes to a new city . Wear what works for you and don’t wear heels!

Other Things to Pack for Spring in New York City

• External Phone Battery : External phone battery is absolutely essential when you are out and about all day exploring New York City. Most likely you will be taking a ton of photos and videos, you really don’t want to run out of battery. You can  buy here .
• Sim Card : Wifi is not everywhere in New York City as you would expect. If you want to get directions and search for things in general, you need to have the internet on your phone. You can always get a eSim card or buy a physical sim card once you land.
• Umbrella : April can be quite rainy so you might want to bring a small umbrella with you. You can always buy one from the street when it rains but those would cost you at least $15.
• Anti-theft Bag : I have heard many stories from friends who lost their wallets and phones in NYC (especially at bars). Consider getting an anti theft bag like  this one .
• Hand Sanitizer : Most likely you will be taking the subway around New York City and you don’t want to know how dirty that subway pole is if you need to hold onto it.
• Lotions and skin moisturizer : Even though spring in NYC is less harsh on the skin than winter, it is by no means moisturizing. If you are used to more humid weather or your skin gets dry easily, bring lotion and moisturizer (or you can always buy them from Sephora).
• Reusable water bottle : You can always buy bottled water from random street vendors in New York City, but I would highly recommend bringing your own water bottle (like this one ). New York City has one of the best tap waters in the world, it is clean and great tasting (better than some bottled water).

How Expensive are Hotels in New York City in April?

April is when hotel prices start to creep up, leading to peak summer high and tend to remain high for the rest of the year.

Using  Riu Plaza New York Times Square  as an example, which is super popular place for visitors to stay in NYC, below are the prices for the same Thursday every month:

March 14 (Thur) : $279 for deluxe family king April 18 (Thur) : $359 for deluxe family king May 16 (Thur) : $427 for deluxe family king June 13 (Thur) : $399 for deluxe family king

This was the price that I got when I tried to price this hotel back in January. When I checked the price again a month later, the April price had already gone up to $400 for the same room.

As you can see, April hotel prices are about 29% higher than March (which is already more than February). The closer to the actual date of staying, the more you can expect the price to go up.

Fun Things to Do and Festivals to Attend in April in NYC

Now you know about the weather and price in New York City in April, it’s time to see what are some unique things to do this month.

With the warmer weather, you have a lot more options to do things outside. It is also the perfect time to visit NYC if you are into flowers since everything will be blooming.

Outdoor Events in New York City in April

Catch cherry blossom (or attend a cherry blossoms festival).

New York City is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms every spring from the end of March to the end of April. Depending on your luck and the particular year you are visiting, you may be able to see these beautiful flowers popping up as you explore the city.

There are different types of cherry blossoms all over New York City, with the white ones generally blooming much easier than the dark pink ones. Some of the best places to catch cherry blossom at the end of march and early April include:

• Roosevelt Island
• Flushing Meadows Corona Park
• Central Park
• Washington Square Park

Each year, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden hosts an annual cherry blossom festival in April, this is the perfect weekend to check out the bloom and picnic under these beautiful trees.

Besides cherry blossoms, another beautiful flower in New York City is the magnolias. They pop up generally around the same time as cherry blossoms, and you can find some of the best ones at Washington Square Park and Central Park.

Read my complete guide on where to see cherry blossoms in New York City for more information.

Tulip Festival at West Side Community Garden

Aside from cherry blossoms and magnolias, New York City also has a number of beautiful places to see tulips in April.

One particular place to celebrate the blooming of tulips is West Side Community Garden, located on the Upper West Side on 89th Street one block away from Central Park.

There are over 13000 tulip bulbs being planted every year, so it’s the perfect place to see tulips and celebrate spring.

NYC Tartan Week and Tartan Day Parade

New York City is a diverse city with different people, culture and traditions. One of the most celebrated traditions in April is the Tartan week, which recognizes and celebrates Scottish heritage and culture.

April 6 is the official National Tartan Day (as recognized by the US senate), to recognize the contribution of the Scottish community to the US. During this week, there is a series of Scottish themed celebrations and ultimately a parade on Sixth Avenue between 44th St and 55th St.

Earth Day in NYC (April 22, 2024)

Launched in 2016, Car-Free Earth Day initially transformed designated Manhattan streets into vibrant public plazas and car-free havens, welcoming pedestrians, cyclists, and local businesses.

Over the years, this initiative has evolved, extending its reach to encompass various locations across the five boroughs, integrating Open Streets and plazas, and seamlessly connecting to New York City’s extensive Bike Network spanning over 1,000 miles.

In addition to the car free day on several streets, there are also many other events happening in honor of Earth Day, such as the educational efforts at Urban Oasis at One World Observatory , and other volunteer opportunities at parks and beaches in New York.

MLB Season Starts in April

If you are a baseball fan then April is a great time to visit New York City! MLB Season starts in April and goes until October. In case you didn’t know, New York City has not one, but two baseball teams, doubling the fun!

Both Yankees and the Mets are based in New York City (each with their own stadium). You can see their schedules and buy tickets online .

Yankee Game Tickets are free with the New York Attraction Pass by Go City .

Visit the Outdoor Observation Decks in New York City

There are 5 observation decks in New York City and each is unique in its own ways. While some have more indoor exhibits and views, others are more built for an open-air outdoor experience.

Assuming the weather is good and it’s not foggy (usually it’s not in April), you have 3 outdoor observatories to choose from:

• The Empire State Building Observatory
• Top of the Rock

While the Empire State Building is the most iconic building in New York City, you actually get a much better view from the Top of the Rock (since you can see the Empire State Building and Central Park).

The Edge, on the other hand, is totally unique with its outdoor deck. In fact I think the Edge has the largest outdoor deck of the 5 observatories in NYC.

All 3 observatories also have their own unique special activities.

• The Empire State Building allows you to go up to the 102nd floor in addition to its outdoor 86th floor observatory
• The Edge has City Climb , a thrilling outdoor open-air ascent 1200 above ground
• Top of the Rock has the Beam , a new attraction that allows you to recreate the iconic photos of sitting on a beam above New York City.

All 3 observatories are included with the Go City New York Passes . With Go City, you also have one hour early access at the Edge before it opens to the public, allowing you to capture the best photos.

Indoor Events for Rainy Days in April

There are PLENTY of things to do in doors in New York City on a rainy day in April. Don’t worry, you really won’t run out of things to do in the Big Apple (one reason why I still live here)!

Mayc’s Flower Show (March 24, to Sunday, April 7)

In case you miss the cherry blossoms (I bet you won’t since they essentially bloom for the whole month), you can always see beautiful flowers inside at the annual Macy’s Flower Show. In 2024, the show will be featuring DIOR. In case you weren’t in NYC December 2023, the DIOR window display at Saks Fifth Avenue was breathtaking and timeless, so you can bet this Flower Show will be beautiful.

The Flower Show will transform the Herald Square flagship store into a flower wonderland. You do not need to pay to see the Macy’s Flower Show, simply see the beautiful window displays and walk inside to experience this beautiful two week event.

New York Botanical Garden Orchid Show (Feb 17 – Apr 21, 2024)

The Orchid Show is another exciting flower event in New York City in the spring. Every spring, the New York Botanical Garden hosts this wonderful flower show featuring different themes.

invites designers to help design the orchid show based on a theme and the theme for 2024 is fashion, so you can see that all the designs center around clothes.

Aside from the day time Orchid Show that is open to everyone, if you are 21 and older, you can also attend the Orchid Nights, which has, as you guessed it, alcohol, food and music.

Spend Time at World Renowned Museums

Museums are one of the best things to do on a rainy April day in New York City. We have so many world class museums it’s hard to pick just one or two, but some of the best museums in NYC include :

• American Museum of Natural History
• 911 Memorial & Museum

Unique Museums in New York City include:

• Tenement Museum : where you can learn more about the lives of immigrants
• New York Transit Museum : located inside an old subway station, this museum lets you learn more about how the NY subway system was constructed and you can get on old subway cars
• The Morgan Library & Museum : a beautiful research library that has some of the most rare books and materials.
• Intrepid Museum : The Intrepid Museum is a military history museum where you can see fighter jets and military helicopters, get inside a real submarine and the Aircraft Carrier Intrepid. You can also see a real space shuttle inside the museum.
• Museum of Illusions : This fun museum has a ton of fascinating illusions that play tricks on your mind. This museum is not only fun for adults but also the perfect place for kids.

Most of the popular museums in New York City are free with the  New York Pass  and  Sightseeing Pass .

Drink and Play Shuffleboard at the Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club

One of the most unique bars in New York City is the Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club in Brooklyn. This is a place that only New Yorkers know about and you won’t see any tourists around.

This beach themed bar and shuffleboard club allows you to get a drink, chill with friends, play shuffleboards and try a variety of food from its 19 rotating food trucks. You can also host a cabana party if you have a large group for a special event.

Besides shuffleboard courts, you will also find other games, including board games here.

See Cool Cars at the New York International Auto Show (Mar 29 to Apr 7, 2024)

The annual New York international auto show is an event not to be missed for any car enthusiasts. While it is hard to be enthusiastic about driving in New York City (if you haven’t done it, don’t attempt), the cars themselves are always great to check out.

Held in the massive Jacob Javits Convention Center, this annual event brings you the newest and coolest cars, as well as concept cars and fancy sports cars you would rarely see on the street.

Contrary to popular belief, the New York International Auto Show is great for families and kids as well, with interactive elements, freebies, and fun cars to sit in.

Get Coffee From a Flower Cafe

Not sure if you’ve noticed but the theme of April is all about flowers (well, at least for me). If you are not sick of seeing flowers everywhere yet (and I sure hope you don’t have crazy seasonal allergies like I do), then you would love to grab coffee or tea from one of the pretty floral coffee shops in New York City.

There are a number of cute flower and plant themed coffee shops in New York City (and more and more are opening up every month). The biggest worry you have would be how to choose one from so many options.

Check out my complete New York City Flower Cafe guide to see all the cute cafes in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn.

New York City Q&A

If this is your first time visiting New York City, you probably have a lot of questions you want answered. I am here to make things easier for your trip planning, so here are some practical things you should know before visiting New York City.

How to Get Around New York City

New Yorkers rely on public transportation to get around the tristate area (that includes New York, New Jersey and Connecticut). The New York City public transportation system include:

• The notorious subway
• Roosevelt Island Tramway

You can also get around the tristate area with trains, such as the Long Island Railroad, Metro-North Railroad, New Jersey Transit, and Amtrak.

The New York City subway and buses are 24/7, one of the only 24/7 public transportation systems in the world. However, this also causes delays in inspection and infrastructure works on the subway system.

You can pay for the New York City subway and bus by purchasing a Metrocard, or just simply use your Apple Pay, Google Pay or contactless credit card to tap and pay at the reader.

You can also take a hop on hop off bus tour if you want to see the streets of NYC and to popular tourist attractions. This is included in the New York Pass and Explorer Pass .

Where to Stay in New York City

Midtown is the most popular area for tourists to stay in New York City, and this includes Times Square, Herald Square, and Fifth Avenue area. Many other tourists choose to stay in Chelsea, Soho, and the Financial District if they want a quieter and potentially cheaper place to stay.

While I am not a fan of Times Square (I don’t think any locals are a fan of Times Square), I totally understand why tourists, especially first time visitors, choose to stay there.

If you do decide to stay in Midtown, the best hotels (based on what I heard from other tourists), include:

• Riu Plaza New York Times Square
• Radio City Apartments
• The Cloud One Downtown
• M Social Hotel Times Square

How to Save Money in New York City

New York City is not cheap and you will be spending a good amount of money traveling here. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t be a budget traveler to enjoy the city.

While I always advocate to get an attraction pass for New York City if you are planning to do touristy things, you can also save money by:

• Taking the subway and bus
• Taking food to-go instead of dining to save on tips
• Picking a hotel that include breakfast
• Grabbing cheaper food like falafels, slices of pizzas, chicken rice, dumplings, and from food carts

Is it Safe to Take the Subways in NYC

Yes, it is safe to take the subways most of the time. This question is highly debatable since there are always those that believe the subway is safe no matter what time of the day and others that don’t feel comfortable taking the subway late at night, especially for a solo female traveler.

Therefore, this is entirely dependent on your personal level of comfort. Personally, I don’t like taking the subway late at night but I have no problems taking it during the day or even early in the morning.

Is April a Good Time to Visit New York City?

Now, the ultimate question you may have is whether you should visit New York City in April.

April is a very good time to visit NYC due to its warmer and dry weather, the beautiful cherry blossom and other flower blooms, opportunities for outdoor activities and moderate prices before the summer surge.

In fact April, May, September, October and December are the best months to visit New York City.

Check Out My Other New York City Blogs

New York City Itineraries & Things to Do

• 100+ best things to do in New York City
• One week New York City itinerary
• 4 Day NYC itinerary
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Guide
• Pier 57 Market & Rooftop Park Guide

Christmas and Holiday Season in New York City

• Most Instagrammable Places in NYC during the holidays
• Most Festive Pop Up Bars and Restaurants in NYC during the holidays
• Best Holiday Markets in NYC
• Things to do with kids in NYC during the holidays

New York City Seasonal Articles

• Why You should visit NYC in the fall
• Best Fall Hikes in NYC
• Apple Picking in NYC
• Best Sunflower Fields in NYC
• Where to Pick Strawberries near NYC
• NYC Winter Survival Guide
• Visiting New York City in March
• Best Spots for Cherry Blossoms (Sakura) in New York City

How to Save Money Traveling to NYC

• Best New York City Travel Pass
• New York Pass Review: Is New York Pass Worth it?
• Complete Review of New York Explorer Pass

New York City Food Guide

• Best Ice Cream Shops in Lower Manhattan
• Best Brunch Spots in New York City
• Cutest Plants and Floral Cafes in New York City
• Review of the Plaza hotel Afternoon Tea
• Review of Tea Around Town Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
• Tim Ho Wan Restaurant Review

Other New York City Guides

• Coolest Airbnbs in New York State
• Best New York Themed Gifts
• Unique Brooklyn Themed Gifts
• Cheapest and Easiest Way From JFK Airport to Times Square Manhattan
• Cold Spring Day Trip from NYC
• NJ Construction Themed Amusement Park: Diggerland Complete Guide

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Best things to do in spring in NYC

The sun will come out—eventually! Our guide to spring in NYC details flower shows, outdoor fests and cultural musts.

Courtesy NYBG

Spring in New York is full of excitement. When the sun comes out, the flowers start blooming and the weather warms up, New Yorkers can shed their winter blues and head out to  NYC parks ,  NYC street fairs and food festivals in NYC . Plus, get revved for spring's biggest events below.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the  NYC event calendar  for 2024

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top things to do in spring in New York

1.  admire cherry blossoms.

• Things to do

Cherry blossoms bloom in NYC based on each year's weather, but they usually begin in earnest by late March. 

2.  Stroll by the best outdoor art in NYC

• Contemporary art

New York City is full of free outdoor art that you don't even have to go to a museum to see. Sculptures, murals and photographs can be found in its parks, sidewalks and on its buildings!

Best of all, it costs you nothing to pay a visit. Below, find the best outdoor art in NYC to brighten up a spring day.

3.  Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

They say everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day, which is all the more reason to celebrate! From the annual St. Paddy's Day parades across the boroughs to pub crawls and live music, the Big Apple is alive with joyful festivities splashed in green.

If partying isn't your scene, there's still plenty to do like trying Irish dancing and participating in Sober St. Patrick's Day activities. Either way, grab your green attire, belt your favorite Irish songs and bust out a limerick—St. Patrick’s Day in NYC is going to be a blast this year!

4.  Commemorate Women’s History Month

NYC offers a bevy of ways you can show solidarity for your sisters during Women’s History Month. New York ladies are getting in formation by hosting a series of cool events, from comedy shows to art exhibits to walking tours and more.

5.  Be dazzled by the Orchid Show

With their vibrant colors, delicate ruffles, and dramatic shapes, orchids love to show off their looks. This spring, the   New York Botanical Garden  is giving the divas of the plant world their moment in the spotlight as part of “The Orchid Show: Florals in Fashion.”

Three up-and-coming designers created massive installations inspired by these fashionable flowers. In one, you'll see orchids turned into avant-garde clothing. Another features a regal orchid queen. The final section draws upon AI to create anthropomorphic creatures who don floral outfits.   Florals in Fashion   is on view through April 21 at NYBG in the Bronx; adult tickets cost $35.

6.  Explore The Macy’s Flower Show

• Exhibitions

Revel in forthcoming warm weather at the annual   Macy’s Flower Show . NYC will be budding with blooms all over, but nothing beats roaming the sweet-smelling foliage that suddenly appears at one of the city’s best department stores: Macy’s Herald Square.

This year's show, created in partnership with   Dior , runs from  Sunday,  March 24, to Sunday, April 7.

7.  Eat deliciously at a night maret

• Events & Festivals

Six open-air night markets will pop up around town this year, from the Bronx to Brooklyn and Manhattan to Queens. Plus, the Vegan Night Market and Latin Night Market are back! Night markets start in April and run all summer long.

We've rounded up details on all six, so grab some cash and make plans to eat locally—and deliciously.

8.  See Paul McCartney's Beatlemania photos

Screaming and crying girls. Innumerable hotel rooms. Nonstop camera flashes. A group of four Liverpudlian guys in the middle of it all. Beatlemania made an indelible mark on history and on our lives.

Sir Paul McCartney, the group’s bassist and one of two lead singers, is showcasing more than 250 of his own photographs that illustrate the intensity of this historical moment, but also the quiet, personal moments unseen by millions of fans in “ Paul   McCartney  Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm ” at the Brooklyn Museum. The show opens on May 3 and runs  through August 18.

9.  Catch "The Great Gatsby" on Broadway

• Theater & Performance

A new musical adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel The Great Gatsby will officially debut on Broadway this spring, with previews scheduled to premiere on March 29 and opening night set for April 25 at the Broadway Theatre at 1681 Broadway by 53rd Street.

Tony Award-nominated actors Jeremy Jordan and Eva Noblezada will take on the famous roles of, respectively, Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan.

Tickets are now on sale right here .

10.  Get nostalgic at this Beatrix Potter exhibit

The author and illustrator who ignited our childhood imaginations with tales of cuddly bunnies, mischievous squirrels and daring ducks is getting a well-deserved spotlight in NYC.

The wholesome and beautiful works of beloved children’s author and land conservationist Beatrix Potter are now on view at The Morgan Library & Museum through June 9.

“ Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature ” is the most darling show in the city right now. The exhibition even features a delightful recreation of Potter’s home that you can actually sit and read in. 

11.  Experience The Met's history-making Harlem Renaissance exhibition

The Harlem Renaissance had an indisputable impact on American culture, but chances are that you probably didn’t spend much time learning about it in school. That’s because, even though it shaped global literature, music, and art, Black Americans’ historical contributions have been systematically erased or gone unacknowledged for centuries.

A groundbreaking exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art hopes to be a part of rectifying the erasure and celebrating Black artists and intellectuals.

"The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism"  presents 160 works by Black artists from the Harlem Renaissance and delves into many different aspects of the movement, mostly through the lens of paintings and sculpture.  You can get your tickets   here . 

12.  Have "Giant" conversations at the Brooklyn Museum

"Giants," the Brooklyn Museum's latest exhibition, fits its name in many facets. First of all, the show relies on the art collection of two titans in the music industry, Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz (Kasseem Dean). Much of the artwork itself is massive, taking over major swaths of the museum. The exhibition features artists who have made and continue to make a significant impact on the art world and contemporary culture.

Finally, and most importantly, the exhibit encourages big conversations that celebrate Blackness, critique society, and imagine a collective future. " Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys " runs through July 7, 2024. The show features 98 artworks by Black American, African, and African diasporic artists including Gordon Parks, Kehinde Wiley, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Mickalene Thomas, Hassan Hajjaj, Barkley L. Hendricks, Lorna Simpson, and Amy Sherald. 

13.  Have a laugh at Second City

After months of anticipation and some delays, it’s  actually  official this time—Second City, Chicago’s prestigious comedy club that is responsible for incubating talent like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Steve Carrell, just opened the doors of its New York location.

The new site of  Second City , located at 64 N. 9th St. in Williamsburg, is less of a traditional comedy club than it is a sort of small campus for comedy aficionados. The 12,000-square-foot, two-floor complex includes two cabaret-style live theaters, a training center charged with raising the next generation of iconic comedians, and a restaurant bar called The Bentwood.   

14.  Witness the historic reopening of Brooklyn Paramount

A historic performance venue is on the brink of making history again with its reopening.

Brooklyn Paramount will officially reopen on March 27, with a new capacity of 2,7000 guests following a multi-million dollar renovation of the 100-year-old space. 

The venue originally opened in 1928, as the world’s first theater to show talking movies and a hotspot for world-famous performers. Now, for the first time in 60 years, the venue will be a hub for live music again.   Here's more info   on upcoming shows tickets.

15.  Visit the Climate Museum

Explore " The End of Fossil Fuel ," the latest pop-up from the NYC Climate Museum. It's free to visit in Soho and offers a bevy of eye-opening activities for all ages.

Inside the gallery, a collection of maps will put climate change issues into perspective, alongside text panels about the history of the fossil fuel industry. The exhibits trace the origins of the climate and inequality crises and how we got to where we are today. Other activations include a sticker wall where visitors commit to specific climate actions and a kids' corner with books and drawing materials.

Find the pop-up at 105 Wooster Street in Soho through April 30. The museum is free to visit and open to all. It's open Wednesdays-Sundays from 1-6pm. 

16.  Celebrate The Morgan's birthday

One hundred years ago, The Morgan Library & Museum was established with its expansive collection of historic books in a jaw-droppingly beautiful building. Over the last century, the museum developed into a beloved cultural institution showcasing rare books, drawings, photographs and important research.

The museum will host a free day of celebration on Sunday, May 5, 2024. They'll open the garden for the season and offer to-be-announced programming.

17.  Check out Head in the Clouds Festival

Head in the Clouds, an epic music festival that highlights Asian-American talent, is coming back to New York City on May 11 and 12 at Forest Hills Stadium in Queens. 

This is the second time 88Rising , the recording company that represents top Asian artists like Joji and Keith Ape, is having its festival in New York following the success of last year’s event. Tickets for the festival start at $259.50.

Artists in this year’s lineup include the viral Internet girl group ATARASHII GAKKO!, R&B artist thuy, K-Pop group Young Posse, and many others. 

18.  Grab a slice at this hidden pizzeria

There’s a lot of good to see at this Manhattan subway stop. 

Two years after opening the subterranean bar  Nothing Really Matters , hospitality professional Adrien Gallo continues building his subway station empire, opening  See No Evil Pizza  last week on the concourse level of the downtown-bound 1 train station at 50th Street and Broadway—a space that once housed a Dunkin’.  It joins his  Tiny Dancer Coffee  on the same concourse.

“I basically transformed a subway station that was super neglected to a destination spot in the middle of Times Square,” Gallo tells  Time Out New York .  

Find See No Evil Pizza is located on the concourse level of the downtown-bound 1 train station at 50th Street and Broadway. It is open for pop-ins and  Resy reservations  Monday-Saturday from 5pm-midnight. 

19.  Make a hat for the Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival

The Easter Bonnet Parade & Festival is one of the highlights of Easter in NYC.

This parade is all about the hats—lavishly decorated, from the exquisite to the outlandish. Anyone is welcome to join, just show up near  St. Patrick’s Cathedral   at 10am on Easter Sunday to watch or saunter with the group up Fifth Avenue. The free tradition dates back to the 1870s, so you might even see some participants in period costumes. But the highlight is the elaborate bonnets, some of which are truly over-the-top.

If you want to participate, put on your creative thinking cap and get started on your work of chapeaux art ASAP. 

20.  Think pink at Color Factory

Miranda Priestly once famously said, "Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking." But at Color Factory, florals for spring   are   actually groundbreaking as the interactive art experience in Soho takes flowery themes to immersive new levels. 

Color Factory 's “Colors in Bloom” experience is now open—exactly at the time when we could all mercifully use a break from the gray landscapes and cold nights.

For example, there's the Central Park Confetti Room, complete with larger-than-life pink cherry blossoms inspired by the city's first sign of spring. Tickets start at $38/person for the experience, which runs through mid-May.

21.  Journey into the Space Age at The Intrepid

Board the gigantic aircraft carrier docked along the Hudson River for a trip to space this spring.   The Intrepid Museum   will soon host "Apollo: When We Went to the Moon," the largest temporary exhibition in its four-decade history. 

The exhibit, which runs from March 26 through September 2, blasts off into an exploration of the space race, both as a scientific feat and as an inspiration for millions. The new exhibit is included with museum admission.

Visitors can climb aboard a lunar rover model, leave footprints on the Moon via a virtual moonwalk, and see Apollo artifacts. "Apollo: When We Went to the Moon" spans 9,000 square feet in the museum’s Space Shuttle Pavilion where it'll join the Space Shuttle Enterprise. 

22.  Get out for Governors Ball

The iconic summer music festival Governors Ball will return to Flushing Meadows Corona Park this summer with a major lineup. Headlining this year: Post Malone, Rauw Alejandro, The Killers, 21 Savage, SZA, and Peso Pluma. 

Tickets for the show, which runs Friday, June 7, through Sunday, June 9, are on sale here . More than 60 artists will perform at the festival.

23.  Get ready for De Niro Con

If you’re a movie buff, or just so happen to really enjoy Robert De Niro’s overall vibe, the Tribeca Festival in June is capping off with a tribute to the legendary actor and producer. 

From June 14-16, the Festival is hosting De Niro Con , which will include set recreations, costume exhibits, behind-the-scenes chats, screenings, and anything that could be tangentially related to De Niro—you'll find it all there.

The three-day festival will also include the De Niro Archive Gallery, which will display items from De Niro’s personal archives, including annotated scripts, rare photos, props, and other film-related memorabilia from the 80-year-old’s illustrious career.

24.  Dine around at JAPAN Fes

Eat your way through Japan without ever leaving New York City at JAPAN Fes, the massive foodie festival, which is back and bigger than ever for 2024. The organization is hosting 30 outdoor events this year stretching from March through November in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Event organizers say it's the largest Japanese food festival in the world, attracting 300,000 visitors and featuring 1,000 vendors every year.

Expect dishes including takoyaki, ramen, matcha sweets, yakisoba, karaage, okonomiyaki, and lots more. They're even hosting a ramen contest and a konamon contest this year to crown the best of the bunch. Vendors hail from New York City, as well as other states and other countries. 

Here's the full list of dates and neighborhoods.

25.  Be entertained at Live At the Inn!

Head to a beloved West Village music shop for a banging musical comedy blowout every Friday night. This variety show mixes music, comedy, and characters with apperances by Stephen Sihelnik (NY Comedy Festival), Natan Badalov (Adult Swim), Alexander Payne (Netflix), and surprise guests.

Fun fact: The event's set in New York's oldest continually-run music and record store, Music Inn World Instruments. It's been in operation since 1958 and has been heavily featured in the first two seasons of "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel."

Show up early, save a seat and BYOB: You're in for a party.

26.  Visit COAL + ICE at Asia Society Museum

Taking over the Asia Society through August 11, 2024, this immersive photography and video exhibition will bring together the works of more than 50 photographers and video artists from China and around the world to visualize the causes and consequences of the climate crisis.

The show — which will take attendees from deep within coal mines to the melting glaciers of the greater Himalaya—is co-curated by photographer Susan Meiselas and international exhibition designer Jeroen de Vries, and led by Orville Schell, Asia Society Vice President and Arthur Ross Director of the Center on U.S.-China Relations.

Along with the artworks themselves, the exhibition will feature a series of speaker events, performances, films and more throughout the run of the exhibition. 

27.  See AI art at ARTECHOUSE

nside a venue dating back 100 years into the past, a new art show explores a question of the future: How can human creativity and artificial intelligence coexist?

ARTECHOUSE, located inside an old boiler room at Chelsea Market, is set to debut its latest digital art exhibition, “World of AI·magination,” on December 1;   tickets are on sale here   starting at $21/person. To create the exhibition, ARTECHOUSE Studio developed original visual elements with generative AI systems. Designers hope to inspire visitors to consider AI as a "creative associate rather than a mere tool for innovation." 

World of AI·magination centers around a 20-minute cinematic experience with six scenes. One scene, called the Library of Magical Portals, features colossal books brimming with dreams and algorithms. Another scene called Symphony of Illusions constantly morphs, while the Infinite Maze immerses visitors into multiple parallels.

Inside a venue dating back 100 years into the past, a new art show explores a question of the future: How can human creativity and artificial intelligence coexist?

28.  Take an off-beat walking tour with Purefinder

• Weird & Wonderful

On a typical tour of Manhattan, the big tourist attractions—Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park—get all the attention. But on these new walking tours by a local author, you'll see fascinating historical sites that you won't find in a typical guidebook. 

K. Krombie's Purefinder tours , "Death in New York," "The Psychiatric History of New York" and "Hell Gate," explore the city's darker side through meticulously researched and theatrically presented historical narratives.

Each tour covers about 2.5 miles in about two-and-a-half hours. “Death in New York” and “The Psychiatric History of New York” are offered weekly, while “Hell Gate” is offered twice per month. Tours cost $32-$34 per person;   you can book one here .

29.  Deep dive into the ceramics of Toshiko Takaezu

Deep-dive into the works of American ceramist and painter Toshiko Takaezu with this retrospective and monograph coming to the  Noguchi Museum in Queens from March 20 to July 28, 2024.

The first nationally touring retrospective of Takaezu’s work in twenty years,   Toshiko Takaezu: Worlds Within   will feature about 200 pieces from private and public collections around the country, including her rarely-seen acrylic paintings and weavings, ceramic sculptures including her   signature “closed forms,” Moons, Garden Seats, Trees, and select works from her late masterpiece, the Star Series.  

Following its presentation at The Noguchi Museum, the exhibition —which   is organized with assistance from the Toshiko Takaezu Foundation and the Takaezu family — will travel to several additional venues across the United States.

30.  Laugh out loud at Punderdome

The pun, that most democratic of jokes: At its best, it’s sublimely satisfying to the reptilian part of our brains that loves easy comedy. At its worst, it produces a groan so gut-deep, it’s almost as good as a belly laugh. The form is mined for all it’s worth at this monthly tournament, hosted by Rodney Dangerfield impersonator Fred Firestone and his daughter, Jo.

A fixture on the NYC comedy landscape for more than a decade, this show at Littlefield in Brooklyn is like a rap battle, only much nerdier. Hear pun pros face-off in the All-Star Tournament of Pun Champions where punsters deliver two-minute pun-stand-up routines, after only two minutes of preparation.

Shows this spring are on April 3 and May 15.

More things to do in spring

Conversation starters for this spring’s movies.

You know how it goes: Everybody’s already seen the hot new movies and (show-offs) have their opinions pre-sculpted. You could always talk about Game of Thrones again. Or complain about your salad. But we say be bold. Consult our film round-up and embrace your inner film geek. 

How to have the perfect spring staycation in NYC

Take inspiration from this list of 13 tours, experiences and days out that just might make you feel like a tourist in your own city

The best spring date ideas in NYC

Warm weather has finally arrived! Make the most of it with our list of the best spring date ideas in NYC.

The best NYC parks

• Parks and gardens

NYC parks offer verdant green spaces to relax, get some sun, have a picnic and more. Here are our favorites.

26 reasons why New York is the greatest city in the world for spring

The best things to do on NYC rooftops

From rooftop bars to outdoor fitness classes with a view, get high at these rooftop venues and events in the city

Major spring events guide

St. patrick’s day in nyc guide.

Easter in NYC guide

Cinco de Mayo

Mother’s Day

Events by month

Nyc events in march.

Make the most of the last month in winter by partaking in the best NYC events in March including St. Patrick’s Day

NYC events in April

Check out our picks for the best NYC events in April including awesome outdoor events at NYC parks and great festivals

NYC events in May

Plan your month with our events calendar highlighting the best NYC events in May 2019 including major holidays

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7 Great Things to Do in New York in April

April is a fantastic month to travel in New York. While it might still be cold on some days, the weather is quickly warming up and spring is in the air throughout the state.

Whether you want to enjoy some of New York’s best beer and wine, enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, or get your adrenaline pumping, there’s a lot to love about traveling the state this month.

Here are my picks for some of the best things to do in New York in April.

(Article updated March 14, 2024, for events in April 2024.)

New York International Auto Show in New York City – March 29-April 7

If you love cars, the New York International Auto Show is the event to check out in New York this April.

Held annually in New York City since 1900, this show brings together car manufacturers from around the world showcasing everything from practical family vehicles to luxury cars. And since no sales are allowed at the show, you can browse the cars without having to worry about pushy salespeople.

The event will an electric vehicle test track, thrill rides, antique automobiles, celebrity cars, and more.

Find out more information and get tickets on the event’s website .

Thousand Islands Spring Boat Show in Clayton – April 5-7

Clayton, home of the fabulous Antique Boat Museum , is hosting its annual Spring Boat Show in early April. If you are thinking of warmer weather and want to see what’s new in the boating world, this is a show you won’t want to miss.

During the event, you’ll be able to browse a variety of different types of watercraft and accessories from dozens of vendors. There will also be boater safety courses offered during the show.

For more information, visit the show’s website .

Syracuse Wine Festival in Syracuse – April 6

Wine aficionados won’t want to miss the annual Syracuse Wine Festival being held at the CNY Regional Market this April.

During the event, there are two three-hour wine-tasting sessions, plus a special VIP session. Wines will be available from producers throughout the state, and you can both sample wine and buy full bottles of your favorites.

There will also be activities throughout the event and food available for purchase.

Find out more and get tickets on the event’s website .

Opening Weekend at Watkins Glen International Raceway – April 6-7

Celebrate the opening weekend of Watkins Glen International Raceway with the chance to drive your car on the actual racetrack used by NASCAR drivers. Climb into your vehicle and follow a pace car for three laps around this famed course.

Whether you are a fan of racing or simply enjoy a unique experience, this is something that shouldn’t be missed.

For more information, visit the raceway’s website .

Total Solar Eclipse in New York – April 8

On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross over much of Upstate New York. Cities like Jamestown, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Plattsburgh will be directly in line to see this amazing event.

If you can, I highly recommend visiting one of these areas to experience this event in person. However, if you can’t, the rest of the state will see a partial eclipse, which should also be incredible.

So, no matter where you are in New York, get a pair of eclipse glasses (to keep your eyes safe) and stare up at the sky!

Find out more in this great article on the event .

CNY Maple Festival in Cortland – April 13-14

Now in its 52nd year, the CNY Maple Festival in Cortland celebrates the delicious products made from maple trees.

During the event, you will not only be able to see how maple syrup is made, but there are also many other unique activities including a pancake eating contest, races, and a chainsaw carving demonstration.

To find out more, visit MapleFestival.org .

Herb & Wine Festival on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail – April 27-28

The 31st Annual Herb and Wine Festival will be happening along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail at the end of April.

At the 10 participating wineries, visitors will be able to try a sample of food and wine to go with it. Then, they can take home potted herbs or vegetables featured in each recipe, along with a recipe card to make the dish at home.

Of course, there is also the chance to try even more delicious Finger Lakes wine.

Find out more at CayugaWineTrail.com . There is also a second weekend on May 4-5.

Looking for more events in New York? Check out our picks for the top things to do in New York in March and the best things to do in New York in May .

More places worth exploring in New York

Autumn Fun at Burrville Cider Mill and Its Waterfall

How to Get to Papermill Falls in Avon, New York

Visiting the Powder Mills Fish Hatchery near Rochester

How to Get to Tinkers Falls in the Labrador Hollow Unique Area

Jim Cheney is the creator of Uncovering New York. After spending 5.5 years exploring Pennsylvania, Jim discovered a love for New York and is excited to spend time exploring this great state and uncovering the best things to do here.

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Exciting things to do in NYC in April

April in NYC might be the best month for locals that live here. It’s still the shoulder season for tourism meaning fewer crowds for visitors. But you also have spring break, meaning parents and students alike often flock to warmer vacation destinations outside the city while others visit the city as their vacation.

It’s kinda perfect! Not to mention NYC is a popular destination for spring break with kids as there are so many things to do in NYC with kids .

If you’re a visitor and plan before popular spring break weeks, this is a great time to take advantage of  New York City on a budget  as you can find hotel deals and enjoy some of the  best things to do in NYC from attractions, tours, and popular restaurants without the crowds. Especially if you plan in advance.

This guide will cover some of the best happenings and things to do in New York City in April from cherry blossoms, annual events, tourist attractions that you can get into before the crowds return, and other fun and exciting things going on throughout the city.

New York City in April Weather

It’s not an April Fools joke. April in New York is the month things begin warming up. With more mild weather with temps averaging in the ’60s. Bringing locals and tourists alike out to start enjoying the fresh air as the trees and leaves begin their annual pilgrimage back to life. Bringing a much-needed burst of color to the city.

Unfortunately, the saying is true, April showers bring May flowers. So even though historically there are 20+ days of sunshine, the days it rains. It rains a bit harder than usual. So be prepared with an umbrella or some indoor plans for those days.

Like any month in New York, bring comfortable shoes. Even on a modest day you probably will walk 10,000 steps. Because rain is a possibility to have an umbrella. 

At nights the weather will drop into the mid 40’s so bring layers in case you end up staying out all day and don’t want to be cold.

See our full guide for what to wear in New York in spring to help you pack!

Things to do in New York City in April

Easter events in nyc.

Whether you find yourself celebrating Easter as a religious holiday or just enjoy all the goodies that come along with the holiday like Peter Cottontail and candy, there are many Easter events that take place in the city.

The Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival is a fun, people-watching event to check out if you find yourself looking for something to do on Easter Sunday. This parade takes place along 5th Avenue (from 49th Street to 57th Street) and those participating gather showing off their Easter-Sunday best with colorful costumes and bonnets.

Spectators are welcome to participate or just come to check it out, also your pets are welcome to join in on the fun too.

If you want the best spot to see the action make your way to Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. If you want to be a part of it, all you have to do is bring your own Easter Bonnet! Points for uniqueness.

And those who like to treat themselves to a weekend boozy breakfast with friends, check out your favorite restaurants for their Easter brunch specials.

And if you’re looking for traditional Italian Easter bread , you’re in the right city. Head to famous bakeries like Ferrara Bakery or head to Brooklyn where you can find a few Italian enclaves like Carroll Gardens and find some of the best bakeries in the city like Mazzola Bakery and Pasticceria Monteleone BK who always carry the traditional baked, breaded egg bread.

For those with young ones, there are typically several Easter egg hunts throughout the city you can participate in too. 

Let’s be honest, one of the best parts about Easter is hiding and finding eggs on a Easter Egg hunt around New York City ! Luckily a number of places around the city decided to create Adult Easter Egg scavenger hunts too. But just because it says adults doesn’t mean it isn’t fun for families. It’s definitely happening this year and you can find Easter Egg hunts near you .

Did you know? Some historians believe egg hunting became a thing in the 16th (some say 13th) century. Men hid eggs for women to find and symbolized the women who discovered the tomb was empty after Jesus’ resurrection.

Celebrate Earth Day at Union Square

Every year on April 22nd over a billion people celebrate Earth Day as a way to spread awareness and protect against oil spills, unregulated factories, power plants, sewage, dumps, pesticides, freeways, and loss of wilderness.

Places all over New York will be celebrating Earth Day. But in Union Square Park there will be displays and performances put on by local businesses with green initiatives.

Earth Day has been demonstrated every year since 1970 and was pioneered by Wisconsin junior senator, Gaylord Nelson after Rachel Carson’s NYTimes best-selling book “Silent Spring” raised awareness of how much damage we were doing to the planet in 1962.

Celebrate 4/20

April 20th is the annual weed celebration extravaganza. Now that cannabis in NYC is legal, the city is getting in on the good times and beginning to hold events to bring people together to celebrate.

As this is relatively new things will be popping up last minute and it’s hard to get a definitive count on who and where is participating.

But, you can be sure to have a good time by heading to Washington Square Park, one of the most lively parks in NYC great to visit for people watching every day of the year, where the first year NYC celebrated 420 they were giving out free prerolls to anyone who had a vaccine. 

Did you know? The reason we celebrate 420 is that a group of Californian teenagers used to smoke together each day together at 4:20 pm. They slowly shared this ritual with more and more friends and eventually a tipping point and just saying 420 was code for mary jane. Naturally, the date April 20th, (4/20) became THE DAY to consume the plant.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Cherry Blossoms!

Every year the Brooklyn Botanic Garden has one of the city’s most beautiful displays and collection of cherry blossom trees.

They used to host an annual Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival, aka Brooklyn Botanic Cherry Blossom Festival that featured live music, mini flea markets, a Japanese tearoom, and an art gallery for two days during peak bloom.

Unfortunately, the festival was canceled in 2023 and it doesn’t seem there are plans to go forward (although we will continue to keep our fingers crossed and update if anything changes). But the flowers will still be blooming and people can still come and see it for themselves.

Featuring 26 types of blooming cherry blossoms, this is one of our favorite places for the cherry blossoms because it is just so peaceful and beautiful. The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden is especially beautiful this time of year. This was actually one of the first Japanese gardens to be created in the US in a botanic garden as well as being accessible.

This part of the Brooklyn garden dates back to 1914 and opened to the public in 1915 designed by Japanese landscape architect Takeo Shiota.

Stroll through the serene winding paths and the three hills that represent earth, humanity, and heaven. There are a pretty waterfall and pond that represent the heart.

You’ll also see wooden bridges, stone lanterns, a torii gate, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Inari and fox kami, and a viewing pavilion with open windows where you can watch the turtles and koi swim around below you.

Each year the blossoms bloom on different days, it’s best to check Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s website for their cherry watch which is updated daily, typical blooms can be anywhere from late March through early May – meaning your best chance of seeing cherry blossoms is going to be in April in NYC.

This is a great spot for capturing stunning photos. The garden also has two restaurants on-site in case you work up an appetite.

More Cherry Blossoms in NYC

So we love Brooklyn Botanic Garden for cherry blossoms, but there are literally over a dozen amazing places to see cherry blossoms in NYC in April. Spanning across all five boroughs are places to see these beauties in bloom. 

New York Botanical Garden, Central Park, Roosevelt Island, and Prospect Park are great places to not only see cherry blossoms in bloom but other gorgeous spring flowers – they also happen to be some of the best picnic spots in NYC too!

the Orchid Show at NYBG

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Scott & Megan | NYC & Travel (@boboandchichi)

Through the beginning of May, the New York Botanical Garden works with floral designers to put on the dazzling Orchid Show .

Visitors will fall in love with the beautiful orchid towers and fields of thousands of orchids in all types of shapes and sizes.  Each year the florists and designers outdo themselves to put on a spectacular floral arrangement to bring in more visitors and celebrate the spring season!

The NYBG allows visitors to come between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm and you can get tickets at New York Botanic Garden’s website.

Flowers Blooming at Central Park

Each spring Central Park has blooming cherry blossoms, but it also has 11 other flowers and trees that will be blooming during April in NYC all over the park. Luckily the Central Park Conservancy puts together a map of all the different locations you can find them blooming at for Spring.

This makes a perfect excuse to take a stroll through a new section of the 843 acres of Central Park, also don’t miss some of the best hidden gems in Central Park or join a guided tour of the best hidden gems in Central Park while enjoying the blooms of the season!

Free Shows at Lincoln Center

The Lincoln Center, which is home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic, and the New York City Ballet, has also become a hub for numerous free events almost every day.

Built in the 1950s under the initiative of John D. Rockefeller it has since grown to be a 16.3 acre complex of indoor and outdoor buildings. In spring every year, the Atrium (its free outdoor section) opens up and begins hosting a variety of free programming. From Q&A’s movie screenings, plays, music concerts, and everything in between.

It’s a beautiful place whether you are there to just hang out or catch a free show this April in NYC.

Macy’s Flower Show

What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than with a spectacular flower show that is free to the public and one of the best things to do in NYC in April.

Featuring over 30,000 different types of flowers and trees this is a flower lovers’ paradise. But they also have cooking demonstrations, design ideas for your home, raffles and prize giveaways, and other special events to make sure everyone you are with has something fun to do or look at. 

So many people have found this to be fun and want more so they have begun doing guided tours that are available every half hour from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Visit Coney Island when it opens for the season

One of the best times to visit all the exciting things to do at Coney Island from its historic boardwalk, legendary Wonder Wheel, and other fun hot spots like the New York Aquarium is the kickoff and opening weekend, typically right after Easter.

Brush up on the history of Coney Island before your visit and check out some of our favorite hidden gems at Coney Island . This after all, is one of the few times to enjoy all the fun here without the summer crowds.

Catch a Basketball Game

If you’re a basketball fan then you’re in luck, you have two great choices for basketball in NYC in April!

If you’re in Manhattan you should definitely catch a game at the iconic Madison Square Garden to cheer on the Knicks. There’s a good chance to catch a glimpse of Knicks superfan and famous Brooklynite Spike Lee along with other celebrities who are huge fans of the Knicks. 

If you’re staying in Brooklyn or more a fan of the Nets, then Barclays Center in Downtown Brooklyn is another great choice to catch the Nets as they are our favorite team but we might be biased. 

And plan your pre or post-event by checking out the best restaurants near Barclays Center just a short walk away! There are so many incredible food options, so take a local’s recommendation from our guide.

There are plenty of amazing sports bars to catch the game at if you prefer to watch a game from the comfort of a bar:

Harlem Tavern (2153 Frederick Douglass Blvd) is a neighborhood bar, restaurant, and beer garden with a menu of American fare and gastropub favorites. They’ve got screens all around the bar and even have special events for big games which you’ll want to make a reservation for in advance!

Blondies Sports NYC (212 W 79th St) This popular UWS sports bar has a fun atmosphere and is a perfect place to catch a game not to mention they were voted the top wing spot in the city by Eater.

The Supply House ( 1647 2nd Ave) Another laid-back sports bar with TVs airing games and a not to be missed fried chicken sandwich and great wings.

Break Bar & Billiards   ( 32-04 Broadway, Long Island City) This sports bar in LIC has 16 TVs and two projectors to play the game on those big days for sports fans. You can also find games like billiards, darts, foosball, and other fun games like arcade games here for more endless entertainment.

O’Keefe’s Bar and Grill (62 Court St) is a local staple in Brooklyn Heights that’s got a great neighborhood bar vibe going on, 20 brews on draft, a great food menu, cocktails, and of course TVs for those game days.

Hull Sports Bar (66 Water St) is operated under Seamore’s – a great seafood restaurant in the city. Their menu of course has those familiar Seamore’s items including Baja fish tacos and oysters in their speakeasy-style aesthetic and is a great place to catch a game. Just keep in mind they only open late afternoon through the evenings – so this is where you catch those later in the day games.

Keg and Lantern Greenpoint (97 Nassau Ave) is not only a fun brewery in Brooklyn but also sports bar that plays tons of sporting events including basketball!

SeatGeek , is a popular ticket search engine that makes finding tickets to sporting events, concerts, and many other live events at Barclays Center quick and easy.

When you add our promo code  BROOKLYNGUIDE to your SeatGeek account, you receive $20 off your first ticket purchase.

(We receive a small commission at no extra cost to you)

Save Money on the City’s Best Attractions

One of the best things to do in NYC in April is take advantage of the fewer crowds peak season brings in and check out some of the best NYC experiences and tours . Or if you get a great weather day, check out the best observation decks in NYC too to enjoy those before the crowds roll in with the better weather to come the following months.

We have a money-saving secret for you as these hot ticket items can ADD up and cost a fortune. If you’re going to be visiting for a few days or just want to do some sightseeing in a few days consider the different money-saving attraction passes available in NYC. (PS these also work for many of the museums too).

These attraction passes are paid upfront for a one-time fee and on your trip they get you into multiple different attractions for free meaning that you save some serious money overall. By purchasing an attraction pass you can save anywhere from 35-45% on your attraction and saving you hundreds of dollars on your visit! 

CityPASS  offers a  3 attraction pass  or a  6 attraction pass  with over 12 city attractions to choose from including popular observatories like the Empire State Building, The Edge, Top of the Rock, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, the Guggenheim, and more!

Another great option is the  New York Pass  which you can purchase anywhere from a 1 Day Pass to a 10 Day Pass that gets you into  over 100 attractions . YES! This one is better if you want MORE options. Once you purchase your New York Pass  you download the Go City app and use that to get up to 45% savings on popular attractions as well as a few hidden gem attractions ranging from the Empire State Building to museums and MANY more.

See our full  breakdown of the New York Pass  and our  breakdown of the New York CityPASS to see if it’s worth it for your visit to save hundreds of dollars on multiple attractions!

Catch a Movie

Nitehawk is the movie-going option of choice for most Brooklyners. Established in 2018 in Prospect Park, Nitehawk is housed in the oldest buildings in New York that have continuously housed a movie theater dating back to the Sanders Theater in 1928. The building is cool and the movie-watching experience is even better.

But what makes this place even better is the fact that they single-handedly changed the prohibition-era law and were able to get ALL movie theaters in NYC to sell alcohol.

For those who don’t know, Nitehawk has its own preview films made specifically for each film, a great menu of food to choose from, and of course drinks.

The original location is 188 Prospect Park West, and there is also a location in Williamsburg. There are also a few other great movie theaters in Brooklyn to check out too!

Tours to Try in April

Take advantage of the smaller crowds of April in NYC with a tour. If you’re visiting we find that doing food tours on the first day of our trip helps us determine some great spots to eat at the rest of our time in the city (especially if you find one in the area you’re staying in).

These are also fun for locals too!

You learn all the good food spots and get history at the same time. Most food is just a sample so you can feel out where you wanna come back to.

The guide will know other things similar to what you like. So you can get expert advice on other restaurants to try that have a similar vibe or say hey I’m actually staying in this area and want Italian food what do you recommend.

If you’re a tourist, this totally takes the guesswork out where to eat which let’s be honest according to the article you are reading right now, choosing where to eat is the number one cause of fights, depression, and other ailments any trip ever.

Hell’s Kitchen Food Tour – This 2-hour food tour takes you through and lets you taste some of the best bites around Hell’s Kitchen all while learning about this neighborhood’s deep history to modern-day, how it got its nickname, and other interesting facts along the way. You’ll sample all kinds of global cuisines that are present here in NYC. Book here.

Greenwich Village Food Tour – this 2-hour tasting and walking tour takes you through one of the best foodie neighborhoods in the city. You’ll find out all about the great nightlife scene here and the cool people who have inhabited this gorgeous cobbled street neighborhood while trying out some great food along the way. Book here.

Secret History & Food Tour – This 3-hour adventure is lead by a local guide who takes you to try some of the city’s iconic dishes all while exploring the Village. You can expect to try those quintessential meals all while learning a bit of the secret history of the area, plus you might learn some local lingo too. Book here.

There are more than food tours in NYC too, check out a few popular tours like the Catacombs by Candlelight Tour at the Basilica of St Patricks Old Cathedral in Nolita where you will learn about the tensions that caused the ‘Gangs of New York,’ and at the end explore the catacombs beneath the oldest Irish cathedral in the city.

Enjoy a 2-hour cruise along the New York Harbor during the day or at night when the city lights up.

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Sure, walking the Brooklyn Bridge might sound like a weird thing to recommend for April. But just the simple fact that there are fewer people makes this a joy. There is just something magical about walking the Brooklyn Bridge.

When we are crossing the bridge into Manhattan we love to walk to Fraunces Tavern for a drink and a meal – a historic watering hole and tavern where George Washington gave his farewell address to his continental army at in the oldest settled area of the city.

And if you’re making your way to Brooklyn, check out all the best things to do in DUMBO and if you need ideas for dining head to Time Out Market New York which has a lot of great NYC dining options all under one roof.

We hope you enjoy all these amazing things to do in NYC in April. Let us know if we missed one of your favorite April in New York activities in the comments below.

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• New York City Events April

NYC April Events and Activities Calendar

April featured events and businesses, nyc printable guides - available for immediate download.

Honestly this was the best book I’ve ever purchased and it was worth every single dollar I spent on it!!

Top NYC April Events

New york city international auto show.

• Yankees, Mets, Rangers, Islanders
• Orchid Show at NY Botanical Garden
• Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom) Festival
• NYC Ballet Spring Season
• Earth Day in New York City
• Drake , Mirror , Olivia Rodrigo , PAW Patrol Live! , Davido
• The Met Martini Bar & Roof Garden Opens
• Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace

April Concerts, Shows and Events

• Billy Joel – Feb 9, March 28, April 26, May 9 & June 8, 2024 @ MSG
• Drake – April 4 & 5 @ UBS Arena
• Mirror – April 13 @ UBS Arena
• Olivia Rodrigo – April 5, 6, 8 & 9 @ MSG
• PAW Patrol Live! – April 20-21 @ MSG
• Davido – April 17 @ MSG

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Sports New York City Events April

• NY Knicks Basketball @ MSG
• NY Rangers Hockey @ MSG
• Brooklyn Nets @ Barclays
• NY Islanders Hockey @ UBS Arena
• NYCFC Tickets @ Yankee Stadium
• NYCFC Tickets and Schedule

Knicks MSG Schedule

• Knicks Tickets : StubHub | Ticketmaster | Groupon | Ticketmaster Deals
• Insider Guide : NY Knicks Tickets, Schedule, Directions
• Thu, Apr 4 7:30 PM vs Sacramento
• Fri, Apr 12 7:30 PM vs Brooklyn
• Sun, Apr 14 1:00 PM vs Chicago

Rangers MSG Schedule

• Rangers Tickets : StubHub | Ticketmaster | Groupon | Ticketmaster Deals
• Insider Guide : NY Rangers Tickets, Schedule, Directions
• Mon, Apr 01 7:00 PM vs Penguins
• Wed, Apr 03 7:00 PM vs Devils
• Sun, Apr 07 7:00 PM vs Canadiens
• Tues, Apr 09 7:00 PM at Islanders
• Thurs, Apr 11 7:00 PM vs Flyers
• Sat, Apr 13 12:30 PM vs Islanders
• Mon, Apr 15 7:30 PM vs Senators

Hotels Near Penn Station, NYC

• Pendry Manhattan West - new in 2021, beautiful rooms (photo)
• Hilton New York Fashion District - great rooftop with amazing views
• Crowne Plaza HY36 - opened in 2018, great reviews online

NYC Insider Print Map and Guide to Manhattan

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Hotels Near NYC Javits Center

• Ink48 Hotel - about 10 blocks from Javits Center, right next to the Intrepid Museum and my ALL time favorite rooftop! (photo)
• Midtown Convention Center Hotel - the closest hotel to the JC, less than a block away. Small, clean rooms, geared towards convention exhibitors and attendees.
• Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel - new "digitally enhanced" hotel in Garment District, 15 min walk to JC, modern, though modest.

April Things to do with Kids in New York

• Auto Show @ Javits Center
• Yankees and Mets Baseball
• Paw Patrol Live @ Hulu Theater @ MSG
• Macy’s Flower Show
• Visit the Bronx Zoo
• Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
• Things to do in New York with Kids

Broadway Shows NYC April

Back to the future the musical.

• Back to the Future The Musical (Stubhub)
• Lottery + Rush: TBA.

Sweeney Todd

&juliet broadway musical.

• &Juliet Tickets (Ticketmaster)
• &Juliet Tickets (Stubhub)

Celebrities on Broadway

• Gutenberg! The Musical - Starring Andrew Rannells & Josh Gad - the original Book of Mormon Cast(Sept 15 - January 28, 2024 )
• Merrily We Roll Along - Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe & Lindsay Mendez ( Sept 19, 2023 – March 24, 2024 )
• Sweeney Todd - Josh Groban & Annaleigh Ashford (Will be Aaron Tveit & Sutton Foster starting February 9, 2024)
• I Need That - Danny DeVito (October 13 - December 30, 2023)
• Mother Play - Jessica Lange, Jim Parsons (April 2, 2024 - ?)
• Mary Jane - Rachel McAdams (April 2024)

Buy Great Broadway Tickets Today!

Top picks for broadway tickets.

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• Ticketmaster Deals - lots of shows with 2 For 1, Me+3 and 4-Pack deals.
• American Express Ticketmaster Deals - for cardholders.
• StubHub - great selection, NY's most popular ticket reseller

NYC Hotels Times Square

• Best NYC Hotels Times Square
• NEW NYC Hotels Times Square
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Boutique Hotels in Times Square

• Best New Years Eve NYC Hotels with Ball Drop Views
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NYC Sightseeing Cruises - NYC Insider Guide Favorites!

Which is the best new york city discount pass, save with a new york city attractions pass, fun things to do in new york in spring.

• Things to Do in NY in Spring
• Volleyball in New York City
• Tennis in New York City
• Biking in New York City
• Insider Guide to Central Park
• Things to do in NYC in March
• Things to do in NYC in April
• Things to do in NY in May
• Mother's Day in NYC
• Best NYC Hotel Rooftops
• Free Things to Do in NYC
• 100 FREE things to do in NYC in Summer
• Things to do in New York in April
• Private Central Park Walking Tour with a Personal Photographer – get professional photos of you and your loved ones in Times Square, The Plaza Hotel, Central Park and more on this 2 hour guided tour.
• NYC Rooftop Lounge Tour – guaranteed access to some of our exclusive nighttime hot spots as you ascend to the city’s rooftop bars to sip cocktails under the starry sky.
• Tennis in New York City – NYC public parks tennis season generally runs from the first Saturday in April to the Sunday before Thanksgiving

New York City Spring Break

• See a Broadway Show, like &Juliet or Spamalot. .
• Luna Park on Coney Island
• The Rangers @ MSG.
• The New York Auto Show @ Javits Center
• The Macy’s Flower Show and the Orchid Show at NYBG are in bloom.
• Earth Day Festival
• As always, there’s all our famous Zoos, Museums and Skyscrapers to visit.

Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace at Rockefeller Center

Hudson yards, sightsee from the sky.

• Empire State Building - (86 and 102 floors) Best for patient movie and history buffs who need to check it off their bucket list. Recently redone indoor 102nd Floor Observatory
• Top of the Rock - (67-70 floors) Best for sweeping 360° vista views, including of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Shorter lines and cheaper than the ESB.
• One World Observatory - (100-102 floors) Best for homage to the Twin Towers. Modern and high tech, with phenomenal views
• Edge - (100-101 floors) Highest outdoor observation deck, glass bottom floor, deck extends 80 feet away from building (photo)
• Summit One Vanderbilt - (91-93 floors) Opens Oct 2021, all glass elevator, indoor and outdoor decks and glass terraces off the side of the building

New Hotels in Manhattan

• The Wall Street Hotel - Opened in 2022 and ranked as NYC's #1 hotel by Travel + Leisure
• Margaritaville Resort Times Square - Times Square's ONLY outdoor pool + rooftop bar on 31st & 32nd floors (photo)
• Moxy Lower East Side - five eating and dining spaces by Tao Group, a local favorite
• Grayson Hotel - adjacent to Bryant Park, "With one-of-a-kind rooftop views of the rivers, Times Square NYE Ball Drop and Edge"

Secret NYC Insider Tours

Best new york city hotel rooftops.

• Ink48 Hotel - right next to the Intrepid Museum and my ALL time favorite rooftop!
• The Ready @ Moxy NYC East Village - all-season rooftop with an amazingly eclectic vibe and great skyline views. (photo)
• The Empire Hotel - year-round indoor/outdoor rooftop with seasonal pool and cabana rentals

Celebrate Earth Day in New York City

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Orchid Show @ New York Botanical Garden

More new york city events april.

• Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom) Festival – Brooklyn Botanic Garden. late March or early April through mid-May.
• Ice Skating in New York City

New York Yankees Schedule

• Yankees Tickets : StubHub | Ticketmaster | Groupon | Ticketmaster Deals
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Things to Do in NYC in April

This post lists the top things to do in New York in April, updated for 2024.

Below we list free, nighttime, as well as family-friendly events and activities that can be found in New York City this month.

• Nighttime Activities
• Free Things to Do
• Family-Friendly
• Tourist Concession Passes

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN APRIL

This is our list of the ten best events and things to do in NYC in April. For even more suggestions, see our comprehensive guide to  things to do in NYC .  

Several of the items below are already included for free with the purchase of a  tourist concession pass .

For tips on the most popular activities in NYC, check out the following posts:

• Walking Tours
• Boat Cruises
• Top NYC Attractions
• 3-Day NYC Itinerary

April is one of the best times to visit New York City. New Yorkers throw off their heavy winter coats, grab an umbrella (just to be safe), and head out to enjoy the city.

Layers are the way to go in April. A jacket works during daylight hours which tend to be in the 50s early in the month and 60s late in the month.

Sweaters are a good addition for after sunset. Evenings run from the high 30s early in the month to high 40s late in the month. Read more about April weather here .

1. Go to a Concert

Many amazing performers come through New York City and its surrounding cities.

Whether you're a fan of hard rock, pop music, or even classic 80s tunes, there are plenty of great concerts to be found in the NYC area this April.

Pop/Rock/Country Concerts

• Billy Joel | April 26th
• Barry Manilow | April 17th-21st

Classical/Opera/Theatre Concerts

• Patty LuPone | April 8th
• New York Philharmonic | April 4th, 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 25th, 26th, 17th

Music Festivals

• WDGA's Rock the Rock Fest | April 25th

For even more choices, check out the  full list of April concerts .

2. See a Sports Event

In April, baseball season is in full swing! There's also basketball, ice hockey, and soccer (or 'football' as it is called by the rest of the world!).

Click on the links below to find tickets for the various New York area teams.

To see New York's professional baseball teams in play, check out the Mets and Yankees ,

Also, Yankee Stadium offers fun and insightful guided tours. Find out more  here . 

If you're in the mood for a dynamic and fast-paced basketball game, you can find that with the Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks .

To really appreciate the speed of a hockey game, you might enjoy a live game with the New York Rangers, New Jersey Devils, or New York Islanders .

To catch the most popular sport in the world, purchase soccer tickets for the New York City FC and New York City Red Bulls .

Check here for even more NYC sporting events in April.

3. See a Broadway Show

There will be several great Broadway musicals in New York City this month.

While there aren't many new productions to see, you will be able to see some of the most popular shows of the last few years.

To find tickets to the following shows, click here .

• The Lion King
• Aladdin: The Musical
• Moulin Rouge
• Sweeney Todd
• Six the Musical

Be sure to read our posts on how to get  cheap Broadway tickets  and use the  TKTS Booth  for tickets.

We list several ways you can save money on what is sure to be a fun night out. 

4. Look into Getting a Tourist Concession Pass

A  tourist concession pass  offers concessionary admission into most of NYC’s popular attractions.

Passes themselves aren’t free, but with some advanced planning, you can create an itinerary where you will end up paying nothing for one or two attractions each day.

There are several different types of passes, so be sure to  read our comparison post  to learn about how you can save the most money on your trip.

5. Take a Walking Tour with Free Tours by Foot

The spring weather is fine for all of our tours and especially good for tours where you can see lots of green space and nature.

In April, the hundreds of different plants, carefully curated by the High Line Park, will be starting to bloom.  

We offer several pay-what-you-wish variations of the  High Line Park Walking Tours . You can also use our  GPS-enabled audio tour of the High Line.

You may find our post on things to see on the High Line helpful to planning a visit to this must-see sight in NYC.

If you're looking for something else to do, consider a guided Central Park Pedicab tour instead!

For a list of all our tours available in April see our schedule of tours .

6. Go to a Stand-up Comedy Show

The New York area attracts some of the biggest names in comedy, and you'll find some of them performing in April.

• Ali Wong | April 1st, 3rd, 4th
• Ilana Glazer | April 10th
• Hasan Minhaj | April 12th

For even more chances to chuckle, check this  list of live stand-up comedians in New York City this March.

Read our post on  things to do in NYC at night  for other after-dark activities.

7. Celebrate National Beer Day

While not an official holiday, unfortunately, National Beer Day (April 7) is a perfect time to take a pub crawl in NYC ! 

The holiday is always April 7 because on that date, in 1933, a new federal law went into effect permitting beer to be sold again for the first time since Prohibition began in 1919.

See our post on  NYC pub crawls . There are plenty to choose from!

If you prefer to go it alone, be sure to read our post on  historic New York City bars .

One spot you should check out is  McSorley's Old Ale House . It's so old that Abraham Lincoln drank there!

8. See a Ballet Performance

If you're interested in seeing a more traditional theatrical performance, the New York City Ballet will be hosted by the David H. Koch Theater from April 23rd- 28th, 2024.

Join them as they celebrate their 75th year, with performances of works by Balanchine and Robbins in April.

Purchase tickets or learn more .

9. Go to the Opera

The award-winning classical music organization known as The Met (the Metropolitan Opera) will have three shows in April.

They bring some of the best talent from around the world for their performances.

Turandot | April 3rd, 6th, 11th, 14th, and 19th

La Rondine | April 2nd, 5th, 9th, 13h, 16th, and 20th

Fire Shut up in My Bone s | April 8th, 12th, 17th, 20th, 24th, 27th

10. Attend the Orchid Show

The Orchid Show returns for its 21st year, this year bringing a fashion-inspired celebration of orchids.

The show runs from February 17th - April 21st at the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory of the New York Botanical Gardens.

There will also be nighttime events with food, cash bars, and music for those aged 21 or older.

Tickets and additional information can be found here .

For even more suggestions for April, see our comprehensive guide to things to do in NYC .  

See the Cherry Blossoms

One place to visit is the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens which for 40 years or so had the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival NYC celebrating these beautiful and delicate trees.

They still keep a "cherry watch" with the blossoms expected to arrive at some point in April.

Roosevelt Island  has its own Cherry Blossom festival .

This is a great excuse to take the Roosevelt Island Tram for the incredible 360 views of NYC!

These are other locations that have cherry trees on their grounds. 

• Central Park
• Green-Wood Cemetery
• Brooklyn Heights' Cadman Plaza Park
• Prospect Park in Park Slope

TIP:  If you are considering purchasing a tourist attraction concession pass, then know that the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens is included in the Explorer Pass . Click here for more ideas of things to do in Brooklyn .

Smorgasburg

In April, NYC's long-running year-round food festival, Smorgasburg , moves outdoors to its Williamsburg location.

This is the largest of the outdoor food festivals in the country with over 100 food vendors dishing out innovative snacks that attract thousands of people each Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

If you would prefer to try delicious food in a smaller environment, try one of our pay-what-you-wish food tours .

Amongst our most popular food tours are our Greenwich Village Food Tour and our  Lower East Side Food Tour .

On each tour, you will have a chance to try out some of NYC's best foods while your guide tells you about the history and culture of the neighborhood you are in.

Visit the New York International Auto Show

The first New York Auto Show took place in 1900!

For over 120 years now they have been sharing what's new and interesting in the auto industry. All of the big names in the industry bring in cars, some of which can be driven.

The show takes place March 29th - April 7th, 2024 at the Javits Convention Center.

Hours are Mondays-Saturdays, 10:00 am-10:00 pm, and Sundays 10:00 am - 7:00 pm.

Tickets can be purchased here.

THINGS TO DO AT NIGHT IN APRIL

Many of the activities included in our top 10 section above can be enjoyed at night as well such as attending a concert, a sporting event, or the Tribeca Film Festival.

Here are a few more ideas on how to spend a great night in New York City.

For even more ideas, see our master post on  things to do in NYC at night  year-round and our  New York night tours .

Take a Night Walking Tour 

April evenings are quite pleasant to explore the city at night. We have many evening tours in April including: 

• Brooklyn Bridge and the 9/11 Memorial
• Midtown Manhattan
• High Line 

You can go directly to our schedule of tours to see what we have on offer each day or you can visit our night tours page for more information. 

Our guided walks are free to join and operate on a pay-what-you-like basis, which means you decide what a tour was worth or what you could afford (even free) when the tour is over.

If walking isn't your thing, then consider a night bus tour . Many of these night tours are already included for free in bus tour packages .

Easter Supper on a Cruise

Most of the cruise lines in NYC have special Easter Supper menus so you can enjoy the traditional foods of the season while gazing at the stunning views of the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge .

In addition to dinner cruises, there are lunch/brunch cruises as well as Easter-themed cruises which are family-friendly .

Take a look at our post about which New York boat tour or cruise is best  to find one that is right for you. 

Orchid Evenings at the New York Botanical Garden

As part of the annual Orchid Show at NYBG (April 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, and 20th), you can attend an Orchid Nights.

This event features music, tours, and special performances all amidst the gorgeous flower displays.

There will be cash bars offering beer, wine, and cocktails for purchase.

Visit their website for more information . 

View the New York Skyline

For spectacular nighttime views of New York City and beyond, visit one of the city's observation decks:

• Empire State Building
• One World Observatory  ( Freedom Tower )
• Top of the Rock , 
• Edge at Hudson Yards

Each deck has its own vantage point, as well as different prices of admission, varying wait times, and opening/closing hours.

Our post  comparing NYC's observation decks  breaks down the pros and cons of each to help you choose which view is right for you. 

Our post on  things to do in NYC at night  has tons more suggestions for activities to do when the sun sets on the Big Apple.

FREE THINGS TO DO IN APRIL

Below is just a handful of the endless list of free things you can do in New York City in April.

Some of the events in the Top 10  section above, like walking the High Line or watching the Easter Bonnet Parade are free. 

For year-round no-cost activities and events, see our in-depth post on  free things to do in NYC .  

Watch the New York Tartan Day Parade

Celebrate all things Scottish on April 6th, 2024, by watching bagpipers, men in kilts, and women in plaid, march in the Tartan Day Parade.

It is part of Tartan Week which schedules cultural events around the city from contemporary Scottish bands playing in bars to pub crawls, readings, and the Scotland Run in Central Park. 

Read more about it on the Tartan Week website.

Watch the Greek Independence Day Parade

This annual parade runs down 5th Avenue between 64th and 79th Streets on April 14th, 2024.

There will be loads of bands and floats and people wearing traditional costumes.

Read more about it on the NY Greek Independence Day Parade Facebook page.

Take a Stroll in Central Park

In April, the park will be blooming all over and the trees will be filling out. Central Park is a wonderful way to experience springtime in NYC. 

Central Park is larger than you may think! Seeing it all would take all day, if not more.

A guided walking tour can help you get the most out of the park in just a few hours.

We offer several  pay-what-you-like  tours of Central Park  and a  GPS-enabled audio tour  of Central Park. We also offer  bike tours  which are super fun for the kids!   

If you can’t join us, explore the park on your own using our  guide to things to do in Central Park .

Macy's Flower Show

The free and famous Macy's Flower Show runs somewhere between mid-March and mid-April each year.

The show includes beautiful, bright floral arrangements, special events including live music, and kids' activities.

The family-friendly event takes place in Marcy's Herald Square.

For more information, and to confirm the 2024 dates, click here .

Macy's is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, so if you join one of our  Midtown Manhattan Walking Tours , you can spend a good part of the day without busting your budget.

Be sure to check out our post about  free things to do in NYC  for more activities for April and year-round.

Enjoy Free Admission to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

On select Fridays every month, you can visit this highly interactive and engaging museum for free between 5 pm and 9 pm.

This museum is housed on an aircraft carrier whose exhibits include a Concorde, submarine & space shuttle, and much more.

In 2024 their free night in April is on the 4th

If you aren't here for the free dates, find out how to get concessionary tickets from our post on  Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum .

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN APRIL

In the above sections, we noted which activities are kid-friendly, such as going to a sports game or watching one of the many parades.

Below are a few more free activities for the family to enjoy in April. 

Be sure to see our posts,  Top Things to Do with Kids in New York City , our  3-day itinerary for families , and our list of over  100 things to do in New York City  which includes dozens of kid-friendly activities. 

Visit the Natural History Museum

The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) has an exciting special exhibit covering sharks. It includes life-sized models up to 33 feet long, interactive exhibits, and fossils.

Note that the exhibit requires that you purchase tickets. (See  their website for more information .)

However, if you are watching your budget, you can visit the AMNH for free (not including special exhibits).

To find out how to visit the museum for free and other ways to save money, see our post,  American Museum of Natural History Tickets and Deals .

Pillow Fight in the Park

In past years this fun, feather-filled event has attracted over 5,000 participants. This year it should be held on a day in April, in the late afternoon, at Washington Square Park .

Just bring a soft pillow and be ready to engage in a jovial public pillow fight.

While you are there, take advantage of exploring the fabulous neighborhood of Greenwich Village.

We offer several  pay-what-you-wish guided walking tours as well as a  GPS-enabled audio tour .

Celebrate Earth Day

Earth Day, on April 22nd, 2024, is celebrated in NYC with a festive, family-friendly outdoor fair in Union Square.

There will be dozens of exhibitors, interactive displays, a green-vehicle show, family activities, music, and entertainment at Union Square Park at E. 17th St. and Park Ave. See their  website  for details.

TIP:  While you are there, enjoy our free  Self-Guided Tour of Union Square and nearby Gramercy Park .

Find many more ideas from our post,  Things to Do with Kids in New York City .

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Visiting New York in

What to expect, getting around.

• Things to do

There's always plenty of fun things to do in NYC in every season. If you are visiting New York City in April, you'll find an especially enticing list of April events. At long last, winter is over, and everyone is ready to get back outdoors. Central Park and other smaller parks are calling, and it's perfect weather for one of the great river cruises.

• Average Daytime Temperatures: 62F (17C)
• Average Overnight Temperatures: 44F (7C)
• Sunny or partly sunny days: 19
• Rainy days: 7-10, 2 with significant rainfall

What to wear

• Pack an umbrella, you will be happy to have it when it starts to rain.
• Dress in layers – in can be cool particularly in the mornings and evenings, especially on the observation decks
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, closed toe shoes and water resistant, so you can enjoy your walking tours, as well as something a bit more fanciful for the nightlife.

New York Prices in April

New York City in April can be a little easier on the budget than during peak season (September-December).

Book your flights and accommodation in advance for best prices, midtown & times square are the most popular choices, but there are plenty of other options, especially in Brooklyn with convenient transport options to Manhattan attractions.

Planning your trip is a key to a balanced budget, use free online resources like our maps & guide or the itinerary tool, if you are going to visit some iconic attractions, get a sightseeing pass, it will easily save you 50% on regular admission prices – see more

New York is easy to navigate, but if you can't walk to your destination there are plenty of options

The quickest way to travel around, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from as low as $2.75 per ride, with stops usually every 8-10 blocks.

If the top taxi number is illuminated it's available, minimum metered fare is $2.50, which increases 50 cents every fifth of a mile or every minute.

Hop on, Hop off Buses

These buses connect major attractions all over the city and provide many photo opportunities, it's also a good way to catch a break or eat your sandwich while still sightseeing.

New York Travel Tips

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Things to do in April

Check out the following list of ideas for fun things to do in new york in april:, 1. macy's flower show.

Celebrate the arrival of spring with the city's best flower show, free to the public. Beginning in late March, Macy's Herald Square puts on a spectacular show of blooms featuring over 30,000 varieties of flowers and flowering trees. You are also likely to be treated to extras like cooking demonstrations, centerpiece design, drawings for prizes, seminars, and other special events. For those who are interested in learning more about the featured plants, guided tours are available every half-hour between 11am and 4pm.

2. Easter Parade

Fifth Avenue's iconic Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival is a one-of-a-kind event. The parade begins at 49th street and marches up Fifth Avenue to 57th Street. The best viewing spot is at Saint Patrick's Cathedral, and if you want to actually be a part of the parade, all that's required is your own unique Easter bonnet. Either way, you'll want to join the crowds for a delicious Easter brunch at one of the area restaurants.

3. Adult Easter Egg Hunts

Get a team together and join NYC's Amazing Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt. Use the city as your backyard and solve the clues to fill your basket. The winning team is awarded an NYC gift basket. There is also a family-friendly option for kids.

4. Cherry Festival Blossoms

This festival at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden is a favourite April event. Get your tickets in advance for this fabulous event featuring cultural performances, family-friendly activities, lots of vendors, and more.

5. Earth Day

The city hosts many Earth Day events during the month of April. One of the best can be found at Union Square with dozens of exhibitors, kid's activities and live performances.

Rainy Day Options in New York

Broadway shows.

Taking a Broadway show will chase away any rainy day blues during your visit to New York City. It might not be possible to get last minute tickets to every show, but you can find something a couple of hours before the show starts by visiting the box office of the theatre.

NYC Museums

Your weather app says it’s going to be raining the whole day? Head over to one of the best NYC Museums. Whether your interest is in art, science or city history, there’s something for everyone in just about every neighbourhood. Pick from MoMA, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Whitney Museum of American Art, Museum of the City of New YorkorEl Museo del Barrio.

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The 46 Best Things to Do in Spring in NYC 2024

What to do in the spring in new york we've got you covered.

For us, Spring in New York is the best time of the year. It’s finally getting warmer out and everything starts blooming. More than ever we are looking forward to enjoying springtime in New York with a cup of coffee and drinking it in the beautiful Central Park.

You may also like:

• Things to do in New York City
• The 16 Best Cruises in New York
• Parks in New York

In this article, we show you the absolute best Things to Do in Spring in New York to make the most of your time in the Big Apple including the best events and tours. Don’t forget to check out my list of the 21 Best Spring Weekend Getaways from NYC if your itinerary allows it.

Table of Contents

My TOP 46 Things to Do in Spring in New York

Here is a list of our favorite activities and tours you should do when you’re visiting New York during spring:

Marvel at the beautiful Cherry Blossoms

You don’t have to fly to Japan to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms. Did you know you can get this same experience during spring in New York? It’s true! In April, at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, there’s a bloom of cherry blossoms each year. The event goes from April 1st until the end of the month, and visitors come from all corners of the Earth to view this event. 

Not only are the cherry blossoms gorgeous, but the botanical garden itself is worth a visit as well. You’ll have a hard time believing that you see so many rare plants in the middle of New York City!

Macy’s Flower Show

Florals are a natural part of spring but are groundbreaking when they’re presented by an iconic department store like Macy’s. Macy’s marquee stores in NYC present a two-week show that presents nearly one million trees, plants, and flowers to celebrate spring for both nature and fashion. 

People from near and far flock to this exhibition each year, and it’s one of the best places to see awe-inspiring floral arrangements that are decorated according to a given theme. For example, the theme was outer space a few years ago, so arrangements had nods to stars, comets, planets, and more. 

The Orchid Show

The New York Botanical Garden supports over one million living plants in its extensive collection. It is truly a beautiful experience to explore the plant life in over 50 different gardens, giving you something to explore throughout each season. From exhibitions to the gift shop and hands-on experiences for kids this oasis of plants is a great day out for families!

The Botanical Garden has constantly changing exhibitions and displays various plants. Among the most important of them is the “Orchid Show”, which takes place every year in spring. This year, in an impressive greenhouse, you can admire the 20th Orchid Show from February until April.

This year the motto of the exhibition is “Natural Heritage”. Guest designer is artist Lily Kwong, who used art objects and her Chinese roots to inspire visitors to reflect on their own life stories for this exhibition. On selected Saturdays in March and April, there will be “Orchid Evenings” from 7pm to 10pm, where guests can enjoy the exhibition with music, food & drinks.

Have a Picnic in the Parks of New York

The parks in New York City are absolutely beautiful during Spring NYC. Our favorite places are  Central Park or Battery Park which is the perfect location to enjoy a break from the busy city life. Spring is absolutely ideal for that because the temperatures are just perfect. Who has been to New York during Summer knows what we are talking about. Also, make sure that you don’t miss the cherry blossom throughout the city.

Plan a spring weekend getaway from NYC

There are many wonderful destinations near New York City that are worth visiting in the spring. Looking for some inspiration? Check out my of the 21 best spring weekend getaways from NYC here!

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The famous St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which is one of the oldest, attracts around 700,000 people annually who want to be part of the spectacle. The parade takes place either directly on March 17th or – if it is a weekday – on the following weekend. Destination of the parade is the St. Patrick Cathedral. At 11 a.m. on the dot, the parade starts moving north at 44th Street/corner of 5th Avenue.

Plan a cruise in spring

New York in the spring is amazing and there are lots of things to do outside.The trees in the parks of New York are starting to bloom, especially the cherry blossom in the Brooklyn Botanical Garden is impressive. So for me, there’s nothing better than experiencing the first signs of green from the river – and you can do that with spring boat tours.

👉 And these are the 9 best cruises in spring .

Celebrate Earth Day in April

A tribute to nature and our wonderful planet Earth – this is celebrated in New York on April 22nd. Where? Everywhere with a whole host of events in parks, beaches and everything our favorite outdoor town has to offer. Earth Day is used here in New York to be conscious of the impact each of us has on nature. 

Therefore, there are many ways to get involved and to discuss the topic of “ecological footprint”. One of the most popular events is held at the Union Square Park, where local bands play at a block party. There are delicious, environmentally-friendly snacks and stands from environmental organizations that present many interesting campaigns.

Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival

New York City is adorned with around 300 brightly painted XL Easter eggs. The famous Easter eggs can be seen everywhere in the city centre and are also a popular photo motif. The annual Easter Parade, the Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival, moves from 49th to 57th Street.

New Yorkers meet and walk along Fifth Avenue towards Central Park. The start is at 10:00 am in the morning, ending at 4 PM. A very popular place to watch the parade is St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue. Look out for all the ravishing hats and make sure you look your best! 

Frieze New York (May 17 – 21, 2023)

For art enthusiasts, one of the best things to do in spring in NYC is attending Frieze New York. It’s hosted on The Shed at Hudson Yards and features works from over 1,000 artists and 200 international galleries. 

There are many other fun things to do at the festival as well, such as sitting in on one of the famous panel discussions, soaking in the breathtaking views of The Vessel, and most importantly – immersing yourself in many imaginative outdoor and indoor projects. 

Photo by Casey Kelbaugh. Courtesy of Casey Kelbaugh/Frieze

Enjoy a Broadway Musical

Let’s be honest, there’s no wrong time of the year to see a Broadway musical. However, spring is an excellent time to look for new releases. And the best part is that there are so many Broadway theaters in New York City that you have many options for different productions at any given time. Perhaps you’d like to catch a recent Disney musical or the latest release that everyone’s talking about.

In order to help you out, we’ve created an overview of the absolute best Broadway shows in NYC in spring !

The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)

Be part of the Memorial Day Parade (May 29th, 2023)

The parades take place – on the last Monday in May – in all five boroughs, with the Little Neck Douglaston Parade in Queens not only being the largest in New York, but also the largest nationwide. Little Neck is the start and Douglaston the finish of the parade. In Manhattan there is surprisingly only a small Memorial Day Parade. It starts at Dyckman Street and Broadway in Inwood, the most northern district of Manhattan.

Fleet Week (May 24, 2023 – May 30, 2023)

Though it’s only officially been a celebration since 1982, Fleet Week has been a beloved spring activity in New York for many years before that. The week is hosted by the United States Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard each year and features active military ships that are deployed in overseas missions to dock in a variety of big cities for one week.

After the ship is docked, the crew enters the city and visits tourist attractions. At scheduled times, the public can enjoy a guided tour of the ship, and demonstrations by the Blue Angels usually accompany this event.

Free Exhibitions At Little Island

Just as the name suggests, the exhibitions at Little Island each year are 100% free. This initiative works to revitalize the entertainment and art sector of NYC by celebrating the creativity of local artists and the spirit of all people. This festival lasts for four weeks each spring and features many live performances from dancers, choreographers, poets, comedians, composers, and other musicians.

My tip: Here you find the Best Art Exhibitions in New York City  and click here for the Little Island event calendar.

Let's celebrate Cinco de Mayo

What St. Patrick’s Day is to the Irish, Cinco De Mayo is to the Mexicans. El Cinco de Mayo (Spanish for “May 5”) is a commemoration of the victory of the Mexican army led by General Ignacio Zaragoza during the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862 against the clearly superior French Expeditionary Force. 

In New York, that means one thing above all: tequila, margaritas and a lot of partying with the locals. Both in the countless Mexican restaurants and bars in New York is celebrated big, but also during the Cinco De Mayo Parade in Manhattan, which stretches from Central Park West 106th Street to 96th Street.

Attend A Performance At The Shed

Spring in New York presents many opportunities to take in some local art and theatre. The Shed commissions original art for all audiences across all disciplines. It brings together emerging and established artists who range from classical to hip hop music, digital media to painting, literature to theatre, and dance to sculpture in an enormous moveable structure that works to support all types of artistic work under one roof.

The Shed is located where Hudson Yards and the High Line meet and borders the Gardens and Public Square.

Join the National Tartan Day Parade (April 15, 2023)

National Tartan Day celebrates the friendship between the USA and Scotland. This is officially on April 6 and, like St. Patrick’s Day, has a National Tartan Day Parade, which is the highlight for many. In 2023, Tartan Day will be held for the 25th time, heralding Tartan Week.

The famous National Tartan Day Parade will be held on Saturday, 15th April, 2023 .

International Pillow Fight Day (April 1, 2023)

The largest public pillow fight in the world takes place in New York City, of course. Usually beginning of April, you meet each other with pillows and teddy bears. Even if you do not have a pillow on hand, it will definitely be comical to watch. This is an international event where others will be participating in their city as well! 

Enjoy a delicious burrito on National Burrito Day (April 6, 2023)

Celebrate National Burrito Day in one the Mexican restaurants in NYC. One of our favorite spots is El Vez in Lower Manhattan. From 11 AM to 3 PM there will be delicious burritos for lunch.  In addition, they serve one of the tastiest margaritas in Manhattan. What better way to spend the day and also have a view of the One World Trade Center.

My tip: here you find the  best Mexican restaurants in NYC right now!

Bronx Night Market

The Bronx Night Market is one of the best places to find foods that celebrate New York City’s most northern borough. Each spring, this event supports the Bronx’s food scene by offering world-class events that are affordable. Be ready to celebrate cuisine and culture, as it represents NYC’s diverse offerings and encourages people from all around the city to experience this borough. 

You’ll find just about every type of food, from ice cream, latkes, and pastries, to tamales, soul food, and vegan options. There are also other types of local merchants and live entertainment. 

Visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

One of NYC’s newest Skyscrapers and one of the 30 tallest in the world is One Vanderbilt. The tower stands 1,401 feet above midtown Manhattan’s streets. It features an observation deck called “Summit,” which has mirrored floors and walls, a glass elevator, and an outdoor terrace.

The top four floors provide guests with an immersive experience that’s not found anywhere else in the world!

Visit one of the other amazing observation decks in NYC!

You know what’s really unique about New York? The view of Central Park from one of the observation decks! With the Top of the Rock , The Edge Hudson Yards and the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt you have three to choose from!

And then there’s the One World Observatory and the Empire State Building . No matter which observation deck you choose, you’ll have an amazing view over the city!

If you want to visit several observations decks, attractions and tours in New York, check out the New York sightseeing passes. You can save up to 60% on the ticket price!

To find out which New York Pass is the best for you, check out my New York Pass Comparison .

Enjoy springtime on Governors Island

After months of cold weather and being stuck indoors, take advantage of New York’s beautiful spring weather and head over to Governors Island for a day. If you’re unfamiliar, this famous Island is made up of 172-acres of land right in the middle of the New York Harbor. There are many activities here, such as bike rentals, a hammock grove, guided walking tours, lavender fields, historic photo walking tours, and more.

Spring on Governors Island is really beautiful when everything is blooming again!

Westlight NYC

Springtime in New York means rooftop-bar season! There’s nothing like the Manhattan skyline, especially at night. If you’re looking for some nightlife during spring in New York, then find a local rooftop bar and enjoy a few drinks. And the best part is that there are many different bars from which to choose, so there’s an option for everyone.

My Tip: Check out our article about the best rooftop bars in NYC .

Celebrate National Beer Day (April 7, 2023)

Beer lovers this day is for you! On April 7, the US celebrates National Beer Day. Visit one of the countless beer gardens or pubs in New York and hit the most beautiful city in the world. Bottoms up!

My tip:  these are our 50 Best Bars in Manhattan  right now, these are the best bars on Bleecker Street and these are our favorite bars in the East Village !

Celebrate NYC Maple Fest (April 14, 2023)

At the Grand Bazaar, everything revolves around the sweet maple syrup. Taste your way through the various tastings and make sure you’re hungry. What I find really nice about it? With the purchase any product you support the organizer, who donates the entire profit and you have a really meaningful souvenir that will remind you of your New York trip for a long time! 

By the way: the Grand Bazaar NYC is the largest weekly market in New York City. 

Cast iron architecture

If you’re big into photography, then make sure to bring your camera to this neighborhood. SoHo fashion is some of the best fashion in the country and the art scene is top-notch as well. If photographing people isn’t your thing, then you also have the option of shooting the cast-iron buildings.

During the industrial revolution, cast-iron architecture was very popular as everyone was convinced that iron was much more substantial and fireproofed than steel. At the time, cast-iron fronts were built more often than normal wooden houses. These typical cast-iron buildings are the reason why so many producers decided to shoot their films or commercials on the streets of SoHo .

The fire escape staircases along with the architecture give the neighborhood its unique look. These beautiful buildings belong to SoHo similar to how yellow cabs belong to NYC.

It is Baseball Season!

We are calling all sports fans! Spring marks the beginning of baseball season, which means your favorite New York teams, such as the New York Mets and New York Yankees , will return home. Regardless of which team you root for, home games begin live in February each year.

And the best part is that even those who aren’t baseball fans will appreciate spending time at Citi Field or Yankee Stadium, as both places offer high-end food that puts Cracker Jack and peanuts to shame!

Run the Brooklyn Marathon (April 23, 2023)

The marathon in New York is one of the most famous and popular long-distance races in the world and attracts many New Yorkers and visitors to the city every year. And since 2022, Brooklyn is now also having its own marathon!

This means that New York has two different races over the distance of 42.195 kilometers to offer. The Brooklyn Marathon takes place in the spring, which is more interesting for the participants (btw: respect!), the New York Marathon starts in November, where it can be much colder.

Dinner At The Met

Do you have a date this spring and are looking for somewhere fun and exciting to have dinner? Try no other than the Met. The Metropolitan Art Museum is home to several eateries where you’ll enjoy different types of cuisine. For example, on the ground floor at The Eatery , you’ll find a family-friendly restaurant that serves sandwiches, pizza, salad, soup, and more.

Then, there’s the American Wing Cafe, where you can enjoy some delicious coffee, beer, wine, and snacks. There are also other places such as The Balcony Lounge and Trie Cafe.

My tip: The Met is part of our list of the 36 Best Museums in NYC !

Visit The Statue Of Liberty Museum

If you’ve never been to the Statue of Liberty Museum, then take time this spring and go! Seeing Lady Liberty with your own eyes and seeing the history is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s one you don’t want to miss!

When here, be sure to make time for all three interactive galleries. Each tells a different story behind the statue’s history but does so in a thought-provoking way that inspires visitors.

Enjoy Manhattanhenge (May 29 + 30)

Twice a year, the sun sets at a specific angle. The streets and avenues of New York are set up as a grid. During this time, the sun will align perfectly in between the skyscrapers. This phenomenon is called  Manhattanhenge and can be observed in May and July. Do not miss out on this one. What’s even just as astonishing is how many people show up and take pictures of this special occasion.

According to Farmers Almanac these are the exact dates:

• May 29, 2023: 8:13 pm (half sun)
• May 30, 2023: 8:14 pm (full sun)

Don't miss New York International Auto Show in April

They say it’s the most important event in your automotive calendar. If you love cars and everything else that comes with it, you will enjoy the New York International Auto Show. The set up is just as impressive as the fancy cars. Clearly an event you shouldn’t miss.

Eat At The Time Out Market

If you’re looking for a new place to eat during spring in New York, check out The Time Out Market. Here you’ll find a diverse roster of bars and restaurants that are complemented by unique cultural experiences. Visiting this market will allow you to taste all of the classic New York dishes, from tasty pizza to hot pastrami sandwiches and much more. In fact, you’ll even find NYC’s best Thai food here as well.

Women's History Month

If spring puts you in a social mood, check out one of the many events in NYC related to Women’s History Month. This annual time is perfect for paying homage to one of many locally-owned businesses either owned by or catering to women. 

You’ll find panels, parties, and movie screenings, among other events. There’s been Art + Feminism, Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon, A Day Without a Woman, and vast discounts at local businesses in years past. 

Five Boro Bike Tour (May 7, 2023)

Participants meet for the “Five Boro Bike Tour” to cycle through all 5 boroughs in New York. The riders will be riding 40 miles in total. Driving through the city without traffic is only possible once a year when America’s largest cycling event takes place. 

The “Five Boro Bike Tour” can almost take an entire day and takes place throughout the Big Apple, including all five city districts. The 32,000 attendees are routed through the streets of Manhattan, through the green and blossoming Central Park, Ride across five big bridges, roll through the Brooklyn and Queens scene districts, and the Bronx to end up in the pedals and head for Staten Island. The atmosphere is similar to running events: Breathtaking.

Walk the High Line

There are few parks as unique as the High Line. Even though the park is open year-round, The High Line really shines during the warmer months, especially in the spring. The elevated freight rail line was repurposed as a public green space that opened in 2009 and now offers amazing views of the city, as well as a place to relax and unwind.

Its plant life is based directly off what was growing there while it was abandoned, giving this park a unique and interesting atmosphere! The High Line stretches from The Meatpacking District all the way to Hudson Yards-34th Street.

Classic Harbor Line: Sunset Sail

Enjoy a relaxing and romantic sailing cruise with your sweetheart. Most New Yorkers agree that one of the best things to do in spring in New York is taking a boat tour around NYC. These cruises are available during the day or evening hours, so you have the option to sail the seas while the sun is out or even while it is setting. There are many from which to choose, so decide what you want from the sailing experience and choose someone who offers just that!

My tip: These are the best cruises in NYC in Spring .

Smorgasburg Food Market

Smorgasburg Food Market is one of the hottest open-air food markets in New York City. People come here to meet, eat, drink and enjoy the view of the Manhattan skyline on the East River Waterfront during the warmer months. Smorgasburg means “a mixture of food” and offers a huge selection of small stalls. The main spot for Smorgasburg is in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and is very popular among the locals. It’s more of an experience and it’s always a great time with friends.

Wine-tasting with a View during Spring in NYC: Rooftop Reds

The only problem with this beautiful view of the NYC skyline? It just happens to be interrupted by NYC’s only rooftop vineyard!

Located in Brooklyn, Rooftop Reds is actually the world’s first commercially viable urban rooftop vineyard. That means in addition to getting a wide-open view of the NYC skyline, you’re also supporting one of the most innovative wine projects in NYC.

And what would a glass of wine be without a great pairing? Rooftop Reds has this covered with a wide selection of gourmet cheeses to start the meal, then a partnership with nearby pizzeria Il Porto. If you’ve got a bold wine, pair it with Al Diavolo Pizza for a spice-forward blend.

Enjoy A Drink with a View at Grand Banks

Grand Banks is a celebrated oyster bar that’s aboard a historic wooden schooner named the Sherman Zwicker. This place offers one of the best spring waterfront dining experiences in all of New York City. And did we mention that this boat was inspired by the “oyster barges” that used to float along Manhattan’s waterfront during the 18th and 19th centuries?

This is one of my TOP 3 spots in the city!

So, here you’ll enjoy dining on sustainably sourced oysters and see what dining out was like a few hundred years ago.

Honorable William Wall opens end of spring!

The Honorable William Wall, affectionately called “Willy Wall”, is the floating clubhouse of the Manhattan Yacht Club. The clubhouse is anchored in New York Harbor north of Ellis Island from May to October. What is so special about it? It’s definitely an insider’s spot, which not only gives you a great view of Ellis Island and of course the Statue of Liberty – you can also enjoy the sunset from here.

Affordable Art Fair

Fall is a great time to get outside and enjoy the colors of nature. But if a walk in nature is too boring for you, you should go to the Affordable Art Fair and get high-quality art at affordable prices. 

This art event takes place at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Chelsea every year, where you can admire contemporary artworks at prices ranging from $100 to $10,000.

Bike Month (May 2023)

Did you know that each spring, in May, there’s an annual Bike Month in the city? It’s the country’s largest charitable bike ride that boasts over 32,000 participants along a 40-mile ride. And did we mention there are no cars in sight?

What is Bike Month all about? To ride as many miles as possible by bicycle through New York City. This event is especially popular among New Yorkers in the spring, because on the one hand you get to see the city from completely new perspectives, and on the other hand you do something good!

At the very end of Bike Month, there are various prizes to be won. For example, the team and also individuals with the most miles ridden will be awarded.

Celebrate the opening of Flipper's at The Rink (usually in April)

New York has a new attraction to offer: Flipper’s at The Rink! It’s a roller skating rink at Rockefeller Center that you can visit from April to October. This means that Rockefeller Plaza now has something to offer all year round, in addition to its famous Rockefeller Ice Rink.

Go shopping at Woodbury Common Outlet

Shopping addicts will have their money’s worth in Spring too. You can either stroll the city’s streets or take a trip to the Woodbury Common Outlet Center. You will not only find many famous brands at lower prices, but also a large food hall with a wide selection of different sweet and savory dishes. You can already save money on your way to the outlet, because the bus ride is included in some of the New York Sightseeing passes, for example the New York Pass .

Photos of New York During Springtime

Events during Spring in NYC

As mentioned earlier springtime in New York means that there are a lot of things going on in the city. Head over to our monthly guides for detailed information on events in Spring in NYC.

The 33 Best Things To Do In NYC In April 2024

The 42 Best Things To Do In NYC In May 2024

The 55 Best Things To Do In New York In June 2024

Things To Do

The 16 Absolute Best Cruises in New York

The best parks in new york.

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

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Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

The Travel Women

Nyc travel guide: top 11 things to do in april.

One of the best times to visit NYC is in April when spring flowers are blooming and the weather is beginning to warm up before it is almost too hot in summer. The high/low weather averages 62/45 degrees Fahrenheit or 17/7 degrees Celsius. If you love seeing flowers and cherry blossoms, read and watch our guide to the best places to see spring flowers here. Keep reading for the best things to do in NYC in April.

Table of Contents

1. Pillow Fight:

New York’s annual pillow fight on International Pillow Fight Day is celebrated in Washington Square Park. The only rules are not to hit too hard, avoid cameras and bring non-feather pillows. Mattress Firm’s NoHo location also has pillows available for a $5 donation to their Foster Kids program.

2. NYBG Orchid Show:

The New York Botanical Garden’s annual Orchid Show is a feast for the senses. Orchid lovers can enjoy a spectacular show uptown in the Bronx. Learn more about this year’s theme and the history of the orchid here .

3. Macy’s Flower Show:

For over 70 years Macy’s Herald Square in NYC transforms its department store into a lavish garden showcasing millions of live flowers and trees from around the world. There are 3 participating cities: NYC, Chicago and San Francisco. This year’s theme is out of this world: it’s called Journey to Paradisios, Operation: Inspiration.

4. Birreria, Eataly Rooftop:

Spring marks the beginning of rooftop season. Sip on Italian wine at Eataly’s rooftop, Birreria, that changes décor with the season. In spring it is blooming with fake flowers everywhere. See the menu here .

5. Roosevelt Island cherry blossoms:

This is one of my favorite places to see cherry blossoms, but it can get packed, go early to avoid crowds. Swipe your subway MetroCard to take the tram featured in Spiderman or take the F subway line to the island.

6. Walk the Highline:

Stroll over a mile of uninterrupted elevated park from Hudson Yards and the Vessel to the Whitney Museum of American Art just below Little W 12th Street. This former New York Central Railroad elevated track was transformed in 2009 into a “living system” park. Where else can you walk about 20 NYC blocks without waiting at lights to navigate between taxis or bikes?

7. Easter Bonnet Festival:

Walk along Fifth Avenue to admire and laugh at the interesting Easter bonnets. The parade route begins at 49th Street and proceeds up Fifth Avenue to 57th Street past the stunning St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Learn more here .

8. Earth Day Initiative Union Square:

Attend the most high-traffic Earth Day event in the nation in Manhattan’s Union Square. Almost 100 organizations gather in Union Square to celebrate Earth Day with free family-friendly events. Earth Day’s Initiative hosts an annual event from noon to 6:30 p.m. This year they will countdown the 50th anniversary of Earth Day which began in 1970 with a Do Just 1 Thing campaign to encourage people to switch to clean energy.

9. Baseball season kicks off with the Yankees and Mets:

If you love baseball or just love the ballpark food and atmosphere then head to the Yankee Stadium or the Mets’ Citi Field .

10. Tribeca Film Festival:

The Tribeca Film Festival was founded after 9/11 to draw people to Lower Manhattan. It is a forum for films of all budgets and styles from documentaries to shorts. There are several informative talks and discussions. See the schedule of events here .

11. Food Truck Festival:

Feast at the largest food truck festival in New York City. Grand Bazaar NYC hosts 17 of the top food trucks where 100% of the profits are donated to local public school students.

What’s your favorite thing to do in April? Comment below!

Read next: Best places to see spring in NYC or NYC Subway Secrets

• ← 11 Best Spring Places to See Cherry Blossoms in NYC
• The 13 Best Things To Do in New York City in May 2019 →

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New York City   Travel Guide

34 Best Things to Do in NYC

There are countless reasons to be mesmerized by New York, from its skyscrapers and monuments to its vibrant art, food, fashion and nightlife. Across the city, fresh perspectives are yours to be found; go for a stroll in Central Park or along the High

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Central Park Central Park free

This part-park, part-museum, part-concert hall swallows central Manhattan, and many of the city's most notable attractions are situated next to it or within its limits ( the Guggenheim , the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History , to name a few). But travelers insist that you shouldn't just pass through Central Park on your way to another place. This 843-acre green space is a favorite of New Yorkers and tourists; you can come here to exercise, dine, go to the zoo and more.

Almost everyone has a positive impression of the park, but no one has quite the same experience or recommends that you do quite the same thing. There's an almost impossible amount of sights to see here (hidden treasures, indeed), including more than 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, monuments or sculptures, and 30 bridges. Here's a shortlist:

National September 11 Memorial & Museum National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum serves as the primary tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six lost in the 1993 bombing. The memorial's twin reflecting pools and human-made waterfalls rest as eerie footprints where the World Trade Center's twin towers once stood. The 1-acre pools are enclosed in bronze panels on which the names of every victim are inscribed. The museum spans across 110,000 square feet and relays the narrative of the attacks through a series of multimedia displays, real-time recordings, authentic artifacts and interactive technology.

Recent visitors cited the overall atmosphere of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum as sobering and moving. Many travelers say they were impressed with the site as a whole, noting its respectful and informational displays. Reviewers say you won't want to rush your time here, with some recommending that you budget three to four hours to see all of the exhibits.

Empire State Building Empire State Building

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watch out for "sunset peak" pricing, which adds an extra $10 per ticket for two hours around sunset each evening. But on a clear day, it just might be worth it. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

New York City Tourist 101 dictates that you must swing by this landmark structure in midtown Manhattan. And despite the hefty admission fees, the crowds and the long lines, recent visitors insist that you won't be sorry. In fact, taking a trip to the top of the Empire State Building is either the perfect way to begin or end your Big Apple excursion – on a clear day you'll be able to the see the city's major highlights some 1,250 feet beneath you. 

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Metropolitan Museum of Art Metropolitan Museum of Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come for the art, stay for the rooftop cocktails. A seasonal rooftop garden bar offers views over Central Park, which is especially coveted at sunset. The roof garden stays open into the evening on Friday and Saturday. – Jessica Colley Clarke

No museum in the United States is as celebrated as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Spilling over with masterpieces from all over the world, including notable collections from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, "the Met" is an art experience unlike any other, and like much in New York, it's impossible to see all the museum has to offer in one day (or even two days, for that matter). 

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Statue of Liberty is at the top of many travelers’ must-see lists. A feat of 19th-century technical engineering and a beacon for immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, the statue can be admired from several different vantage points around Manhattan, including Battery Park and the High Line . But to truly appreciate its size and significance, you’ll want to visit the statue and Ellis Island while on your NYC vacation.

The only way to access the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is by using the official National Park Service ferry operator, Statue City Cruises. If you’re departing from the New York side, you’ll hop on a ferry at Battery Park in lower Manhattan. If you’re departing from the New Jersey side, you’ll depart from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The ferry ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

Brooklyn Bridge Brooklyn Bridge free

One of many signature landmarks of New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge is also one of the oldest suspension bridges in the country and a National Historic Landmark. Its six lanes (and one pedestrian and bicycle walkway) span the East River, connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn. Walking across the bridge remains a tourist pastime.

Some visitors decide to skip the bridge in favor of other attractions, but if you're short on money, this truly is one of the best ways to experience the city and to get a unique view of either borough at no cost. Several reviewers warn that since there is no shade along the bridge, it can get quite hot in the summertime (though there are vendors selling bottles of water). Many also warned that it can get quite crowded, and advised visiting in the morning before 9 a.m. if you don't want to maneuver around crowds.

The High Line The High Line free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds. If you walk from north to south, add on a visit to The Standard Biergarten or the vibrant Chelsea Market for great people-watching, food and drink. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Set on an abandoned rail track on Manhattan's West Side, this sprawling, nearly 1½-mile-long landscaped park stretches over three of the city's most lively neighborhoods: the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. Standing 30 feet above street level, the High Line offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and Manhattan's cityscape. But the vista isn't the only reason visitors and Manhattanites flock to this manicured green space. Here, you'll find continually changing public art installations, a handful of food vendors and a sprawling picnic and sunbathing area (known as the 23rd Street Lawn).

NYC Food Tours NYC Food Tours

Known for everything from cheap eats to authentic international fare to Michelin-starred restaurants, New York City is a culinary hot spot and undoubtedly one of the best foodie cities in America . However, chances are you won't have time to experience everything the city has to offer in just one trip. One way to get a taste of New York's excellent cuisine across a variety of neighborhoods is to take a food tour.

Whether you want to explore a particular borough or neighborhood, or even a specific cuisine or dish, you'll find a tour to appease your taste buds. Relying on traveler reviews and expert analysis, U.S. News rounded up the best food tours in New York City . Though tours vary in length and price, they all receive rave reviews from past travelers, who applauded the variety of food and the expert knowledge of the guides.

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Washington Square Park Washington Square Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Finding an empty bench in Washington Square Park after visiting one of the neighborhood's independent bookstores – from The Strand to Three Lives & Company to Left Bank Books – is a true lower Manhattan pleasure. – Jessica Colley Clarke

The central gathering place of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park, an almost 10-acre green space known for its downtown buzz. Here, kids splash in the fountain, musicians perform to a crowd, artists sell sketches or photographs, and chess enthusiasts gather to challenge each other to a game. What was historically a cemetery and later a bohemian hot spot is now a neighborhood institution that draws locals and visitors alike with its kids' playground, sizable dog run and ample shady space for picnics. An arch dedicated to George Washington is the dominant architectural feature of the park. 

Broadway Broadway

U.S. News Insider Tip: Start your day with a stop at the TKTS booth in Times Square or at the Lincoln Center location to snag discounted same-day tickets for an array of Broadway and off-Broadway shows. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

Some out-of-towners spend their entire New York trip at one show or another on the Broadway circuit. And if you like plays and musicals, this is where you should be: "The Great White Way" represents the heart and soul of American theater. Considering that nearby Times Square is a dizzying maze of sights and sounds with no real starting point, some visitors suggest you can see all you need to of that neighborhood just by trundling back and forth between shows. 

One World Observatory One World Observatory

Formerly known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan. This observatory sits atop the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the highest point in the city. You'll find it adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial . At more than 125,000 square feet, the three-level observatory is located on the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors of this office skyscraper. Travelers enjoy the panoramic, 360-degree views, up to 45 miles in every direction on clear days. 

Visitors reach the observatory by direct express elevators known as SkyPods. The trip upward includes a visual presentation showing how New York has changed over the decades, from open land to smaller buildings to skyscrapers. The trip takes less than a minute. Expect a multimedia presentation at the top before stunning views are revealed. A restaurant and bar on the 101st floor are open to guests who have purchased tickets to the observatory. 

Grand Central Terminal Grand Central Terminal free

At this beautiful train station, you can eat some lunch or shop till you drop, but recent travelers most enjoyed just taking in the scenery. Before you enter, be sure to snap a few shots of the exterior's ornate beaux-arts neoclassical architecture. Inside the celebrated main concourse, you're treated to glimmering marble floors, gold and nickel-plated chandeliers and a sky-themed ceiling. Other must-sees include the Information Booth clock, the Whispering Gallery and Grand Central Market, a European-style food market that sells produce, gourmet ingredients and treats. Food options range from the upscale (Cipriani Dolci and The Campbell Bar) to the legendary (the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant) to the fast and easy (Shake Shack). As mentioned, there are also plenty of shopping options, though most travelers suggest you leave most of Grand Central's pricey merchandise in the store. If you want a train-themed souvenir, visit The New York Transit Museum Store in the shuttle passage.

Travelers call the train station "iconic" and say it's a beautiful space to walk through or to grab a meal and people-watch.

Bryant Park Bryant Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This Midtown park draws crowds for two seasonal events: summer movie nights under the stars and a holiday market complete with ice skating. For summer picnics or winter shopping sprees, Bryant Park delivers year-round. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Sprawling across nearly 10 acres, Bryant Park sits just south of Times Square – though it feels a world away. Though its lush green space has existed for more than 150 years, Bryant Park was a revitalization project of the 1990s that made it a sanctuary for locals and tourists alike. This is the preferred place for midtown Manhattan professionals to eat lunch, for fashionistas to strut during fashion week and for performers to showcase their talents during annual events like Broadway in Bryant Park and Piano in Bryant Park. If you're interested in learning more about the park's history, consider joining one of its free tours. Tours, which last 45 minutes, are free and offered every Wednesday, year-round. 

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Staten Island Ferry Staten Island Ferry free

Perhaps the most famous ferry service in the United States, the Staten Island Ferry runs daily between the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in lower Manhattan and St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. The city has been operating the ferry service since 1905 and transports some 70,000 passengers across New York Harbor every day. It’s one of the last remaining vestiges of an entire ferry system that served New York City residents before the construction of any bridges.  

But the Staten Island Ferry is more than a transportation service; it’s an attraction, drawing tens of thousands of out-of-town visitors a year for a free ride across the harbor (that’s right, no charge; the service is provided by the City of New York). The 5-mile ride lasts about 25 minutes. Passengers must disembark and then reboard to make the return trip to Manhattan. Travelers remark about the views of the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island, Manhattan skyscrapers and the bridges of lower Manhattan. 

Museum of Modern Art Museum of Modern Art

You don't have to be an art lover to appreciate the Museum of Modern Art; this airy midtown gallery also doubles as a shrine of pop culture and 20th century history.

Some of the most significant contemporary pieces hang on its walls, including Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," Warhol's "Campbell's Soup Cans," Van Gogh's "Starry Night," Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory," Monet's "Water Lilies," and the list goes on and on. In October 2019, the museum reopened after completing an expansion project that added more than 40,000 square feet of gallery space, as well as a performance studio that features live programming.

New York Public Library New York Public Library free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you love all things book-related, consider visiting The Morgan Library & Museum nearby, which features J.P. Morgan's stunning 1906 library. The museum offers free admisson (and live jazz music) on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

This main library branch, officially called the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, attracts plenty of book lovers, history junkies and architecture aficionados. Most people swing by the Bryant Park landmark to say hello to Patience and Fortitude (the famous marble lions guarding the entrance) and to admire the lovely beaux-arts design.

American Museum of Natural History American Museum of Natural History

Visitors love the American Museum of Natural History off Central Park West. Whether you're exploring the interactive exhibits on the land, the sea or outer space; user reviews take on a common theme. This museum is incredible. Even the cafeteria and gift shop are worth your notice.

There are more than 34 million artifacts inside, spread across four city blocks, 26 buildings and through 45 exhibition halls, so don't plan on seeing everything in one day. The Rose Center for Earth and Space is a particular favorite, but you should also plan on visiting the dinosaurs, the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Hall of the Universe and the Butterfly Conservatory (accessible November through May), which houses nearly 500 butterflies. Local experts say the institution is one of the city's can't-miss museums , especially for families.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Wander along Brooklyn's Washington Avenue, and you can't avoid stumbling upon this verdant 52-acre park.

A main highlight here is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, punctuated by wooden bridges and Japanese maples. And if you arrive at the end of April, you can't miss the Cherry Esplanade ( Sakura Matsuri ) when rosy cherry blossoms burst into bloom. Another standout: the Shakespeare Garden, which contains more than 80 plants described in the playwright's works.

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Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn Bridge Park free

Located on the Brooklyn side of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge Park is an 85-acre oasis at the foot of the famous bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. The park stretches 1.3 miles along Brooklyn’s waterfront, connecting Columbia Heights and Dumbo, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, an eclectic neighborhood of boutiques, trendy cafes and restaurants. Travelers rave about the views of the lower Manhattan skyline, the New York Harbor and the bridge.

Among the city’s newest parks, Brooklyn Bridge Park was once an industrial district and home to a transportation terminal that served as an entry point for immigrants. Today, the park features rolling hills, promenades, playgrounds, basketball courts, sports fields, a roller skating rink, gardens, and more among six piers and the riverfront. What’s more, the park is home to more than 12,000 species of plants and wildlife. It also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, such as sunset yoga and stargazing.

The Guggenheim The Guggenheim

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, or simply, "The Guggenheim," is one of the most well-known art museums in the country, and it's just as renowned for its cutting-edge design as it is for its pieces. The coiled building (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) stands out on Fifth Avenue at 89th Street. Inside, the halls are chock full of works from the likes of Picasso, Cézanne, Degas, Manet and Van Gogh, among others.

Visitors loved the building's design and architecture, but offered more mixed reviews for the art on display. Some raved about the permanent collection and the special exhibitions, while others felt the cost of entrance tickets was overpriced for the amount of art displayed. Reviewers recommended the Museum of Modern Art over the Guggenheim if you're short on time. 

Off-Broadway Shows Off-Broadway Shows

Off-Broadway may not have the glitter of the Great White Way , but these smaller theaters and their productions are often innovative and are no less engaging. Unlike Broadway, these theaters are not centered around Times Square , but scattered all over Manhattan and generally seat fewer people (between 100 to 499 audience members). Smaller venues provide a more intimate experience for plays, musicals and revues. Many of New York’s most famous productions found their start off-Broadway, such as “Hair,” “Rent” and “In the Heights.”

Tickets also are more affordable, generally between $20 and $75 per person. Look for innovative productions at places like the Public Theater, Cherry Lane Theatre or Playwrights Horizons. The Signature Theatre showcases revivals and new plays.

Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck

This iconic plaza has it all – beautiful sculptures, an enormous skating rink, a fishbowl view of NBC Studios, plus a plethora of stores and restaurants. Though undoubtedly there will be intense crowds, this is an experience that's worth having at least once. During the wintertime holidays, the plaza sparkles with an illuminated Christmas tree and skaters gliding across the ice rink. But don't fret if your New York adventure doesn't take place during the cold months. There's plenty to do year-round. If you plan ahead, you can spend a morning watching a taping of the "Today" show, an afternoon admiring the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and an evening catching a performance at Radio City Music Hall .

Travelers say the Top of the Rock offers some of the best views of Manhattan and say the experience is worth every penny. Visitors recommend booking the Rock Pass ticket that includes a tour of the building and observation deck access.

Little Island Little Island free

New Yorkers have long needed to get creative to maximize space on the island of Manhattan, where space is limited. But with the opening of Little Island in 2021, that creativity stretched beyond the island's borders and into the water. Little Island is an artificial island located on the west side of Manhattan in the Hudson River.

This public park, which is free to visit, offers a new space for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in nature, art, free events like concerts and one of the most memorable locations in New York City to catch the sunset.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral St. Patrick's Cathedral free

This sprawling cathedral sits amid the hustle and distinctively secular bustle of Rockefeller Center . But that doesn't take away from its otherworldly vibe. Whether you're religious or just making an architectural pilgrimage, you can't help but be impressed by St. Patrick's.

Opened in 1879, the neo-Gothic cathedral spans the length of an entire city block and features 330-foot spires. Its interior is just as impressive thanks to its numerous altars, stained-glass windows, organs and imposing 9,000-pound bronze doors. The church welcomes more than 5 million visitors annually.  

Little Italy Little Italy free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Taste the best of Little Italy at C. Di Palo Wine Bar. With connections to the fine foods store serving this neighborhood for more than a century, this wine bar serves Italian cheeses, meats and wines in a comfortable, modern environment. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Once a thriving enclave of Italian immigrants, Little Italy is now a popular tourist destination (though remnants of the past remain).

Times Square Times Square free

Some say that Times Square is like a five-block metaphor for New York City itself – it's exciting, colorful and always jumping. Others describe this area of midtown Manhattan as artless, overpriced and congested. Perhaps this commercial stretch from West 42nd to West 47th streets is a little of both, and though locals would advise you to avoid it, you should at least catch a glimpse of its neon lights.

Most travelers recommend visiting the area after dark to see the marquee displays. Many add checking out Times Square before or after a Broadway show is the perfect time to fit it into your schedule. However, if you're not a fan of crowds, reviewers suggest you avoid this area altogether.

Fifth Avenue Fifth Avenue free

It's fitting that St. Patrick's Cathedral would be on the same street as stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels. That's because for many people, shopping is a religious experience, and here between 34th and 59th streets you'll find the holy grail. 

Even if you're not planning to put your credit card to work at high-end stores, travelers say a stroll along Fifth Avenue is a must. It's one of the top places to shop in the city, according to local experts. Plus, during the winter holidays, the street is decked out in festive decor.

Bronx Zoo Bronx Zoo

According to travelers, these 265 acres sheltering more than 10,000 animals should be near the top of every young family's itinerary in New York. And if you're an older visitor, the Bronx Zoo could be a great way to escape the nonstop activity in Manhattan. This zoo's claim to fame is that it's one of the largest metropolitan animal parks in the country. It's also one of the best zoos in the U.S . Originally opened at 1899, the zoo also houses several famous landmarks, including the Rainey Memorial Gates, the Rockefeller Fountain and the historic Zoo Center, which was constructed to look like a palace.

Among the zoo's popular exhibits is JungleWorld, which aims to recreate the jungles of Asia with animals like white-cheeked gibbons, gharials, tapirs, fruit bats and more. There's also the Wild Asia Monorail, a seasonal outdoor monorail that allows visitors to observe animals like rhinos, tigers and red pandas roaming freely in the outdoor habitat. Other star attractions include the Congo Gorilla Forest, the seasonal butterfly garden, Tiger Mountain and the Children's Zoo. Along with the animals, there are also several rides and experiences, such as a carousel and sea lion feedings.

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Apollo Theater Apollo Theater

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go to BLVD Bistro on 116th St. before or after your visit to the Apollo. They serve breakfast all day and literally have the best grits and pancakes I have ever had in my life. It is also Black-owned! – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

One of the most famous music halls in the United States, "the Apollo" started as a burlesque theater in 1914. By the 1930s, it transformed into a concert hall that helped launch the career of several black musicians. A then-unknown Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Jackson (with the Jackson 5) and Stevie Wonder all performed on the Apollo stage during an Amateur Night competition. If you're in Harlem on a Wednesday you can still go to Amateur Night, an experience some previous travelers highly recommend.

Metropolitan Opera House Metropolitan Opera House

Stroll through the courtyard of the Metropolitan Opera House even if you're not going inside for a performance. Every element of this opulent building – from the limestone architecture, to the lobby's glittering chandelier, to the acoustics in the concert hall – is gorgeous. Travelers call this opera house a feast for the eyes and ears. Tickets are notoriously expensive (as much as several hundred dollars for the best seats), but the sticker shock evaporates quickly if you're into performing arts. You can try to score a same-day ticket at a discounted rate, plus there are discounts for senior citizens.

The Metropolitan Opera House features spring performances by the American Ballet Theatre and fall and winter performances by the Met Opera Company. Showtimes and ticket prices vary by performance and seating, so check the Met Opera's website for additional details. You'll find the opera house at Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan's Upper West Side – take the 1 train to 66th Street.

Radio City Music Hall Radio City Music Hall

It's where Ella Fitzgerald pined for the man she loved, the Rolling Stones couldn't get no satisfaction and Lady Gaga had a "Bad Romance." Among performers, there's no New York concert venue that's quite like Radio City Music Hall. Not only is it the largest indoor theater in the world, its marquee spans a full city block. Opened in 1932, the theater is a New York City Landmark. Today, the theater welcomes musical performers like Ben Platt and Lil Nas X, as well as comedians like Chris Rock.

If you're in town any dates between November and January, consider attending the famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which stars the Rockettes. According to recent visitors who attended a show, there's not a bad seat in the house.

The Battery The Battery free

The Battery is a 25-ace park that sits at the very southern tip of Manhattan Island and offers a green respite from the steel and concrete of lower Manhattan. The park, named after artillery batteries that protected the settlement in the 17th century, is popular with visitors because of its views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty . 

The park is home to perennial gardens, bike paths, grand lawns, an urban farm and a unique carousel, known as the SeaGlass Carousel. On the carousel, riders sit within iridescent fish and glide through a 360-degree aquatic adventure. The carousel’s bioluminescent design honors the waterfront site as well as another landmark, the Castle Clinton, one of the country’s earliest aquariums. 

Coney Island Coney Island

Known as the "the People's Playground," this famous amusement area in Brooklyn has an illustrious past. In the early 1900s, Coney Island enticed New Yorkers to visit with its bathing pavilions, seaside resorts and amusement park. The Great Depression took its toll on the fun-loving spot, causing many attractions to close. But after years of economic instability, Coney Island has reclaimed its place on the Brooklyn map, with a fresh roster of eateries and entertainment (including a July Fourth hot dog-eating contest and an annual Mermaid Parade ) found along the boardwalk. Coney Island now features several separate amusement parks, as well as a museum, which hosts a variety of exhibits and shows.

According to recent visitors, Coney Island is a worthwhile trip in the summer if you have the time and are traveling with young kids who would enjoy the rides. If you're not up for indulging your inner thrill-seeker, you can also walk along the beach, which spans nearly 3 miles and features several sports courts, as well as playgrounds. A walk along the iconic Riegelmann Boardwalk is just as memorable, according to recent visitors.

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Chrysler Building Chrysler Building free

Technically, the Chrysler Building is an office building open Monday through Friday, but you don't need to go inside to appreciate its aesthetic appeal. Recent visitors praised the building's unique architectural style (though a few wished you could still go inside to admire its intricate lobby and elevators).

Built in 1930, the Chrysler had a short-lived run as the tallest building in the city, before it was usurped of its title by the Empire State Building . Nevertheless, this 1,046-foot-high skyscraper remains a favorite among New Yorkers for its classic art deco style. And unlike the Empire State, at this site you won't need an expensive entry ticket, a strong stomach to stand soaring heights or patience for long lines to see what all the fuss is about. You can behold the building's menacing gargoyles and triangular openings from many spots in Manhattan. Though the lobby is currently closed to visitors, there have been talks of building an observation deck, though none is available at this time.

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15 Best Places to Travel in April

These are the best places to visit in April in the United States and around the world.

Adirondack Mountains, New York

Washington, d.c., oxnard and ventura, california, napa valley, california, salt lake city, utah, tampa, florida, new york, new york, kauai, hawaii, london, england, western australia, kyoto, japan, lake como, italy, vancouver, british columbia, virgin gorda, british virgin islands, river cruise in france.

Andrei Domanin/Getty Images

Looking for an April getaway? The first full month of spring brings flowers to many places around the world, including the world-famous cherry blossoms that paint Washington, D.C. pink each year. There’s still time for snow sports fans to get in a few runs, but we have suggestions for travelers who are more than ready for sunshine and warm weather, too. Plus, a total solar eclipse will be visible from several North American destinations, so you should start planning now if you want to see this astronomical event. Here are the best places to travel in April 2024 in the U.S. and around the world. 

Leon Lipkovich/Getty Images

Located in northeastern New York State about 300 miles from Manhattan, the Adirondack Mountains will be one of the best areas in the Northeast to see the April 8 solar eclipse.  “Guests in the Lake Placid region will experience spectacular views of the eclipse over the Adirondack Mountains as day turns to night for a brief three minutes,” according to Matthew Wheeler, general manager of High Peaks Resort . In the meantime, activities include late-season skiing, the newly remodeled Lake Placid Olympic Center, outdoor adventure at New Vida Preserve, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of Winter Olympics memorabilia. 

Where to Stay: High Peaks Resort is offering special eclipse packages and events. There’s also the Grand Adirondack Hotel, The Point on Saranac Lake, and The Lodge at Schroon Lake.  

Related: How to See the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse 

eurobanks/Getty Images

Spring is lovely in the nation’s capital, and the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival from March 20 to April 14 makes it a truly special time. I had the good fortune to be in Washington during the bloom a few years back, and I still recall the visitors’ awe, as well as my own, at the beauty of the delicate blossoms overhead and carpeting the ground at our feet. Mild weather encourages time outdoors strolling along the National Mall, The Wharf, and Union Market. The many fantastic museums in D.C. offer something for every interest, as well as perfect places to shelter on a chilly or rainy day. 

Where to Stay: At The Wharf, Washington’s exciting waterfront neighborhood, stay at the Pendry Washington D.C or InterContinental Washington D.C. The Wharf . Other top hotel picks include The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington D.C., Salamander Washington D.C., and The Morrow Hotel.

benedek/Getty Images

These coastal cities, located less than 100 miles from Los Angeles, are ideal for a spring (or summer) escape from the city. Oxnard is known for strawberries, and in April, the berries begin to ripen, continuing throughout the summer. The region produces one-third of the state’s strawberry volume, and visitors flock to the area to pick their own fruit and enjoy strawberry shortcakes, pies, ice cream, and beverages. Nearby Ventura, home to beaches, hiking trails, and ferries to Channel Islands National Park , will host the California Strawberry Festival at Ventura County Fairgrounds later in the year from May 18-19. 

Where to Stay: Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach in Oxnard reopened recently after a multi-million dollar transformation. Waypoint Ventura offers unique accommodations in restored vintage trailers. 

haveseen/Getty Images

Fans of wine, gorgeous scenery, and shoulder season travel will enjoy Napa Valley in April. Summer crowds are still months away, California poppies are in bloom, and you might catch the end of the wild mustard season’s bright yellow flowers . Tasting rooms are open, and Sullivan Rutherford Estate (a stunning winery I visited last year) offers Merlot Mastery , an immersive educational experience. At Silverado Resort, guests can up their racquet games with Pickleball Camp (April 20-21) and “Backhands, Vines, and Volleys” tennis camp (April 25-27), or go for a round of golf. Take in vineyard views from the Napa Valley Wine Train or enjoy the scenery with a drive among grapevines and fields of spring flowers.

Where to Stay: Meadowood Napa Valley is a personal favorite for its perfect combination of luxury and rustic atmosphere. I also enjoyed my stay at the romantic and elegant Poetry Inn where each suite is unique and all offer spectacular views. 

georgeclerk/Getty Images

Looking for spring skiing? Consider Utah’s capital your starting point and spend a few days in the city before you head for the slopes. You’ll find lively nightlife, restaurants, breweries, pubs, and views of snow-covered mountains to add to your anticipation. Less than 40 miles away, ski at Alta, Brighton, Solitude, Snowbird, and Park City, where there are snowy slopes for all levels of skiers, snowboarders, and winter sports fans. While I’m not a skier, I loved my winter visit to Park City where I tried snowshoeing (loved it!) and enjoyed the charming downtown and excellent restaurants.  

Where to Stay: In Salt Lake City, we recommend staying at the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City or Kimpton Hotel Monaco . 

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Temperatures in the low 80s with sunny days and cool nights make April an ideal time to visit Tampa. Spring also brings the Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival (April 9-13), with a Chef Showdown competition, tasting events, and celebrity guests. The annual Taste at The Straz on April 27, held at the Straz Center on Tampa’s Riverwalk, raises funds for its outstanding theater productions, operas, and concerts. Stroll along the river, explore Water Street , and take a boat ride (or rent your own as I did on a trip last year, floating along in a craft that resembled my old ‘57 Chevy). Another personal favorite is the Ybor City Historic Walking Tour, where you can learn about Tampa’s role as a center of cigar production.

Where to Stay: JW Marriott Tampa Water Street features Beacon, a rooftop lounge with panoramic views. The Tampa Edition is a new five-star hotel on Channelside Drive, and the boutique Hotel Haya is a great option in Ybor City. 

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Flowers are blooming in the city that never sleeps, and visitors can find cherry blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden, and more than 30,000 varieties of flowers at the annual Macy’s Flower Show. The free event also includes seminars, demonstrations, and more. Spring showers are the perfect excuse to see a Broadway show, go shopping, or visit one of the best museums in New York City . There are also plenty of free things to do in NYC — stroll through Central Park, walk along the High Line, or enjoy the view from the Brooklyn Bridge. 

Where to Stay: The InterContinental New York Times Square is a luxury spot, steps from Broadway theaters. I recently spent two nights there — I loved the buffet breakfast and The Stinger bar and restaurant. The new Virgin Hotels New York City is located in NoMad, a central location ideal for tourists who want to see it all. 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

The “Garden Island” is Hawaii’s oldest and northernmost island. Kauai’s weather is wetter than the other islands, but the rewards for waiting out those showers are waterfalls and rainforests with lush vegetation. Because April is part of the island’s shoulder season, you might score a deal on flights or accommodations, and you can still catch the tail end (pun intended) of whale-watching season. From relaxing on Kauai’s gorgeous beaches to tubing along mountaintop canals, there are many ways to enjoy the island. 

Where to Stay: The luxe 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay opened last year. Families love Kukuiʻula , with a wide variety of amenities and accommodations.  

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

April is one of the best times to visit London because it’s before the arrival of summer’s visitors and after the chilliest days of winter. The annual London Marathon, happening on April 21, is one of the world’s most popular, with Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf along the route. After the excitement, relax with afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason, The Dorchester, or Brown’s and indulge in savory and sweet treats. If a cocktail is more your style, the city’s hotels offer plush lounges and creative menus — and we’ve rounded up the top cocktail bars in London so you can find the best sips.  

Where to Stay: Last year, I stayed at the charming Beaverbrook Town House and toured the Chelsea Townhouse. The Westin London City features specialized services for marathon runners through a new Westin Hotels & Resorts program.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

From Perth’s sophisticated urban vibe to the historic port town of Fremantle and the beaches of Rottnest Island, visitors have a variety of ways to enjoy Western Australia. Warm weather continues into April, and Perth’s Indian Ocean shores feature sandy beaches and stunning sunsets. Rottnest Island, a 30-minute ferry trip from Fremantle, is car-free with beaches, walking trails, cute quokkas , and an opportunity to learn about the island’s history and Aboriginal people with a visit to the Wadjemup Museum . Tour the area from above on a seaplane flight or from the sea aboard Seabourn’s Kimberley cruise, an expedition along the rugged coast. In the Margaret River region, about 100 wineries welcome visitors with tours and tastings. 

Where to Stay: In the Margaret River region, Chambré Estate is a newly renovated lodge, and adults-only Edge Luxury Villas are built over a lake in a forested area. In Fremantle, stay at the recently restored historic Warders Hotel.

Jui-Chi Chan/Getty Images

Renowned for UNESCO World Heritage Sites including ancient temples and shrines, Kyoto is especially beautiful during spring when the cherry blossoms bloom. The pink and white sakura , reminders of rebirth after winter, are celebrated with festivals, parades, and nightly illumination. April weather is pleasant for exploring Kyoto’s gardens, teahouses, and historical sites and for savoring traditional kaiseki cuisine. Kyoto is a short bullet train trip from Tokyo, and with InsideJapan Tours , guests can explore Kyoto on a private journey, small group tour, or self-guided adventure.

Where to Stay: Choose Roku Kyoto, LXR Hotels & Resorts or Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto located next to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Five-star Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto offers a Sakura Experience with private garden tours, a visit to a local temple, and afternoon tea, according to general manager Manabu Kusui who invites guests “to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and traditions of Kyoto through these cultural experiences.” 

This lake in northern Italy can thank James Bond and George Clooney for some of its fame, but the historic villas, resorts, and charming towns that line its shores get most of the credit. April is shoulder season, when the hotels are reopening and visitors begin to arrive. The summer months, naturally, are the popular season, but spring is beautiful and the weather is mild. A boat ride is the best way to see the elegant villas with intricate landscaping, and several are open to the public for tours. I toured Villa del Balbianello a few years ago and marveled at the grounds, the building, the art, and the history. Lake Como’s resorts are among Italy’s most beloved, as confirmed by Travel + Leisure’s readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards . 

Where to Stay: Il Sereno topped the list, with Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni and Villa D’Este also receiving high scores in 2023. I have wonderful memories of Grand Hotel Tremezzo — so I’m happy it’s a readers’ favorite, too.

Orchidpoet/Getty Images

You can combine a visit to a great city with diverse neighborhoods, fabulous restaurants, and mild weather with a convenient late-season ski trip when you visit Vancouver. Just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers skiing and snowboarding until early May as well as a skating pond, dining, and more. About two hours north, world-class snow sports await at Whistler Blackcomb with more than 200 runs over 8,000 acres of terrain. Home to Vancouver International Airport, nearby Richmond offers history, art, an authentic fishing village, and the Richmond Olympic Oval, an indoor multi-sport center. 

Where to Stay: In the heart of Vancouver, Rosewood Hotel Georgia and Fairmont Pacific Rim are luxurious options. Kim Carmichael, the spa director at Fairmont Pacific Rim, told T+L about their Nordic spa, a new outdoor hydrotherapy experience with hot and cold environments in a circuit. “With April being a time when we experience a rapidly changing climate in Vancouver, it’s an ideal opportunity for self-care.”

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The third largest of more than 60 islands that make up the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda offers pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and national parks. Swimming, diving, snorkeling, and boating are among things to do, and hikers can enjoy the view from the top of Gorda Peak. According to Emily Oakes, vice president of business at Oil Nut Bay, “The crystal blue waters and temperate weather, along with fewer crowds compared to earlier in the year, make April a lovely time to visit our beautiful island. Travelers wishing to fully immerse themselves in the island can book tours to explore The Baths, see Devil’s Bay National Park, and even scuba dive to the Wreck of the Chikuzen.” Visitors can arrive by air from Miami, St. Thomas, and now from San Juan via a semi-private jet . Tortola , Jost Van Dyke, Anegada, and several private island resorts are also popular BVI destinations. 

Where to Stay: Rosewood Little Dix Bay , Bitter End Yacht Club , and Oil Nut Bay are among the best resorts in the British Virgin Islands, with luxe accommodations and ocean views.

RossHelen/Getty Images

Spring begins the European river cruise season, with most lines starting in mid-March. France is especially beautiful in April, and cruising is an ideal way to see many of the cities and small towns along the country’s rivers. Guests aboard AmaWaterways Paris and Normandy cruise begin in Paris and cruise the Seine to Le Havre, the historic Normandy Beaches, medieval Rouen, and Monet’s home in Giverny before returning to Paris. Viking offers a variety of ways to cruise the rivers of France, including a scenic Lyon and Provence cruise . Uniworld Boutique River Cruises also features cruises along France’s rivers, including trips as long as 22 days with the Ultimate France itinerary. 

Where to Stay: No need to worry about finding hotels — unless you extend your trip at either end of your cruise. You also won’t have to plan transfers, find restaurants, or pack and unpack between stops — these are just a few of the major benefits of exploring Europe via river cruise. I’ve cruised the Rhine, Danube, Douro, and Nile, and I’m a fan of the relaxed pace, shore excursions, and views of the passing scenery that a river cruise provides.

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Man accused of raping 13-year-old girl in New York City was arrested with help from local residents

A 25-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the violent child sexual attack that has terrorized New York City's Queens community for days and shocked New Yorkers throughout the city, police said Tuesday.

The man, identified by police as Christian Inga, was taken into custody at 108th and Waldron Street, less than three miles from the park where officials allege he ambushed two 13-year-olds in a field after school Thursday, forced them into the woods at knifepoint and tied them up before sexually assaulting the girl.

NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a press conference on Tuesday that he entered the U.S. from Ecuador through Eagle Pass, Texas, on June 25, 2021. People living with him at a rooming house recognized him from the NYPD wanted posters.

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Jeffrey Flores told NBC New York he recognized Inga after police released a sketch and video of him on a bike. Flores decided to take some friends to wait at a bodega on 108th and Waldon streets the suspect frequents for cigarettes and drinks. Another man said they waited for Inga for hours.

He eventually showed up in the middle of the night.

“I told everybody yo this the rapist. I punched him. I kicked him. I ain’t gonna lie,” said Flores.

They started attacking him, sources said, and called 911 to say, “Come get him.”

“He started yelling ‘help, help’ in Spanish. I was like ‘Yeah that’s what the little girl was saying,’” said Flores. “He really try to run, run, run for his life but he couldn’t.”

Flores says he put Inga in a headlock and tied his legs together with a belt. He said the man didn’t deny the sexual assault allegations, a statement corroborated by a bodega worker in the store at the time.

“Yeah he admitted to it. He said, ‘Alright, alright, fine, fine. Just leave me alone, don’t hit me, don’t hit me,’” Flores told NBC New York.

At one point, Flores says the man tried to hide underneath a car — until officers arrived and took him into custody.

“We don’t have confirmation of that,” Kenny said. “We are hearing that possibly they may have used a belt to try to hold his feet together to keep him from running away.”

Kenny also said Inga waived his Miranda rights and “indicated he had a drug problem.” He also said he found the knife used in the alleged attack, and “that this was the first time he’s ever done anything like this.”

Hailed a neighborhood hero, Flores says he felt the need to apprehend Inga because he has two sisters and a baby girl on the way.

“Feels good, I did something good for New York City. That’s one less guy off the streets,” said Flores. “We was lucky enough to see him, that’s crazy. It’s not everyday you just catch a rapist.”

Inga, a father of two, is being charged with rape, robbery, sexual assault, kidnapping, endangering child welfare and other counts.

Multiple high-level NYPD officials had pleaded with the public Friday for help i dentifying the tattooed stranger they say forced the schoolmates into the woods . They had offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Police thanked the community for helping identify the suspect.

“This is exactly what we mean when talk about public safety is a shared responsibility,” said NYPD Commissioner Edward Cabán. “The past few days proved to the world again that the people in this city can come together and get the job done like no one else.”

According to investigators, the boy and girl were on a field in Kissena Park around 3 p.m., just after school let out for the day, when a curly-haired man with braces walked up and demanded they follow him into the woods. When they refused, police say he pulled out a “large machete-style knife” and forced them into an isolated area, where he bound each of their wrists with a shoelace. Then he sexually assaulted the 13-year-old girl.

The kids told cops the man warned them to stay where they were for 20 minutes. He then ran off with their phones. Once time was up, they returned to school and told administrators what happened. They called 911 immediately.

Cabán also said the victims gave “crucial” information that was needed to make the arrest.

The children were taken to a hospital in stable condition.

A shoelace, possibly the one used to tie the children’s wrists, was recovered at the scene.

Police said Inga had no prior arrests in New York City but did have one arrest in Texas.

 Myles Miller is a reporter for NBC New York.

Jennifer Millman is a managing editor for NBC New York.

Melissa Colorado is a reporter for NBC New York.

Justin Timberlake arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated in the Hamptons

Justin Timberlake has been arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.

The " Selfish " singer was apprehended by police in the Hamptons at 12:37 a.m. Tuesday, according to a press release from the Sag Harbor Village Police Department.

According to police, Timberlake was pulled over after failing to stop at a stop sign and "maintain his lane of travel." "Upon investigation it was determined that Mr. Timberlake was operating his vehicle in an intoxicated position," the release claims.

The singer was held overnight following his arrest and was released on his own recognizance following his Tuesday morning arraignment.

USA TODAY has reached out to Timberlake's representatives for comment.

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Justin Timberlake's arrest comes amid his Forget Tomorrow tour

The 43-year-old's arrest comes ahead of two concerts on The Forget Tomorrow World Tour in Chicago on Friday and Saturday. 

The "Mirrors" singer, actor and former member of the boyband NSYNC announced the tour in January , his first in five years. The North American leg of the tour kicked off in April at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada, with stops including cities in the U.S., Canada, Europe and the U.K.

Timberlake's return to the stage follows the release of his sixth album,  "Everything I Thought It Was ."

"I worked for a long time on this album and I ended up with 100 songs," he told Zane Lowe for  Apple Music 1 in January. "So narrowing them down to 18 was a thing, and then, yeah, I’m really excited about this album. I think every artist probably says this, but it is my best work."

He added: "There are moments that are incredibly honest, but also, there’s a lot of fun on this album. … Some of the songs are more introspective and some of them are more what I think people know me for."

Timberlake also performed several free shows , including a stop in his hometown of Memphis, New York City and Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles show in March included a surprise performance of his song "Paradise," which features his NSYNC bandmates.

Videos on social media  showed Timberlake standing as the curtain behind him slowly revealed  Lance Bass ,  Joey Fatone ,  Chris Kirkpatrick  and  JC Chasez . The crowd instantly went wild, screaming louder than the group as they began singing.

The group performed "Paradise" and "Bye Bye Bye" together, bridging their new music with their classic hit. The night marked their first performance with all five band members since their reunion at the 2013 VMAs.

Contributing: Jay Stahl and KiMi Robinson

Watch CBS News

How are Trump's federal charges different from the New York indictment? Legal experts explain the distinctions

By Caitlin O'Kane

June 12, 2023 / 5:36 PM EDT / CBS News

Former President Donald Trump left his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, on Monday en route to Miami, where he will be arraigned on federal charges Tuesday. The scene was a familiar one: Less than three months ago, Trump left his Mar-a-Lago golf club for New York City to be arraigned on a different set of criminal charges. What are the differences between the two cases?

What is an arraignment?

An arraignment is different from an arrest in that it follows an indictment. An indictment comes when a grand jury determines a person can be charged with a crime, based on evidence presented to them by prosecutors, whereas an arrest is made by law enforcement if there is probable cause someone has committed a crime. 

When someone is indicted, they appear in court to hear their charges. This is the arraignment, where they are read their rights and can also receive a court-appointed attorney, if needed. 

How many times has Trump been indicted?

The former president has been indicted twice. The first time, state charges were brought by the Manhattan district attorney, and the second, federal charges were brought by a special counsel on behalf of the Justice Department.

He was also investigated by a House select committee looking into the insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021 , which recommended he be criminally prosecuted for his involvement in the insurrection. 

He faces a separate investigation by the Fulton County District Attorney's Office in Georgia for allegedly pressing Secretary of State  Brad Raffensperger  to "find votes" and help him overturn the presidential election in the state. District Attorney Fani Willis said she will announce  whether or not Trump and others would be charged this summer.  

What was involved in the New York arraignment?

On April 4, Trump was  arraigned on criminal charges  of falsifying business records related to "hush money" payments, following his indictment in the case the previous week.

A grand jury found Trump should be charged for allegedly illegally disguising payments to his "fixer" Michael Cohen, who paid adult film star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election to stay quiet about an alleged affair with Trump. Trump has denied the affair and any wrongdoing. He was charged with 34 counts  of falsifying business records in the first degree. The charges were not revealed until Trump heard them in court, unlike the second indictment, which was unsealed on Friday and revealed 37 counts against Trump. 

In April, he spent about an hour inside the Manhattan courtroom with his legal team and became the first former president in U.S. history  to face criminal charges . There was a heavy security presence at the courthouse and a crowd of protesters and counter-protesters surrounding the building. 

What will happen during the Miami arraignment?

Trump will be arraigned at a federal district court in Miami on Tuesday. On Friday, he was indicted on 37 counts for his alleged mishandling of sensitive documents, which he and his staff allegedly took from the White House and brought to his Mar-a-Lago golf club. 

The 44-page indictment claims the former president "endeavored to obstruct the FBI and grand jury investigations and conceal retention of classified documents." His aide, Waltine "Walt" Nauta , also faces charges, including for allegedly lying in an FBI interview about the documents.

What are the differences between Trump's arraignments?

In the New York City arraignment, Trump did not do a so-called "perp walk," where the accused is handcuffed and escorted into the building. 

"I think it is entirely possible that none of this happens in public, that he comes in through a back entrance. There are — particularly for federal courthouses — highly secure entrances. That he exits the same way and we never see him," Jessica Levinson, a CBS News legal contributor, says. "And of course, there are no cameras in federal courthouses." 

When he was arraigned in New York, authorities did not take his booking photo. Even if he does have one taken in Miami, federal courts do not release these photos, CBS News legal analyst Rikki Klieman said. 

"The arraignment process, whether state or federal, is really very similar," Klieman said. Since the charges have already been made public, his lawyers could waive the reading of them. They will then enter a plea, which is expected to be "not guilty," just as it was in the New York case. 

As in New York, Trump will not need to post bail, Klieman said. The court, however, may pose restrictions on him. 

"But whatever those may be — obviously because he is running for president of the United States — I would think if there are any restrictions they would be minimal," she said. "I really can't image that he's going to have to have one of his staff or himself report his travel or surrender a passport or anything like that." 

She added that it is still possible they set conditions like this to ensure Trump's follow-up appearances in court. Conditions were not set during his New York arraignment. 

What are the differences in Trump's charges in the two cases?

The New York "hush money"  investigation was led by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, whereas the investigation into the documents was led by special counsel Jack Smith and federal prosecutors,  who met with Trump's attorneys last week. 

In the Miami case, Trump is facing federal charges. The New York charges of falsifying business records are typically a misdemeanor offense , but in Trump's case, prosecutors argued they were committed with the intent to commit or conceal another crime and violated election laws, raising them to felony charges. "In the scheme of things ... [the New York charges are] really modest charges," Klieman said. "This indictment on the other hand has substantial charges, meaning these are really serious." 

"What you have here, if you were to add up the punishments in a case like this, there are hundreds of years, which of course is not only unrealistic, but ultimately irrelevant," Klieman said, adding that if he were convicted, Trump's sentence would be set based on other people's sentences for similar crimes. 

If he is only convicted for the retention of the classified documents, the average sentence would be four to five years in prison, Klieman said. However, he also faces obstruction of justice and conspiracy counts, and if he is convicted of the majority of the counts against him, he would be facing more prison time, she added. 

Just because Trump's alleged crimes in New York may be considered "minor," doesn't mean he wouldn't face prison time, she said. 

Another distinction between the two: Federal cases tend to move faster than state, due to the Speedy Trial Act, which aims to get cases to trial within six months, Klieman said. However, this is a complex case, so it is unpredictable if it will be able to go to trial in just six months, Klieman said.

Levinson said the Trump-appointed judge presiding over this case, Aileen Cannon, may allow the case to be delayed. She also said that Cannon will likely not put any restrictions on the former president's travel. 

"For me the difference between the two cases is huge. It's not just state versus federal, it's also the severity of the crimes, it's the amount of evidence that's been amassed," Levinson said. 

"Falsification of business records obviously does undermine the former president's credibility and it did arguably affect the election, because the hush money payments were made in order to help him become elected," she said. "But the federal case strikes me as, in magnitude, more serious and goes to the heart of his ability to be a public servant and in fact, if the allegations are true, very directly put our entire nation at risk," she said about the alleged mishandling of the documents that included information about nuclear weapons, the military and other sensitive information. 

• Donald Trump

Caitlin O'Kane is a New York City journalist who works on the CBS News social media team as a senior manager of content and production. She writes about a variety of topics and produces "The Uplift," CBS News' streaming show that focuses on good news.

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Potter County torture, murder of Galeton man set to go to trial. What we know.

More than four years after a Potter County man was tortured in his Galeton home and later killed in a remote area , a trial date has been set for two of the three people charged in his murder.

Police found the battered body of Joshua Ramos, 19, in a remote corner of Potter County in early July 2020 after Pennsylvania State Police at Coudersport received a tip about his death.

Following an investigation, state police arrested Felicia Kay Cary, Krysten Lauren Crosby, and Kyle Michael Nathan Moore, all of Galeton, and charged them with multiple felonies, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder, third-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, kidnapping and tampering with evidence.

Crosby was Ramos' girlfriend at the time, according to investigators.

Since the arrests, the case has been plagued by delays, including a court backlog triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, defense motions to split the case into three separate trials, and other factors, according to Potter County District Attorney Andy Watson.

Watson confirmed Crosby and Cary, who will be tried together, will go to trial this fall, with jury selection scheduled for the week of Sept. 16 and a trial set to get underway the week of Oct. 7.

Moore will be tried separately at a later date.

Related: Galeton homicide victim remembered as caring person who overcame troubled early life

Police: Ramos was tortured, killed in April 2020

Cary and Crosby lived with Ramos and several other people, including the witness, in the Galeton residence, Watson said.

Testimony by a state trooper at a preliminary hearing indicated the three suspects attacked Ramos on a day in April 2020 because he had shoved Crosby the day before.

The trio beat and tortured Ramos for more than an hour, and then forced him to lick his own blood off the floor and off the shoes of the others, according to the criminal complaint.

The suspects then loaded Ramos into a van and drove around for a while before taking him into a wooded area in Harrison Township in the northeast corner of Potter County and strangling him with a set of jumper cables, the complaint stated.

After the witness gave his statement, a state police cadaver dog located Ramos' decomposing body covered in a blanket and buried under rocks. The jumper cables were reportedly still wrapped around his neck.

Business Historic Snug Harbor, off Keuka Lake, recently opened under new management: What to know

Cary and Crosby were later arrested in Potter County, while Moore was located in Steuben County and taken into custody by U.S. marshals and New York State Police.

First-degree murder is a capital offense in Pennsylvania, and Watson said the death penalty will definitely be on the table when the suspects go to trial.

Follow Jeff Murray on Twitter @SGJeffMurray . To get unlimited access to the latest news, ple a se subscribe or activate your digital account today .

Advertisement

171,000 Traveled for Abortions Last Year. See Where They Went.

By Molly Cook Escobar ,  Amy Schoenfeld Walker ,  Allison McCann ,  Scott Reinhard and Helmuth Rosales

Source: The Guttmacher Institute

Orange states had a total or six-week ban in 2023.

More than 14,000 Texas patients crossed the border into New Mexico for an abortion last year. An additional 16,000 left Southern states bound for Illinois. And nearly 12,000 more traveled north from South Carolina and Georgia to North Carolina.

These were among the more than 171,000 patients who traveled for an abortion in 2023, new estimates show , demonstrating both the upheaval in access since the overturn of Roe v. Wade and the limits of state bans to stop the procedure. The data also highlights the unsettled nature of an issue that will test politicians up and down the ballot in November.

Out-of-state travel for abortions — either to have a procedure or obtain abortion pills — more than doubled in 2023 compared with 2019, and made up nearly a fifth of recorded abortions. On Thursday, the Supreme Court rejected a case that would have sharply curtailed access to medication abortion, allowing the pills to remain available to patients traveling from states with bans.

Where patients traveled for abortions

Number of patients

171,300 patients traveled

Total or six-week abortion ban in 2023

73,100 patients traveled

Source: Guttmacher Institute

Note: Map reflects abortion laws as of Dec. 31, except in Wisconsin, where a ban was in place for a majority of the year. Routes with fewer than 100 patients are not shown.

Most traveling patients went to the next closest state that allowed abortions. But those in the South, where 13 states banned or restricted the procedure, had to go farther.

One traveler was a 24-year-old woman from Columbus, Ga., who asked to be identified by only her first initial, A. She flew to New York City last summer after discovering she was past six weeks of pregnancy, when Georgia no longer allows abortion.

She decided to travel over a weekend instead of self-managing with pills at home. “I had to go back to work on Monday,” she said. “I just didn’t have that kind of time.”

Texas, the largest state to ban abortion, had the most residents travel across state lines for the procedure, the data shows.

An exodus from Texas

35,500 Texas patients traveled

2,400 Texas patients traveled

Note: Routes with fewer than 100 patients are not shown.

On the receiving end, nowhere saw more out-of-state patients — and from more states — than Illinois.

An island of access in the Midwest

37,300 patients traveled to Illinois

8,500 patients traveled to Illinois

People in states where the procedure remained legal also traveled for abortions, sometimes because the closest clinic was across state lines or the influx of out-of-state patients made appointments scarce. The data shows that abortions rose in nearly every state where they remained legal.

Many traveling patients faced multiday trips, lost income and child care costs. Some patients were unable to travel. Earlier research found that in the first half of 2023, almost a quarter of women living in states with near-total bans — who may have otherwise sought an abortion — did not get one.

“Abortion is one of the most common procedures in medicine,” said Amy Hagstrom Miller, the founder of Whole Woman’s Health, which runs clinics in Maryland, Minnesota, New Mexico and Virginia.

“We’re having people travel hundreds or thousands of miles for a procedure that typically takes less than 10 minutes and can be done in a doctor’s office setting,” she said. “Nobody does that for any other medical procedure.”

The new estimates of resident and out-of-state abortions come from the Guttmacher Institute, a research organization that supports abortion rights, and they offer the first detailed picture of the interstate travelers who helped push the number of abortions nationwide to a high in 2023. The researchers surveyed a sample of clinics in each state where abortion remained legal to estimate the number of abortions.

For some anti-abortion groups, the feeling of victory after the overturn of Roe has been dimmed by the number of people circumventing abortion bans — and the lack of political will to address the issue in an election year.

“We’re agitating some of the Republicans who would be very comfortable spiking the football, patting themselves on the back, running for re-election, and then focusing on other issues that they’re more interested in,” said John Seago, the president of Texas Right to Life.

“We’ve never had a sense of finality. We’ve only seen the other side escalate their efforts to promote abortion,” he added.

Change in abortions by state

Note: No data was collected from 13 states that had near-total abortion bans for all of 2023. A ban was in place in Wisconsin for a majority of the year.

The availability of abortion pills has significantly blunted the impact of many state bans. But some patients still must travel to see a provider because of a medical condition or how far along they are in pregnancy. Others simply prefer it.

“I didn’t want the pills to get delivered to my school,” said Mia, 20, a college student in Houston who asked to be identified by only her first name. Instead, last August, she drove 12 hours to an Albuquerque clinic. “In case anything went wrong, I didn’t know if I could go to a hospital,” she said. “I figured it would be best to go in person and that way I’d know that it was taken care of.”

The clinic covered the procedure’s cost, but Mia paid around $500 for gas, two nights at an Airbnb and Uber rides to get to and from her appointment.

The explosion of out-of-state travel has been met with support from abortion clinics and abortion funds, which expanded access to services and financial support for patients.

“Now we have places where people who’ve been driving all night can nap in our clinics,” said Ms. Hagstrom Miller. “We have couches. We have waiting rooms specifically for children, with toys. We bring in sandwiches and food.”

States with liberal abortion laws have also played a significant role.

“It looks like the protective policies that the states are enacting do matter,” said Kelly Baden, the vice president for public policy at the Guttmacher Institute. “But we should not be normalizing the reliance on networks of volunteers and donations.”

Illinois has invested upwards of $23 million into expanding abortion access and reproductive health care since 2022. Providers in the state have extended clinic hours and increased staffing and the availability of hospital-based abortion care .

“Things are running along very smoothly,” said Dr. Allison Cowett, the medical director at Family Planning Associates, a Chicago clinic whose patient volume has doubled since 2018. “We’ve caught up to the speed of things. This is our new normal.”

The Chicago Abortion Fund provides, on average, about $880 to each patient seeking an abortion in Illinois, up from around $545 in 2022, thanks to donations and city and state grants .

“It still feels precarious — you don’t know when the priority of a single institution or a single foundation will change,” said Megan Jeyifo, the fund’s executive director.

Despite restrictions, patients traveled across the Southeast

12-week ban

Six-week bans

15-week ban in 2023

Note: Routes shown are for patients traveling into and out of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Routes with fewer than 100 patients are not shown.

In Florida, the fight over abortion restrictions is far from over, with consequences for women across the South. The state had an 18 percent rise in abortions last year, including nearly 10,000 out-of-state patients.

A six-week ban that took effect in May has already upended those patterns, and advocates are asking voters to preserve abortion rights in the state’s Constitution in November.

For now, the closest state offering abortions later than six weeks in pregnancy is North Carolina, which requires counseling and a 72-hour waiting period.

“It’s a logistical nightmare,” said Kelly Flynn, the chief executive of A Woman’s Choice, which has clinics in Florida, North Carolina and Virginia. To save patients two trips out of Florida, physicians at her Florida clinic are licensed in North Carolina so that they can perform the mandatory counseling before the patient travels north.

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