Spring in New York City always feels like a reward. After months of gray skies and bundled-up commutes, the city finally opens back up — parks bloom, sidewalks fill with café tables, and everyone seems just a little lighter. It’s the season where New Yorkers fall in love with the city all over again, and there’s no shortage of ways to spend a sunny afternoon or breezy evening.
This guide covers the best spring activities in NYC, from cherry blossom strolls and outdoor markets to rooftop drinks and neighborhood street fairs. Whether you’re planning your first warm-weather weekend or just looking for a new excuse to be outside, here are some favorite ways to make the most of spring in the city.
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +3 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Things to Do in New York City in the Spring
Table of Contents: Best Things to Do in NYC in the Spring
Table of Contents: New York City Spring Guide
Free Spring Activities
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Website: St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Date: March 17, 2025
Address: Fifth Avenue between 44th and 79th Streets
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a spring tradition that completely transforms Fifth Avenue. It’s been held since 1762, making it older than the United States itself, and is still run by New York’s Irish community. What began as a small religious procession has grown into a city-wide celebration of Irish heritage, filled with pride, music, and thousands of marchers.
More than 150,000 people take part, and over 2 million spectators line the streets to watch. The parade skips floats and vehicles entirely, keeping the focus on the marchers, bands, and ceremonial groups. It starts at 11am on 44th Street and heads up Fifth Avenue to 79th Street, ending around 5pm.
The procession along Fifth Avenue bans cars and floats (allowing only marchers). The optimal viewpoint is near St. Patrick’s Cathedral, one of the most beautiful churches in NYC, but anticipate sizable crowds, as this parade is a highlight of spring in NYC.
Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival
Website: Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival
Date: April 20, 2025
Address: 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
The Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival is one of New York City’s most joyful, whimsical spring traditions. Held every Easter Sunday along Fifth Avenue, it’s less of a structured parade and more of a spontaneous celebration. People show up in elaborate handmade bonnets, floral headdresses, vintage suits, themed costumes, and creative takes on spring fashion.
Some wear pastel suits with matching pets, others go full theatrical with towering headpieces and props. The stretch of Fifth Avenue between 49th and 57th Streets is closed to traffic, so visitors are free to wander, people-watch, and pose for photos.
The vibe is friendly and informal. You don’t need a ticket or a reservation — just show up and join the fun. It’s a perfect mix of tradition and creativity, and a reminder that New Yorkers love a reason to dress up and celebrate in public.
Fun fact: It was Christian tradition to wear something new on Easter, and in the 1870’s hats were the statement piece to have. The film Easter Parade (1948) really helped bolster the event’s popularity.
New York Tartan Day Parade
Website: Tartan Day Parade
Date: April 5, 2025
Address: 6th Avenue between 45th and 55th Streets
The New York Tartan Day Parade is a spirited tribute to Scottish culture held every April in Midtown Manhattan. The event celebrates Scotland’s national heritage and the strong cultural ties between Scotland and the United States. It’s part of a larger week-long festival filled with music, storytelling, and community events, but the parade is the highlight. Hundreds of pipers in full Highland dress march up Sixth Avenue, accompanied by dancers, marching bands, and often a few very enthusiastic dogs in kilts.
The parade is welcoming and family-friendly, with a relaxed energy that makes it easy to enjoy. You don’t need to have Scottish roots to appreciate it! The route runs from 44th Street to 55th Street, typically starting at 2pm on a Saturday. If you’re looking for a spring event that’s colorful, musical, and a little less crowded than some of the city’s bigger parades, Tartan Day is a great pick.
Check Out the Cherry Blossoms
Date: Early April through mid-May
Cherry blossom season is one of the highlights of spring in New York City. The blooms are fleeting (usually lasting the month of April) but during that window, the city’s parks and gardens feel almost magical.
One of the most popular places to see them is the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, which has an entire Cherry Esplanade lined with fluffy pink and white blooms. It gets busy during peak bloom, so early weekday visits are your best bet for quiet photos and strolls.
Central Park also has beautiful spots, especially around the Reservoir and Cherry Hill. Roosevelt Island, particularly the path along the East River, is another under-the-radar favorite. You’ll find long rows of cherry trees with skyline views in the background — a peaceful escape that’s still close to Manhattan.
If you’re tracking bloom time, check the parks’ websites or social media for updates. The blooms move fast and vary year to year depending on the weather. Whether you plan ahead or just stumble upon them, cherry blossoms make spring in the city feel fresh, soft, and worth slowing down for.
Ride the Roosevelt Island Tram
Website: Roosevelt Island Tram
Dates: Cherry blossoms happen in early April through early May
Address: 254 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022
The Roosevelt Island Tram is one of those small New York experiences that always feels special. It runs from East 60th Street in Manhattan over the East River to Roosevelt Island, offering a scenic, five-minute ride with sweeping views of Midtown, the Queensboro Bridge, and the water below. The tram uses the same MetroCard fare as the subway, making it an easy and affordable way to add something different to your day.
Once you land on Roosevelt Island, you’ll find peaceful waterfront paths, open lawns, and landmarks like the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park. It’s quieter than most city parks and often feels like a hidden retreat, especially in spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom along the east promenade. You can pack a picnic, rent a bike, or just take a slow walk along the water. It’s a great outing if you want something low-key but still memorable, and the ride back into the city (especially at sunset) offers a view that’s hard to beat.
Walk the High Line
Website: The High Line
Date: All Spring
Address: New York, NY 10011
The High Line is one of my favorite places to walk in the spring. Built on a former elevated freight rail line, this public park stretches from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District up to 34th Street near Hudson Yards. It’s filled with native plants, public art installations, and pockets of seating that let you pause and take in views of the Hudson River or the streets below.
In the spring, the landscaping really comes to life, blooming magnolias, budding trees, and bursts of color make the walk feel like a moving garden.
What makes the High Line special is the way it blends nature and city energy. You’re above the traffic but still connected to the buzz of the streets. There are places to grab coffee, a few open plazas for people-watching, and occasional performances or installations that change with the seasons.
The earlier in the day you go, the quieter it tends to be. It’s a great way to see a different side of the city and stretch your legs while feeling completely surrounded by spring.
Enjoy the Macy’s Flower Show
Website: Macy’s Flower Show
Date: April 27 through May 18, 2025
Address: 151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001
Every spring, the ground floor of Macy’s Herald Square transforms into a full-scale flower show, with themed installations made entirely of real blooms. The Macy’s Flower Show has been a tradition for over 75 years, and while it only lasts for two weeks, it’s a spectacular way to welcome the season. Each year has a different theme — from outer space gardens to desert blooms — and the designs are often massive, colorful, and super creative.
The entire main floor is filled with floral sculptures, hanging arrangements, and interactive displays. It’s completely free and open during regular store hours, which makes it an easy add-on if you’re shopping nearby or visiting Midtown.
I’ve gone on weekday mornings when it’s quieter and easier to take photos, but even at peak times, it’s worth a visit. Whether you’re a plant lover, a design nerd, or just in need of a dose of color, the Macy’s Flower Show is a spring classic
Fun Things to Do in New York City in the Spring (Admission Required)
Visit the Met Cloisters
Website: Met Cloisters
Date: All Spring
Address: 99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040
Located in Fort Tryon Park at the northern tip of Manhattan, it’s part museum, part medieval escape, with winding gardens and river views that open up beautifully in spring. The building itself is made from actual European cloisters, so it has an old-world feel that’s rare in New York.
Inside, you’ll find centuries-old tapestries, religious art, and stone arches that make the museum feel peaceful and still. It’s not crowded, and the slower pace is refreshing. I like coming in the afternoon when the light filters through the stained glass windows and the gardens are just starting to bloom.
After your visit, the surrounding park is worth exploring. The trees bloom early, the paths are wide and quiet, and there’s a little café nearby if you want to stretch it into a longer day. Whether you’re looking for something thoughtful, scenic, or just want to feel like you’re far from the subway, the Cloisters is a perfect spring outing.
The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden
Website: The Orchid Show: New York Botanical Garden
Date: February 15 to April 27, 2025
Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful indoor experiences you can have during spring in New York. It’s held inside the glass-domed Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, where thousands of orchids are arranged into living sculptures, arches, and hanging displays. The show runs for several weeks each year and has a different theme every time, which keeps it feeling fresh and creative.
The setting itself adds to the magic. Walking through the warm, humid conservatory filled with color and scent feels like entering a dream. It’s quiet, calming, and ideal for slow wandering. I like going mid-morning during the week when it’s not too busy, and then taking a walk around the surrounding gardens afterward.
Spring hits early here, so you’ll also catch tulips, daffodils, and magnolia trees blooming. The Bronx location makes it feel like a bit of a trip, but that’s part of what makes it feel like a real escape. The Orchid Show is easily one of the most stunning seasonal events in the city.
Support a Team at March Madness
Website: March Madness at the Barclays Center
Date: March 22 & 24, 2024
Address: 620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
March Madness turns even casual sports fans into diehards, and watching the games in a New York bar makes the whole thing feel bigger. In the first two weeks especially, the city comes alive with buzzer beaters, bracket drama, and strangers cheering together like they’ve known each other for years. You’ll find TVs on at almost every bar, but a few go all in with sound, multiple screens, and drink specials.
I usually head to Smithfield Hall in Chelsea or Harlem Tavern uptown, where the energy is high and the games are on in every direction. The vibe is friendly but competitive, and it’s easy to find yourself caring deeply about a team you hadn’t heard of yesterday. The best part is that you don’t have to plan much. Walk in, grab a seat, order some wings, and get swept up in the moment.
Attend the Affordable Art Fair
Website: Affordable Art Fair
Date: March 19-23, 2025
Address: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th Street, New York, NY 10011
The Affordable Art Fair brings together galleries from around the world, displaying original works in painting, sculpture, photography, and more. Prices start around $100 and go up from there, but the atmosphere is welcoming regardless of whether you’re buying or just looking.
I like wandering through with no particular plan. You’ll come across big statement pieces, tiny prints, colorful abstracts, and thoughtful portraits all in the same aisle. The people working the booths are friendly and happy to chat about the artists, which makes the experience feel more personal.
Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a great way to discover new talent and get inspired. The layout is open and bright, which helps it feel more like a modern gallery than a trade show. If you’ve ever wanted to dip into the world of art collecting or just want a fun, low-pressure cultural spring activity in New York City, the Affordable Art Fair is a perfect place to start.
Enjoy Smorgasburg
Website: Smorgasburg
Date: Opens late March
Locations: Three locations in NYC
In my opinion, spring in New York City doesn’t officially start until Smorgasburg kicks off. The event brings together dozens of food vendors offering everything from fresh dumplings and birria tacos to ice cream sandwiches and oysters. You can show up hungry with no plan and walk away having tasted five different cuisines without ever sitting down for a full meal.
I usually go to the Williamsburg waterfront location, where the views of Manhattan are just as good as the food. There’s seating if you get there early, but most people stand, snack, and roam. Spring is the sweet spot before the full summer crowds hit, so the lines are manageable and the weather makes lingering easy.
New York City’s Night Markets
Dates: Late April until October
Night markets come back to New York City in the spring, popping up in neighborhoods and offering an array of bites from all over the world. The Bronx, Uptown (Harlem), and Brooklyn night markets join forces with the Latin (Harlem) and Vegan (Central Park) to fill up New Yorkers’ schedules.
Attending the markets is one of the most popular things to do in New York City at night. Furthermore, they often provide some form of entertainment. From cheering on local singers or a kids dance group between bites, attending a night market is one of the best things to do in New York City in the spring.
Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art (& the Rooftop Garden)
Website: The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Date: Opens Mid-May
Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Founded in 1870, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) is often considered the best museum in New York City. With more than 2 million pieces of art spanning 5,000+ years, the Met is the largest museum in the country and the fifth largest museum in the world. Averaging 6 million visitors per year, it’s also the most visited museum in New York City.
But let me share a local tip with you – one of the best things to do in New York City in the spring is to sneak away to the Met’s rooftoop terrace for a cocktail. This might sound like a secret hangout for the museum’s executives, but the Cantor Rooftop Garden is open to the public.
In simple terms it’s a rooftop bar overlooking Central Park. You have access to it with standard admission. Moreover, every spring the New York City museum decorates the rooftop with new exhibits. You’ll also be able to purchase snacks or drinks (my suggestion is to try to visit for sunset).
Gawk at Navy Ships During Fleet Week
Website: Fleet Week
Date: Late May
Fleet Week kicks off just before Memorial Day and brings a noticeable shift in the city. For a few days, you’ll spot sailors in uniform all over town, touring landmarks, taking photos in Times Square, and riding the subway like everyone else. It’s a reminder that New York still does civic traditions in a very public, very visible way.
The main highlight is the ship tours, which are free and open to the public. Piers in Manhattan and Brooklyn host vessels from the Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard, and you can walk right up, climb aboard, and talk to the crew. There are also performances, ceremonies, and flyovers that happen throughout the week, most of them open-air and family friendly. I usually take an afternoon to visit the piers, especially when the weather’s good.
Popular Spring Festivals in New York City
Off-Broadway Week
Website: NYC Off-Broadway Week
A Broadway theater is described as a professional theater that has 500 seats or more, and Off-Broadway means the theater holds less than 500. During Off Broadway Week multiple theaters come together to offer a two-for-one deal on admission.
It’s one of the best reasons to visit New York City in the spring, especially if you’re a theater geek (like me). The smaller theaters already offer a great value on live entertainment, and even more so during Off-Broadway week.
Average Spring Temperatures in NYC
Spring is one of best times to visit New York City thanks in large part to the weather. As a result of the mild temperatures, the days become more comfortable for exploring. Plus, the parks are blooming with color.
Fashion options are endless. You don’t have to worry about covering a great outfit under layers of jackets like you do in the winter. We have a What to Wear in New York City in the Spring (Packing List & Outfit Ideas) for those interested.
- Average temperatures in New York City in March: 52°F / 36°F
- Average temperatures in New York City in April: 64°F / 45°F
- Average temperatures in New York City in May: 72°F / 54°F
Tips for Visiting New York City in Spring
Wear comfortable walking shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking while exploring New York City in the spring. The subway is efficient, but sometimes it’s better to walk to absorb more of the city. Bring your most comfortable pair of shoes because you’ll be getting those steps in, I guarantee it.
Start your day early: Crowds will slowly be coming back to New York City in the spring after winter. Start your day as early as possible and visit your “must see” places first thing.
- Make reservations ahead of time: New York City is home to 8 million locals. Add in the many more annual visitors, and odds on that popular place you want to visit will have a line. If you’re visiting New York City in spring book reservations ahead of time, whenever possible.
A hat is non-negotiable: Want to enjoy the spring in New York City while looking like local? I have a tip: pick up this little gem! You’ll see them all over NYC for a good reason – they’re classic and provide coverage from the harsh sun.
Spring in New York City (Post Summary)
In short, these are a few spring must-do’s in New York City.
- Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a Parade
- Gawk at the Macy’s Flower Show
- Enjoy the Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival
- Cheer On the New York Tartan Day Parade
- Peruse the City’s Cherry Blossoms
- Ride the Roosevelt Island Tram
- Catch the Sunset on Pier 35
- Walk the High Line
- Visit the Met Cloisters
- Admire The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden
- Support a Team at March Madness
- Attend the Affordable Art Fair
- Partake in Smorgasburg
- Celebrate a Holiday 1,000+ Feet in the Air
- Welcome Back New York City’s Night Markets
- Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art (+Rooftop Garden)
- Gawk at Navy ships during Fleet Week
- Off-Broadway Week
Map of New York City Spring Activities
Frequently Asked Questions: How to have fun in New York City in the Spring
Spring is a fantastic time to visit New York, with mild weather, blooming flowers, and a vibrant atmosphere offering an ideal setting for exploration.
April is a great month to visit NYC, as it marks the arrival of spring with milder temperatures and the city’s iconic cherry blossoms in full bloom.
April in NYC typically experiences moderate rainfall, with occasional showers, making it advisable for visitors to be prepared for wet weather during this month.
New York can be busy at Easter, especially around events like the Easter Parade and other holiday-related activities, attracting both locals and visitors.
Spring in New York is characterized by blooming flowers, milder temperatures, and a vibrant atmosphere, as the city comes to life with outdoor events, festivals, and the beauty of Central Park in full bloom.
And there you have it, the best things to do in New York City in spring according to yours truly. Let me know in the comments if you think I missed a spot. Enjoy the blooms and sunshine.
Cheers!
This is such a great list. My family visits New York City every year and I’m always looking for new things we can do together. Thanks for the great suggestions.