There is always something exciting to see in New York City, no matter the season. However, some NYC sights and events can only be experienced to their fullest in spring.
These are ten of our favorite things to do in NYC in spring. And they are all a short walk or subway ride (find a station located just 4 mins away) from The Concorde Hotel New York.
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Central Park
You don’t have to look very hard to find the magic of springtime here. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy cherry blossoms, lilacs, tulips, azalea, and wisteria. There are plenty of fresh-air activities that allow you to stay active while enjoying the floral view. Rent a boat, go for a carriage ride, birdwatch, or take a walking tour. If you’re looking to relax, pack a picnic and doze off in Sheep Meadow.
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New York Botanical Garden
Enjoy 250 acres of gorgeous scenery in the heart of The Bronx. From perennial gardens to ornamental conifers, there is always a magnificent sight to take your breath away. Tickets run $25-$35 for out of state visitors, depending on how much of the space you’d like to see.
Right now, all tickets include access to a special art exhibit called KUSAMA: COSMIC NATURE.
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City Island
Take a trip to the seaside and explore this Bronx fishing village. Once the weather warms up, people come out in droves to eat fresh seafood, go fishing, scuba dive, and finish the day off with ice cream from the famous ice cream shop, Lickety Split.
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Macy’s Flower Show
Macy’s Flower Show is an annual two-week event that combines spring blooms and spring fashion. Visit the Herald Square location to see gorgeous displays of flowers and do some shopping, too!
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Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is a great way to enjoy spring in New York—and it’s free! Avoid rush hour, when the boats are busy with people commuting to and from work, and you’ll get to see NYC in a unique way. This ferry will also allow you to get a great view of the Statue of Liberty!
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Jazz Age Lawn Party
Another fabulous annual event. This 1920s-inspired party takes place on Governors Island and has grown into the largest gathering of its kind. Dress up in your flapper gear or pinstripe suit, enjoy a retro cocktail, play croquet, and swing dance the night away!
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Smorgasburg
This open-air food market was called “The Woodstock of Eating” by The New York Times. There are four locations, and while Covid has put a bit of a wrench in their plans, they are managing to open their Jersey City location and seem optimistic they’ll be able to operate in Brooklyn again soon.
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Champagne Brunch Sail
Whether you’re looking for something romantic to do in the warm weather, or you just want to treat yourself, you can’t go wrong with a champagne brunch. Put that on the water with a nice, cool breeze, and it is nothing short of perfection. The most popular cruise seems to be Shearwater, a 1929 yacht which offers a two-hour trip, champagne bar, and buffet.
Tickets start at $55 for children and $79 for adults, and they even have a sail-only option.
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Five Boro Craft Beer Fest
This is another annual event that was cancelled in 2020, but right now their website says “We will see you in 2021!” Here’s hoping they do! This beer fest offers selections from 55 breweries, live music, and local food. Sample the flavors of NYC and enjoy the fine weather.
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Open Culture
This is one of those rare, good things that has come from the pandemic. Live performances can now be viewed at nearly 200 locations throughout the five boroughs of NYC. Art and cultural institutions (i.e. musicians, comedians, actors, and actresses) can hold ticketed performances, which means you get to view the culture of NYC in a new way while enjoying the springtime weather at the same time.
The best way to find out what events are going on through this program during your stay is to visit the permit website, select “open culture” under event type, and fill in the appropriate date range.
Once the weather gets warm and the flowers begin to bloom, you can turn any corner in NYC and find some kind of spring magic. We hope this guide will give you a great starting point for your adventure during the spring in New York City.
As for accommodations, The Concorde Hotel New York is right in the middle of the action, with knowledgeable staff just waiting to share even more great hot spots with you. Go out for a night on the town or enjoy a warm, quiet evening in one of our terraced rooms.
Book your spring stay at Concorde Hotel New York today!