New York in April

April is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit New York. Whilst the city isn’t exactly known for its balmy winters, millions make the expedition each year to experience its wonderful springtime. From beautiful gardens and parks to fantastic Easter celebrations, this place has it all. If you’re looking for some inspiration when it comes to planning a trip to the Big Apple, check out our list of the best things to do in the warmer months. To make your money go further, have a look at our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Taste the City

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Music festivals provide an experience like no other. To grab a slice of the action, head down to the Brooklyn Folk Festival. True to its name, this event features the very best of American and world folk music across a wide variety of genres, including blues, bluegrass, Latin & Balkan music and much more. In addition, there are vocal and instrumental workshops, film screenings, and jam sessions to sink your teeth into.

Ever dreamed of taking a sneak peek at the newest and most innovative automotive trends? Well, as it turns out, you can! The perfect activity for a somewhat disagreeable afternoon, the New York International Auto Show presents the very best that the automobile industry has to offer in a comprehensive and engaging way. A total car-lovers’ dream, this 10-day auto consumer extravaganza features everything from classics and luxury dream cars to new models and even futuristic concept vehicles, right in the heart of Manhattan. With almost 1,000 of the world’s most stunning vehicles on display, we promise you won’t leave bored!

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New York presents a wide variety of options when it comes to all things food. A total must for meat lovers, Brisket King is a culinary festival featuring 20 chefs and pitmasters serving up their best mouthwatering creations. Enjoy the juiciest brisket in Brooklyn prepared in every way thinkable as well as craft beer, hard cider and spirits. After the brisket king is crowned, guests are encouraged to stay for the after-party and – you guessed it – more food! Sounds pretty good to us.

Soak up the Spring

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There’s no shortage of great outdoor attractions all over New York. Stretching through the Meatpacking District and along the West Side of Manhattan, the High Line is a linear park and popular city landmark, welcoming a whopping 8 million visitors each year. Perfect for a lazy springtime stroll, the structure was redesigned in 2006, and now serves as a living system for a wide variety of plants and animals. Go for a picnic, admire the majestic city skyline or sit back and enjoy the sunset – the choice is yours!

Another one of our favorite places to see in the springtime is the Conservatory Garden in Central Park. Since first opening in 1937, the spot has become a favorite for visitors from all over the world and is now known as one of the most noteworthy public gardens in New York City. The garden is comprised of three areas, each with a specific design: the English-style South Garden, the French-style North Garden, and the Italianate Center Garden. April is the perfect time to amble through the winding pathways and admire the waterlily pools and stunning floral displays along the way.

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If you're travelling during Easter, you might want to check out the many egg hunts taking place around the city. At the beginning of the month, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan throws its own event with egg sculptures hidden throughout the institute. Another great option is the Rockefeller Center’s Inaugural Easter Egg Hunt with live musical performances, Easter bonnet making stations, prize giveaways, and more. Meanwhile, those who want to get in touch with their inner child should consider looking into Central Park’s Easter Egg Scavenger and History Hunt.

Get Cultured

For those rainy spring afternoons, it just makes sense to have a good backup plan. Eclectic and full of character, Chelsea Market is a great place to visit with friends and family. Located right in the center of the Meatpacking District, this fun attraction is known for its seriously tempting food hall, unique stores and live music performances. Grab a bite to eat, weave through the interesting stalls, and pick up some one-of-a-kind souvenirs for loved ones along the way. The market’s bohemian flair and laid-back atmosphere puts it in a class of its own.

Those who are looking to celebrate Easter in style should definitely consider checking out the Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival. Beginning as a spontaneous event in the 1870s, this fun annual procession began as a means for the city’s most fashionable dressers to exhibit their impressive festive finery. Though the event draws in smaller numbers nowadays, New Yorkers participate each year with great enthusiasm and increasingly outlandish costumes. Creative and eccentric, the event is a unique cultural expression of Easter which you won’t see elsewhere.

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Spring weather can be a little touch-and-go - still, New York presents a wide array of fantastic indoor activities right at your disposal all throughout the month. Those who are looking to soak up the culture of the city should consider checking out Tribeca Film Festival. Set up by Robert De Niro himself, this event was developed as a way to restore the Tribeca neighborhood of Lower Manhattan following the 9/11 attacks. The event attracts around 150,000 attendees each year and is widely considered to be one of the most prestigious film festivals in the area. Showcasing a diverse selection of feature films, short pictures, and documentary pieces, there’s a little something for everyone here. Those who are especially interested can also attend immersive programming and Q&As with relevant storytellers.

New York in the spring is a beautiful time for many reasons. The weather is warm, the streets are bustling with life, and the city is in full bloom! But the best part? No matter where your interests may lie, you’ll always be able to find fun things to do. From cherry blossom peeping at the Conservatory Garden to seriously tempting food festivals in Brooklyn, there are so many great things to do in the city for every type of traveller! Make the most out of your visit with our All-Inclusive pass and Explorer pass. For more information, check us out on Instagram and Facebook.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Times Square
Blog

16 Amazing things to do in Times Square, NYC

Times Square in New York City is one of the most iconic and bustling places on Earth. This area, located at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, is home to some of the world's largest billboards and signs, making it a must-see destination for any traveler or tourist. But Times Square isn't just about sightseeing - it also has a wide variety of entertainment options that draw people from all over the globe. As the commercial and cultural heart of New York City, it's home to everything, from street performers and protesters to family-friendly restaurants and attractions. It's possible to fill an entire vacation in just this one neighborhood - and you can see it all with Go City®! Our list of things to do in Times Square covers: Big Bus 1-Day Downtown & Uptown Hop-on Hop-off Tour Madame Tussauds Admission + MARVEL Universe 4D Woodbury Common Bus Tour THE RIDE And many more! 💰 >>  See how you can save up to 50% on New York attractions  🗓️ >>  Check out our example New York itineraries  What to do in Times Square Big Bus 1-Day Downtown & Uptown Hop-on Hop-off Tour Exploring New York - with its five boroughs and epic attractions, can be daunting - but Big Bus make it easy peasy. Explore uptown and downtown Manhattan on this super convenient and fun bus tour. You can relax while listening to informative narration and learning about the sites you're driving past, then hop off at any place that piques your interest. Major landmarks and neighborhoods you’ll see on this bus tour include all the big hitters: Times Square, Madison Square Garden, the Empire State Building, Chinatown, the Broadway Theatre District, and much more. Another fun option from Big Bus is the 2-hour nighttime tour, which showcases the city after dark. 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Go City® New York passes. Museum of Broadway A somewhat new addition to New York’s museums, the Museum of Broadway is a must-see for theater lovers. You can see what it takes to produce world-class shows, from the different props used to the various costumes performers wear, even their socks. 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Go City® New York passes. Broadway & Times Square Walking Tour See the bright lights of Broadway and Times Square on this glittering tour. Over an hour and 45 minutes, you'll be taken around the key theatrical sights and history of the area by an experienced actor and director (who you will find carrying an orange flag). They'll take you behind the velvet rope, and spill the tea on the local showbiz gossip, trivia, and history. 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Go City® New York passes. Madame Tussauds + MARVEL Universe 4D Are you ready to step into a world of glamour and fame? Look no further than Madame Tussauds New York, the ultimate celebrity experience in the heart of Times Square. This world-renowned wax museum offers visitors over 200 lifelike replicas of some of the most famous people in history. But it's not just about posing for selfies with your favorite stars - this museum takes things to the next level with its interactive exhibits. Ever wanted to fly alongside Iron Man or battle villains with Spider-Man? Now you can, thanks to Madame Tussauds' thrilling virtual reality experiences. Sports fans won't be disappointed either - challenge NBA star Carmelo Anthony to a game of basketball or practice your boxing moves with Muhammad Ali. And don't miss out on the chance to sing your heart out with Taylor Swift or dance alongside Michael Jackson. But Madame Tussauds New York isn't just about celebrities - it also celebrates the spirit of New York City itself, and showcases iconic figures from the city's rich history, including Alexander Hamilton and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Learn about their incredible lives while getting up close and personal with their incredibly detailed wax figures. 👉 Don't miss: their New York-specific experiences and exhibits. 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Go City® New York passes. Take the Woodbury Common Bus Tour Depart from Times Square and head out to the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, a place where you can find New York City style for much less than New York City prices. Shop major label stores like Burberry, Coach, Prada, NIKE, Lacoste, and many more with your VIP coupon booklet in hand for even more potential savings. Your admission includes round-trip transportation and several hours to shop at your leisure. 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is only available on the Go City® New York Explorer pass. Food and entertainment in Times Square  Live music adds to the Times Square atmosphere. You'll see many talented musicians playing their instruments throughout the day, along with street performers doing stunts or dancing routines. There are usually several stages set up throughout the square where bands will play for passersby to enjoy while they explore the city sights nearby. In addition to the live music and theater shows, Times Square also offers exciting interactive experiences such as virtual reality (VR) arcades - some of which also offer multiplayer games, giving players the chance to compete against each other or work together to complete virtual challenges. It's a great way for friends and family to bond over something fun and unique. Feeling brave? Many restaurants have open mic nights so visitors can try out their own musical skills! We hear those places serve food as well... check out Times Square's official website for tips on where to eat. Lillie’s Victorian Establishment Lillie’s Victorian Establishment is a fantastic bar and restaurant that pays homage to the Victorian era. It is well-known for great decorations during seasonal events, so if you do decide to check it out, consider going during this time. M&M’s World You can surround yourself with chocolate by visiting M&M’s World, which is located right in the center of Times Square. Not only can you choose from M&M’s massive selection, but you can also print custom images on the chocolate, perfect for gifts. Margon Known for its impressive Cuban sandwich, Margon is a popular destination when it is time to grab something to eat. The menu is quite extensive, so there should be something to suit your tastes. Midnight Moment Midnight is a very special time in Times Square. Just before the clock strikes 12 am, all the billboards come to life to showcase a new artist. This is a truly an unforgettable moment that is well worth the watch. Ellen’s Stardust Diner Do you like all-day breakfast? What about Broadway and musicals? If so, Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a no-brainer. The diner is known for new performers that may be one day headlining some of the biggest shows Broadway has to offer. Things to do near Times Square Top of the Rock Observatory Discover unparalleled 360-degree views of the New York City skyline from one of its most iconic buildings at the Top of the Rock observation deck -  a photographer's paradise and an absolute must-see. Located at the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza in the Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock offers visitors an unforgettable experience from the moment they step into its stylish lobby. The building itself is a piece of history, constructed during the Great Depression as a symbol of hope and prosperity for all Americans. Its intricate motifs and stunning murals serve as a reminder of that era's elegance and sophistication. From the observation deck, enjoy breathtaking views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Lady Liberty - all captured from three different viewing decks set on some of New York City's highest levels. Top of the Rock has earned high praise from locals and tourists alike for its unique perspective on the city. Here, you can escape from the hustle and bustle down below, and look out over what feels like the center of the world. So whether you're looking to capture stunning photographs or just want to experience one-of-a-kind views of New York City's skyline, Top of The Rock near Times Square is an ideal destination for anyone looking for something truly special. 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Go City® New York passes. Rockefeller Center Tour Featuring 19 commercial buildings in the area between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, Rockefeller Center is home to major landmarks. Explore the Rink at Rockefeller Center (popular for skating in winter), Radio City Music Hall, Top of the Rock, the Comcast Building, and more. A tour of this compact but diverse little corner of midtown Manhattan is a chance to learn a little bit more about NYC culture. 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Go City® New York passes. Radio City Stage Door Tour® Theater buffs, rejoice! Now is your chance to go behind the scenes at one of America’s most famous theaters. With the comprehensive, 75-minute Radio City Stage Door Tour®, you’ll get in-depth looks at major areas and special objects. Discover what makes this amazing place such an important cultural destination. You’ll even get to take a photo with a world-famous Rockette! 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Go City® New York passes. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) In a city with so many stellar art museums, it can be hard to stand out from the crowd. The Museum of Modern Art (or MoMA), however, does just that. Their vast collections of modern and contemporary art showcase everything. See art from the best of world-famous artists to the newest offerings of up-and-comers. Come here to be inspired. 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Go City® New York passes. THE RIDE If you’re looking for a unique tour of NYC, look no further than THE RIDE. It's a delightfully interactive experience that feels more like a theatrical performance than a simple sightseeing tour. This 75-minute excursion is hosted by two professional comedians who will escort you past the city’s top sites. See landmarks like Grand Central Terminal, the New York Public Library, Central Park, and of course, Times Square itself. 🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Go City® New York passes - but you'll need to book in advance. See the best of Times Square and New York Discover our full line-up of New York attractions including The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock Observatory, the Statue of Liberty, and more.   🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.     😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.  So grab a New York attraction pass and save while you sightsee! Share your adventure with us  Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels. 
Katie Sagal

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