Central Park Spring

Things to Do in New York in Spring

Springtime shenanigans for your NYC trip
By Katie Sagal

New York City really comes alive in the springtime. The parks are in bloom, the snow has melted away, and there's a happy and warm air (literally and figuratively) that sweeps the entire island.

Spring is a great time to visit New York, with cheaper airfare and lodging available, shorter attraction lines, and exciting new special events and shows offered daily. If you’re looking for things to do in New York in spring, check out our list of some of the best activities and attractions, including...

  • Butterfly Conservatory Exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History
  • Top of the Rock Observatory
  • Empire State Building
  • Landmarks Cruise
  • Central Park Bike Rental
  • Cherry Blossom Season at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
  • Baseball Games and Sports Stadiums
  • New York Botanical Garden Orchid Show
  • Macy’s Flower Show
  • Tribeca Film Festival

American Museum of Natural History Butterfly Conservatory

butterfly-on-my-finger-conservatory-american

In addition to being one of our favorite museums in the entire city, the American Museum of Natural History is also a great place to visit (over and over again) because of its spectacular line-up of special exhibits. Explore the grounds Night at the Museum style. Study dinosaur fossils, learn about biodiversity and environmentalism, travel from Earth to space, and much more. In spring, check out the annually-available Butterfly Conservatory Exhibit, which showcases these amazing delicate creatures in a riot of colors and shapes.

Top of the Rock Observatory

man-cap-standing-observatory-deck-edge

While the city’s natural landscapes are slowly starting to come to life, it’s kind of hard to get the right perspective on nature from the ground. See spring in full bloom from the Top of the Rock. Zip all the way to the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza for spectacular views of Central Park and beyond. Enjoy a skyline dotted by skyscrapers and greenery.

Empire State Building

wide-low-angle-view-empire-state

Another great place to see the entire city come to life is from atop the famous Empire State Building.  Learn how the Art Deco building has become one of the most famous in the world. The Empire State Building experience is more than just an observation deck, too. As you journey from the ground floor to the top, you'll be immersed in interactive exhibits that tell the story of this architectural masterpiece.

Landmarks Cruise

The warmer weather calls for a ride through the harbor. Hop aboard a Circle Line Sightseeing cruise and see the iconic Manhattan skyline from the water. The Landmarks Cruise is a classic and will cover all things NYC. Float by the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and more.

Central Park Bike Rentals and Tours

bethesda-terrace-fountain-two-architectural-features

The return of warm(ish) weather to NYC means that people are bringing their bikes out in force. Join in with an easy bike rental and pedal through the always lovely Central Park to enjoy the emerging flowers all around you. If you want to explore beyond the park, another popular route takes you across the Brooklyn Bridge. There are often guided tours you can join, which allows you to explore the city without the pressure of figuring out where to go on your own, and deciding whether or not there's really a bike lane ahead of you.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

botanical-garden-brooklyn-new-york

There are few things as lovely as these delicate, exotic blossoms. Fortunately for you, you don’t need to travel thousands of miles to Japan to see these amazing trees for yourself. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden has an astonishing collection of cherry blossom trees that bloom in splendor each spring.

Roam the gardens and marvel at their beauty – with camera in hand, of course! They even have a cherry blossom tracker you can use to see when the trees will be at the point of peak bloom, so you can plan your trip around a certain date.

Root for the home team

Yankee Stadium

One of America’s favorite springtime traditions is the return of Major League Baseball. It's always a ton of fun to take in a game with the whole family, and NYC fans will be cheering right along with you. So whichever team you support, there’s some exciting early-season baseball to enjoy during your next NYC trip!

Want to see more of Yankee Stadium? Take a tour! Sports fans may also enjoy a tour of Madison Square Garden.

New York Botanical Garden Orchid Show

entrance-new-york-botanical-garden

The Annual Orchid Show NYC is a sight not to be missed for fans of gardening or all things botanical. Come to the New York Botanical Garden to see the gorgeous array of various orchid specimens, arranged in ways to evoke the wild beauty of these distinctive plants. Get excited to see some beautiful plants, and consider bringing one home, too!

Macy’s Flower Show

Macy's Flower Show

In celebration of the beauty of spring, the Macy’s Flower Show is back for another amazing year. Visit the iconic department store and see the displays come to life with thousands of gorgeous flowers covering mannequins and more. A must-see for plant lovers, there will be several special events and talks, marvelous featured gardens, and even bouquets of the day. You'll even find floral-themed food and face painting for the kids.

Tribeca Film Festival

The amazing Tribeca Film Festival is one of the city’s best-beloved events of its kind. In addition to dozens of film screenings at theaters across the neighborhood, the festival also offers special events, Tribeca Talks panels, interactive installations, live music, and much more.

Save on springtime activities in New York City

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. 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) NYC
Blog

MoMA Tips for Your NYC Vacation

With its impressive collection of over 200,000 works of art, MoMA is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in modern and contemporary art. From jaw-dropping sculptures to stunning abstract paintings, a visit to the MoMA captivates visitors from all around the world.
Lindsay Eagan
Blog

Quirky Things to do in New York   

What can we say? We love New York! With a long list of cultural amenities, interesting historical sites, and exciting events, we couldn't think of a better place to visit for a one-of-a-kind vacation. Whether you’re looking for unusual museums and attractions, or ideas for fun activities like kayaking on the East River, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, take a look at our list for some of the best unusual things to do in the city. We hope you love them as much as we do. Explore the City The urban landscape displays some of the most creative and provocative street art in the city. Those looking for something a little different from the usual gallery experience might appreciate a tour of the Bushwick area, which is known as a mecca for American and International artists alike. Along the route, you’ll be able to view popular Blek Le Rat stencils and Shepard Fairey murals as well as some inspiring pieces by some lesser-known artists. In addition, your tour guide will take you through the history of the New York graffiti movement and explain more about the various styles of artistry that developed in the area. If skyscrapers aren’t quite your thing, why not check out St. Patrick’s Basilica? A total must for architecture lovers and history buffs, this Neo-Gothic style Catholic cathedral offers a refreshing change from the ultra-modern cityscape. Visitors can take tours to appreciate and admire the beauty of this historic visual landmark and learn more about its background. Still, the real star of the show is the catacombs tour, permitting visitors to explore the awe-inspiring tunnels running beneath the city center. For curious adventurers only, we recommend a trip on the Staten Island Ferry. An undoubtedly major attraction and mainstay of New York City culture, the ferry grants stunning views of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and Lower Manhattan Skyline. We suggest putting a day aside to explore all that the island has to offer. Check out the South Beach Boardwalk, have a picnic at Silver Lake Park, or visit Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden – the choice is yours! Get Cultured Another one of our favorite unique attractions to see in the city is the New York Transit Museum. Built into an authentic subway station in downtown Brooklyn, the institute celebrates the fascinating history of the region’s public transportation network. The museum’s remarkable collection features everything from construction equipment and vintage subway cars to old photographs and tickets. Enthralling and enjoyable, the museum provides the perfect educational experience for those of all ages. Looking for a unique and artsy museum to pique your interest? Well, look no further. Located on Madison Avenue, The Morgan Library houses one of the largest on-paper collections in the United States. The perfect stop for bibliophiles and creative types alike, the library features a broad collection of art, books and historic documents that will keep you dazzled for hours. Highlights include Mozart’s handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony, Henry David Thoreau’s Walden, and the only remaining manuscript of Milton’s Paradise Lost. The experience of viewing these influential works up close is entirely unforgettable – don't skip it! Why see a museum when you could see a quirky museum instead? Just across the East River, the Queens Museum seeks to collect, exhibit and interpret global contemporary art for a wide audience. The institute’s main draw is its room-sized scale model of the five boroughs, which is continuously updated. Still, that isn’t to say that its other pieces aren’t well worth the visit – between their permanent collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass, huge map of the city water supply system, and collection of artifacts from the 1964 and 1964 World Fairs, there’s a lot to see here. Find Fun Activities One of the best alternative activities in the city has got to be kayaking on the East River. Yep, you read that right. The city’s coastal waterways serve as a unique urban paddling destination – and with good reason. This energetic and outdoorsy activity grants stunning views of the midtown skyline. If you’ve never kayaked before, there’s no need to worry – you’ll be guided by a professional team and provided with the right equipment to ensure total safety. All you have to do is show up with and a positive attitude and readiness to explore! Those who are travelling with family might want to check out the next item on our list. Situated in Lower Manhattan, the Museum of Ice Cream offers a fun and unique experience based upon our favorite frozen delight. Bring your sweetest dreams to life through a number of multisensory installations and imaginative concepts. Fan favorites include the 3-storey indoor Ice Cream Portal, the Rainbow Tunnel, and the Sprinkle Pool. Don’t forget to bring your phone to capture the colorful and whimsical exhibits up close. The city is filled with hidden gems – you just need to know where to look. Tucked away in the Lower East Side, the Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center offers an entertainment experience to remember. This historic video arcade presents a wide array of classic and newer games, with a particular focus on competitive fighting. With its vibrant atmosphere, underground vibe, and unique draw, this spot is perfect for hanging out with friends and family after a long day of exploring. If you’re looking for a bit of fun, this is where you want to be. The state of New York never ceases to amaze us with its fun and quirky attractions. The city is like a spectacular buffet of cultural experiences. From one-of-a-kind daytrips to interesting museums and tours, the area has plenty to offer those looking for a little something outside of the box. Those who visit seeking diversity, vibrancy and eccentricity won’t be disappointed. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
Blog

Best Markets in New York

Arguably one of the best ways to gain insight into local culture, markets provide a fantastic sensory learning experience. Whether you want to browse the stalls for some local handicrafts, check out the vintage section, or pick up some unique souvenirs for your loved ones back home, you’ll be amazed by what you may find. From fleas to food and drink markets, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of some of our favorite places to check out. Just keep scrolling! Taste the City Foodies – pay attention! If wandering through aisles of delectable confections and locally sourced honey sounds good to you, then the Union Square Greenmarket just might be your jam. Held four times a week, this fun cultural experience is known for presenting a wide array of organic veggies, heritage meats, and artisan cheeses. Be sure to check out the lively activities held at the market, including food book fairs, cooking demos, and quite thankfully, tastings! When it comes to outdoor food markets, you can’t get much better than Smorgasburg. Attracting thousands of people to Brooklyn and Manhattan, this place has been recognized as ‘’The Woodstock of Eating’’. At the event, you’ll be able to taste from over 100 different vendors serving up a wide array of delicious and unique delicacies. Dive into the crowds, taste the city, and admire the views from the East River Waterfront. Hey, what’s not to love? One of New York’s oldest markets – dating way back to 1818 - is also one of the city’s most cherished food spots and a mainstay of the Lower East Side. Those who are looking for the ultimate culinary experience will appreciate the Essex Street Market for its gourmet ice cream, fresh handmade pasta, and Japanese bentos. What better way to spend the afternoon than by eating your way around one of the city’s most mouth-watering food destinations? Browse the Stalls Looking for some eye-catching antique furniture or a funky vintage jacket to add to your collection? Then this bustling space has you covered. Running every Sunday, all year round, the Grand Bazaar Market is known for offering an expansive array of one-of-a-kind, rare, and limited-edition pieces. Whilst browsing, visitors can enjoy bratwurst hot off the stove, decadent sea salt brownies, or sip on a cold one. You may find interesting events held here, including Made in NYC, Handmade Bazaar, and Grand Vintage Bazaar. Oh, and the best part? Some of the proceeds go towards local public schools. Another one of our favorite markets for a laid-back Saturday afternoon in the city is Brooklyn Flea Market. Running all year round on the weekends, this place is known for peddling everything from vintage home goods and collectibles to handmade wares and original artwork. Visitors can also enjoy deliciously fresh food and drinks whilst shopping. Since there’s so much to see and take in, we recommend saving a free day for this one. We especially love this place for its incredible bohemian atmosphere and fair prices. Immerse yourself in the culture of the city with the next item on our list. Situated in Chinatown, the Canal Street Market provides an exciting and unique experience for you and your loved ones. Upon entrance, you can browse the stalls for beauty, clothing and design products. In the food area, you can dig into a comforting bowl of ramen, sip boba milk tea, and grab rare and artisanal ingredients for your pantry. Definitely don’t miss the cool special events here, including live music, comedy shows, and pop-up vendor activities. Soak up the Atmosphere Located in the Meatpacking District, the next item on our list is perfect for spending time with friends whilst enjoying a delicious bite. Merging food, art and culture, Chelsea Market offers a rewarding experience for anyone and everyone. The main star of the show is the market’s bustling, high-end food court, which houses restaurants, vendors and shops selling plates and ingredients from around the globe. In addition to its tantalizing culinary offerings, the market also has some great shops and stalls. Find a fantastic bottle of wine, get a beautiful bouquet of flowers made up, or watch an immersive art installation at Artechouse. The best markets in the city bring a little bit of everything to the table. One of our personal favorites is the Astoria Market - and although it’s a little bit further out of the city center, we promise that it’s well worth the visit! Drawing together artists, bakers, and designers from all elements, this place is a total treat for the senses. Shop one-of-a-kind antiques, taste authentic Korean barbecue, and sit back and soak up the atmosphere. Though we can’t promise that you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for, you’ll be intrigued and delighted by what the market has in store. DeKalb Market is the perfect place to stop for a meal when exploring Brooklyn. A total Instagrammer’s paradise, this place features many local favorites all in one spot - trust us when we say, you do not want to miss out! Celebrating originality and diversity through food, the market offers a wide array of delicious cuisines from around the world. With its tasty eats, vibrant energy, and underground atmosphere, this would be a great place to try something new. There’s no better way to soak up the atmosphere of the city than by visiting its fantastic markets, of which there are many. Breaking away from the typical trip to the mall, markets offer a vibrant, atmospheric experience to provide a true taste of the city. Whether you’re just browsing, bargain shopping, or looking to try out some of the best food in the city, it’s impossible to be bored! Besides being a total treat for the senses, the thought of discovering a quirky antique chair or great vintage jacket to bring home is just too tempting for us to resist! Explore the city to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon