Spring is here! If you’re like us, you’re ready for the city to emerge from its winter slumber. It’s time to get outside and enjoy the sunny days and warmer temps ahead. Here are seven of our favorite things to do in NYC this spring!
Macy’s Flower Show
Dates: March 24 – April 7
Location: Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W 34th St.
Cost: Free!
Details: Each year, Macy’s Herald Square transforms into breathtaking floral scenes with blooms, fantasy flowers, and lush plants from around the world. Step right up and see the magic of spring bloom before your eyes. There will be several special events and spectacular gardens that bring the magic to life. You can find more details here.
Earth Day Festival at Union Square
Dates: April 14, 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Union Square
Cost: Free!
Details: Think of this as an Earth Day block party! This annual outdoor event in Union Square features dozens of exhibitors and vendors, including environmental non-profits, green businesses, live performances, and activities for the whole family. Stay tuned for more details here.
The Frieze New York
Dates: May 1 – 5
Location: The Shed, 545 W 30th St.
Price: General Admission for adults starts at $76, learn more and purchase here.
Details: The annual international contemporary art fair returns to The Shed for its 12th year, and features art from 65 leading galleries from across the globe. Visitors can view and purchase art, as well as attend talks on art and art history. Get your tickets early, they go fast! You can learn more here.
Visit Little Island
Dates & Times: Open daily, 6:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. March 13 – May 28, and 6:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. May 29 – September 3.
Location: Pier 55 in Hudson River Park.
Price: Free!
Details: One of New York’s newest parks is unlike any place you’ve ever seen. A multi-level sensory experience built on an artificial island in the Hudson River, visitors can take in spectacular views, enjoy local flora, experience innovative art and even make music a the park’s installations! Click here to learn more about the park.
Tribeca Film Festival
Dates: June 8-18
Location: Various locations throughout New York
Parking: You can reserve parking near several venues, including Radio City Music Hall, The Beacon, Spring Studios (Festival Hub), Cinepolis Chelsea, SVA Theatre, Regal Cinemas Battery Park, and Tribeca Performing Arts Center
Cost: Varies by the event. You can purchase tickets here.
Details: The Tribeca Film Festival is one of New York’s premier spring events! The festival offers a line-up from independent filmmakers showcasing feature-length and short films, documentaries, and family-friendly films. Typically, festival screenings also feature panel discussions with directors and actors after the film. You can find more info here.
Walk the Highline
Dates & hours: Open daily 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. April 1 – May 31, and 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. June 1 – September 30.
Location: Access points from Gansevoort to 34th St. (map below)
Cost: Free!
Details: Looking for the perfect spring day activity? Take a stroll on the Highline! What began as an out-of-use railroad trestle has since been converted to one of New York’s most-visited public green spaces. The elevated park stretches 1.45 miles along the west side of Manhattan with several access points along the way. You can find more information here.
Jet off on spring break
If you’re heading out of town for spring break, we wouldn’t hold it against you. Catching a flight? Just remember to reserve your airport parking spot in advance:
JFK
LGA
EWR
Transportation Tips and Tricks
Street parking and metered parking is in very high demand throughout New York City. Pay close attention to any posted signs; parking in a restricted spot could result in a ticket or even a tow or a boot. Click here for more information.
If you are planning on parking on the street, we would recommend downloading the ParkNYC app, which allows drivers to pay for parking and extend their time at a meter directly from their mobile device!
New York also has many garages and lots that are available for a fee. You can use SpotHero to reserve a spot in advance and park with ease!
Public Transportation
New York is served by the MTA transit system, which is available for a fee. If you’re going to a large event, consider parking further away in a less busy area and taking public transit to save time and money. You can learn more and view schedules here.
Happy spring, New York!