The Best Things To Do In New York In The Spring – Spring In NYC

Last Updated on 29th March 2023

This post about the best things to do in New York in the spring contains affiliate links.

I’m sure you’re all aware of my intense love and obsession for New York by now but that doesn’t mean I’m going to stop banging on about my favourite place in the world anytime soon.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit New York in almost every season and NYC during the spring was truly beautiful. There’s so much life and vibrancy throughout the city and it’s just the most amazing place when the sun is shining.

Today’s post is all about the things to do in New York in the spring, and if you’re booking a ticket there anytime soon, I totally wouldn’t mind if you booked an extra one for me…

Read more: The Ultimate New York Bucket List – 111 Best Things To Do In NYC

1. Spend an afternoon in Central Park

Central Park is absolutely stunning regardless of the time of year but there’s something really beautiful about spending time in the park during spring. The flowers are just beginning to blossom and the air is getting warmer; people are starting to come out of hibernation and there’s so much to see and do around the park.

Whether you choose to enjoy a picnic there, watch one of the many performers or simply just enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lakes, you absolutely must spend a few hours in Central Park in the spring.

2. Walk along the Highline

The Highline spans almost 2 miles along the west side of Manhattan, starting (or ending, depending on where you choose to begin) in the Meatpacking District and ending at West 34th Street.

It’s an old, abandoned train line that has been transformed into an elevated trail and park and is one of the best places in New York to get unparalleled views of the city. There are plenty of benches situated along the trail where you can grab a seat and admire the views, and there’s also a plethora of people selling various items and performers who’ll entertain you while you walk.

While the Highline can certainly get busy with tourists, it’s actually like a small haven away from the city noise, but you also have the pleasure of enjoying the immense views of the Hudson River and towering buildings.

Read more: 25 Best Free Things To Do In New York – Free Things To Do In NYC

3. Take a stroll downtown – things to do in New York in the spring

The likes of the East Village, Greenwich Village and SoHo are popular locations to visit in Downtown Manhattan. There are so many picturesque buildings to see, (including Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment) plenty of delicious eateries and some fabulous shops to enjoy.

Downtown Manhattan is my absolute favourite in the springtime as everything just looks so pretty and bright. I’d definitely recommend spending a few hours just wandering around and getting to know the area.

I always envisage that I’m an extra in an episode of Friends or Sex and the City whenever I’m in this neighbourhood…

Read more: 4 Days In New York Itinerary – How To See NYC In 4 Days

4. Take a ride on the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty

In all the times I’ve been to New York, I’ve never actually been to Liberty Island but I’ve been on the many different river cruises that circle around the island that’s home to the Statue of Liberty. It looks so beautiful during the spring as the sun casts gorgeous light over the river and the statue.

Lady Liberty also looks breathtaking against the blue sky backdrop and as it’s such an iconic part of New York, it’s something that you absolutely have to see.

If you do decide to go to the island itself, you can walk all the way up to the top of the statue and look out over the river from the viewing platform inside Lady Liberty’s crown. It may get heaving with tourists but it’s certainly a bucket list-worthy thing to see and do!

5. Walk along the Brooklyn Bridge – things to do in New York in the spring

Yet another notable tourist attraction of New York, the Brooklyn Bridge is home to some of the best views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn. The bridge can get absolutely heaving with tourists, cyclists and runners but it’s something you definitely have to see.

The walk along the bridge to Brooklyn will have you staring up at the skyline in amazement; you can also see the Statue of Liberty across the water on a clear day.

It’s also the setting of many New York-based Hollywood blockbusters (think Sex and the City) so if you’re a movie buff then you’re definitely going to want to satisfy your Carrie Bradshaw dream by taking a stroll along the Brooklyn Bridge.

Read more: 30 Most Romantic Things To Do In NYC For Couples – Best New York Date Ideas

6. Enjoy the atmosphere in Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is just one of my very many favourite places in the city because it’s always full of weird and wonderful things.

The park itself is beautiful during the spring but I think it’s the actual people that make the park so appealing to me. Everywhere you look, there’s someone doing something totally incredible; whether it’s street dancing, juggling or a jazz band playing to the whole park, you’re sure to love the delightful atmosphere.

My mum and I spent a good hour relaxing in Washington Square Park and we saw so many amazing people just going about their daily business, or doing something funny; if you love people-watching then this park is definitely one that needs to be on your New York bucket list.

Read more: NYC In A Day – One Day In New York Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

7. Take in the view from the top of One World Trade

Naturally, the views from the top of the tallest building in New York are always going to be stunning no matter what time of year it is, but I particularly love going up during the spring.

On a clear, spring day the views are unlike anything else you’ll ever see and you’ll be able to see for miles across New York City. It’s an amazing experience and it’s absolutely worth the money; damn, I wish I could go back there right now!

Admiring the whole of Manhattan from a bird’s eye view as well as seeing the sprawling view of Brooklyn across the Hudson river really is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon in New York.

Read more: The Best Observation Decks In NYC For Amazing Views [Ranked]

Related posts:

• 7 Days In New York Itinerary – Ultimate NYC 7-Day Itinerary
• What Is New York Known For – 40 Things That New York City Is Famous For
• One Month In New York – Cost Of Living In NYC For A Month
• 50+ Best Places To Eat In New York City – NYC Best Restaurants
• 40+ Best Things To Do At Christmas In NYC – New York At Christmas

Pin for later – things to do in New York in the spring

Have you ever been to New York? What would be at the top of your list of things to do in New York in the spring? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter at @imjustagirl_16.