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Things to do in New York in April | Sightseeing, events, and seasonal activities

April is a great time to visit New York City, with longer daylight hours, green parks, and blooming flowers to greet you. The city is buzzing with outdoor markets and activities, and you get to sit at rooftop bars as they open for the season. The number of tourists is higher when compared to the previous months, but it isn’t as crowded as it will be when summer begins. Explore New York’s top attractions, visit flea markets, and indulge in the spring festivities when you visit the Big Apple this April.

Your guide to New York in April

NYC in April at a glance
Weather in NYC: How April compares
NYC in April: Popular things to do
Plan ahead: Must-book NYC experiences for April
April highlights: Must-do experiences for families, nature lovers, and more
Festivals and events in NYC this April
NYC in April: Your 3-day itinerary
Pro tips for exploring NYC in April
Frequently asked questions about visiting NYC in April

NYC in April at a glance

Weather: The average temperature in April is about 10.4°C (50.8°F). The weather is pleasant, and the climate is moderate, making it a good time to visit, but there are chances of unexpected light showers for 11 days in the month.
Daylight: Average 13 hours of daylight, with 8 hours of sunshine and sunset around 7:35pm.
Key events: Hanami Nights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, cherry blossoms, Orchid Show, NYC Tartan Week, Dance Theatre of Harlem performances, NYC Ballet Spring 2025
Packing essentials: An umbrella, light jacket, and comfortable shoes.

Weather in NYC: How April compares

Pleasant weather and blooming flowers welcome visitors to New York in April, making it a lovely time for a trip. With fewer crowds as compared to the summer season and a variety of events lined up, April in NYC remains as exciting as ever.

NYC in April: Popular things to do

Broadway

Catch Broadway shows on your trip to New York with discounted tickets in April on select shows. Or watch your favorite classic for a matinee, such as Moulin Rouge! The Musical, The Lion King, Chicago, Sunset Boulevard, and The Great Gatsby.

Special events: & Juliet, George Clooney’s Good Night and Good Luck, and Aladdin.

Recommended experiences:

The Lion King
Wicked
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Hamilton

Insider tip: Book your tickets in advance for popular shows.

Find out about more Broadway shows in April here

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met has several spring collections on display, and April opens the museum’s gates to new exhibits. Top exhibits to look out for include John Singer Sargent’s Sargent and Paris, The New Art: American Photography, 1839–1910, and The Roof Garden Commission: Jennie C. Jones, Ensemble.

Special events: John Singer Sargent’s Sargent and Paris (April 27), The New Art: American Photography, 1839–1910 (April 11), and The Roof Garden Commission: Jennie C. Jones, Ensemble (April 15).

Recommended experiences:

Metropolitan Museum of Art Highlights Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Metropolitan Museum of Art Extended Guided Tour

Insider tip: Upgrade to a guided tour to learn more about the museum’s collection of classics.

New York Botanical Garden

The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden ends at the end of April. Witness the 250-acre garden come to life with thousands of orchids set beautifully, taking you to the streets of Mexico.

Special events: The Orchid Show: Mexican Modernism, Orchid Nights on select Saturday nights

Recommended experiences:

New York Botanical Garden Tickets

Insider tip: Take the narrated tram tour to learn more about the botanical garden's diverse landscapes and gardens.

Find all New York Botanical Garden tickets here

American Museum of Natural History

Learn about the history of our planet, its inhabitants, and our culture through the American Museum’s many exhibits. See fossils of dinosaurs, and giant geodes, and travel through time and space as you walk through the halls.

Special events: See the ticketed exhibits such as the Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium and Passport to the Universe.

Recommended experiences:

American Museum of Natural History Tickets
American Museum of Natural History Tickets + 1 Ticketed Exhibition

Insider tip: Check the dates of the ticketed exhibits to make sure you don’t miss out on the ones that are showcased for a limited time.

All AMNH tickets and tours

Whitney Museum of American Art

Known for its extensive contemporary and avant-garde collections, the Whitney Museum of American Art launches four new collections in April by Amy Sherald (American Sublime, from April 9), Marina Zurkow (Parting Worlds), Louise Nevelson (15 sculptures from their collection under: Collection View: Louise Nevelson) and Mary Heilmann (Long Line).

Special events: Sculptures by Louise Nevelson, Four Ways of Being installation by Amy Sherald, The River is a Circle by Marina Zurkow, a Hyundai Terrace Commission.

Recommended experiences:

Whitney Museum of American Art Tickets

Insider tip: Check the museum’s archive and permanent exhibits along with the on-site public artworks outside the museum’s walls during your visit.

Find all tours of the Whitney Museum

Statue of Liberty

Learn about the history of New York and explore one of its most iconic landmarks as you go on a cruise. Visit Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, and the National Immigration Museum, take the tour, and learn more about the city’s foundation through its exhibits.

Special events: Visit the National Immigration Museum for an interactive learning experience.

Recommended experiences:

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tickets with Ferry Transfers
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry Transfers
Circle Line: Statue of Liberty Cruises

Insider tip: Take the guided tour for more knowledge about New York’s formation and history.

All Statue of Liberty and sightseeing cruises

Central Park Zoo

A perfect day out in New York in April includes a trip to Central Park, and now you can get a chance to meet and interact with friendly animals on your visit to the Central Park Zoo. Get up close to sea lions, check out snow leopards, and let your children have fun with the interactive Tisch Children’s Zoo for a fun and engaging day.

Special events: The Zoo offers many interactive experiences, such as the 4-D Theater, sea lion and penguin feedings, and Quest Stations, where you can participate in multiple interactive and educational activities.

Recommended experiences:

Central Park Zoo Tickets

Insider tip: Participate in the interactive experiences to get a more personal experience at the Zoo.

Find out more about Central Park Zoo and its experiences

Top of the Rock

At the Top of the Rock, you can access the observation decks of one of the most historic buildings in New York of the last century, Rockefeller Center. Each of the three floors offers spectacular views of the city, especially the open-air one on the 70th floor during sunset.

Special events: Experience New York views like no other by stepping onto the Skylift’s revolving, open-air glass platform.

Recommended experiences:

Top of the Rock Observation Deck Tickets
Top of the Rock Observation Deck VIP Pass with the Beam & Skylift Experience

Insider tip: Upgrade to the VIP pass to get priority entry and access to the Skylift and the Beam experiences.

All Top of the Rock tours and tickets

Plan ahead: Must-book NYC experiences for April

April in New York is a vibrant mix of blooming landscapes and festivities, making it a perfect time to plan ahead for must-book experiences. Celebrate the peak of cherry blossom season with Hanami Nights at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, where you can enjoy the stunning blooms under magical evening lights. Meanwhile, the Orchid Show comes to an end in April with its breathtaking floral displays. NYC Tartan Week adds a lively Scottish flair with its annual parade, and dance enthusiasts can catch performances by the Dance Theatre of Harlem and the NYC Ballet’s Spring 2025 season. With mild weather and fewer tourists than the summer months, April is also an ideal time to explore museums, stroll through parks, or see a Broadway show without the peak-season crowds.

April highlights: Must-do experiences for solo travelers, families, art and culture enthusiasts, and more

Solo travelers or friend groups

Must-experience:

Edge NYC: Visit the city to see the stunning NYC skyline from one of its most iconic locations. Edge New York also offers a unique climbing experience, where you can scale up the modern marvel.
Hanami Nights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden: A fun way to experience the cherry blossoms and participate in lively activities in the park, Hanami Nights at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden give you a Japanese-themed experience in the heart of the city.
NYC Tartan Day Parade: The Parade is the final and most celebrated part of the week-long festivities that make up Tartan Week, celebrating Scottish culture and heritage in the city.
Hop-On Hop-Off tours: HOHO tours are a great way to explore the city’s top attractions and get around conveniently. You can take a day tour, or night tour, or explore your favorite attractions in a budget-friendly and convenient way.

Better in April:

Less crowds make popular attractions a more relaxing experience, and the seasonal festivities, especially the Hanami Nights, are a crowd favorite in April.

Families with kids

Must-experience:

Orchid Show and New York Botanical Garden: NYBG is filled with diverse landscapes and gardens to explore with a narrated tram tour, and the Orchid Show, with thousands of orchids from Mexico on display, makes it a great experience for families and children.
Central Park and cherry blossoms: April brings cherry blossoms in full bloom at Central Park, and families with children visiting New York in April can spend the day enjoying a picnic and visiting sights around the park.
American Museum of Natural History: A day of exploration and learning about the planet and its history awaits visitors who plan a trip to the American Museum of Natural History. Perfect for curious young minds.

Better in April:

The seasonal flowers and experiences at the gardens make it an enjoyable experience for families and children in April, and fewer crowds give you ample time to explore at your own pace.

Art and culture enthusiasts

Must-experience:

Whitney Museum of American Art: The Whitney Museum will launch new collections and exhibits in April, highlighting New York’s contemporary art scene with sculptures, paintings, and installations.
NYC Tartan Week: The NYC Tartan Week is a week-long celebration of the Scottish culture and heritage present in the country, with events and festivities taking place around the city.
Dance Theatre of Harlem: A three-day-long showcase of dance performances and renditions of classic, contemporary, and new pieces.
NYC Ballet Spring 2025: The NYC Ballet Spring 2025 edition celebrates the 50th anniversary of the New York City Ballet Company, with contemporary ballet performances taking place until June.
Broadway: From classic and iconic Broadway shows to newer musicals, April also has discounted tickets on selected Broadway shows.

Better in April:

With select discounts, limited shows, and legendary performances, April is a must-visit month for those who want to visit New York to experience its art and culture.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York in April

Nature lovers

Must-experience:

Hanami Nights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Japanese-themed spring celebrations with special activities curated. It is ticketed and limited, so book in advance to make sure you get your spot.
Orchid Show at New York Botanical Garden: Thousands of orchids from Mexico are on display for the last month at the NYBG, giving you an insight into the country’s ecosystems.
Cherry blossoms at Central Park: In April, spring is in full swing, which means cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making Central Park a sight to behold. Take a scenic walk across the Park or have a picnic to experience the spring magic.

Better in April:

The spring blossoms are wonderful in April in New York, with flowers blooming around the city, turning the entirety of NYC into a colorful landscape.

Festivals and events in NYC this April

Event/Festival

Description

Dates

Best for

Orchid Show at NY Botanical Garden

Thousands of orchids set beautifully on display from Mexico City

15 Feb 2025 - 27 April 2025

Nature lovers, families with kids

Macy’s Flower Show

An immersive flower show around the city with landscapes and gardens celebrating spring

Late March - mid-April 2025

Nature lovers, families

NYC Tartan Week

A week of festivities celebrating Scottish culture and heritage culminating with the Tartan Day Parade on April 5

1 April 2025 - 5 April 2025

Travelers, culture enthusiasts, families

Dance Theatre of Harlem

Ballet performances with a contemporary twist, closing with Return, performed to the sounds of James Brown and Aretha Franklin

10 April 2025 - 13 April 2025

Art and culture enthusiasts

Hanami Nights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Japanese-themed spring festival with specially curated events

22 April 2025 & 25 April 2025

Nature lovers, families, solo travelers

NYC Ballet Spring 2025

50th anniversary celebrations of the New York City Ballet Company, the spring showcase of shows and performances

22 April 2025 - 1 June 2025

Art and culture enthusiasts

NYC in April: Your 3-day itinerary

Day 1: Spring in bloom and skyline views

Breakfast: Visit Sarabeth’s on the Upper West Side
Visit the NYC brunch staple known for its fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes and cozy atmosphere. It’s an ideal start to your first morning.

Morning: Central Park and cherry blossoms
April is peak cherry blossom season. Stroll through the park, especially around the Reservoir and Cherry Hill, where pink and white blooms create a postcard-perfect setting.

Lunch: The Loeb Boathouse Express Café
Grab a casual bite with scenic lakeside views before continuing your day.

Afternoon: NYC Edge
Visit the Edge (at Hudson Yards) observation deck for panoramic views of the New York skyline. Go before sunset for the best lighting.

Dinner: Peak at Hudson Yards
A high-rise dining experience offering breathtaking views and seasonal dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Evening spot: City Lights Walk on The High Line
After dinner, stroll along the High Line, an elevated park with art installations, city views, and a peaceful nighttime ambiance.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York in April

Day 2: Culture and classics

Breakfast: Russ & Daughters Café on the Lower East Side
Grab breakfast at the legendary spot known for its classic bagels with lox, smoked fish, and Jewish comfort food.

Morning: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
This is a must-visit for art lovers, featuring iconic works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol. Book your tickets in advance and arrive early to beat the crowds.

Lunch: The Modern
Located inside MoMA, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined yet approachable seasonal menu.

Afternoon: Broadway matinee show
Catch a matinee of one of the latest hit shows. April is a great time to book before summer crowds arrive.

Dinner: Joe Allen
A classic Broadway haunt where actors and theatergoers dine before and after performances. Try the burger or the off-menu meatloaf.

Evening spot: Rooftop Cocktails at Bar 54
Unwind with skyline views at this high-rise bar in Times Square, offering a mix of classic and creative cocktails.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour in New York in April

Day 3: History and neighborhood gems

Breakfast: Bubby’s in Tribeca
Grab a classic American breakfast at this cozy, family-friendly spot known for its homemade biscuits, pancakes, and farm-to-table ingredients.

Morning: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour
It's an essential NYC experience. Take the ferry early to avoid long lines and explore Ellis Island's immigration history.

Lunch: Fraunces Tavern
NYC’s oldest bar and restaurant, serving colonial-era-inspired dishes with a side of history.

Afternoon: Brooklyn Bridge walk & DUMBO exploration
Walk the iconic bridge, then explore Brooklyn’s DUMBO neighborhood, known for its cobblestone streets, waterfront parks, and incredible Manhattan skyline views.

Dinner: Celestine
A Mediterranean restaurant in DUMBO with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the city skyline.

Evening spot: Craft cocktails at Attaboy
Wrap up your trip with drinks at Attaboy, a cozy speakeasy on the Lower East Side for their specialty craft cocktails.

Pro tips for exploring NYC in April

Expect mild temperatures, but occasional spring showers are common. Pack a light rain jacket or compact umbrella, just in case.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. NYC is best explored on foot, and some outdoor spots like Central Park or attractions like the American Museum of Natural History involve a lot of walking.
The subway is the fastest way to get around, but prepare for occasional weekend service changes due to maintenance. Use apps like Google Maps for real-time updates.
Book restaurants in advance, especially for in-demand spots like Peak at Hudson Yards, The Modern, or Russ & Daughters Café.
Outdoor dining is back! Many restaurants reopen patios and rooftop seating in April. Check out Celestine in DUMBO or Westlight in Williamsburg for great views.
April is a great time to wander NYC’s neighborhoods without rigid plans. Leave room for spontaneous finds, like discovering a cozy café in the West Village, stumbling upon a street performer in Washington Square Park, or catching an outdoor art exhibit.

Frequently asked questions about visiting NYC in April

Is April a good time to visit New York City?

Absolutely! The weather is mild, cherry blossoms bloom in Central Park and Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and outdoor activities start picking up. Plus, you’ll avoid the peak summer tourist crowds in April.

What’s the weather like in New York in April?

April in New York is cool to mild, with a mix of sunny days, occasional rain, and a fresh spring breeze. On your trip, carry light layers, a jacket, and an umbrella.

What are the best things to do in New York in April?

Springtime in NYC is magical! Enjoy cherry blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, walk the High Line, catch an outdoor market, or see a Broadway show. Sports fans can also catch a Yankees or Mets game.

Is NYC crowded in April?

April is a great time to visit before the summer crowds arrive. However, it’s still a busy city, so popular attractions like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty can get crowded over the weekends.

Is April a good time for outdoor activities in NYC?

Yes! Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, bike in Central Park, visit the Central Park Zoo or the Bronx Zoo, or enjoy a sunset cruise around Manhattan.

Where can I see cherry blossoms in NYC in April?

Head to Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Central Park’s Cherry Hill, and Roosevelt Island for some of the best cherry blossom views.

Is April a good time for a cruise around Manhattan?

Yes! The weather is pleasant, and the views of the city skyline are stunning. Consider a sunset cruise or a dinner cruise for a magical experience.

What’s the best way to get around NYC in April?

The subway is the fastest and most affordable. Walking is enjoyable with spring weather, and taxis are always an option.

Is April a good time for rooftop bars in NYC?

Definitely! Many rooftop bars reopen in April with outdoor seating, heaters, and amazing city views.

What are the best food markets to visit in April?

Smorgasburg (Brooklyn’s famous food market) opens in April, and the Chelsea Market is great for indoor gourmet bites.