This guide to visiting New York City in April was written by Alejandro Beltran, co-founder of New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps) and NYC local.
April in New York City bursts with vibrancy, painting streets with pinks, reds, and yellows under the warm sun. Locals emerge from hibernation, eager for happy hour and outdoor dining, infusing the city with bustling energy. It’s a time of rebirth after winter’s lull, perfect for exploration with longer days and 7PM sunsets.
April’s charm makes it one of the best times to visit NYC, captivating hopeless romantics with its lively spirit. In this guide I use my local experience to share the best events, pop-ups, and things to do in NYC in April. We have a lot of ground to cover, so let’s jump in!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +3 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Tips for Visiting NYC in April
Pack an umbrella: April is one of the rainiest months in New York City, raining between 10-15 days of the month (more info on the weather in a second). Don’t let this deter you from visiting, just bring an umbrella and keep an eye on the weather app, more often than not the rain comes in short bursts.
Wear comfortable walking shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking while exploring New York City in April. The subway is efficient but sometimes it’s better to walk between places to absorb more of the city. Bring your most comfortable pair of shoes because you’ll be getting those steps in, I guarantee it.
Make reservations ahead of time: New York City is home to 8 million locals and more than 60 million annual visitors. If there’s a popular place you want to visit, odds are you’re not the only one. If you’re visiting New York City in April book reservations ahead of time, whenever possible.
April Weather in New York City
Averages in NYC in April: High 62° | Low 44° | Rains on average 10 days of the month
April in New York City is a breath of fresh air, transitioning from winter to spring. Expect comfortable temperatures, with highs rising from the mid-50s to low-60s Fahrenheit (13-16°C) as the month progresses. While rain sprinkles across the city for about 10 days, sunshine dominates with an average of 19 sunny or partly sunny days.
Don’t be surprised by the occasional brief shower, and pack layers as the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the beginning. Overall, April offers pleasant weather, perfect for enjoying the city and taking advantage of its outdoor activities, dining, and sights.
Things to Do in New York City in April
Table of Contents: What to Do in April in NYC
Table of Contents: NYC April Bucket List
- Tips for Visiting NYC in April
- April Weather in New York City
- Things to Do in New York City in April
- Check out Macy’s Flower Show
- Participate in Smorgasburg
- Check Out the Breathtaking Cherry Blossoms All Over the City
- Attend a Baseball Game (MLB Season Begins)
- Get Tickets for the Orchid Show at New York Botanical Garden
- Check out the New York International Auto Show
- Watch the New York Tartan Day Parade
- Go On the Hunt for Blooming Tulips
- April Festivals in New York City
- Best Things to Do in NYC during April (Post Summary)
- Map of New York City April Activities
- More Spring Related Reads
- Other Seasons to Explore
Check out Macy’s Flower Show
Website: Macy’s Flower Show
Address: 151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001
Date: Late March – Early April
Macy’s Flower Show is an annual spectacle that’s been a staple of spring in New York City since 1946. Macy’s flagship location in Herald Square transforms its 2.5 million-square-foot department store into a botanical garden guests can shop through, and one of the best free things to do while visiting NYC in April. Expert horticulturists and talented artists work their magic to create stunning scenes that blend seamlessly with the store’s layout.
Participate in Smorgasburg
Website: Smorgasburg
Locations: Three locations in NYC
Dates: Opens weekend of April 5 – 7
Smorgasburg is a foodie’s paradise, the outdoor food market returns to New York City in April, staying open until October. Originating in Brooklyn, this renowned food market gathers a diverse array of local vendors, offering a tantalizing array of global cuisine.
Hosted in 3 NYC neighborhoods, Smorgasburg is at the World Trade Center on Fridays, in its original (and most popular) location, Williamsburg, on Saturdays, and in Prospect Park on Sundays. The 60+ vendors provide everything from artisanal snacks to international meals.
Check Out the Breathtaking Cherry Blossoms All Over the City
Dates: Blossoms begin first week of May
Every spring, the Big Apple transforms into a breathtaking canvas of pink and white as cherry blossoms take over New York City. Among the notable varieties are Yoshino and Kwanzan, each adding its unique charm. The Yoshino cherry trees, with their delicate, pale blossoms, typically bloom in early April, adorning locations like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Central Park.
Kwanzan cherry trees, boasting vibrant pink double blossoms, follow shortly after in late April, painting neighborhoods like Roosevelt Island and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in hues of pink. The blooms attract locals and tourists alike, offering an unreal photo backdrop and creating one of the most popular attractions in New York City in April.
Attend a Baseball Game (MLB Season Begins)
Dates: April 1 (Mets) & April 5 (Yankees)
One of the best things to do in New York City in April is to welcome back the professional baseball (MLB) season. With two professional baseball teams, The New York Yankees & New York Mets, locals flood both Yankee Stadium and Citi Field excited for the upcoming season.
The Yankees home opener takes place on April 5th at Yankee Stadium vs. the Toronto Blue Jays. The Mets open the week before on March 28th, but their first home game in April is on April 1st against the Detroit Tigers.
Get Tickets for the Orchid Show at New York Botanical Garden
Website: The Orchid Show: New York Botanical Garden
Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
Date: February 17 – April 21, 2024
The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden, an annual spectacle since 2003, is a mesmerizing display of one of the most diverse plant families. Renowned for its stunning exhibits, the show attracts orchid enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Each year, the garden transforms into a vibrant display of color and fragrance, featuring thousands of orchids in creative arrangements.
Fun fact: The show often highlights specific themes, from the ecosystems of Southeast Asia to the orchids of Broadway. This year, the theme will be Florals in Fashion. For those visiting New York City in the spring, the Orchid Show offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of these exotic flowers. Horticulture and artistic flare make the event one you won’t soon forget.
Check out the New York International Auto Show
Website: New York International Auto Show
Address: Jacob Javits Convention Center, 429 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001
Dates: March 29 – April 7, 2024
As one of the best things to do in New York City in April, the New York International Auto Show provides the chance to check out all the newest cars. The variety covers the gamut, from everyday drivers to luxury cars only afforded by the wealthiest crowds.
Essentially the event is all about building positive PR, so car manufacturers bring cars decked out with all the bells and whistles available. You’ll have the opportunity to sit in cars, see proto-types, and learn about new features. Tickets are available online and come in a variety of different price points. There are group discounts, special rates for children, and even early access tickets.
Watch the New York Tartan Day Parade
Website: Tartan Day Parade
Address: 6th Avenue between 45th and 55th Streets
Date: April 6, 2024
The Tartan Parade, a vibrant celebration of Scottish heritage, has been weaving its way through the streets of the Big Apple since 1998. Originating as a way to honor Scottish contributions to New York City, the spring parade features participants in kilts, bagpipers playing traditional tunes, and a colorful display of tartans (clothing with a plaid-like pattern).
Spectators gather to witness the lively parade as it marches along Sixth Avenue. For those interested in participating, even non-scots can join the marching group named Friends of Scotland and show your support (just be sure to register ahead of time).
Go On the Hunt for Blooming Tulips
Dates: Generally from end-of-April to early-May
Tulips begin to bloom in New York City in April, symbolizing the start of spring and the end of winter, (which always overstays its welcome). Places like Central Park are hotbeds for the blooms, but even on random city blocks, you’ll find community gardens, displays, and storefronts adorned with colorful tulips.
In a city made of metal and concrete, vibrant shades of yellows, pinks, and reds are a spry touch. We have a full guide on our site of where to find tulips in New York City for those visiting in April, but below I’ll outline a few of my favorites.
- Shakespeare Garden in Central Park (my favorite)
- The Brooklyn Botanic Garden
- New York Public Library (Stephen A. Schwarzman Building)
April Festivals in New York City
New York International Music Festival
Website: New York International Music Festival
Address: 881 7th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Dates: April 16, 2024
Taking over Carnegie Hall (one of the most iconic buildings in NYC) is the New York International Music Festival, one of the best festivals in New York City in April. The participants come from around the world and are either youth, high-school, or college-level musicians.
Plus at $18 a ticket, this is one of the most affordable festivals in New York City in April. If you’ve always wanted to visit Carnegie Hall but couldn’t justify the steep prices, here’s your chance!
Earth Day (Multiple Festivals)
Dates: April 22, 2024
During Earth Day the New York City Department of Transportation will be shutting down car traffic on streets in all five boroughs. Not only is this a benefit because of the lack of pollution, but the streets flood with locals taking advantage of the car-free streets playing games, walking their dogs, and riding bikes. The exact streets and times are TBA.
Union Square Square Park also hosts an Earth Day Festival annually in New York City in April. Environmental groups teach us how to save the planet and live music makes a party of it. If you have little ones this is one of the best events in New York City in April because there will also be free crafts!
Best Things to Do in NYC during April (Post Summary)
- Check out Macy’s Flower Show
- Participate in Smorgasburg
- Check Out the Breathtaking Cherry Blossoms All Over the City
- Attend a Baseball Game (MLB Season Begins)
- Get Tickets for the Orchid Show at New York Botanical Garden
- Check out the New York International Auto Show
- Watch the New York Tartan Day Parade
- Go On the Hunt for Blooming Tulips
- New York International Music Festival
- Earth Day (Multiple Festivals)
Map of New York City April Activities
Frequently Asked Questions: NYC in April
April is a good month to visit NYC due to milder weather, blooming spring foliage, and fewer crowds compared to peak tourist seasons.
April temperatures in New York City can vary, but generally, it tends to be mild with occasional cold snaps, so it’s advisable to pack layers.
In April 2024 in New York City, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including exploring Central Park’s blossoming spring scenery and experiencing outdoor dining in the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
NYC in April can be moderately busy due to spring break travelers, blossoming tourism, and various events, but generally less crowded than peak summer months.
April in NYC can experience variable precipitation, with occasional rain showers, but it typically doesn’t have as much rainfall as the spring months that follow.
More Spring Related Reads
What to Pack: What to Wear in New York City in the Spring (Packing List & Outfit Ideas)
For the Tulip-Lovers: 10 Best Spots to See Tulips in New York City
Exploring Central Park’s Blooms: 5 Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Central Park (Local’s Guide)
Blooms across NYC: 10 Breathtaking Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in New York City
How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day: 12 EPIC Things to Do on St. Patrick’s Day in New York City
March Weather Guide: What’s the Weather Like in New York City in March?
Other Seasons to Explore
Visiting in March: 15+ Magnificent Things to Do in New York City in March (+ Helpful Tips!)
Best Things to Do in May: 25 Memorable Things to Do in New York City in May (Local’s Guide)
Visiting in the Summer: Epic New York City Summer Activities Worth Breaking a Sweat For
Things to Do in the Fall: 25 Fun Fall Activities in New York City (Helpful 2024 Guide)
And there you have it, folks. My list of the best things to do in New York City in April. I hope you found the post helpful. Cheers!
Zoe Seda says
I have read a few of these posts and am very impressed. You content is both relevant & comprehensive. Usually “helpful” websites about NY NEVER list free events.