Spring in NYC: Top 3 Things to Look Forward To | New York City

Winter in New York can be brutal, and this year was no exception. It’s finally starting to warm up, and we’ve caught spring fever! Here are the top three things we’re looking forward to this spring in NYC.

Spending Time in the Parks

It’s finally warm enough to linger outside, so it’s time escape your apartment and spend a little time in your favorite park!

It’s time to look forward to you first picnic in Central Park (bring blankets to ward off any spring chill). Craving a little culture? Shakespeare in the Park isn’t far off. The season starts May 27.
If Central Park is feeling too crowded, head on over to Riverside Park and stroll among the beautiful and fragrant cherry blossom trees or along the river.
Check out the newest stretch of the High Line while snacking on tacos and paletas from one of the food carts. Or stop by at night for the free stargazing program every Tuesday from dusk to 9 p.m, April through October.
Step out of your midtown office at lunch and grab a seat in Bryant Park. The cool breezes and people-watching will have you relaxed in no time.
Are you crazing a little solitude? Escape to the vast Inwood Hill Park, and it will feel like you’re all alone in the city.

Image Source: Flickr/Ralph Hockens

Dining Al Fresco

As soon as the weather warms up, the cafe tables come out! There’s nothing better than that first al fresco meal of the season.

Sure, you can always meet friends for a relaxing weekend brunch, but don’t rule out a quick breakfast or morning cup of coffee. It’ll put you in a good mood all day. Still searching for that perfect outdoor restaurant? Here are 25 great places to eat and drink outdoors in NYC.

Some of our favorite places to dine al fresco are in the park, of course! So grab a glass of wine and Old Bay French Fries while soaking up the sunshine at Pier i Cafe or enjoy burgers and beers with friends at Boat Basin Cafe. Stroll around Washington Square Park, and then enjoy a spicy bite from the Dosa Man.

Image Source: Flickr/Jon Fife

Spring Concerts and Events

As the weather warms up, entertainment calendars inevitably fill up. There is just so much to do at this time of year!

Spend some time strolling through an outdoor street fair. Refresh your apartment decor by picking up a tchotchke at a favorite flea market, like the GreenFlea.
Want to catch a free performance? SummerStage, a series of free outdoor shows, actually begins in May. Pack a picnic or pick up food from one of the Brooklyn Flea vendors that operate concessions there.
Too cold to head outside? Stop by Macy’s for their Spring Flower Show (March 22–April 4) instead.
If a movie’s more your speed, get tickets for the Tribeca Film Festival (April 15–26) and catch the premiere of the Saturday Night Live documentary, Live from New York!.
Burn off some of these winter pounds and take a ride on the Five Boro Bike Tour on May 3. You’ll have access to five bridges and 40 miles car-free miles in all the boroughs.