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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.