There's no better time to visit New York than in spring when 'the city that never sleeps' comes into bloom with an array of exciting events and festivals, plus a shower of cherry blossoms providing the most gorgeous setting for a spring city break.
With this season being the best time to visit New York City, there are many ways you can make your trip a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, such as arriving there in style on a luxury cruise.
After enjoying a few days of relaxation as you make your way to the exciting city, once you get there, you'll want to see the Big Apple in all its springtime glory, whether you're looking to hit the shops or experience the best of its outdoor attractions. Here are few reasons to visit NYC this spring...
The balmy weather
Thanks to the April highs of 17oC and temperatures of up to 22oC in May, spring is ideal for those who prefer to avoid the extreme summer and winter weather in New York.
Traditionally, April to June and September to early November is when the city is at its most pleasant and visiting in April and May is a great way to avoid the overwhelming tourist crowds.
CHECK OUT OUR DREAM TRIP TO NEW YORK THIS SPRING
The cherry blossoms
For one of the most spectacular views of the city that you can only enjoy in spring, don't miss cherry blossom season at Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The garden is taken over each April by pink blossoms from more than 200 trees.
Here you can partake in hanami or cherry blossom viewing– a centuries-old Japanese custom of viewing the flowers to reflect on life's beauty and transience. It hits peak bloom with the Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) taking place from April 28 to 29 in 2019.
The shopping
From vintage boutiques to the most famous department stores in the world, New York is a haven for shoppers. Whether you're into fashion or tech, the likes of Madison and Fifth Avenues, SoHo and Chinatown (think hard-to-find Asian beauty products) are some of the top places to shop in Manhattan.
But this spring, all eyes are on Staten Island, where you can visit the NYC borough's first outlet shopping complex from April. With its picture-perfect views of lower Manhattan, a landscaped plaza with tranquil fountains and access to great shopping deals, Empire Outlets is set to bring 100 outlet shops, from Banana Republic to Nike.
The food
With limitless dining options, New York is a foodie haven, offering everything from authentic Chinese dumplings to top-notch Italian food. One way to experience the city's food scene is at its festivals and there's a diverse selection to choose from. From May 18 to 19, for instance, the NYC Vegetarian Food Festival brings 40-plus vendors offering plant-based products and dishes.
This spring also sees the opening of Time Out Market New York, which will offer epic food, cultural experiences and skyline views at its Brooklyn location. The space will see the best of New York City's restaurants, bars and cultural experiences together under one roof.
Find out more about the best things to do in New York in April and May from nycgo.com and read all about Good Housekeeping's exclusive spring getaway
