The Ultimate Guide to Spring in NYC 2025: 10 Must-Try Experiences
New York City in the spring is unlike anywhere else. The air is crisp but warming up, the parks are bursting with color, and there’s a sense of renewal as people trade their winter coats for sunglasses. If you’re anything like me, after months of cold, you’re eager to get outside, explore the city, and soak in everything spring has to offer.
Whether you’re a local looking for new ways to enjoy the season or a visitor planning your dream NYC spring trip, I’ve put together the top 10 must-try experiences for 2025. These are my go-to activities that make spring in NYC feel truly special.
1. Take a Boat Ride & Dine Lakeside in Central Park
Few things feel more "New York in the spring" than renting a rowboat in Central Park. The iconic Loeb Boathouse may have closed, but you can still paddle across the lake and take in the views of blooming trees, city skyscrapers, and the occasional swan gliding by.
Boat rentals available at The Loeb Boathouse dock
$25 per hour, cash only (confirm in-person,)
Great for couples, families, or solo explorers
2. See the Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden
Spring in NYC wouldn’t be complete without The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden. It’s a mesmerizing display of rare and exotic orchids, designed by top floral artists.
Location: The Bronx
Dates: February – April 2025
Entry: Included with the All-Garden Pass
3. Bike the City During #BikeMonthNYC
May is officially bike month in NYC, making it the perfect time to rent a CitiBike and cruise through the city’s best bike paths. Whether you're coasting along the Hudson River Greenway or exploring Governors Island, biking lets you see the city in a whole new way.
Best Routes: Central Park Loop, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and the West Side Highway
Cost: CitiBike Day Pass: $25
Bonus: Most bridges have dedicated bike lanes now!
4. Set Sail on the Hudson River
I love seeing the city from the water, and springtime cruises offer some of the best skyline views. Classic Harbor Line is my favorite for its Champagne & Cheese Cruise — nothing beats sipping a mimosa while floating past the Statue of Liberty.
Types of Cruises: Brunch cruises, sunset sails, architecture tours
Best Option for 2025: The "Spring Wine Tasting Sail"
5. Experience the Tribeca Film Festival
Movie lovers, this one’s for you! The Tribeca Film Festival returns in June 2025, featuring red carpet premieres, indie films, and even free outdoor screenings.
Dates: June 4-15, 2025
Best Events: Outdoor screenings at Pier 57 and panel discussions with filmmakers
Pro Tip: Grab a festival pass for unlimited screenings.
6. Take a Virtual Cooking Class with The League of Kitchens
If a rainy spring day keeps you indoors, why not travel the world through food? The League of Kitchens offers virtual cooking classes where you learn family recipes from immigrant chefs—right from your own kitchen.
Popular Classes: Persian, Indian, and Lebanese cuisine
Cost: Around $60 per class
Bonus: You get a full ingredient list in advance to cook along in real time!
7. Explore Belvedere Castle in Central Park
Tucked away in Central Park, Belvedere Castle is an architectural gem with stunning 360-degree views of the city and park.
Location: Mid-Park at 79th Street
Hours: 10 AM–5 PM, daily
Entry: Free
8. Walk the High Line
If you haven’t walked the High Line in the spring, you’re missing out. This elevated park is filled with flowering trees, outdoor art, and incredible views of the West Side.
Length: 1.5 miles from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for golden hour lighting
9. Indulge in Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Nothing says spring like the first ice cream cone of the season, and Van Leeuwen is a must-visit. Their Honeycomb Ice Cream is legendary, and they offer dairy-free options too.
Best Flavors: Honeycomb, Earl Grey Tea, and Vegan Cookies & Cream
Locations: Multiple across NYC
10. Try CityPickle’s Spring & Summer Programs
Pickleball is taking over NYC, and if you haven’t tried it yet, now is the perfect time. CityPickle is bringing kid-friendly camps and after-school programs to Wollman Rink and Long Island City this spring.
New for 2025:
School Holiday Camps: Fun and active days off for kids (starting March 31)
After-School Pickle: Weekly sessions starting April 22
Summer Camps: Expert coaching for kids of all skill levels
Spring in NYC is pure magic — the perfect time to explore the city, try something new, and soak in the energy of a fresh season. Whether you’re rowing in Central Park, biking through Brooklyn, or catching a movie at Tribeca, there’s something for everyone.
What’s on your NYC spring bucket list for 2025? Let me know!