An Eventful Spring Day in New York City
Where to Eat, Walk, and Unwind for Peak Spring in NYC
When the first signs of spring begin to show in New York City, the city transforms from its winter slumber into a vibrant hub of energy and color. The days get longer and there’s an undeniable sense of freshness in the air. For locals and tourists alike, a perfect spring day in the Big Apple is nothing short of special. From strolling through blooming parks to enjoying rooftop views, here’s how to make the most of a picture-perfect spring day in NYC:
Morning: A Swift Start with Breakfast
The perfect spring day in New York City begins with the soft glow of morning sunshine peeking through your Moderne window. The air is crisp but not cold, a refreshing change from the harsh winter winds. Start the day with a warm cup of coffee from one of the city’s iconic cafes-- stay local and visit Le Pain, or venture a few blocks to try out Coffee Project in Hell's Kitchen for your first sip of the day.
After you’ve fueled up, take a walk through Central Park. In spring, the park is blooming with new life, with new buds of cherry blossoms, tulips, and magnolias alike. You’ll catch joggers on the paths, dogs running in the open fields, and families lounging on picnic blankets in Sheep's Meadow. Stop by Gapstow Bridge, one of the most Hollywood-like sets in the entire park, and capture some great photos for future memories.
Midday: Food and a Stroll
As the day goes, it’s time to dive into the multitude of options that would make any foodie happy. No trip to New York City is complete without sampling its diverse food scene and to get a taste of that, we recommend you head over to Chelsea Market in the Meatpacking District, an indoor food hall that offers everything from fresh lobster rolls to artisanal donuts. Grab a bite to eat while you explore the charming shops. From Chelsea Market, make your way to The High Line, an elevated park built on a historic freight rail line. It’s one of the most iconic springtime spots in the city, offering views of the Hudson River and the architectural wonders of its surrounding neighborhood. As you wander along the greenery-lined path, you’ll pass seasonal art installations, hear live music from local performers, and enjoy the scenic beauty of NYC.
Afternoon: Views from Above
What's better than a NYC sunset? A NYC sunset from above 1,000 feet! With NYC being famous for many things including it's skyscrapers, you also have a multitude of options to choose from when selecting which observation deck you want to witness the sunset from. If you are wrapping up on the Highline, then your closest option is walking over to Hudson Yards and heading up to the The Edge. This is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere and it offers 360-degree views of New York City, with views of all the famous landmarks.
Evening: Dance the Night Away
If you're not tired of being on rooftops, then go out and experience the elevated night life that New York City has to offer. If you're of legal age to enter (21+), then these are some spots we would recommend visiting based on venue, atmosphere, price and crowd: Fleur Room, Le Bain, Somewhere nowhere and of course the Empire Rooftop Bar. All these options will leave you satisfied with any party urges, as they are evenly spread out from downtown to uptown.
Lastly, after you're done partying the night away, make sure to grab a slice from any local dollar pizza spot ($1.25 now...thanks inflation). Although there are some top notch gourmet pizzas that you must try while visiting NYC, the most acceptable time for dollar pizza is after a night of partying. Wrap up your spring-filled day and head back the Moderne Hotel to rest & recharge.
A perfect spring day in New York City is about balance and proper planning. Whether it's Central Park or the Highline, being surround by nature and experiencing the transition from winter to spring will make anything feel like possible. Make sure to wear a good pair of walking shoes, because that is what you'll be doing to ensure you make the most of the beautiful weather!