Spring’s warm sun is glowing in New York City. Local residents and visiting tourists can expect a brilliant transformation over these next few months, with blooming cherry blossoms and greening parks. With this immersion of new buds also comes vibrant springtime activities. Prepare for streetside celebrations, open-air markets, and festivals throughout April, May, and June. Experience more than just nature’s transformation this spring when you can add these must-see attractions on the Upper West Side to your itinerary this season.

Spring in Central Park Must-See Attractions

Even if you missed cherry blossom season or the monarch butterfly migration of March, there are plenty of blooms and Central Park spring activities to see throughout May and June. Take a walking tour of Central Park! Bring your camera and start your walk at the Dairy Visitor Center & Gift Shop. Or, plan a Central Park picnic and pack your baskets for lunch on the picturesque hilltop meadow of Great Hill. Family-friendly exploration awaits, too, at the Chess & Checkers House or the famed Central Park Carousel.

Celebrate Memorial Day with Parades on May 27th

Memorial Day may mark a three-day weekend and a reason for retail sales. However, in New York City, it’s time to celebrate those who’ve served our country, commemorating them with parades and festivities. There are parades throughout all five boroughs, with the Little Neck-Douglaston Parade in Queens being the biggest. Brooklyn’s Memorial Day Parade is the oldest, with 157 years of commemoration. Head to uptown Manhattan for another parade in Inwood, beginning at Dyckman Street and Broadway. Find a Memorial Day parade wherever you explore in NYC this spring to remember those who’ve served.

Movie Enthusiasts Will Love the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival in NYC

Should you find yourself in NYC on June 5th, you’ll have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a part of the Tribeca Film Festival. Explore the latest creative inspirations spanning TV, film, games, audio storytelling, and more. Movie enthusiasts will love this springtime tradition and event, with a chance to view screenings, attend special events, and see costume exhibits. The festival takes place in Manhattan’s Tribeca neighborhood, and tickets with various packages are available now.

The Flurry of Fleet Week Activities Throughout May

New Yorkers know it’s spring when Fleet Week arrives. This annual week-long celebration pays tribute to soldiers past and present. It’s also a community favorite with aerial displays, ship tours in the harbor, and exciting festivities throughout the city. There are a host of must-see activities planned for May 24th through 29th, starting with the Fort Hamilton 11-Gun Salute to the Ships of Fleet Week in Brooklyn.

Be there for the Fleet Week Parade of Ships in the NY Harbor and take a public tour of these iconic vessels at Piers 86, 88, and 90 in Manhattan. Visit Times Square to take in one of the many USMC Band performances, and make sure you’re there for the “Fleet Week New York Iconic Military Photo in Times Square” recreation.

Experience the 18th Annual Dance Parade and Festival 2024

Another must-experience festival is the Dance Parade and Festival, happening on Saturday, May 18th, 2024. Witness more than 100 unique styles of dance at the world’s largest cultural diversity display. Be mesmerized by the 10,000+ dancers in costume and in second-by-second sync. Arrive for the ceremonial ribbon-cutting kickoff at 11:45 AM at 17th Street and Sixth Avenue to experience a dance showcase you’ll never forget.

After the legendary Dance Parade, stay for DanceFest 2024 in Tompkins Square Park. Here, the dance celebration continues from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM with choreographed performances, aerial dance acts, social dancing, and dance lessons. This entire festival spans five stages and is free to public guests.

Discover Japanese Fare at Japan Fes 2024

If discovering new foods and exploring culinary cultures sounds exciting, you’ll find something mouth-watering and new at Japan Fes 2024! Every year, more than 300,000 attendees peruse the more than 1,000 vendors in the world’s largest Japanese food festival. It’s a delicious experience that celebrates iconic fare, offering samples of Takoyaki, Ramen, Karaage, Matcha sweets, Okonomiyaki, Yakisoba, and more.

Japan Fes is a must-see NYC spring attraction. Visiting guests are welcome from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on either the following upcoming dates: Sunday, May 19th at Parkslope (5th Avenue from 9th to 10th Street) and Sunday, May 26th - Greenwich Village (Washington Square / North University – Macdougal.)

A Springtime Luxury Stay at The Lucerne

Be at the heart of all the attractions on the Upper West Side NYC this spring with a luxury stay at The Lucerne. Experience the grandeur of old New York in our treasured landmark building with every luxury amenity at your service. Whether you’re a NYC resident looking for an upscale local getaway or you're planning your first-ever visit to the Big Apple, experience the boutique and white glove atmosphere of the Lucerne.

Book your luxury and comfort experience with us today and be within convenient access to UWS attractions, Central Park, and all the must-see springtime attractions on your list.