New York City hardly needs an introduction; many of its residents simply describe it as the "center of the universe." America's financial, fashion, publishing and live theater industries are headquartered in New York City. Seemingly innumerable parks, farmers markets, parades, celebrations and outdoor activities are available beginning in the spring and extending throughout the warm months.
Cherry Blossom Festival
New York City is comprised of five boroughs that function as cities themselves. Some of the most interesting activities occur outside of Manhattan. For example, every spring the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens holds a two-day cherry blossom festival, "Sakura Matsuri," celebrating Japanese culture. It is the nation's largest public garden event. According to the Botanical Gardens' website, shows and activities include, "contemporary and traditional Japanese music and dance, taiko drumming, ikebana flower arranging, Japanese DJs, presentations on the art of manga, tea ceremonies, and workshops for all ages."
Trapeze School
Head over to Pier 40 on Houston Street in Manhattan for a unique lesson. The Trapeze School offers lessons for between $50 and $65 per person. Don't worry, you won't be flying high without the proper safety precautions. You will be harnessed, above a net and have an experienced teacher guiding you.
Play Tennis at the U.S. Open Courts
Sports fans rarely get a chance to stand on a professional playing surface, let alone play on one. Once spring comes around, dust off your tennis racquet and head to the U.S. Open courts rather than the local park or club. For about $20 an hour you can play where the stars of today and the legends of years past have challenged each other. The courts are located at the USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, Queens.
High Line Park
Central Park is far from the only impressive outdoor space in New York. To view a park space that isn't likely to resemble any other, visit High Line Park along 10th Avenue between Ganesvoor and 23rd Street. This park was fashioned from old elevated rail lines that used to run on New York City's transit system. Long out of use, the train lines were renovated into a park in the sky. High Line plays host to many events throughout the spring and summer, such as weekly free pilates classes, walking tours with High Line gardeners and stargazing at night with the Amateur Astronomer's Association.
Sail Around Manhattan
One of the most popular warm weather activities for New Yorkers is a boat cruise around Manhattan Harbor. Forgo the traditional water taxi or Staten Island ferry for a sail boat ride. There are several tours to pick from, and you can choose a day or night ride. Tickets are approximately $50 per person, and some include champagne and beer refreshments.
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