Family-Friendly Activities in New York City This April (2025)
So, you’re thinking of springtime in New York City? Great call. April in the city is like that one friend who suddenly becomes fun again after hibernating all winter. The streets start buzzing, coats come off, and people actually smile. If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in New York City this April you’re in for a pretty full calendar. From park picnics to pop-up events you’ll pretend you just “stumbled upon,” April hits that sweet spot—not too cold, not too sweaty. Let’s just say… you won’t be bored.
Family-Friendly Activities in New York City This April 2025 | Top Events & Things To Do
Macy’s Flower Show
Macy’s Herald Square turns into a garden every spring. Expect massive floral displays, themed rooms, and colorful walkways. The flowers usually start blooming in late March or early April and hang around into May. If you’re near Midtown, it’s worth a slow stroll inside.
- When: April 27 – May 11, 2025
- Where: Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W 34th St., New York
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.macys.com
- Phone: 1 212-695-4400
Orchid Nights at New York Botanical Garden
For something different after dark, head to the Bronx. Orchid Nights combines music, dance, and orchids under the stars. It’s adults-only and has cash bars, DJs, and space to move. Think of it as a garden party with a soundtrack.
- When: April 5, 12, 18, 19, 25, & 26 (7:00 – 10:00 PM)
- Where: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY
- Admission: Get your tickets here.
- Website: www.nybg.org
- Phone: 718 – 817 – 8700
Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival
On Easter Sunday, Fifth Avenue turns into a colorful walk of hats, suits, and serious creativity. You don’t need to march—just wear a fun hat and blend in. The action is near St. Patrick’s Cathedral, between 49th and 57th Streets.
- When: April 20, 2025 (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
- Where: Fifth Avenue, from 49th Street to 57th Street.
- Website: www.nyctourism.com
Smorgasburg
Starting the first weekend of April, this open-air food market is back in Brooklyn. It’s been around since 2011 and still draws huge crowds. You’ll find everything from international street food to homegrown dessert vendors. It’s casual, tasty, and easy to spend a whole afternoon here.
- When: April 4 – World Trade Center (The Oculus, Fulton St/Church St. 185 Greenwich St, New York)
- April 5 – Williamsburg (Marsha P. Johnson State Park, 90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY)
- April 6 – Prospect Park (Breeze Hill, Brooklyn, NY)
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.smorgasburg.com
Bronx Zoo Dino Safari
Got kids or just love dinosaurs? The Bronx Zoo’s Dinosaur Safari features more than 60 animatronic creatures, some making their debut this year. They’re big, loud, and seriously detailed. It’s great for families or anyone who wants a throwback to their dinosaur-obsessed phase.
- When: April 12, 2025
- Where: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY
- Admission: Buy your tickets here.
- Website: https://bronxzoo.com
Wollman Rink
Ice skating season wraps up, and pickleball takes over in Central Park. This April, Wollman Rink opens early for pickleball fans. With 14 courts, lessons, and kids’ programs, it’s a solid way to stay active outdoors.
- When: April 4, 2025
- Where: Wollman Rink, Central Park, 830 5th Ave, New York
- Admission: Book here.
- Website: www.city-pickle.com
Broadway Celebrates Earth Day
On April 26, Times Square turns into a stage. Broadway performers team up to highlight climate awareness through music and storytelling. It’s part of the city’s Car-Free Earth Day, and it’s free to attend. You’ll see students, stars, and eco-activists sharing one platform.
- When: April 26, 2025 (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
- Where: Times Square Pedestrian Plaza
- Website: www.broadwaygreen.com
- Email: info@broadwaygreen.com
Hanami Nights at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
April is prime cherry blossom season. At Hanami Nights, the blossoms stay lit into the evening. You can walk the garden, try origami, and hang out under glowing trees. Bring a friend or come solo—it’s peaceful either way.
- When: April 22 – 25, 2025 (5:00 – 8:30 PM)
- Where: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY
- Admission: Buy your tickets here.
- Website: www.bbg.org
FAD Market
This month, FAD Market kicks off its season in Dumbo. It features over 35 makers selling handmade items like jewelry, clothing, and home goods. There’s also a special Earth Month event focused on sustainable design and local businesses at the Center for Brooklyn History.
- When: April 5 & 6, 2025 (11:00 AM – 6:00 PM) Empire Stores, 55 Water Street, Brooklyn, NY
- April 26 & 27 (11:00 AM – 6:00 PM) Center for Brooklyn History, 128 Pierrepont Street, Brooklyn, NY
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://fadmarket.co
- Phone: (917) 775 – 4636
- Email: info@fadmarket.co
Queens Night Market
For Saturday night food and culture, head to Flushing Meadows Corona Park. This night market offers over 100 vendors, live performances, and a cap on food prices. You won’t spend more than $5 per dish, which makes it easy to try several.
- When: April 12, 2025 (4:00 PM until Midnight)
- Where: New York Hall of Science, Flushing Meadows Corona Park
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://queensnightmarket.com
The Joy of Sake
Sake fans: this is your month. On April 18, The Joy of Sake returns with hundreds of labels and food pairings from New York City restaurants. Admission includes unlimited tastings. Just pace yourself.
- When: April 10, 2025 (6:30 PM – 9:30 PM)
- Where: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W 18th St, New York
- Price: $130 per person / $140 from April 1
- Admission: Click here.
- Website: https://joyofsake.com
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