Can you feel it? Spring is in the air... well, almost. At least it's been feeling like spring for the past few days, and we definitely don't hate it.
We already hit you up with an incredible list of must-do things to do this March and even went as far as to give you some amazingly free things to do this month, but what about springtime on a whole? We know, there's a whole helluva lot going on.
So, in honor of the beautiful weather and approaching season change, we've put together a list of things you need to knock off of that New York City bucket list.
Whether it's eating, drinking, or finally seeing those historical sites of NYC that you've deemed too touristy but secretly want to check out, this season is the time to get it done.
Now, without further adieu, here are 9 of the best things you absolutely have to do this spring in the best city in the world. (Hint: that's your cue to get your bucket lists out and start making that list.)
1. Ellis Island Immigration Museum
How many New Yorkers have actually been to Ellis Island? Even though many of our ancestors traveled through it as immigrants, most of us have never actually been to the island itself. Much like the Statue of Liberty, this spot is typically only visited by tourists, unless you (like us) went there on a school trip.
However, this is a place full of rich American and New York City history that we should embrace rather than shun due to its touristy connotation.
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What's the best time to visit? That would be right now. The weather is comfortable enough to roam the exterior of the museum, taking in some of the same sights as our ancestors, while also catching wonderful views of the modern Manhattan skyline.
2. The Orchid Show Evenings (The New York Botanical Garden - the Bronx)
The 14th Annual Orchid Show is currently underway at the The New York Botanical Garden. On Saturday evenings in March, you can stroll through the Orchid show while sipping a cocktail, discovering some of the most beautiful, delicate flowers.
If you're looking for a date night, this popular event is a perfect way to romance your sweetheart surrounded by beautiful colors and fragrances of thousands of orchids.
3. The Annual St. Patrick's Open Day (Sunday, March 13th)
Instead of lining up with the crowds for the St. Patrick's Day parade, how about you head to the Irish Arts Center on Sunday, March 13th for a free day of events embracing Irish arts and culture.
Babysitting your nieces and nephews? This is the perfect event to keep the kiddies happy, especially with football (soccer) instructions from the Manhattan Gaels.
4. Holi in the City (605 West 48th Street)
Have you ever heard of Holi? It's a Hindu festival of colors meant to share love, but has been celebrated by non-Hindus throughout parts of South Asia. The festival consists of people wearing light colored or white clothing and throwing colors at one another.
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This event, Holi in the City, held at Stage48 on March 19th and March 26th. It's basically a color run, just without the run, and with a rave instead. The event runs from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. with over seven DJs, organic colors on all four floors of Stage48, including the rooftop.
5. The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine (1047 Amsterdam Avenue at 112th Street)
Are you a fan of architecture? You might want to check out the Cathedral Church of St. John the Devine. It's the fourth largest Christian church in the world, and one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in this city.
We're not saying you need to sit in for a religious service, but just to appreciate the beauty surrounded by new luxury rentals.
While you're there, walk the grounds and find statues of spiritual leaders, Christian and otherwise, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhi, and Susan B. Anthony. Regardless of your religion, it's a beautiful place to take in the early spring weather.
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6. Macaron Day 2016 NYC (Sunday, March 20th)
So you want to eat a bunch of macarons... for free? Hit up participating locations of Macaron Day on March 20th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and taste test one free macaron per location. Want more than one macaron?
A portion of all macaron sales on Macaron Day will be donated to City Harvest, an organization fighting hunger in NYC.
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Some of the locations participating are Almondine, Bouchon, Francois Payard, Macaron Café, Macaron Parlor Patisserie, Sugar and Plumm, and Woops! BakeShop. All you need to do is visit a participating store, tell them you're there for Macaron Day, and much on a tasty macaron!
Plus, it's a great way to travel around our city in the slightly chilly, yet comfortable spring weather. And who can say no to macarons? We can't.
7. Macy's Flower Show (March 20th - April 3rd)
Spring is in the air, which means our sidewalks will soon be filled with the scents of freshly budding flowers. Whats the best way to get into the spring spirit? Check out Macy's Flower Show at Macy's Herald Square from March 20th to April 3rd.
Between events like "wreath making," a performance from the Broadway musical, Beautiful- The Carole King Musical, and shopping, you'll certainly catch some spring fever.
8. NYC Craft Beer Festival (68th Lexington Avenue)
What's a better way to get into the spring spirit than by tasting a selection of 150 spring beers, ciders, and meads? We can't think of anything, and we're okay with that, which means you need to purchase tickets to the NYC Craft Beer Festival on March 25th and 26th.
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For two and a half hours, you can taste as many beers, ciders, and meads as you'd like (responsibly) while chatting up with your friends in the Lexington Armory. Plus, many of the 75 breweries will be bringing along limited edition brews and seasonal options.
9. Affordable Art Fair (125 West 18th Street)
Ever realize that your apartment is still decorated with the same artwork and posters that hung on your childhood walls? Don't you think it's time to step it up a bit, now that you're an adult?
How about checking out the Affordable Art Fair at the Metropolitan Pavilion from March 30th to April 3rd to purchase some cheap pieces?
Most of the artwork available for purchase at the fair will span from $100 to $10,000. Whether or not you walk away with anything new for your walls, you'll get to take in some truly amazing pieces of art at this fair.
Check out 7 Best NYC Bars to Get Your Drink On This March.
[Feature Image Courtesy Lex Hotel NYC]