After enduring a long and cold winter in New York City, it can be so refreshing to have cooperative weather that doesn’t require three layers of clothing, hats and scarves, or even closed shoes. For me, turning my heat off and opening the windows in my apartment is the official launch of spring in New York City. While not every day is guaranteed to be beautiful, the first signs of spring or even early summer can be enough to completely change your mindset. I find myself taking the long way home, eating my lunch outside, and meeting friends for dinners way more often than I was in the colder months.
If you’re new to New York City and learning English, this is also one of the best times of the year to experience the thrills of the Big Apple. Restaurants open their sidewalks for outside dining, shops and salons keep their doors open to allow the fresh air in, and there are more street vendors out than any other time of the year. The warm weather tends to put everyone in good moods, it brings people out of the apartment buildings, and it encourages people to be social and spend time outdoors again. Since I’ve been living in Manhattan, I’ve been the most social during the warmer months because I was more excited to simply just be outside in the fresh air. As a result, this is the most ideal time for practicing your English with your friends and anyone else you interact with along the way.
1. 9/11 Memorial
September 11th was an international tragedy, and if you find yourself with a day off, I highly recommend visiting the outdoor memorial in Lower Manhattan. This stunning tribute to those we lost in the attacks will take your breath away, and it will immediately take you back to the very moment you found out about the event. The memorial is surrounded by incredible information regarding the attacks, the victims, and hope for the future—while the mood in this location tends to be quiet and respectful, it’s still a great way to practice your English-reading while simultaneously learning more about the attack’s impact. Pick up the informational brochures to practice your English reading, and be sure to ask the guides questions in English.
2. The Cloisters
A part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this is a museum in Upper Manhattan with incredible medieval history and a stunning outdoor scenic location. While you’re walking the grounds on a beautiful spring day, you can take in the rich European history from this museum; if you can, make sure to visit the garden area of the experience. These spots have been designed to resemble the actual presentation of the medieval gardens, and expert historical horticulturists actually tend these gardens to truthfully resemble the real structure and dynamic of these buildings. As any museum has written information to guide you along, the Cloisters also does so you can again engage with your English vocabulary and put your learning to good use! Don’t forget to ask questions along the way and take in the beautiful outdoor scenery!
3. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Cantor Roof
If you plan on going to the Met at all this season, be sure to visit one particular part of the museum: this spring, the roof of the Met will be open for a customized art display, which will stunningly overlook Central Park. Celebrated as one of the best museums in the world, Cantor Roof always delivers the best of the best in terms of international displays. So while you’re here, you’ll not only learn about the international artist and the inspiration behind the artwork, but you’ll be doing so by consuming the content in English! You’ll be getting fresh air, practice with your English, AND exposure to international culture, all in one stop! Be sure to stick around afterwards to visit the Garden Café and Martini Bar, also on the roof. Overlooking Central Park, this will be the perfect way to cap off an informational and educational day.