Things to Do in United States in April
April weather, activities, events & insider tips
April Weather in United States
Is April Right for You?
Advantages
- Cherry blossom season peaks in Washington DC and northern states - cooler temperatures 10-18°C (50-64°F) create perfect viewing conditions without summer heat
- Spring break crowds have dispersed by mid-April, but weather is warming enough for comfortable outdoor activities in most regions
- National parks in southern states hit their sweet spot - wildflowers bloom in Texas Hill Country and desert Southwest before summer heat arrives
- Hotel rates drop 20-30% after Easter weekend, especially in major cities, while weather remains ideal for walking tours
Considerations
- Weather is highly unpredictable - can swing from 4°C (39°F) to 18°C (64°F) in the same day, requiring multiple clothing layers
- Spring storms bring heavy rain and potential flight delays, especially in the Midwest tornado corridor
- Some mountain areas and northern national parks still have snow and limited access - many hiking trails above 2,000m (6,500ft) remain closed
Best Activities in April
Cherry Blossom Festival Tours in Washington DC
Peak bloom typically occurs in early to mid-April when temperatures stay consistently above 10°C (50°F). The cool spring air makes walking the 3.2km (2 mile) Tidal Basin loop comfortable all day. Morning light at 7-8am offers the best photography conditions with fewer crowds. April's variable weather means some years peak earlier or later, but the festival runs through the entire month.
Texas Hill Country Wildflower Drives
April is the only month when bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, and phlox bloom simultaneously. Daytime temperatures of 18-24°C (64-75°F) make driving with windows down pleasant, while morning temperatures around 8°C (46°F) create ideal conditions for photography. The season is short - typically just 3-4 weeks in April before summer heat kills the blooms.
Great Smoky Mountains Hiking Tours
April brings perfect hiking weather with temperatures ranging 8-16°C (46-61°F) at elevation. Waterfalls are at peak flow from spring runoff, and early wildflowers like trillium bloom on forest floors. Most trails are accessible by April, unlike winter months, but higher elevations may still have patches of snow above 1,500m (5,000ft).
Napa Valley Wine Tours
April offers ideal tasting weather with mild temperatures 12-20°C (54-68°F) and minimal summer crowds. Vineyards show bright green new growth, and outdoor tastings are comfortable throughout the day. Rain occurs about 8-10 days in April, but typically in short afternoon showers that clear quickly.
Arizona Desert Botanical Tours
April is the last month to experience desert wildflowers before summer heat arrives. Temperatures peak around 24-27°C (75-81°F) - perfect for outdoor exploration without the brutal summer heat of 40°C+ (104°F+). Desert marigolds, brittlebush, and fairy dusters are in peak bloom. Early morning tours at 7-8am offer the best wildlife viewing as animals are most active.
New York City Food Walking Tours
April's mild temperatures 8-16°C (46-61°F) make outdoor food walking perfect before summer heat and humidity arrive. Spring ingredients appear in restaurants - asparagus, spring onions, and fresh herbs. The city feels renewed after winter, and outdoor dining begins to reopen. Walking 2-3 miles over 3-4 hours is comfortable in April's crisp air.
April Events & Festivals
National Cherry Blossom Festival
The nation's premier spring celebration in Washington DC with peak bloom typically occurring in early to mid-April. Features cultural performances, food vendors, and special illuminations of the blossoms. The timing varies year to year based on winter weather, but the festival runs throughout April.
Jazz Fest New Orleans
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival typically begins in late April, featuring 10+ stages of music across multiple weekends. April's mild temperatures 18-24°C (64-75°F) make outdoor festival attendance comfortable before Louisiana's oppressive summer humidity arrives.