Photo of Springtime outdoor dining in New YorkSpring has sprung and New York Habitat is ready to unveil its number one pick for Best Springtime Activity in New York City. There are thousands of things to see and do in the city but perhaps the best activity involves doing nothing at all. Coming in at #1: Whiling away the hours at one of New York’s many outdoor restaurants and cafes. Whether you stop for brunch, lunch or happy hour cocktails, you’ll fall in love with New York’s sidewalk scene.

Your New York itinerary will no doubt be jam-packed so slowing down the pace for some leisurely cafe time will feel like a luxurious treat. While there are fantastic outdoor options in every neighborhood of Manhattan, the two Villages – the West Village and East Village – are probably your best bet for a day under the spring rays. The two downtown neighborhoods are dotted with outdoor tables, most of which will be occupied by the young and trendy, and, if you’re lucky, famous.

If you’re in the West Village, check out the concentration of restaurants and cafes along 6th and 7th Avenue near Bleecker Street. Neighboring Italian hot spots Bar Pitti and Da Silvano compete for the see-and-be-seen crowd, and up the street Sushi Samba, a Latin-Japanese eatery, offers both sidewalk and roof seating.

On the opposite side of the island, in the East Village, you’ll find dozens of outdoor options that will satisfy any food craving – Italian, Mexican, Indian…you name it. Local favorites include seafood haven The Mermaid Inn and romantic trattoria Cacio e Pepe – both on 2nd Avenue.

Ready to watch the vibrant street scene from your own outdoor table? New York Habitat has tons of vacation rentals in the West Village as well as apartment rentals in the East Village, just steps from the best outdoor spots. Check out:

This spacious 2-Bedroom Loft Vacation Rental in Noho – New York City (NY-12499), with high ceilings and a large sky light. Enjoy the stainless steel appliances and tasteful furnishings.

This charming 1-bedroom apartment in West Village (NY-8429) mixes authentic features such as brick walls with modern touches, and offers access to a shared terrace and beautiful views over the West Village.

It’s time to get outside and enjoy the spring weather. Bring a book, the New York Times or your best pals and drop into one of New York’s many outdoor cafes and restaurants.

Now we will learn about another fun Springtime Activity in NYC: walking the Brooklyn Bridge!

Do you have a favorite outdoor spot in New York City? Please share your comments with us!