Best New York summer ever

When summer rolls around, and New Yorkers fly the coop for vacation spots like Montauk and the Hamptons, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the less-crowded city and seek out some outdoor fun. New York has beautiful scenic waterways that offer pleasant green spaces to soak up some sun, exhilarating boat rides to feel the breeze, and fabulous views over the iconic cityscape. And, there’s no better way to spend a warm summer evening than lounging at one of New York’s dramatic rooftop bars—some of which host buzzing summer parties so you can dance the night away.

For movie fans, the city’s great public parks celebrate the warmer months with outdoor screenings, while those with kids will want to head down to New York’s historic theme park by the seaside. The possibilities are endless, so check out our list of the favorite things to do in New York when the weather’s balmy—whether you’re looking for a way to stay cool, uncover new favorite spots, or play tourist for the day.

01

New York’s waterways

Escape the heat of the city streets and spend a pleasant afternoon soaking up sun with the gentle breeze rippling through your hair on New York’s picturesque waterways. You can relax with a drink and watch the city’s iconic skyscrapers pass by with a sightseeing cruise around New York harbor and downtown Manhattan from New York Water Tours. Alternatively, snag a hop-on, hop-off ferry ticket from CitySightseeing New York for a scenic ride that also features convenient stops for more exploration on land. Get off the ferry for a bite to eat in Brooklyn’s hip DUMBO neighborhood (“Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass”), which is chock full of trendy eateries offering everything from exotic international cuisine to heart-warming American classics.

Back on dry land, take a leisurely waterfront stroll through the four-mile-long Hudson River Park. Not only will you enjoy panoramic views across the river, just crying out to be photographed, there’s also tons of activities to enjoy. With playgrounds for little ones and plenty of sports facilities, from skate parks and beach volleyball to tennis and basketball courts, the whole family will be entertained. The park also features no less than 6 piers to explore.

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02

Public parks

For a good dose of sunshine, exercise, and free fun, grab your picnic gear and find your own urban oasis at one of New York’s tranquil city parks. Spread out your blanket for lounging and people-watching at Sheep’s Meadow in the iconic Central Park. In fact, at a massive 843 acres, and with 58 miles of pedestrian paths, you could get pleasantly lost for several days exploring all that Central Park has to offer. Highlights include the famous Strawberry Fields, designed as a memorial to John Lennon of The Beatles, which acts as a quiet haven of nature within the bustle of the city.

If checking out one of New York’s less famous, but equally gorgeous parks takes your fancy then Bryant Park is a good bet. Although significantly smaller, this lovely little patch of green space is great for catching a classic movie under the stars at their annual summer film festival. Screenings take place every Monday evening from mid June to mid August. If you’re in the mood for something active, Bryant Park also offers free yoga classes every Tuesday morning and Wednesday evening from June to September. Bring your mat and water, and make sure you get there early to grab a great spot.

03

Rooftop bars

On a balmy summer evening, the rooftops of Manhattan are just the place to discover the hottest bars and lounges in the “City That Never Sleeps”. For an unforgettable and hassle-free night on the town, let New York Nightlife Tours introduce you to their favorite sky-high watering holes. They’ll take you round a great range of establishments where you’ll find incredible cuisine, innovative drinks menus, and, of course, panoramic views of the city’s lights twinkling as dusk falls. These venues also feature a great lineup of live bands and performers to create just the right party atmosphere your night needs.

Whether your evening adventures take you to the stylish patio at Monarch Rooftop with its chic but vibrant decor or the elegant, sky-high garden of the 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, expect to find amazing open-air ambience, stunning city views, and plenty of signature beverages to enjoy.

04

Summer dance parties

Head to Long Island City and liven up your Saturday at Warm Up, the weekly outdoor summer dance party hosted by the MoMA PS1 modern art museum. Sip on a refreshing drink, scope out contemporary art installations, and groove to the tunes of up-and-coming musicians. This annual event series always features an impressive lineup of artists and DJs, with past performers including Solange, Afrika Bambaataa, Grimes, Scissor Sisters, LCD Soundsystem, and DJ Premier.

Every year since 1998, the art museum’s courtyard becomes a dance floor on six Friday evenings throughout July and August. The concept behind the festival is to showcase how music is a work of art, and they definitely succeed in this mission. There’s every genre imaginable here, from icons of the Ballroom scene and spoken word legends to banging techno and dystopian darkwave. Expect the evening to start off with some crazy sonic experimentation and then evolve towards more familiar dancefloor classics.

05

New York’s microbreweries

Home to a booming craft beer scene, New York is a veritable paradise for lovers of innovative hop-based concoctions and groundbreaking microbreweries. Head out with Intrepid Urban Adventures for a delicious tour of both time-honored and newly established breweries in trendy Brooklyn.

Alternatively, join the New York Beer and Brewery Tour, a family run company dedicated to showcasing the city’s evolving beer culture. You’ll be in for a tasting extravaganza that takes you from Midtown to Queens and back again, with not only plenty of beer tastings offered but a good serving of history thrown in for good measure. Your thirst-quenching samples might include Bavarian-inspired lagers from the Paulaner Brauhaus and Restaurant, or perhaps rare Belgian ales from Williamsburg’s secret speakeasy in Spuyten Duyvil. If pale ale is your preferred beverage, then make sure to check out the Bronx Brewery, or if you’re in the mood for a hoppy IPA or full-bodied dark beer, then the Bridge and Tunnel Brewery is the place to go.

06

Luna Park in Coney Island

Take a trip to the seaside and back to the New York of yesteryear at Luna Park in Coney Island, the old-timey theme park modeled after the 1903 park of the same name. Snag a wristband good for 4 hours of classic fun on rides for the whole family. From the creepy thrills of the vintage Spook-a-Rama ghost train to an elegantly painted traditional carousel, kids and grown-ups of all ages will find so much to delight and amuse here. Make sure you also check out the historic wooden roller coaster known as the Cyclone—recently refurbished and still a scream-worthy attraction for sure.

Once you’ve had your fill of thrills, head over to the original Nathan’s Famous hot dog stand for a legendary beef frank, and then munch away as you stroll along the beautiful beachfront Riegelmann Boardwalk.

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07

Summer bike rides

Beautiful summer days couldn’t be better for exploring the city, so skip the subway, hop on a bike, and create your own 2-wheeled adventure. Go City offers a New York Highlights Bike Tour providing a full-day bike rental, making it easy to cruise to all those spots you’ve been meaning to check out. The 9-mile-long route takes around 3 hours and covers numerous iconic Big Apple landmarks, such as Brooklyn Bridge, Little Italy, Chinatown, and Washington Square Park. And, to top it off, your Go City pass also provides savings on tons of other New York attractions.

If planning on pedaling out on your own personal ride, we recommend heading to the banks of the Hudson River where you can both beat the traffic and admire the beautiful river views you glide through the parks stretching along Manhattan’s western edge. Alternatively, take the ferry over to Governors Island where you’ll find miles of scenic car-free cycling trails to conquer.

New York is an amazing city at all times of the year. But, what with all the gorgeous green spaces and glittering waterways, it has a special-something about it in the summer months. There’s so many fun ways you can get out and about in the sun and explore more of the Big Apple. Whether you’re traveling with young kids who need thrills and excitement, you’re looking for blissful relaxation by the sea, or you’re yearning to abandon your worries on the dancefloor, New York is the place to be when the weather gets hot.

So, what are your favorite things to do in New York in the summer? Kick off your New York adventures now by booking a great hotel, and make the most of the balmy months ahead.