Excited for the longer days that the summer brings and looking for fun things to do in New York City in the summer? In this post, you can find plenty of insider tips and ideas from a New Yorker on the best things to do in NYC during the summer. All the best New York City summer activities!
Even though summers are looking different at the moment, it’s really one of the best seasons to explore New York City, despite the high humidity, which can sometimes feel brutally hot.
Summers are a time when people are outdoors, have meet-ups on fire-escapes, organize trips to the beach, and join barbecues in yards, which are a bit of a luxury in New York City. That’s why it’s a great time to visit when everyone is out and about enjoying the weather.
Here are some of the greatest things you can do when visiting NYC in the summer!
Wondering where to stay while visiting New York City? Finding a great deal on a hotel in New York City can be challenging. As a Native New Yorker, I am going to include some suggestions below that I usually recommend to friends and acquaintances who are visiting NYC for the first time or who prefer to stay in a good location close to Manhattan.
- Budget: The Row | The Jane | Pod 39 |
- Mid-Budget: The Hudson | The James Soho | The Renwick | The Redbury
- Luxury: The Bowery | The Dominick | The St. Regis | The Plaza
For more in-depth information about the best NYC neighborhoods to stay in, and the hotels in those areas, read this complete guide on Where to stay in New York City.
You might also find helpful these posts:
- The Perfect 5 days in New York City Itinerary
- 101 Free and Fun Things to do in New York City
- 27 Perfect Views of the Manhattan Skyline for free
- The Perfect one-day itinerary for New York City
- The Best Pizza Spots in Manhattan
- Top Things to do in Central Park
- The Best Parks in NYC
- The Best Beaches in New York
Fun Things To Do In New York City In The Summer: Manhattan
1. Movies under the stars
Summer is the perfect time to watch free movies in the park, Bryant Park being the forerunner with its weekly, Monday night showings after sunset. Other parks participate as well, so check the schedules, and bring a blanket and snacks (like the traditional popcorn).
Or go a step further and watch a movie at the Rooftop Cinema Club, with proper outdoor seating and a full bar!
2. Shakespeare in the Park
Performed each summer in Central Park, this is a must do for every drama student or Shakespeare lover. The plays are modernized and beautifully done.
Tickets sell out fast and can get pricey but, on rainy days, you can get lucky with some more affordable options.
3. Rowing at Central Park
The rowing is back in the summer, yay! It docks right next to Loeb’s Boathouse restaurant and makes for a scenic, romantic, day activity. No experience needed!
4. Have a picnic at a park of your choice
New York has many parks, and it’s sometimes hard to choose between them. Central Park is the most famous one, of course but, if you’re looking for a more local spot, maybe try Astoria Park or Pelham Bay Park?
Shop at Eataly for some gourmet cold cuts and cheeses, along with Italian bread and/or crackers and some fruit for a lovely picnic spread.
RECOMMENDED: 22 of the Best Parks in New York City
5. Rent bikes and cruise along Hudson River Park
It’s so much fun to rent bikes and start cruising around the city. Hudson River Park is a safe option, if you’d rather not dare riding on the city streets, as are most parks in general. Check out Bike Rent NYC for some good rental deals.
6. Go kayaking for free on the Hudson River
The emphasis is on FREE! Find the right pier and get a free lesson before hopping on the kayak, in case you’ve never done it before. It provides amazing views and is very peaceful, away from the hecticness of Manhattan.
7. Visit the Cloisters and Fort Tryon Park
The Cloisters are open all year long, but summers are the best time to visit. You can even plan for a lovely picnic at Fort Tryon Park, inside of which the Cloisters are located.
8. Bird-watching in Central Park
Birds will be seen and heard all around the park once summer hits. If you don’t want to commit to joining a birdwatching group, then just do it solo. You can learn a lot from it and,who knows, maybe you will become a bird expert by the end of the summer.
9. Jogging at East River State Park
Jogging is a favorite pastime for New Yorkers and there are many places to do it but, at this park, on the Manhattan side, it is perfect for runners. Right along the water, the path is spacious and the views are simply beautiful.
10. Dine outdoors
Outdoor dining is one of the best things about summer in New York, since it allows for interesting people-watching opportunities. Book a table during the summer’s Restaurant Week at a place like Dos Caminos, a Mexican chain restaurant, which has tasty tacos and ample outdoor seating.
Or, if you would like to go off the beaten path to explore a local neighborhood, I totally recommend heading out of Manhattan to Astoria in Queens. There are plenty of fantastic places where you can eat outdoors. One of my favorites is Taverna Kyklades for delicious Greek Cuisine. You won’t regret it!
Insider Tip: Download The App called No Wait because it gives you information on how long you’ll need to wait before a table is available at the restaurant of your choice in NYC. You can also add your name to the waitlist and you will get a text when your table is ready.
11. Visit a public pool
It’s almost impossible for a summer to pass without your getting in a pool at least once. Access to semi-private ones come with challenges (reservation, parking, etc.), but public pools are great and available for everyone.
My favorite is the Manhattan Park Pool Club on Roosevelt Island. It’s chic and, even though you have to pay, it’s less crowded for that reason and, therefore, well worth the cost.
12. Devour a fresh lobster roll
Yum, there’s nothing quite like a lobster roll during the summer! It’s the quintessential casual lunch item that makes your mouth water in seconds.
Luke’s Lobster is a known gem but The Lobster Place follows right behind it as a top contender for the tastiest lobster roll.
13. Go Dancing at the Midsummer Night Swing
Every summer you get to dance to your heart’s content at Lincoln Center’s Midsummer Night Swing. Grab a partner and start twirling!
14. Attend an open-air concert
SummerStage hosts all kinds of public summer concerts, which are free to attend and, usually, amazing! All major parks participate in some capacity, with Central Park having the best attended since they attract many of the famous performers.
15. Visit Governor’s Island
This one can only be done during the summer, so get there while you can! But not by car. Cars aren’t allowed here, which makes this place a haven for environmentalists and eco-friendly New Yorkers. Bring your bike and explore!
16. A sightseeing boat – tour
Book a tour through Classic Harbor Line, a well-liked company for sightseeing tours. Stand on deck and enjoy the views of Manhattan’s famous skyline.
17. Ride Jet-skis on the East River
This is by far the most fun activity imaginable! Check out Seathecity.com (funny play on words!) and get on the water. This adventure has to be remembered with pictures, so maybe bring a water-proof, single-use camera along?
18. Hop on a speed boat
I love how the wind blows through your hair and water sprinkles on your skin during a fast speed boat ride! New York has literally everything. The so-called Beast Speedboat Ride provides all the adrenaline you’ll need for a good time!
19. Bar-hopping, but only at rooftop bars!
There are an endless number of rooftop bars all over the City but, one of my favorites, 230 5th rooftop bar is a classic when it comes to viewing the City during a warm summer night. Salon de Ning or Ophelia are other nice options for your rooftop bar-hopping night out!
20. Try the crème de la crèmes of ice creams
Some people can eat ice cream during all seasons of the year but, if you’re like me, you will appreciate it the most during those hot, summer days for a nice after-dinner cool-down. Try Ample Hills, Sundaes and Cones, Milkcow, or The Milk Bar. They are all fantastic with lots of tasty flavors!
21. Stroll through a summer street fair
Street fairs happen all of the time, all year round and often where you least expect them. Check the City’s website, or a specific neighborhood of interest, and see if any fairs are scheduled to take place. Astoria, Queens, has them regularly along Steinway Street, and so do long stretches of 3rd Avenue in Manhattan.
22. Drive to a water park
There isn’t one in the City anymore, but your journey starts in NYC, so it still counts in my book. Mountain Creek Water Park in Vernon, New Jersey is one the best ones in close proximity to the city, and you can take a direct bus, that gets there within 90 minutes, leaving enough time for a full day of fun! Note: There are a few water parks on Long Island but they are not my faves. But you can always look them up if you prefer.
23. Play mini-golf at Figment Festival
It’s affordable and fun for all ages! You can play it at Pier 25 Mini Golf or during the Figment Festival on Roosevelt Island, to give you a few examples. The best one, however, is Randall Island’s Golf Center with late-night hours, alcohol on premises, and lots of green space to roam around.
24. Celebrate Pride month
Every year in June, NYC celebrates Pride Month with many different events throughout the City. If you’re not gay you can still show that you’re an ally and celebrate something extraordinary with your fellow humans; this is your chance to make a difference!
25. Stargazing at the High Line
During summer, you can do some real stargazing, using a high-tech telescope, every Tuesday evening. It’s free and will have you falling in love with the stars in the sky (not just those living in NYC)!
26. Shop along Bleecker Street
Bleecker Street is lined up with great outdoor cafes and local shops, especially during these times when local businesses need your support. It’s truly an awesome area to visit due to the beautiful, historic buildings and streets.
27. Pick a neighborhood and play photographer
If money is tight, and you want to keep your distance from people (isn’t this the perfect time!), then just pack your smartphone, or an actual camera, pick a neighborhood that you’ve never been to, and just go to take pictures! You never know what you’ll capture and see through your lens. It can be quite inspiring and relaxing.
SUGGESTED READING: The Best Neighborhoods in NYC
28. Host or join a BBQ
If you don’t have your own outdoor space for a BBQ, then try out a public park with BBQ amenities, such as Riverside Park. Invite friends or neighbors and share some food on a pleasant, summer day. Oftentimes, you will need to make a reservation through the parks dept.
You can also choose to simply have a summer drink with friends. It could be a chilled sangria, lemonade or Thai Iced Tea but, regardless of what you’re drinking, sit outside and enjoy a cold summer drink with the people you care about. Take a small break and just count your blessings.
Pro Tip: Read this post and find one of these perfect views of NYC for free to accompany your drink!
29. Jam with friends on Sheep Meadow
Music-making might not be your best skill but, regardless, go and join the musicians jamming on the great big lawn inside Central Park called Sheep Meadow! Otherwise, you can just listen and bring a picnic instead.
30. Eat Shake Shack at Madison Square Park
It’s a casual meal at a romantic location during evening hours. They have some of the best shakes, fries and burgers in NYC. Best part is that you can sit inside the park, where the Shake Shack is located, and eat while watching the people and animals (like birds and squirrels) around you.
31. Take a vessel to Martha’s Vineyard
Take the ferry from NYC to Martha’s Vineyard, located in Massachusetts, with an average travel time of 4 hours. It’s a scenic journey on the water and makes for the perfect anniversary getaway to a nearby sister state during the summer.
32. Exercise in Bryant Park
Bryant Park has many free outdoor classes, such as morning bootcamp or yoga, in the park. Everyone is welcome!
33. Sit on the stoop of the Stephen A. Schwartzman building
This impressive library, with the two lion heads guarding it in front, is gorgeous and there’s something very New York about sitting on that stoop for lunch and doing some reading afterwards. How very New York of you!
34. Watch 4th of July fireworks
The fireworks are great but, since it’s a once-a-year event, viewing points are popular and can get expensive – but it’s worth it. A dinner cruise will provide the very best views so make your reservation in advance!
Best Things To Do In New York City In The Summer: Brooklyn
35. Play Basketball at McCarren Park
The courts are free to use and a fantastic exercise to get the heart rate going. They are all well maintained and, if you get there early enough on a weekday, the place will most likely be all yours.
36. Volleyball at Domino Park
Where else is it so easy to play volleyball in the City? Domino Park in Brooklyn even provides the sand, to make it feel as if you’re playing on the beach! Outdoor lighting is provided for evening sessions and the fun is guaranteed, even for spectators.
37. Visit Smorgasbord
Are you in the mood for visiting a combination flea market and food vendors? Then, you don’t want to miss out on Smorgasburg. The main one takes place in Williamsburg, but there’s another location in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, as well as a tinier version at the Hudson Yards.
38. Ride the Cyclone at Luna Park
Coney Island’s Cyclone rollercoaster is an oldie but goodie. It’s a bumpy ride but a must-try when you’re there. A visit to Luna Park, an amusement park on the boardwalk, is nothing short of fun during a hot summer day.
39. Sunbathing on Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach in Brooklyn is quite lovely, even though I don’t recommend swimming in the ocean, for some sand-castle building and sunbathing! This mostly Eastern European neighborhood will greet you warmly and join in on the beach fun.
You might want to check out our curated list of the best beaches in New York.
40. Visit a winery
My personal favorite, Rooftop Reds, is an outdoor winery/wine bar that offers delicious wine tastings, combined with dinner, and possibly a movie night on top of that! It can’t get any better, right?!
41. Go on a street art tour
Brooklyn is a gem for street art. You can find amazing graffiti and murals in Bushwick and also around Williamsburg. You can plan a self-guided tour but, if you would like to learn about the history of it all, I prefer to book a guided tour with a local expert, like this one.
42. Walk across Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge walks are just more enjoyable during the summer months! Usually not too windy so no need for a jacket.
43. Ride Jane Carousel at Brooklyn Bridge Park
This is a follow up but, once you cross the bridge, make your way to Brooklyn Bridge Park and ride the carousel that kids of all ages enjoy!
44. Rent a scooter and go for a ride
Gorevel.com is the new craze for electric scooters. Give it a try at a nearby park or otherwise deserted location and, once you’ve gained confidence and experience, you can take in on the road!
45. Go rollerblading at Prospect Park
You might not have them readily available but rollerblading is always fun! Otherwise, you can go for a stroll or bike-ride. Prospect Park in Brooklyn is a great one to visit for its gorgeous views!
46. Take the ferry from Williamsburg to Manhattan
The ferry is cheap and connects this hip, Brooklyn neighborhood to Downtown Brooklyn (DUMBO) and Manhattan. It’s a nice way to get around and beats riding the subway.
47. Check out The New York Transit Museum
Located in the decommissioned Court Street subway station, The New York Transit Museum (aka the NYC Transit Museum) is a unique opportunity to learn more about NYC’s subway, bus and commuter railway systems. Learn about the sacrifices made to build this ingenious system and how it came to be. There’s an overpriced gift shop but there are some unique treasures not sold anywhere else.
48. Visit the Brooklyn Aquarium
While on Coney Island, you could combine visiting Luna Park with some extra fun at the Aquarium! It’s small but very entertaining and has some cute exhibitions.
Fun Things To Do In NYC In The Summer: Queens
49. Yoga on the beach
It’s very appealing and good for the mind to exercise outdoors and yoga is just the activity. All you need is a mat, your water bottle, and a clear mind!
50. Surfing at the Rockaways
It’s strange to think that the borough of Queens allows for surfing but there are beaches and, therefore, you’ll also find surfers and lessons alike! Boarders Surf Shop is a good one for beginner’s lessons, if you want to give it a try.
The Rockaways are a beloved weekend getaway spot for many New Yorkers so you can also mingle with the locals.
51. Attend a US Open game
Each year in August, the US Open takes place inside Corona Park in Flushing, Queens. The Billy Jean King National Tennis Center is filled with tennis-lovers and pros competing for the number one spot and it’s just a mesmerizing experience to see these athletes up close.
52. Go for a walk, jog or bike ride along the Long Island City Waterfront Promenade at Gantry Plaza State Park
As a New Yorker, and long time resident of Astoria, one of my favorite things to do during the summer is to spend time at Gantry Plaza State Park located in Long Island City.
I am in love with the views from there; plus, it is a great place to just enjoy a drink, sit to watch the sunset or simply walk, jog or ride a bike along the waterfront.
53. Visit the Queens International Night Market
This is an outstanding seasonal outdoor market featuring live entertainment, vendors selling food, crafts & more. It is located at the New York Hall of Science in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens. Make sure to double-check on their website when they will open again.
If the market is not open, just support other small businesses in Flushing, Queens. There are so many good spots to eat and drink in the neighborhood that you really can’t go wrong.
54. Check out the Queens Botanical Garden
The Queens Botanical Garden is located on Main Street in Flushing. It is a charming and peaceful place to visit. It offers beautiful and colorful themed gardens. It is a nice change from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. They also usually offer plenty of free and affordable events during the summer so that’s just another reason to be there.
55. Have a picnic at Socrates Sculpture Park
Socrates Sculpture Park combines the best of both worlds; it is an outdoor museum and a public park. A great place to have a picnic while admiring the amazing sculptures around you!
56. Jamaica Bay Refugee
A refuge with over 300 species of birds, which is why it’s one of my favorite places in New York City for bird-watching.
In addition, there are other animals, native plants and there are so many trails. You can smell the fresh air around you, since it’s by West Pond, and the park even offers kayaking and walking tours.
Best Things To Do In NYC In The Summer: Bronx
57. Horseback riding at Pelham Bay Park
At the Bronx Equestrian Center, you can take lessons and ride along the wonderful nature trails inside the park. Whether you’re doing it alone or with a group, it’s a lovely day-time activity.
58. Mingle with locals at Orchard Beach
Inside the same park, you will find the only accessible beach in the Bronx, which is Orchard Beach. It’s made for the locals and provides a safe, recreational outlet for everyone.
59. Watch a Yankees game
Take the train to the Bronx and see the magic of a Yankees up-close. Eat a hotdog or two, and get swept up in the excitement of it all! It may not be the original house that Ruth built, but it’s a fun place to explore just the same with lots of memorabilia and its own museum inside.
60. Stroll through the Bronx Botanical Gardens
It’s always a wonderful excuse to be outside but during the summers, even more so, especially when the Gardens hold adult evening events to attend.
Even during the day, it’s such a wonderful place for walking, and learning about botany. Maybe consider taking a class on the subject?
61. Go Fishing or eat Fresh seafood on City Island
City Island offers many activities during the summer, you can rent a boat to go fishing, bike or walk around the island, or just simply eat fresh seafood at one of their many restaurants.
62. Wave Hill
If you are visiting the Bronx Zoo, Little Italy or other places in the Bronx, you can also take advantage of the great views of the skyline from Wave Hill, a 28-acre estate in the Hudson Hill section of Riverdale. It’s a beautiful public park with horticultural gardens and a cultural center.
Wave Hill is situated on the slopes overlooking the Hudson River, with expansive views across the river to the New Jersey Palisades.
Many, many years ago, I used to live in the Riverdale area, not far from Upper Manhattan, which is why I know about this local gem. Note: Keep in mind that this place is a longer commute to/from the City center.
63. Visit the animals in the Bronx Zoo
The Bronx wouldn’t be the same without its Zoo. People come from all over the City to visit and see the giraffes, monkeys and lions, especially on free Wednesdays.
Cool Things To Do In NYC in The Summer: Staten Island
64. Visit New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden
Staten Island doesn’t have a lot to offer for tourists (sorry, folks!), but the Scholar’s Garden is unique and beautiful to visit. They even have a small bamboo forest to walk through!
65. Ride the Staten Island Ferry
How cool is it that the Staten Island ferry is free? It leaves every 30 minutes, providing you with the opportunity to see the famous lady on the river, our Statue of Liberty. So, even if you’re just going back and forth for picture-taking, it costs you nothing.
66. Visit the National Lighthouse Museum
If you like lighthouses, this cute one is just a 5 minute walk from the Ferry terminal, so it’s very conveniently situated. The National Lighthouse Museum might be small but that doesn’t diminish it’s beauty or the enthusiasm of its caretakers.
67. Visit Little Sri Lanka in Staten Island
Did you know that Staten Island is home to over 5,000 people of Sri Lankan descent? It’s the largest community of outside Sri Lanka itself! Little Sri Lanka is like a fifteen minute walk from the Staten Island Ferry, situated in the areas of Tompkinsville and Stapleton, along Victory Boulevard and Bay Street.
As you’ve probably guessed, there are so many delicious restaurants, but one of my favorite is Lakruwana, which is a beautiful and elaborately decorated Sri Lankan restaurant with a very beautiful golden door. It’s such a cool experience to eat there. They even have a weekend dinner buffet option.
If you are into art, traditions and culture, visit their Sri Lankan Art and Cultural Museum located just below the restaurant. It’s two experiences in one place!
Things To Do In New York City during The Summer: Long Island
68. Party on Fire Island
Fire Island attracts partygoers every summer! It’s known for being a place where you can have a good time, meet people, and spend lots of leisure time on the beach. For those are reasons, people love coming back year after year.
69. Take a trip to the Hamptons
The Hamptons are beloved among the New York elite, located on Long Island. The beaches are clean and the locals claim they’re fabulous. Montauk, at the tip of Long Island, is the last stop and by far one of the best places to spend a summer weekend.
70. Splash in the ocean and catch waves at one of the many beautiful beaches on Long Island
Arrange an outing to one of the many beautiful beaches on Long Island. Popular day trips include Long Beach and Jones Beach. I personally enjoy them more than the ones in New York City.
Bonus: Call to volunteer
Even though you might be on vacation, giving back to the community you are visiting is very rewarding and helpful. Why not consider giving a little of your time to a worthy cause.
There are too many to mention but, follow your interests, and use your initiative. On an especially hot day, I prefer being indoors and volunteering somewhere where my presence makes a difference. Then, I can really appreciate my remaining summer days.
Note: If you are visiting New York, go and check out some of our observatory decks for wonderful views. I truly love the newest one in the city, the Summit One Vanderbilt. It is a unique, multi-sensory viewing experience.
Friends, Sun, Sand and Sea – lots of fun to be had during the summer in NYC
Summer just rocks and, even if it’s going to be very different this year due to the pandemic, all of these summer activities will eventually resume – at least that’s what I hope!
The best we can do for now is dream and make plans for the future. However, some of these suggestions are currently open to the public, so check their websites and see what’s possible now.
Cheers to enjoying the modified, socially distant summer of 2020!
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