As the temperature goes up and days get longer, New York City turns into a lively outdoor spot. It has over 280 parks across the five boroughs. These parks are buzzing with life in the summer, inviting everyone to enjoy the warm weather.
From the famous Central Park to cozy neighborhood gardens, there’s always something to do outside. Whether you love nature, sports, or just being in the sun, New York has it all. It’s the perfect place for outdoor fun.
Key Takeaways
- New York City boasts an impressive 280 parks, offering a wealth of outdoor spaces for various activities.
- Central Park remains a top destination, with its diverse offerings, from hiking trails to sports fields and picnicking spots.
- The city’s vibrant outdoor dining scene, featuring waterfront restaurants and rooftop bars, provides the perfect setting for al fresco indulgence.
- Outdoor markets, street fairs, and music festivals add to the city’s summer vibrancy, showcasing the diverse cultural offerings.
- Unique experiences, such as kayaking on the rivers and attending outdoor movie screenings, offer visitors a chance to explore the city from a different perspective.
Experience NYC’s Beaches
New York City has many beaches, each offering a special experience away from the city. Jacob Riis Park Beach and the Bronx’s public beach are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. They let visitors enjoy the sun and cool waters.
Jacob Riis Park Beach
Jacob Riis Park Beach is in the Gateway National Recreation Area. It’s a favorite spot for a classic beach day. With its wide beach, calm waves, and views of the Manhattan skyline, it’s ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Nearby, Jacob Riis Park has playgrounds, picnic spots, and a historic bathhouse.
The Bronx Public Beach
The Bronx’s public beach is a hidden spot for a quiet day away from the city. It’s surrounded by beautiful views of the Long Island Sound. Here, you can swim, play beach volleyball, or take a walk by the water.
New York City has beaches for everyone, whether you want a busy spot or a quiet place. So, bring your swimsuit, a towel, and enjoy the sun and water in the city’s beaches.
Rooftop Pools and Cabanas
New York City’s luxury hotels have turned their rooftops into magical summer spots. They let visitors cool off and enjoy a day by the pool. These spots have beautiful [rooftop pools NYC], stylish cabanas, and top-notch [rooftop bars.
Hotels like The Rockaway Hotel + Spa, Hotel Indigo Williamsburg, and TWA Hotel sell day passes. These passes cost between $75 and $190. You can also book private cabanas for $1,000 or more. Everyone gets towels, robes, and a great view of the city.
| Hotel | Day Pass Pricing | Cabana Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| The Rockaway Hotel + Spa | $75-$100 | Starting at $1,000 |
| Hotel Indigo Williamsburg | $160 (weekdays), $190 (weekends) | N/A |
| TWA Hotel | $25 for adults, $10 for children | N/A |
For a fancy experience, try The William Vale, Dream Downtown, or Arlo Williamsburg. They offer [cabana] rentals with lounge chairs, towels, and service. Prices for these cabanas are between $200 and $600.
Looking for a cool dip, a fun [rooftop bar] scene, or just a day of chill? New York City’s [hotel pools] and cabanas are your go-to for escaping the summer heat.
“Escape the city’s sights and sounds with a day spent lounging poolside, cocktail in hand, and take in the breathtaking views of the New York skyline.”
Outdoor Night Markets
As the sun sets over New York City, a new scene comes alive – outdoor night markets. These events celebrate local food, fun, and community. They’re a hit with both locals and visitors. From the Bronx to Brooklyn, and Manhattan to Queens, you can enjoy tasty dishes and experience the city’s culture.
Exploring the Flavors of NYC’s Night Markets
The Bronx Night Market happens on the first Saturday of each month until October. It draws over 15,000 people with its delicious tastes. In Harlem, the Uptown Night Market is on the second Thursday, offering food, music, and art.
In Queens, the Queens Night Market is open every Saturday night. It’s a food lover’s dream with its global cuisine. For those who love vegan or Latin American food, Manhattan and Uptown have special markets just for them.
These markets let vendors share their unique foods with the city. They cater to everyone’s changing tastes.
At night markets, you can also find other fun things to do. Enjoy a show at one of the 41 Broadway theaters or see the city from the Top of the Rock observation deck. The NYC Ferry and Brooklyn Bridge are great for seeing the city’s nightlife from different spots.
“These night markets are a true reflection of New York’s culinary diversity and community spirit. With each visit, you’ll discover new flavors, talents, and experiences that make the city truly come alive after dark.”
Luna Park at Coney Island
Coney Island’s Luna Park is the biggest amusement park in New York City. It’s open every day during the season. Here, you can find thrilling rides and classic carnival fun.
There are over 50 games, rides, and roller coasters for everyone. Luna Park is perfect for thrill-seekers and families. It also supports over 1,200 jobs, helping the local community.
This summer, Luna Park will introduce new rides and upgrades. The Electric Eden Raceway is New York City’s first go-kart attraction powered by green energy. The Leti’s Treasure ride is a modern take on the Shoot the Chutes flume ride. It has over 1,200 feet of track and goes up to 30 mph.
Luna Park at Coney Island has lots of food, games, and shops. It’s a full day of fun for everyone. From the famous Coney Island Cyclone to the Tea Party for families, there’s something for all.
Outdoor Movie Screenings
New York City has a lively outdoor movie scene. You can find free and affordable screenings in parks all over the city. These events show classic and new movies under the stars, making for a perfect summer night.
Enjoy Free Outdoor Movies Across the City
The Movies With a View series in Brooklyn Bridge Park is a big hit, now in its 24th season. It offers eleven free movies this summer. These films are shown against the beautiful Manhattan skyline.
The Paramount+ Movie Nights series is another great choice. It screens movies for free in Fort Greene Park, Prospect Park, and Coney Island Beach. The lineup includes both classic and new films.
In Manhattan, Bryant Park’s Movie Nights series is a must-see. It runs every Monday until August 12. Here, you can watch movies under the stars for free.
Discover International and Themed Film Festivals
The Films on The Green Festival is a special outdoor French film festival. It celebrates the Paris Olympics with a sports-themed lineup. It’s free to attend.
The Movies Under the Stars festival is another highlight. It’s hosted by the New York City Parks & Recreation and the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment. This festival offers over 150 free movies in all five boroughs this summer.
At the Seaport Cinema at Pier 17, the focus is on music-themed movies. You can bring your own chairs and enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting.
New York City has over 103 free summer movie events from July 12, 2024, to September 26, 2024. These events feature everything from classic films to family-friendly animations. So, grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy the movies under the stars.
NYC’s Lavender Field
Escape the busy city life by visiting the NYC Lavender Field on Governors Island. This is the only lavender field in the city. It has dozens of lavender bushes in colors like royal purple and pastel gray.
Walk along the gravel paths and enjoy the sweet smell of lavender. The botanical haven on Governors Island is a peaceful outdoor escape. It feels like a calm, serene place away from the city.
- The Governors Island lavender field has over 550 plants of 4 different types that bloom in June.
- Lavender By The Bay in Long Island has 17 acres with over 80,000 plants, blooming from mid-June to July.
- Happy Day Farms in New Jersey has about 300 lavender plants of the ‘Phenomenal’ type.
| Farm Name | Location | Lavender Varieties | Bloom Season | Number of Plants | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Governors Island Lavender Field | New York City, NY | 4 different varieties | June | 550+ | N/A |
| Lavender By The Bay | East End of Long Island, NY | N/A | Mid-June to July, with a smaller bloom in late summer/early fall | 80,000+ | N/A |
| Happy Day Farms | Manalapan, NJ | Phenomenal | N/A | 300 | 3.9 out of 5 (182 reviews) |
If you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor escape or just want to enjoy the beauty of lavender, the NYC Lavender Field on Governors Island is perfect. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and city folks alike.
“The lavender fields on Governors Island are a true oasis in the heart of New York City. Wandering through the fragrant blooms is a truly magical experience.”
Watermark Beach Club
Leave the city’s noise behind and enter a tropical paradise at Watermark Beach Club. It’s in the Seaport District, on Pier 15. This place is a summer dream, with tiki decor, seasonal cocktails, and luxury cabanas.
The Watermark Beach opens on May 5th with a Cinco de Mayo Beach Bash. Enjoy $5 tacos and Coronas, live DJs, and free Cinco beads for the first 500 guests. As summer goes on, look forward to new cocktails, cabanas, and tiki decor that make you feel like you’re in a tropical paradise.
Try refreshing cocktails like colorful pouches and classic margaritas. Enjoy seafood, tacos, and more from the diverse menu. For a special touch, book a Cooler Package. Options range from $150 to $300, offering drinks for you and your friends.
Looking for a place to celebrate or just want to relax in style? The Watermark Beach Club is perfect for a NYC summer getaway. It has a lively vibe, great cocktails, and delicious food. This beach spot will be your top choice for summer fun.
The Met’s Rooftop Art Installation
The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Roof Garden Commission is a big deal every year. They pick one artist to turn the rooftop into their canvas. This year, Petrit Halilaj’s “Abetare” is the focus. It’s about kids living in war zones and sends a strong message.
Halilaj got his ideas from doodles he made at his school in Kosovo before it was destroyed in 2010. His “Abetare” installation is at The Met’s Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Roof Garden in New York City until October 27, 2024.
The installation has gymnastic bronze and steel sculptures that show kids’ dreams in the city. They were inspired by Julio González, a Spanish metalsmith. Halilaj’s work is full of lightness and fun, but also touches on his own childhood in Kosovo during conflict.
Halilaj’s sculptures show kids wanting freedom outside of school. They are inspired by his own experiences collecting school tables from the Balkans. He turns destruction into art, showing how kids stay strong and creative in tough times.
The exhibit has fun sculptures like a dancing spider and climbing walls. They make viewers want to play. Halilaj’s work talks about kids’ dreams, imagination, and how war affects them. He uses art to share important messages.
The Met chose Halilaj’s work because it connects to today’s issues like borders and trauma in children.
“The sculptures on the rooftop are inspired by doodles found at a school in Kosovo, reframing destruction as art and creativity.”
New York Botanical Garden’s Wonderland Exhibit
Step into the “Wonderland: Curious Nature” exhibit at the New York Botanical Garden. Here, the magic of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland meets whimsical botanical displays. The exhibit runs from May 18 to October 27, 2024, inviting you to a world of wonder and imagination.
Explore the Conservatory and see the nearly 12-foot-tall White Rabbit made from plants. It stands tall by the Reflecting Pool. Then, enter the “Home Grown” installation, a huge structure made from mycelium bricks. It’s 19 x 19 x 18 feet big.
Experience the Shrumen Lumen display by FoldHaus. It features breathing and shrinking sculptures from corrugated plastic, aluminum, and steel. Also, see the Victoria Amazonica water lilies in the Conservatory Pool. They are a true marvel of nature.
Don’t miss Wonderland Nights on June 1, 8, 14*, and 15. These nights, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., the art outside the Conservatory lights up with colors. NYBG members get special discounts on dining and shopping during these nights.
This exhibit is supported by the New York State Council on the Arts, the Wolf Kahn Foundation, the Emily Mason | Alice Trumbull Mason Foundation, and The William Talbot Hillman Foundation. Get ready to be enchanted and “curiouser and curiouser” at the New York Botanical Garden’s Wonderland.
“The New York Botanical Garden’s ‘Wonderland: Curious Nature’ exhibit transports visitors into a world of enchantment and imagination, celebrating the timeless magic of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.”
Outdoor activities in New York City
New York City is a great place for outdoor fun in the summer. Summer Streets lets people walk, run, bike, and enjoy the sights. The Intrepid Museum also offers free entry on some Friday nights. This lets visitors check out the museum and enjoy special events after hours.
There are many outdoor activities to choose from. You can join fitness classes or art workshops. NYC has something for everyone, whether you want to relax or have an adventure.
Explore the City’s Iconic Landmarks and Parks
Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for amazing photos and a 60-minute journey. The High Line is an elevated park with great views of Chelsea. Central Park is another top spot, visited by over 42 million people each year.
- Discover the historic charm of South Street Seaport, with its shops and restaurants, including The Greens at Pier 17.
- Watch free outdoor movies in the summer, thanks to the NYC Parks Department.
- Take the Staten Island Ferry, a free ride that takes you from downtown Manhattan to Staten Island in 25 minutes.
Places like Coney Island and the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx are perfect for fun and relaxation. You can find both free and paid activities, fitting any budget and interest.
French Film Festival in the Parks
Get ready for a cinematic celebration under the stars! The French Film Festival is back in New York City. It offers 12 captivating French films with English subtitles. Hosted by Villa Albertine, the festival will run from June 2 to September 8, 2023, across Manhattan and Brooklyn parks.
This year’s festival is exciting, focusing on sports in honor of the Paris Olympics. The films will show different dance styles, from French Cancan to hip hop and flamenco.
Catch the Best of French Cinema
The Films on the Green festival has two special dates: June 9th and June 16th at Washington Square Park. On June 9th, watch the 1997 drama “The Tango Lesson.” On June 16th, enjoy the 2010 romantic comedy “Heartbreaker.”
No ticket is needed for the French Film Festival. It’s a chance for movie lovers to enjoy French cinema under the stars. Bring your friends, pack a picnic, and experience the magic of French films.
“This festival is a true celebration of the art of filmmaking and the spirit of the Olympics. It’s a must-attend event for anyone who loves French culture and the magic of outdoor movies.”
Soak Up the Sun in Central Park
No summer in New York City is complete without a visit to Central Park. This iconic park is a perfect spot for outdoor recreation and chilling out. You can picnic on the Great Lawn, row a boat on the lake, walk on the paths, or play sports like baseball, soccer, and cricket. With 1,600 lampposts, it’s easy to find your way around this big green space.
Central Park has many beautiful spots for sunbathing and relaxing. Sheep Meadow is a favorite spot, with a 4.8/5 rating from 3,274 reviews. The High Line is another top spot, with great city views and a 4.7/5 rating from 54,517 reviews. Teardrop Park in Battery Park City is a hidden gem, also rated 4.7/5 by 366 reviewers.
For those who love action, Central Park has lots to do. Boating on the lake is a classic New York activity, with many places to rent boats. Sports fans will enjoy the fields for softball, soccer, and cricket. The park’s walking and biking paths are great for exercise and seeing the sights.
Central Park is perfect for relaxing, playing, or exploring. It’s a top spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the sun and outdoor fun in New York City.
Kayaking and Paddling Adventures
Escape the hustle and bustle of New York City by exploring its waterways through kayaking and paddling tours. These activities let you see the city from a new angle. They offer a refreshing way to experience the urban landscape.
New Yorkers and visitors can easily get to the rivers from many piers in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Places like the Downtown Boathouse and the Manhattan Community Boathouse offer kayaks for rent. You can also join guided tours to make the most of your experience.
Ratings and Reviews of NYC Paddling Experiences
Google reviews show that people love the city’s kayaking and paddling spots. The Downtown Boathouse has a 4.7/5 rating from 179 reviews. Manhattan Kayak Co. and Urban Paddle Kayak Tours are also highly rated, with scores of 4.9/5 and 4.8/5, respectively.
| Kayaking and Paddling Providers | Google Review Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Boathouse | 4.7/5 | 179 |
| Manhattan Kayak Co. | 4.9/5 | 502 |
| Urban Paddle Kayak Tours | 4.8/5 | 347 |
| Pier 96 at Hudson River Park | 4.7/5 | 135 |
| Inwood Canoe Club | 4.6/5 | 23 |
| Sebago Canoe Club Inc | 4.9/5 | 15 |
| Gowanus Dredgers Canoe Club Boathouse | 4.8/5 | 20 |
| Touring Kayak Club NY | 4.8/5 | 12 |
| Red Hook Boaters | 5.0/5 | 2 |
| AMC Canoe & Kayak Program | 5.0/5 | 4 |
| Kayak Dock – Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse | 4.7/5 | 6 |
| Canoeing the Bronx River | 4.3/5 | 3 |
These kayaking and paddling tours in NYC have great reviews and offer various options. They suit different skill levels and interests. Whether you’re an expert or a beginner, you can explore the city’s urban waterways and outdoor exploration spots.
“Kayaking on the Hudson River was an amazing experience! The guides were knowledgeable and helpful, and the scenery was breathtaking. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a unique way to experience New York City.”
So, why not leave the city behind and try Kayaking NYC and paddling tours? It’s a great way to enjoy nature and see the city from a new view.
Historic Walking Tours
New York City is full of history and diverse neighborhoods, perfect for walking tours. These tours let visitors see iconic landmarks and cultural spots up close. You can walk through the West Village’s cobblestone streets or see the Upper West Side’s architectural wonders.
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tour is a favorite. It follows the path of immigrants who came to America from 1892 to 1954. The 9/11 Museum and Memorial tour is another moving experience, sharing the story of a day that changed the nation.
- Explore the rich history of Central Park, spanning over 800 acres and offering a wealth of activities for visitors.
- Discover the stunning collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, housing more than 2 million works of art.
- Step inside the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which welcomes over 5 million visitors annually.
- Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the New York Public Library and its vast collection of 53 million books and items.
For a deeper look into New York City’s historic areas, try guided walking tours with local experts. With over 300 volunteers in 30 languages, Big Apple Greeter tours are a great choice. Big Onion Walking Tours also focus on the city’s history.
“New York is a city of neighborhoods, and each one has its own distinct personality and history. Walking tours allow you to really connect with the soul of the city.” – Joyce Gold, walking tour guide
These historic walking tours are great for both first-time visitors and lifelong New Yorkers. They offer a unique way to see the city’s past and present. From famous landmarks to hidden spots, these tours let you walk in the footsteps of history in New York City.
Conclusion
New York City shines in the summer with lots of outdoor fun for everyone. You can cool down at rooftop pools or check out the night markets. Or, dive into the city’s culture and adventures outdoors.
There’s a lot to do, like visiting museums for free or seeing public art. You can also try exciting water sports or go on guided tours. These activities are great for both locals and visitors to make lasting memories.
Looking for a chill day at the beach or an exciting adventure? New York has it all. You can learn about the city’s history and enjoy its arts scene too. There’s something for everyone who loves the sun and the outdoors.
So, don’t miss out on what New York City has to offer this summer. From the peaceful Central Park to the bustling outdoor markets and festivals, there’s endless fun waiting for you.