The holiday season in New York might be magical, but summer days spent in Manhattan are equally as enticing. With longer days and warmer weather, locals venture out of their cozy apartments and spend time exploring Central Park, biking through the West Village, and enjoying happy hour from rooftop bars.
If you live in New York or you’re planning to visit, here’s a list of the 10 best things to do in New York City in the summer months.
Escape the Heat at a Museum
The city is home to tons of interactive museums that are the ideal place to spend a humid day. Some favorites include the Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
You can also check out the Guggenheim Museum, which is smaller than those listed above, but certainly worth seeing. The uniquely designed building is located on the Upper East Side and is totally Instagram-worthy!
Visit Governors Island
Take a quick ferry ride to Governors Island, a somewhat secret spot that locals love to flock to during the summer. The island opens up for the season starting in May and is incredibly easy to get to by taking the Governors Island Ferry. Plus, the tickets are affordable at just $3 per person.
The 172-acre island has stunning views of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the New York Harbor. Unique events are hosted every week, ranging from fun runs to outdoor concerts. You can also zipline, lounge in a hammock grove, or bike around the island—which is entirely car-free!
Enjoy a Cocktail on a Boat
While New York City isn’t exactly tropical, you can still feel like you’re on a resort-like vacation by grabbing a drink on one of the city’s boat bars. Grand Banks is located on Pier 25 in Tribeca and is known as one of the best waterfront restaurants in Manhattan. They boast an impressive cocktail lineup and a seasonally-inspired food menu. Be sure to try their oysters if you go!
In the mood for lobster? Head to North River Lobster Company and enjoy fresh seafood while docked alongside the New York City skyline. Their menu features a variety of lobster rolls, fish and chips, clam chowder, and refreshing drinks like frosé.
Head to a Baseball Game
Even if you aren’t a huge sports fan, summer wouldn’t be complete without attending a baseball game. Cheer on the Mets or Yankees and indulge in some all-American food and drinks. Getting to Citi Field or Yankee Stadium is relatively easy by taking the subway. Plus, there are a ton of fun bars near both stadiums that you can attend before or after a game.
Spend the Day at Central Park
Every season in Central Park is dreamy, but summer is the best time to stroll throughout the expansive landmark without needing a puffy winter coat or snow boots. If you want to get the full experience, I’d recommend renting Citi bikes and following the longest bike path. The path runs around the entire park and is about 6 miles long.
If you’re looking for something more relaxing to do, you can find a quiet place to set up a picnic and sip rosé. One perfect spot for picnicking: Sheep’s Meadow, which is a 15-acre stretch of grass that locals love to lounge around in.
Before you leave, be sure to stop by the sailboat pond to watch people of all ages sail their wind-powered boats. You can access the pond on the East side of Manhattan, between 72nd and 75th Streets. If you want to join in on the action you can rent your own model sailboat for just $11. Other activities in Central Park include horseback riding, tennis, baseball, boating, and yoga and fitness classes.
Walk the High Line
The High Line is a public park that was built on a historic, elevated rail line. Visitors can walk through gardens, witness a variety of art exhibits, and stop for food along the way. Located on the West side of Manhattan, near Chelsea, the High Line offers a relaxing escape 30 feet above busy New York streets. The park is open from 7 am to 7 pm on weekdays and 10 am to 6 pm on weekends with reservations requested.
Visit Chelsea Market
While you’re in Chelsea, take some time to wander through Chelsea Market. Open from 8 am to 9 pm daily, the marketplace is packed with a variety of retailers and restaurants. Some favorites include Chelsea Wine Co, Ninth Street Espresso, Artists and Fleas, and Tiny Feast.
Chelsea Market is also home to a few different music and art exhibits. Artechouse, an immerse space that showcases art, science, and technology is a popular attraction, as well as Chelsea Music Hall.
Have Dinner at Restoration Hardware
Escape the heat in style by visiting the RH New York store. The striking space, which took 7 years to complete, feels more like a museum than it does a retail location. The 90,000 square-foot gallery flaunts a beautiful barista bar, outdoor wine terrace, an elegant dining space, and fully designed furniture spaces that you can walk through—with a drink in hand!
The rooftop restaurant is open for brunch and dinner and offers an assortment of menu options like avocado toast, lobster rolls, truffle fries, salmon, charred ribeye steak, and more. You can also order beer, cocktails, or wine from their extensive list.
Go to the US Open
The energy and intensity of the US Open is something you’ll always remember. Dress your best then head to Arthur Ashe Stadium to witness some of the greatest athletes in the world compete. If you’re feeling extra swanky, you can look into reserving box seats, but any seat in the stadium offers up a good view. 2021 ticket plans are available at multiple price points, ranging from full series tickets to weekend sessions.
Seek a Thrill at Coney Island
Looking for a thrill? Take a ride on a high-speed roller coaster, get drenched on a water ride, or try your hand at carnival games at Coney Island. While this quirky spot is located in Brooklyn, transportation is easy to arrange by taking the subway or hopping in a cab. With over 50 rides and attractions, this waterfront amusement park is the perfect place to visit during the summer. Enjoy an ice cream cone or cotton candy on the sand after you run out of ride tickets.
If you’re looking for other summer destinations and activities on the east coast, check out my travel guides to The Finger Lakes region and Nantucket.
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