The 10 Best Summer Activities to Do in New York City: A Guide

New York is the city that never sleeps, and in the summer, it transforms into a playground of endless possibilities. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy during the warmer months. From outdoor adventures to amazing food experiences, here’s a guide to the best summer activities in New York City.

#1. Explore Central Park!

Central Park is a must-visit destination any time of the year, but it's especially enchanting in the summer. The park offers a range of fun activities you can take advantage of in the summer.

• Picnicking: Grab a blanket and head to Sheep Meadow or the Great Lawn for a relaxing picnic.  
• Row boating: Rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse and paddle around the serene lake. 
• Walking tours: Join a guided walking tour to learn about the park’s history and landmarks. 
• Concerts: Attend a free outdoor concert at the Naumburg Bandshell or catch a performance at SummerStage.

#2. Take a Ferry Ride!

Enjoying the waterways around New York City is a must-have summer experience. Several ferry options provide breathtaking views of the city skyline.

• Staten Island Ferry: This free ferry offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan. 
• NYC Ferry: Hop on one of the NYC Ferry routes to explore waterfront neighbourhoods like DUMBO, Long Island City, and Rockaway Beach. 
• Governors Island Ferry: Take a short ride to Governors Island, where you can rent bikes, enjoy art installations, and relax in Hammock Grove.

#3. Visit the Beaches!

New York City might not be known for its beaches, but there are several spots where you can soak up the sun and surf.

• Coney Island:  Known for its lively boardwalk, amusement park rides, and the famous Nathan's Hot Dogs, Coney Island is a summer must-see. 
• Rockaway Beach: Popular with surfers and beachgoers alike, Rockaway Beach offers a more laid-back vibe with great food options. 
• Brighton Beach: Adjacent to Coney Island, Brighton Beach boasts a strong Russian influence and plenty of culinary experiences.

#4. Attend Outdoor Festivals!

Summer in New York City is known for its outdoor festivals. Here are some highlights:

• Shakespeare in the Park: Enjoy free performances of Shakespeare's plays at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park.  
• Jazz Age Lawn Party:  Step back in time and dance the day away on Governors Island at this Roaring Twenties-themed event. 
• Midsummer Night Swing: Held at Lincoln Center, this event offers live music and dancing under the stars.

#5. Explore Museums and Galleries!

Many of New York City's world-class museums and galleries offer unique summer programs.

• Metropolitan Museum of Art: Visit the Met’s Rooftop Garden Bar for panoramic views of Central Park and the city skyline.  
• MoMA PS1: Experience contemporary art in Long Island City, where the Warm Up series features live music and performances. 
• Whitney Museum of American Art: Explore American art with a visit to the Whitney, which beautiful stunning views of the Hudson River from its terraces.

#6. Enjoy Outdoor Dining and Rooftop Bars!

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in outdoor dining and drinks with a view.

• Smorgasburg: This open-air food market in Williamsburg and Prospect Park offers a wide variety of delicious foods from local vendors.  
• Rooftop Bars: Sip cocktails while enjoying city views at popular rooftop bars like The Press Lounge, 230 Fifth, and Westlight. 
• Street Fairs: Wander through the city’s street fairs and food festivals, such as the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival and the Feast of San Gennaro.

#7. Catch a Game!

For sports enthusiasts, New York City offers plenty of opportunities to catch a game.

• Yankee Stadium: Watch the New York Yankees play America’s favourite pastime in the Bronx. 
• Citi Field: Head to Queens to see the New York Mets in action. 
• US Open: Tennis fans won’t want to miss the US Open, held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.

#8. Take a Bike Ride!

Exploring the city by bike is both fun and practical, thanks to the extensive bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.

• Citi Bike: Rent a bike from one of the many Citi Bike stations and explore neighborhoods at your own pace. 
• Hudson River Greenway: Ride along the scenic Hudson River Greenway, which offers a traffic-free route from Battery Park to the George Washington Bridge. 
• Brooklyn Bridge: Cross the iconic Brooklyn Bridge by bike for a unique perspective of the city.

#9. Visit Iconic Landmarks!

No trip to New York City is complete without visiting its iconic landmarks.

• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Take a ferry to these historic sites and learn about the city’s immigrant history.  
• Empire State Building: Enjoy stunning views from the observation deck of this Art Deco masterpiece. 
• One World Observatory: Experience panoramic views from the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

#10. Enjoy Outdoor Movie Screenings!

Summer nights are perfect for outdoor movie screenings, and New York City offers plenty of options.

• Bryant Park: Bryant Park hosts free movie nights on the lawn. 
• Rooftop Films: Watch indie films and classics at various rooftop locations throughout the city. 
• Coney Island: Enjoy a movie on the beach with the Coney Island Flicks on the Beach series.

Making the Move

If you’re a visitor who has fallen in love with the city, we don’t blame you. Try our recommendation, SpareRoom, to make the move to New York City. This roommate-matching website shows you available rooms all over the city and will help you find the perfect, affordable living arrangement for you.

Wrap Up: A Guide to the 10 Best Summer Activities in New York City

New York City in the summer is a vibrant place with endless opportunities for fun and adventure. From exploring Central Park to attending outdoor festivals and dining at rooftop bars, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor experiencing it for the first time, these activities will help you make the most of your summer in the Big Apple.

What about you, have you ever been to NYC in the summer? Feel free to share any tips & advice below!

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ABOUTME

We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.