Looking for fun things to do in NYC this Summer? Perfect for locals and tourists alike, I will be covering some of the best things to do in NYC in the Summer! This time of year is when the city is the busiest, and for good reason, but thankfully, there are tons of things to do across Manhattan to keep you busy!
This article gets updated every year with the latest things to do in NYC in the Summer. However, always double-check the events!
Additionally, as a local New Yorker, I have a plethora of New York City articles for further reading that will be linked throughout this post! You can also find all my guides in my Ultimate New York Travel Guide.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Best Summer Activities To Do in NYC This Year
Out of this whole list, here is my personal top 10 in no particular order.
- Central Park
- Brooklyn Bridge & Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Walk the High Line
- Sunset at an Observation Deck
- The MET & Rooftop Bar
- Washington Square Park
- Smorgasburg
- Coney Island (if you’re in NYC for a while)
- Bryant Park Movies
- Rooftop Bars
But, if these are not your jam, I am positive you will find some fun things to do in the rest of this list!
1. Picnic in Central Park
Central Park is one of the most iconic landmarks, hands down! During the summer in NYC, Central Park becomes one of the top places people go to enjoy the warm weather!
One of the best ways to enjoy the park in summer is by packing up a picnic and enjoying the city views. Some great fields to enjoy are Strawberry Fields, Sheep Meadow, and near Gapstow Bridge. For something a little more romantic, you can even rent and row boats on the lake by the Loeb Boathouse.
This park is busy all day long, but Central Park is huge, so it never feels too crowded. There are also tons of free events that happen in Central Park throughout the summer, so you may even end up experiencing one of them.
Stick around until about 8 PM, and you’ll get to experience the sun setting over the city.
Address: 59 Central Park W, New York, NY 10023
2. Catch a Free Outdoor Movie at Brooklyn Bridge Park
One of the best summer activities to do in New York City is to view an outdoor movie at Brooklyn Bridge Park. This event has been going on for over 20 years and starts from July through August.
Throughout the summer, different movies are played on a projector, ranging from romantic comedies to classics and even horror movies. It is also one of the best free things to do in New York City in the summer!
There is usually a theme to the movies each year. Make sure to look at their website before you visit so you can catch your favorite movie.
But what makes this movie screening unique is that you also get to enjoy the incredible illuminated skyline view as a backdrop. New York City all lit up at night is an experience in itself, and it can make you feel as though you are in a movie yourself.
The atmosphere here is very welcoming and very popular among locals and tourists. It is picnic style, so bring a blanket to lay on. You can also bring your own food, but outside, alcohol and glass bottles are prohibited in the Park. TimeOut Market also sells food for the event. This could also be the perfect date night activity!
Hours: 6 PM – 10 PM on movie nights
Address: Harbor View Lawn 80 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Event Dates: Usually between July and August
3. Go Kayaking Down the Hudson
Another fun summer activity in NYC is going kayaking down the Hudson River. It’s completely free to do and offers great views of New York City.
The kayaking event is a non-profit and is run by a group of volunteers and funded through donations.
The kayaking takes place from spring to early October, and it is on a first-come-first-served basis. Just show up to the dock at least 20 minutes early and be prepared to get a little wet.
All skill levels are welcome, and it is a fun and unique way to enjoy NYC for free! You are required to know how to swim and be at least 18 years old unless you can be accompanied by an adult.
Lockers are available for you to keep your personal items safe. To sign the waiver ahead of time and learn more, check out their official website.
Address: Pier 96 Boathouse – 56th Street in Hudson River Park
4. Enjoy Some Shakespeare in the Park
If you’re a fan of the theater, you should check out this free public theater event, Shakespeare in the Park! The shows are hosted around New York City, including Central Park at The Delacorte Theater. Check their schedule here!
The plays are full-on productions with costumes, acting, singing, and dancing. Also, the play that they choose varies each year, so you’ll never catch the same show twice.
The events bring about a lovely community vibe and ignite the energy around the area. This is one the best free things to do in NYC in the Summer, but you can support the theatre through donations.
Address: 81 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024
5. Explore Coney Island and Luna Park
Cooney Island is a neighborhood equipped with arcades, a circus, beaches, and just all-around good vibes. Located in Brooklyn, this destination is a fun summer destination for locals and even tourists!
Coney Island is the perfect day trip from NYC, as there is so much to do! If you’re from out of town, Coney Island definitely has a different feel and vibe from Manhattan. It’s a little more old New York, but don’t let that throw you off.
Some of the fan favorites of Coney Island include Luna Park, the Coney Island Boardwalk, and the beach. Luna Park is a staple of the area, and no visit would be complete without a ride on the wooden rollercoaster, the Cyclone! There are dozens of rides (including water rides) and carnival games, so there is truly something for everyone.
While walking the boardwalk, make sure to try Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs, a Coney Island Staple.
For those with a sweet tooth, visit Williams Candy Shop for cotton candy and pistachio ice cream! They are easily one of the best ice cream shops in Brooklyn. Calories don’t count when you’re having this much fun, right?
If you want to really feel like a local, head to Rollin Roaster for roast beef sandwiches and fries covered in cheese or John’s Deli for amazing subs (I would also recommend the roast beef).
If the weather is really hot, bring your bathing suit and a towel for fun at the beach!
Other Coney Island attractions include the Circus Sideshow, the Coney Island Museum, and the New York Aquarium. Additionally, Friday nights are fireworks.
Luna Park Address: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Amusement Park Admission: $34 – $75
Luna Park Opening Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
6. Be a Foodie at Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg is a foodie’s dream, and thankfully, for you, it is in full swing with several locations across New York City for Summer! Personally, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (Saturdays) is my favorite location, but you can also visit the Oculus (Fridays) and Prospect Park (Sundays), depending on the day.
While here, there are dozens of local food vendors to choose from. Burgers, meatballs, falafels, cookies, ice cream, and more, you really will be spoiled for choice. It is a great opportunity to try new cuisines with a lot of diversity in what’s being sold. It goes without saying that all the tasty desserts make for great photos on social media, too!
The events are hosted in different locations around New York and are open pretty much the entire day, so you can always pop back after exploring more of the City for another treat!
See vendors and addresses for Smorgasburg here!
7. Enjoy Summertime Events at Governors Island
Want to enjoy a New York City Summer spot a little less touristy? Governors Island hosts a bunch of summer events, is reachable by ferry, and offers great views. From listening to live music being played and free outdoor films to renting a grill and having a whole cookout, there is never a dull moment here.
For something a little more unique, you can go Glamping on Governors Island and enjoy a night under the stars or relax at the luxurious QC NY spa.
If you’re a New Yorker, don’t write this off as a touristy place to visit! They have history walking tours, nature walks, educational garden events, a bee conservatory, and even lavender fields!
Furthermore, there are places to eat and drink here, too, so this island really has it all!
Admission: $4 – Free on Saturday and Sunday before noon. Get more ferry information and tickets here. Make sure to check the schedule for the last ferry out!
8. Feel Like a Local at Randall’s Island Park
Randalls Island Park is another underrated but awesome spot to enjoy during the summer in NYC. Whether you’re a local or tourist, this greenspace has a lot to offer that will allow you to escape the crowds.
Yoga is often hosted in the park, which is a great summer morning activity as well as having fun on the farm. Randall’s Farm is known for hosting events surrounding nature, which can be a great activity for kids. Similar to Governors Island, they even have a bee conservation event where you can learn more about the importance of bees in our ecosystem.
They also host movie nights where you can purchase refreshing cocktails and tasty snacks.
One of the most popular events at this park is Electric Zoo (EZoo), which happens at the beginning of September. As the name may suggest, this music festival is centered around electric music and lasts three days. The line-up changes each year and usually has some of the best DJs and musicians in the space. Make sure to book your tickets in advance for this!
You can get to Randall’s by ferry, car, bus, walking, or biking, making it much easier to get here than Governors Island.
Address: 10 Central Road New York, NY 10035
Hours: Everyday 6 AM – 1 AM
9. Hang Out by The Washington Square Park Fountain
One of the best parks to visit during the summer in NYC is none other than Washington Square Park. Located in Greenwich Village, near NYU, this is the perfect place to sit by the massive fountain, and people watch.
While here, you will see chess enthusiasts and friendly pups that run around the area. This park also hosts free events and activities throughout the summer and even the year.
As the name suggests, this park honors George Washington, and an arch was dedicated to him in 1895. Since then, the park has become a popular meeting spot for basically everybody in New York. This is the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. Consider getting some takeout and enjoying it in this beautiful green space!
You can even enjoy this area at night. The fountain lights up, and college kids are often hanging around.
Related: Ultimate 4 Days in New York Itinerary (Very Popular)
Address: Washington Sq Park, New York, NY 10011
10. Walk the High Line in Chelsea
No NYC summer list would be complete without including The High Line in Chelsea. This elevated railway that was transformed into a public park has been a local hot spot for years and offers unique views of the City along with nature. Located on the west side of Manhattan, even just a short walk along the High Line will display incredible views of the Hudson River and New York’s skyline.
All throughout the park, there are fun art installations to check out and colorful murals to see. Furthermore, it now connects to the Hudson Yards and has an exit at the Chelsea Markets.
NYC Fun Fact: The train that used to run here would bring meat to the Meatpacking District.
Address: There are several entrances throughout the 1.45 mile long park. It starts at Gansevoort Street.
11. See a Sunset at One of the Observation Decks
If you’re in NYC during the summer, you just have to take advantage of the observation decks. This is one of the best times of the year to snap great photos from the top of these buildings, as the sky is very clear and the weather is warm for outdoor observation decks like the Edge.
Observation decks always top the list as the most Instagrammble places in NYC, so if you’re looking to take great photos, it will be here.
Each observation deck also offers a unique experience and its own take on the iconic New York skyline. Therefore, I would recommend getting a GoCity Pass so you can see them all at a discounted rate (if time allows of course)!
The Top of the Rock, the Empire State Building, the Edge, and One World Trade Center Observation Deck are all included in the pass. One Summit Vanderbilt still needs to be purchased separately.
Seeing the sunset in NYC at the top of one of these observation decks is a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience.
Not sure which observation deck to choose? Here is my Ranked NYC Observation Deck List!
12. Enjoy A NYC Rooftop Bar in the Summer
Can you really visit New York City without visiting one of the spectacular rooftop bars – especially during the summer? There are so many different rooftop bars to visit, all boasting their own unique vibe. Just remember to make a reservation at whichever one you choose, as these get busy very quickly during the summer.
One of the most popular New York rooftop bars is 230 Fifth. This rooftop bar has incredible views of the Empire State Building and is located just three minutes from Madison Square. If you’re visiting on the weekends, they have a bottomless brunch option that you should definitely take advantage of.
Another rooftop bar well worth a visit is Mr. Purple which is located on the Lower East Side. Here, you will find an accumulation of the vibrant and artistic vibes that reside all over the neighborhood.
Looking to spice up your Instagram feed? Head straight for Magic Rooftop Bar & Lounge. You’ll find his bar located at the Moxy Hotel in Times Square. Decked out in Pink, you have certainly seen this on your Instagram feed.
Catina Rooftop Bar is another great option. This bar is becoming increasingly popular, and there is a good reason for that. This bar is a great location for afternoon cocktails with delicious Mexican food while overlooking the city.
13. Cool Down at The MET & Rooftop Bar
Summers in NYC can get really hot and humid, and you may be looking for a place to cool down. Museums are a great place to do this, and may I suggest the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) if this is your first time in New York. Not only does this museum have incredible exhibits and art, but they also have a rooftop bar as well!
After exploring the many exhibits, head to the 5th floor, known as the Cantor Roof Garden Bar. They have a selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and small snacks. This garden rooftop is considered somewhat of a local gem and is surrounded by lush greenery with picnic tables to sit at. You’ll certainly enjoy watching the sunset over Central Park!
The bar is usually open from April to October. Find more indoor NYC activities here.
Admission: Adults are $30; Children under 12 are Free – NY residences is pay as you wish.
Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 10 AM – 5 PM; Friday & Saturday: 10 AM – 9 PM
Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
14. Free Outdoor Movie at Bryant Park
Not only are NYC summer days spent at Bryant Park lovely, but they are also very special when nighttime falls. Paramount+ Movie Nights at Bryant Park (Bryant Park Film Festival) are such a fun way to experience NYC in the summer, as long as the weather is in your favor!
The Bryant Park movie line-up changes each year, but they still feature some of the classics. From the School of Rock, Mean Girls, and Zoolander, there will be a movie night that everybody will love. What makes this even more special is the city lights in the background, along with the fact this is totally free to experience!
Just like a cinema, food and drinks are available. So you can grab yourself a bag of popcorn, sit down, and have a lovely evening. Only picnic-style blankets are allowed, and if the weather gets severe, then it will be canceled.
And while the movies get all the love, there are other picnic performances that take place in Byrant Park, including musicals by NYC Opera, so if your day doesn’t align with a movie night, there might still be another fun summer event happening.
Related: Best Things to Do in NYC at Night
Address: 40th St and 42nd St and 5th Ave and 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018
Opening Hours: The lawn opens at 5 PM and the movie starts at 8 PM
15. Cross The Brooklyn Bridge & Hang in DUMBO
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of New York and one of my favorite things to do on a summer day in NYC. In fact, even with only one day in NYC, I will always recommend the Brooklyn Bridge.
Whether you have been to New York before or not, you will have likely seen this bridge being featured in several movies, or you may simply recognize it from its pictures online.
Taking a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is a great activity for New York first-timers. You’ll find amazing views that are even better early in the morning or at sunset.
Furthermore, as you make your way into DUMBO, you are in for a treat. DUMBO is such a fun area with tons of great restaurants and park spaces, you can find yourself spending the whole day here!
From the Time Out Market and Shake Shack to great local eats like Ignazio’s and Juliana’s Pizza, you can’t go wrong. If it’s a really nice summer day, don’t forget to get some soft-serve ice cream from Mr. Softee!
Additionally, Brooklyn Bridge Park hosts a number of events, such as roller skating, biking, and ping-pong, and is just a stone’s throw away from the Brooklyn Promenade.
How to Get to the Brooklyn Bridge in Manhattan: Take the 4, 5, or 6 trains to the Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall stop, or the J or Z trains to the Chambers Street stop. This is closest to the Pedestrian Walkway. Google Maps will help you!
16. Get Funky at the Rockefeller Center Roller Rink
You have likely seen the Famous Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink in movies, but did you know during the summer it transforms into a roller-blading rink?
Although you won’t experience the festive atmosphere that comes with Christmas, it’s still an amazing way to enjoy a summer day. Join live DJs and a buzzing backdrop for a vibrant afternoon activity.
The Roller Boogie Palace welcomes all skill levels and is a great representation of bringing both tourists and locals together. Even if you don’t dare put the blades on yourself, watching the experienced rollerbladers can be really fun.
This is a very popular attraction in New York, so you should reserve tickets online. It is unlikely you will be able to access the rink by just showing up on the day.
Opening Hours: Daily 12 PM – 10 PM
Admission: Starting at $24 USD
Address: Located at Rockefeller Plaza between 50th and 49th Streets – 45 Rockefeller Plaza New York, NY 10111
17. Enjoy Summer Blooms at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Looking for something a little different on a summer day in NYC? Consider heading over to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to enjoy the summer blooms!
Alongside the plants, there are opportunities to spot countless birds, rabbits, bees, butterflies, and even chipmunks! This entire location just comes to life with the most incredible nature. This is particularly a fun activity to do with children during the summer.
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM – 6 PM
Admission: Adults: $18; Children under 12 are Free
Address: There are 3 Entrances
18. Attend a Baseball Game
Is there anything that screams summer in New York than attending a baseball game? Whether you’re a Mets or Yankees fan, getting out to one of the games on a nice summer day is the perfect way to spend a day enjoying the summer vibes!
Attending a New York Yankees game is a part of the City Go Pass as well, which is pretty unique, although I can’t promise the best seats. You can go to each baseball team’s official website for game times and tickets!
19. Have a Beach Day at Jacob Riis Park Beach
Who said you can’t enjoy a summer day at the beach in NYC? Jacob Riis Park Beach is a lesser-known New York attraction, however, it shouldn’t be overlooked. If you happen to end up in Queen’s during your day, this Farockawya beach is well worth the visit.
Designated as a park back in 1912, this beach is a beloved location for city dwellers. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to get here by train, but it’s a great place to enjoy the water and summer sun!
There are showers available to rinse off after swimming in the ocean or spending time on the sandy beach as well as playgrounds for young children. You can stay here all day if you like and purchase food from the Beach House in Bay 9.
Parking is also available, but as the fee is $20, you’ll be better off using public transport or walking to the beach instead.
Address: 157 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Rockaway Park, NY 11694
20. Take a Cruise Around the City
Enjoy NYC from a new perspective this summer and take a cruise around the city. There are dozens of cruises to choose from entertainment-based, sunset, sailing, and more!
Most cruises usually pass the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, and more. Plus, the views of Manhattan’s skyline are fantastic.
To secure your place on the cruise, you should book tickets ahead of time.
21. Enjoy Live Performances in Times Square
As a local, I usually try to avoid Times Square, but with live music events during the summer, even locals should consider heading this way. TSQ LIVE invites tons of different artists and performers to perform on stage in the middle of Times Square each summer.
This is a fun way to see the community in New York be brought to life through live music, DJ sets, and dancing. The best part is that it’s free to attend these events! The dates vary each year, so be sure to check out the website for when each event is hosted.
22. Dance Your Heart Out at SummerStage
If you don’t like the idea of being crowded in Times Square, then consider dancing around parks across the city for SummerStage instead! This event take place in 13 different parks this year.
From June through October, all 5 boroughs will be home to about 80 free music performances for you to enjoy!
Numerous musical genres, such as salsa, hip-hop, country, indie rock, and more, are available for your enjoyment. You can find more details and the SummerStage lineup here.
23. Visit NYC Green Spaces
While New York is most known for Central Park, there are several different green spaces to relax in, enjoy your picnic, and simply take a moment of pause on your New York City trip.
Some parks to add to your list include Madison Square Park, Corona Park in Flushing Meadow Queens, Prospect Park, Union Square, and Battery Park. Each park boasts its own view of the city, and they all host various attractions and events.
24. Test Your Golfing Skills at Chelsea Piers
Whether golfing is your preferred sport of choice or not, everybody can have fun at the Chelsea Piers golfing range. This driving range hosts both practice sessions as well as lessons that adults can enjoy.
This is also a particularly stunning setting in the summer as you are surrounded by the water. Plus, if you can book a time during the evening, you will be in awe of the magnificent sunset views.
Make an afternoon out of it and retire to the bar and lounge for cocktails, beers, and snacks. As mentioned, you will need to book ahead of the best one as the allotted times tend to get filled up quickly.
Admission: Starting at $40
Opening Hours: Daily 7 AM – 12 AM
Address: 62 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011
25. Check Out One of NYC’s Night Markets
If you’re a foodie, this NYC summer activity is for you! As the name suggests, you can spend your summer nights indulging at the night markets. Every evening until midnight through the summer months, night markets feature hundreds of independent vendors selling everything from food to souvenirs and unique gifts.
This is such a great way to celebrate the vibrant community in New York and feel as though you are local. The night markets are only run on specific days, so you will need to check online before adding this to your itinerary.
Night Markets to check out include:
- Queens Night Market – 4701 111th St, Corona, NY 11368
- Uptown Night Market – 701 W 133rd St, New York City, NY 10027
- Brooklyn Night Market – 220 36th St, New York, 11232
- Bronx Night Market – 1 Fordham Plz, Bronx, NY 10458
26. Stargaze at Summit One Vanderbilt
We have already covered NYC Observation decks, but this summer, Summit One Vanderbilt is doing something a little more unique! If you have any interest in astronomy, you should consider attending the Summit One’s astronomy nights!
Technically, you don’t even need to be interested in the stars to enjoy this (although it does help). Expert astronomers teach you all about different galaxies and the wonders of the solar system. Could there be a better summer date night idea than spotting constellations in the sky?
Just book your admission at night during one of the events. The remaining nights are currently September 20th at 7 PM (or 21st if it rains) and October 25th at 6 PM (26th if it rains).
Admission: Ranges from $42 – $62 depending on the experience
Address: 45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
27. Day Trip To Long Island, NY
Alright, Long Island technically is not NYC, but Long Island is an easy train ride from Manhattan and is one of the best summer destinations in the state of New York!
From beautiful beaches, flower fields, and lush parks, this suburb has so much to offer, I should know, I’ve lived there for years! You can find some of the best things to do on Long Island here, but to name a few favorites that you will find in that article are:
- A day trip to Long Beach
- Sipping wine at one of the vineyards
- Beach day in the Hamptons
- Day trip to Montauk
NYC in Summer Travel Tips
Now that you know some of the best experiences to enjoy in summer, here are some additional travel tips to know for visiting.
If you didn’t already know, the summers in New York City are usually very hot and humid. If you’re not from the USA, you will be excited to learn that we Americans love our aircon, so you can always find a place to cool down, whether that be in a museum, restaurant, or shopping store. Furthermore, hotels will also have AC units!
Another thing many don’t talk about is summer rain showers. It most certainly rains during the summers in New York, and when it rains, this is usually an all-day affair. Don’t let it ruin your trip! There are still plenty of fun things to do in NYC when it rains!
Don’t worry about the dress code unless you’re visiting a fancy restaurant or club that has a dress code. Club dress codes usually affect men more than women. Regardless, just about anything goes in NYC.
Additionally, if you plan on seeing a lot of paid attractions throughout New York, one of the best ways to save money is by purchasing an attraction pass. They all work great, so just pick the pass that covers the most attractions you’d like to see!
Here are additional first-timer New York Travel Tips.
The most popular Passes are:
NYC Summer Weather
To give you a better idea of the weather you will experience, here are some of the temperatures you can expect. Always double-check the weather before you visit.
- June – 68° F to 78° F
- July – 72° F to 80° F
- August – 78° F to above 90° F
- September – 60° F to above 80°F
Best Things to Do in NYC in Summer Wrap-up
This concludes some of the best ways to enjoy summer in NYC! I hope you have the best time exploring the Big Apple. Below, I am also linking to a handful of other helpful New York travel guides!
Have any questions about these summer activities to enjoy in NYC, or feel like I missed something? Let me know in the comments below!
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