1) The Highline
The High Line is a great attraction if you want to get a beautiful view of the city as well as get a little bit of exercise in! Stretching 1.45 miles, The High Line has several entrances between 10th Street and 34th Street and runs along 10th Avenue. In addition to the captivating gardens and buildings, the High Line also has many summer events and activities such as: Tai Chi, Meditation, and Teen Nights. The High Line is as exhilarating at night as it is by day. You can even stargaze with some of the telescopes that are placed along the walkway!
http://www.thehighline.org/
2) Coney Island
Bring out the beach bods and sun tanning lotion, because if you are spending a summer in NYC, Coney Island is a MUST do! Coney Island is one of the most lively beaches in the NYC area. Not only can you soak up the sun on the beach, you can also walk along the boardwalk and grab a bite to eat. Be sure to try Brooklyn’s own Nathan’s Famous! Before you fill that tummy of yours, however, you should stop but the Luna Theme Park. Enjoy classic carnival games, bumper cars and rollercoasters. It’s the perfect attraction for a sunny day.
3) Escape Rooms
We know that we wait a whole year to enjoy the rays of sunshine that summer brings, but let’s face it, sometimes we need to cool down. Escape rooms are the perfect way to continue to have fun while you take a little break from the heat. Escape rooms are fun and interactive games of clues and puzzles that will ultimately lead you to escape the room. Here at Escape Room Madness, we have three fun rooms for you to choose from, and we have air conditioning. 😉
4) Shakespeare in the Park
“To be or not to be, that is the question.” Experience Shakespeare’s popular theatrical works this summer in Central Park as the Public puts on their annual Shakespeare in the Park. The Public Theater had their first performance in 1964 and has since been one of the most popular attractions in the city during the summer. Enjoy the ambience of nature while watching some of the most talented actors bring Shakespeare’s classic plays to life! You can now purchase tickets for Twelfth Night which runs until August 19th.
https://publictheater.org/en/Programs–Events/Shakespeare-in-the-Park/
5) Music Festivals
Music festivals are another highlight of the summer in NYC. These festivals are always full of people expressing themselves through fashion, music, and food. Crowds of people gather to appreciate the music of some celebrity and local names, and dance the night away! Whether it is the eccentric atmosphere of the Afropunk festival or the urban pop crossover feel of Panorama, NYC offers a variety of music festivals for all types to attend.
6) PopUp Street Fairs
The PopUp Street fairs have become a trend that New Yorkers look forward to each summer. PopUp New York partners with up and coming restaurants, local entrepreneurs, and musicians to organize various pop up fairs around the city. It is an excellent way to buy one-of-a kind products and it provides a great opportunity for getting souvenirs if you are visiting. Also, for all the foodies reading, this is an event that you want to keep close tabs on. These pop ups include all types of foods that are indigenous to different cultures. There are numerous events through August and in September so catch them while you can!
http://www.popupnewyorkevents.com/
7) New York Botanical Gardens
If you are looking to frolic through whimsical flowers and trees this summer, the Botanical Gardens is a stop that you might want to add to you summer to-do list. This National Historic Landmark, is not only visually enthralling but is the host to many daily activities including Wellness Wednesdays and Fresh From The Garden Tastings! It’s also a great opportunity to take some great pictures. The Botanical Gardens are open Tuesdays-Sundays from 10 a.m. – 6pm
www.nybg.org/
8) Summer Streets
There is no party like a Summer Streets party. New York City is bringing another year of recreational fun to the streets! Traveling along Lafayette St/Park Ave from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park, enjoy numerous activities such as Ziplining, Water Slides, Biking, Fitness, and Food Tastings, and dog parks! But you have to catch it while you can because it will only happen August 4, 11, and 18th from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Click the link below to find out more details.
http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/summerstreets/html/home/home.shtml
9) Bronx Zoo
Another great and family friendly attraction in the summer is going to the Bronx Zoo. With 265 acres of wildlife and attractions, the Bronx Zoo can be a full day experience. From the butterfly exhibit to the King of the Jungle, there are various animal exhibitions that you may view. You can even partake in some of the zoo’s rides like the Wild Asia Monorail or experience the 4-D Movie Theater. PROTIP: If you go on any Wednesday, you’ll get free admission! Of course, donations are encouraged. The hours of operation vary, so Click the link below to plan your adventure today!
10) Row Boating in Central Park
Last but certainly not least, get your paddles ready to row, row, row your boat. Take a trip to the famous Central Park and rent a boat to float down the 22-acre stream. The boats are rented at the Loeb Boathouse and can seat up to 4 people. This is a great activity for a nice date or a small get together with friends. There have even been some wedding proposals that have taken place on this stream of water! It’s a great way to peruse the park and get a glimpse of its beauty from a new perspective. This activity will be available until the month of November.
