The summer is the best time to visit New York City because there are plenty of events and activities to take part in no matter what you like. It can be enjoyable, but it can also be super overwhelming.
There are so many things to do in the city that it can be hard to choose just one. Whether you’re into theater, food, history, or art, there’s something for everyone. Here are nine of our favorite ways to enjoy New York during the summer months.
Go to the beach
Whether you visit one of NYC’s many beaches or travel down south, there are plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and just relaxing during the summer. Enjoy a perfect day at Coney Island Beach, Jones Beach State Park, or one of several other local beaches.
Grab a boardwalk hot dog or ice cream from Nathan’s Famous for dessert, then head home in time to prepare dinner with your friends. For an off-beat beach experience, check out Rockaway Beach in Queens – it’s popular with surfers and hipsters alike.
Related: 3 Tips For Your Next Family Road Trip
Walk Along 5th Avenue
Walking is one of New York’s biggest attractions, especially when it’s sweltering out. There are few things more refreshing than taking a walk along 5th Avenue and checking out all of Manhattan’s finest storefronts. The best part about walking through Manhattan is that there’s so much to see. Remember to pay attention to your surroundings, and you should be able to steer clear of any mishaps.
Go Sailing
The East River is a vibrant, slow-moving strip that connects Manhattan with Brooklyn. You can rent your sailboat or small yacht through companies and services around the area. Go on an evening cruise; take in views of some of NYC’s most iconic buildings while basking in the summer warmth.
You can even sign up for classes at one of the multiple sailing centers – both beginners and experienced sailors will learn new skills throughout hands-on lessons on how to maneuver vessels both large and small.
Bike around Central Park
All of Manhattan is fun to explore on two wheels, but there’s no better way to experience NYC than from a bike in Central Park. It’s a great escape from city life that includes exercise, fresh air, and beautiful views of nature and skyscrapers. Rent your bike at any location around Central Park or use your own.
Plan your route using sites like Google Maps (which has bicycling directions), then pedal around Lake Central or up through Harlem and take in all the summer sights. Don’t miss out on these must-do NY spots during your visit.
Find Love in the City
Love is in the air when summer comes around. From date nights at your favorite outdoor restaurant to warm-weather social gatherings with friends, June, July, and August are ideal for flirting and romance.
If you’re having difficulty finding the person of your dreams, you can always try a matchmaking service. Sure, it’s scary to meet someone picked for you, but it might be good too since the chances of you hitting off can be quite high.
See NYC From One of Its Best Views
Seeing New York City from above is one of those experiences everyone should have. For a breathtaking birds-eye view of Manhattan, head up top to one of these observation decks: Top of The Rock at Rockefeller Center, Empire State Building, or a rooftop bar called Top of The Strand. Alternatively, you can take in incredible views for free at any of NYC’s public parks. Two great options are Central Park and Riverside Park.
Stroll Through Times Square
Times Square is a famous area of New York City-lots of skyscrapers, many hotels, and always lively. It’s pretty much always busy, which means it’s a good spot for people-watching. Times Square is in Midtown Manhattan, so it’s an easy day trip from anywhere in town.
Consider going during off-hours or a weeknight if you want to avoid high crowds. Also, it gets pretty warm in Times Square in the summer; bring an umbrella and some sunblock. Or you can go there at night to see the glowing billboards and have a mini photoshoot for the ‘gram.
During warmer months, there are countless things to do in NYC, from outdoor activities like sailing and biking to seeing popular tourist destinations like Times Square and Fifth Avenue. And with summer just around the corner, now is a great time to plan your next vacation. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, New York City is an ideal destination for summer fun.