The best things to do in NYC this summer

This summer in NYC is set to be truly memorable. As the city heats up, its energy becomes boundless, making it the perfect time to dive into our exciting list of summer activities. New York's top attractions offer an array of outdoor activities, from rooftop movies and free dance parties to must-see music festivals and beyond. Here's how to fully enjoy these warm summer evenings.

Cool off at hotel and rooftop pools

When the weather heats up, beat the heat in style. Many of New York’s top hotels provide day passes for their rooftop pools, often featuring lounge chairs and cabanas for relaxing, as well as a full-service bar. This blend of two beloved New York experiences—swimming pools and rooftop bars—forms an upscale summer retreat that's worth spending money on. Be sure to add one, if not all, of these pools to your summer must-visit list.

Catch some thrills at Luna Park in Coney Island

Let's be honest: the only highs and lows we want to experience in NYC this summer are on a rollercoaster. Luckily, the thrilling rides at Coney Island's Luna Park, the largest amusement park in New York City, are open daily for the season.

You can enjoy iconic coasters like the family-friendly Tony’s Express, the Thunderbolt with its 90-degree drop, and the famous Cyclone, known as the “Big Momma” of Coney Island.

In addition to these classic amusement-park attractions and the timeless charm that defines Coney Island, the seaside theme park is introducing several new rides and upgrades for summer 2024. A notable new addition is the Electric Eden Raceway, New York City’s first sustainably powered go-kart attraction.

Watch a movie in a park

Few things capture the essence of summer in NYC like watching a movie outdoors, beneath the rarely-seen stars and accompanied by the city's ambient sounds. Even better, all the screenings mentioned here are free to attend.

During the warmer months, NYC offers plenty of movies in the park. This summer's lineup includes classics such as "Mean Girls" and "Titanic," as well as newer hits like "Everything Everywhere All At Once" and "Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning." With screenings happening across all five boroughs, you're sure to find one nearby.

Stroll at Summer Streets

Summer Streets is a popular Manhattan tradition that opens miles of roads for walkers, runners, bicyclists, and people-watchers of all ages. Don't miss the free rest stops that usually include fitness classes, a dog park, and arts and crafts workshops.

The event is free for everyone to walk, run, play, and bike along the closed streets, with themed rest stops offering food and entertainment along the route.

Summer Streets occurs over five consecutive Saturdays. In 2024, the event will be held on July 27th and August 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th from 7am to 3pm—a two-hour extension from last year. This year, it will take place in all five boroughs: Queens and Staten Island on July 27; Manhattan on August 3, 10, and 17; and Brooklyn and The Bronx on August 24.

Sail around New York City's deserted islands

Taking a boat ride through New York's natural harbor is one of the highlights of summer in the city. However, many New Yorkers are unaware of the rich history of our waters, including the numerous abandoned islands scattered across the East River, which provide sanctuary for local wildlife.

A new boat tour aims to educate New Yorkers about these hidden islands by taking them there.

The Urban Naturalist Tour: Abandoned Islands of the East River is organized by Classic Harbor Line and will depart from Chelsea Pier 62 at 6:45pm on seven Sundays throughout the summer. These tours offer an opportunity to observe wildlife and learn about NYC's history.

Experience something different at Smorgasburg

Smorgasburg, the amazing food market, returns for 2024 featuring numerous fantastic local vendors across three locations.

With over 70 vendors, this is the largest Smorgasburg lineup since 2018! This year's offerings include aromatic Ethiopian stews, Hawaiian street food favorites, vibrant pani puri, potato puff poutine, and much more.

Smorgasburg WTC operates on Fridays, Williamsburg on Saturdays, and Prospect Park on Sundays. Each site is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and runs weekly through October.

Play pickleball at Central Park

Playing pickleball at Central Park in New York City is a fantastic experience for both enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport. Located amidst the iconic greenery and bustling cityscape, Central Park offers several pickleball courts where players can enjoy the game against the backdrop of Manhattan's skyline.

Pickleball, a blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is popular for its fast-paced rallies and easy-to-learn rules. Central Park's courts provide a vibrant community atmosphere where players of all ages and skill levels come together to enjoy this engaging sport. Whether you're looking to join a casual game or participate in more organized play, Central Park's pickleball scene welcomes both locals and visitors alike.

After a game, players often unwind by exploring other attractions within Central Park, such as its picturesque trails, lakes, and famous landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and the Central Park Zoo. The park's convenient location also makes it easy to access from various parts of the city, adding to its appeal as a pickleball destination in New York.

Overall, playing pickleball at Central Park offers a unique blend of sport, recreation, and the vibrant energy of one of the world's most famous urban parks, making it a must-visit for pickleball enthusiasts in New York City.

See a concert on a rooftop

The Rooftop at Pier 17 is set for an exciting summer filled with over 60 outdoor musical performances. With stunning panoramic views, a laid-back atmosphere, and excellent acoustics, it’s an exceptional venue for live shows.

The sixth Summer Concert Series at The Rooftop features a lineup of more than 60 artists across various genres, including rap (Isaiah Rashad), rock (Social Distortion), and electronic (Electric Callboy). Additionally, several nostalgic bands are scheduled to perform, appealing to Millennials, such as Taking Back Sunday, Something Corporate, Two Door Cinema Club, and Mayday Parade.

Take a trip to Governors Island

Can’t manage a tropical getaway? Take a ferry to New York’s car-free island, where you can relax in a hammock and soak up some sun.

Residents of New York can enjoy walking, running, biking, picnicking, and birdwatching across the vast green areas of the island. Visitors can bring their bikes or rent them from Blazing Saddles or Citi Bike, available at Soissons Landing, Yankee Pier, and Picnic Point.

Drink on the water at boat bar

What better way to enjoy New York’s stunning waterfront views than by actually being on the water at one of the top boat bars in NYC? Whether it’s the iconic Frying Pan, moored for the summer, or dinner cruises sailing along the Hudson, you can enjoy outdoor drinks and dining at these vibrant boat bars.

Don't miss Manhattanhenge

One of the city’s most stunning summer traditions is approaching, and you won’t want to miss this free viewing opportunity.

Manhattanhenge is the event when the sun sets in line with Manhattan's grid, creating the illusion of the glowing orb sinking between the skyscrapers. This phenomenon happens every summer and is a moment when pedestrian traffic slows down, allowing everyone to take a moment to appreciate this beautiful natural spectacle.

Catch the "full sun on the grid" on Friday, July 12, at 8:20 PM, and the "half sun" on Saturday, July 13, at 8:21 PM.

Have drinks with a view at rooftop bars

As warm weather arrives, New Yorkers prepare for a variety of seasonal activities, such as outdoor dining, art exhibitions, and sipping cocktails with a view at the city's top rooftop bars. Whether you’re looking for trendy spots at the finest hotels in NYC or cozy hideaways for a first date, celebrate the best rooftop bars in Gotham.