Forget about the solstice, come June 1st New York summer has practically begun!
Though summer officially begins at the end of June, there are already plenty of warm weather activities already taking place. Not to mention, it’s Pride Month! So get ready for a fun-filled June, packed with plenty of fantastic events that will be popping up all month long. Here are 70 of our favorites.
1. Visit Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
After photos, tickets, and secret locations, all of the anticipation has finally come to an end! That’s right, Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is finally opening in NYC this month and we couldn’t be more excited! This incredible exhibition will bring you right into the universe of Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh with a 360° digital presentation of his work. Get your tickets now!
2. Experience a little taste of Italy at NYC’s exclusive “Brunello Week”
This June, you can take a trip to Tuscany without leaving the city at NYC’s first-ever Brunello Week, which will highlight the delicious Brunello di Montalcino and Rosso di Montalcino wines in a rare one-week-only event! Taking place from June 14-20, New Yorkers can enjoy enthralling wine-drinking experiences where you’ll be able to sample special tasting menus and pairings at nearly 40 restaurants across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Find out which NYC restaurants are participating here! 
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3-6. Listen to enchanting music by candlelight in beautiful NYC spaces
- Big movie buff? Enjoy this open-air performance featuring film scores & Hollywood epics at 99 Scott
- Or have dinner with your show at this jazz tribute to the Beatles or Queen
- Even experience the gorgeous Sixth Floor Loft with Miles Davis Classic Quintet
7. Show your Pride at the Pride March
June is Pride month in the city and that means there will be plenty of opportunities to support the community! With the official 2021 theme “The Fight Continues,” this year’s march will take place virtually on June 27th with in-person elements to be determined. Register online here to partake. In addition, The Rally will take place virtually on June 25th featuring a diverse list of activists and speakers. More details are to come regarding PrideFest and Pride Island returning on June 27th as well.
8. Put your baking skills to the test with Nailed It! at home bake off
Netflix’s hilarious at home bake off series Nailed It! is back for another double trouble edition! This challenge will be taking a summer-y twist as participants will try their best to make their favorite marine animals with colorful fondant. Instructions to help you create your masterpiece (or disasterpiece) will be delivered right to your door along with all baking and decorating supplies. This is a popular affair so hurry quick because sales close on June 7th. Grab your tickets now!
9. See the new Hall of Gems and Minerals at the Natural History Museum
The Allison and Roberto Mignone Hall of Gems and Minerals will finally be opening June 12th. Explore the 11,000 square feet of interactive displays, touchable specimens, and media. The hall will feature incredible elements like two exquisite amethyst geodes from Uruguay that tower to a height of 12 feet and 9 feet (some of the world’s largest on display in public) and a luminous gallery featuring a wall-sized panel of rock glowing fluorescently in shades of orange and green. Read here for more information.
10. Immerse yourself in a dazzling, multi-sensory experience
Wander through eight immersive rooms at the Happy-Go-Lucky exhibit in SoHo that were designed to integrate technology, humanities, and art. Visitors will be able to strut the diamond runway, step into mind-altering optical illusions and stand among a tower of flowers. It’s definitely an experience you don’t want to miss. Get your tickets now!
11. Visit NYC’s first-ever floating park ‘Little Island’
Located at Pier 55, this $260 million project is complete with incredible green spaces, pathways, performance venues, and food and beverage options. Whether you go to ‘Little Island’ morning or night, you’ll be sure to catch incredible views of the NYC skyline and Hudson River. See gorgeous photos of the park here.
12. Transport to Paris with this Moulin Rouge-era outdoor show in the Village
Take a closer glimpse into the life of legendary artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec with this spellbinding tour. You’ll be whisked away to the romance and intrigue of 19th century Paris as your guided through the dreams of iconic artist Toulouse-Lautrec — who made the Moulin Rouge the legendary location it is thanks to his oil-on-canvas paintings — as he recalls his final absinthe-laced years living and working in Montmartre. And it’s all happening right within historic Greenwich Village itself! Get your tickets now.
13. See a concert at Bryant Park
Starting this month, Bryant Park will host 25 stunning concerts. Programs like the New York Philharmonic, Carnegie Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Joe’s Pub, the Classical Theater of Harlem, Paul Taylor Dance Company and the Town Hall will appear. Tickets can be purchased 10 days ahead of each show. See here for the full schedule.
14. Grab your tickets to the new multisensory exhibit on infamous British street artist Banksy
Explore the largest collection of Banksy art pieces anywhere in the world at the Banksy: Genius or Vandal?exhibition. Discover clues to the artist’s secret identity, adventure through interactive installations, and immerse yourself in a VR element that truly elevates his work like you’ve never seen before! Get your tickets now!
15. Experience an audio immersive theatrical experience of ‘I Couldn’t Tell You Why’
Explore the mind of main character Casey as you follow along his journey through love, intimacy, and pain with this walk-through theater production right in the streets of NYC. Audience members will be given silent disco headphones to listen to the audio portion while they watch the live scenes unfold right in front of their eyes. Get your tickets now.
16-18. Celebrate World Bicycle Day (June 3rd)
There’s nothing like getting some fresh air during the warmer months in the city so don’t forget to enjoy the outdoors every once in a while! With World Bicycle Day this month, there’s no better time than now to get back into the cycle of exercising.
- Bike around Central Park
- Or on the Brooklyn Bridge
- Even on the Hudson River Greenway
19. Hop Aboard NYC’s first-ever floating Mexican restaurant
You read that right! This new restaurant serving up delicious Mexican fare is literally in the Hudson River! Cruise around and enjoy the sunset views over the city skyline during your meal. Cheers your friends amongst the beautiful backdrop before you sip on one of their many agave-based spirits. Read more here.
20-22. Get brunch with friends
Among rent controlled apartments and cheap slices, brunch makes the list of New Yorker favorites!
- Take advantage of this rare opportunity to experience the chic and quirky Norwood Club while you listen to The Dreamland Orchestra perform a beautiful set
- Enjoy unmatched drag performances with bottomless mimosas at Lucky Cheng’s
- Or another boozy brunch at Madam Ji’s
23. Roller skate at JFK Airport
The TWA Hotel at JFK Airport has transformed its tarmac into a ‘Roll-A-Rama’ at the Runway Rink right in time for summer. Its outdoor 44-by-56-foot rink is made of 2,668-tiles and visitors will be able to skate around the hotel’s iconic Lockheed Constellation Connie airplane that has since been remodeled into a cocktail lounge. Read more here.
24. Do something special for dad on Father’s Day
With Father’s Day just around the corner, coming up with a plan can seem daunting. If you’re in need of an idea, try a virtual paint night! All the necessary materials will be sent to your home as the both of you can celebrate the day tapping into your creative sides. Get tickets now.
25-30. Take in skyline views at these stunning rooftops
Nothing beats a drink in hand and a skyline in sight. Here are some of our favorites:
- Check out Cantina Rooftop and try the 12-lb taco!
- Experience a backyard vibe at The Ready
- Escape to the Hamptons right in the city at this beachy-themed bar
- Dine on Eataly’s rooftop and see their season decor
- Admire all the floral installations at Ampia Rooftop
- Sip on cocktails at Top of the Box in Brooklyn
Check the entire list here and adventure to one of these fantastic rooftops across the city for the most unbeatable scenery and not to mention, refreshing cocktails!
31. Enter the wizarding world of Harry Potter at the new flagship store
The world’s largest Harry Potter store is coming to NYC right in Flatiron this June. Walk around the three-story, 21,000-square-foot space that will be home to the largest collection of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts products in the world! There will be 15 themed areas throughout the store where you’ll be able to take photos, play interactive games, and travel on virtual reality adventures. Ready for the magic?
32. Sip on Butterbeer just like Harry and his friends
One of the most notable highlights at the new flagship Harry Potter store is the ‘Butterbeer bar.’ Visitors will not only be able to enjoy a glass of Butterbeer on draft, but also in ice cream or bottled form! Drink and watch almost 1,000 glowing Butterbeer bottles appear to rise up from the floor and “float” up over the bar while listening to the Butterbeer move through the copper pipes in the ceiling! Find out more here.
33. Relax at new wellness spa on Governors Island
Spend a day restoring your body and mind at Governors Island’s new wellness spa. As the first US location from QC Terme (based in Europe), you’ll be able to enjoy steam rooms, saunas, and outdoor thermal pools overlooking views of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn, and Jersey. Opening dates are to be expected in the coming weeks. See here for more details.
34-36. Taste international fare at outdoor food markets
As restrictions are slowly lifting for outdoor open-air markets, celebrate the return of some of the city’s most beloved food markets including the following:
37. Lounge at ‘The Green’ at Lincoln Center
The iconic Josie Robertson Plaza has turned into an enormous green space open to the public. Stop by to picnic, read, or simply relax. The 14,000-square-foot has a pop-up library from NYPL where you can borrow books to read along with a snack bar to grab a bite to eat (plus a selection of food trucks from minority & women-owned businesses nearby on campus). Discover more about ‘The Green’ here.
38-42. Enjoy happy hour with friends
Celebrate everyone’s favorite hour with incredible happy hour deals all across the city. Let’s be honest, there’s not much New Yorkers like more than cheap drinks! Definitely check out our favorites like:
- Château 49 for $7 Aperol Sprtiz’
- Boilermaker for wings with your drinks
- Tara Rose for $6 beers
- Fresh Salt for nothing over $10
- The Mermaid Inn to get $1.25 East Coast oysters
43. Stand next to the 25-foot tall bronze sculpture taking over Rockefeller Center
In part of the Rockefeller Center’s efforts to bring public art to their plaza and campus, an enormous new sculpture titled “Oracle” by artist Sandford Biggers is on display. At 25-ft tall, the sculpture weighs 15,280 pounds and you can find it greeting visitors at the 5th Avenue entrance to the Channel Gardens.
44. Order dumplings around the clock
If you haven’t been already, it’s time you visit the new, 24-hour dumpling automat in the East Village. It uses hi-tech zero human interaction features to deliver delicious dumplings to New Yorkers at any hour of the day. Try some of their crazy flavor offerings like PB&J, Pastrami, or Chicken Parm! Find out more information here.
45. Catch Lady Liberty napping in Morningside Park
New art installations and exhibitions are constantly popping up all over the city. One of the most recent installations can be found lounging in Morningside Park. Check out the enormous and beautiful Lady Liberty taking a little nap and even join her! See here for more details.
46. Get your tan on at the beach!
The weather is finally looking up. And with that in mind, it’s time to start working on that summer tan and soaking in all of the vitamin D. Check out the 10 best beaches in NYC.
47. Read up on Juneteenth
Juneteenth (a.k.a. Freedom Day) marks the end of enslavement of people of African descent in the United States, which happened on June 19, 1865. Last June, Governor Cuomo declared the date an official state holiday for 2021. Now, NYC schools have declared it an official holiday for students and staff for the 21-22 school year. It will be observed on Monday, June 20, 2022. Learn more about Juneteenth here.
48-52. Join in the celebrations for Juneteenth
See how you can celebrate Juneteenth this month all across NYC with the events listed below:
- Go to Harlem for a NYC block party
- See a Black-led film screenings at the Museum of the Moving Image
- Take a Seneca Village Tour at Central Park
- Head to the New York Botanical Garden for Juneteenth Food Conservation
- Laugh at famous “Drunk History” comedy show at The Bell House with a Juneteenth twist
53. Hit up Coney Island’s Luna Park
Whether it’s Luna Park or Deno’s WonderWheel Amusement Park, take a day trip to Coney Island for some exhilarating coasters and other exciting rides! Not to mention, you can get a 5-cent hotdog on Thursdays at Nathan’s.
54. Kayak for free at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Every Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday through the end of August this summer you’ll be able to walk up to the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse Pier 2 for free kayaking. The sessions only run for 20 minutes but the views are worth it and at the end of the day, it’s a free activity! So why not? Learn more here.
55. Play arcade games at the entirely pink bubble tea shop in Queens
Try your hand at the claw machine while you sip on boba and try other delicious treats at Sweet Cats Cafe. Win adorable plushies and snap aesthetically please photos in this entirely pink shop! Read more about Sweet Cats Cafe here.
56. Watch a movie at Astoria Park Lawn
Catch a showing of A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood in Astoria Park on Friday June 4 from 8:15 p.m.–10:15 p.m. in part for Movies on the Waterfront. Simply sit back, relax, and enjoy. Find more information here.
57. Try NYC fine dining icon Eleven Madison Park’s new 100% vegan menu
After shutting its door at the beginning of the pandemic, Eleven Madison Park is reopening, and rebranding! Welcoming guests starting June 10th, the menu will be entirely vegan. Read more here.
58. Swim at America’s only outdoor floating pool
Ever swam in water atop water? Splash around on the country’s only floating pool located in the Bronx that is set to open along with all of NYC’s outdoor pools on June 26th. Read more here.
59-63. Taste special treats across NYC honoring Pride Month
From art installations to celebrations, we can’t forget all of the delicious food specials happening across the city for Pride Month!
- Try Magnolia Bakery’s confetti banana pudding
- Enjoy a rainbow vanilla cupcake from By Chloe
- Sip on a “We Are The World Cocktail” at ilili
- Have season soft serve with Pride N’ True Dairy Dip at Mister Dips
- Order a mimosa Pride flight at Malibu Farm
64. Seek adventure on the world’s longest, tallest, and fastest single-rail coaster
Enjoy a thrilling ride on the newest coaster at Six Flags Great Adventure that breaks three world records! Learn more about this legendary coaster here.
65-69. Dine al-fresco
As the weather warms the city, it’s time for the return of incredible outdoor dining setups to enjoy all summer long. Try some of our favorites like:
- Savannah Rooftop that offers incredible water and city views
- For those who love twinkling lights and greenery, make sure to check out Ten Hope in Brooklyn
- See the gorgeous floral front at Court Street Tavern
- Taste delicious Thai cuisine at Pinto Garden’s outdoor patio
- Escape to a Tulum-inspired paradise at Gitano’s Garden of Love
70. Take yoga in the park
Bryant park is returning their yoga in the park after two years of absence. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or have never taken a class, it’s an experience for everyone! Reserve your spot now because the classes fill up fast.
featured image source: Michael Grimm / Courtesy, Little Island
Also published on Medium.