Are you ready for the best summer ever?
After last year’s summer obviously didn’t go according to plan, we’re here to make sure that New Yorkers make this one count!
From taking advantage of the season’s gorgeous weather, to telling you about the best summer happenings in NYC, get ready to cross your way off the most ultimate summer bucket list ever!
1. Bounce at the world’s largest inflatable theme park
For a six-day event, the largest inflatable theme park will be stopping in Brooklyn for its biggest, bounciest year yet. Learn how you can join the fun here.
2-3. Listen to music at this dreamy outdoor concert series
Tune your worries away at these insanely gorgeous outdoor rooftop concerts across NYC for an unforgettable evening.
- In the mood for French cabaret?
- How about some Brazilian jazz?
4. Go glamping on Governors Island
Forget about sleeping on the floor and going to the bathroom outside, regular camping is so last year! That’s right, now it’s all about glamping. Enjoy a luxurious stay on NYC’s island oasis with incredible amenities under the sky. Camp under the stars tonight!
5. Visit America’s largest Legoland
For Lego lovers of all ages, make sure to spend a day (or two) at the Legoland theme park in New York. With years in the making, its 2021 summer debut has not disappointed. The entire park is jam-packed with so many features like an immersive Legoland Hotel with 250 Lego-themed rooms, Lego 4D movie theater, 50 rides, a Legoland Factory, and more! Find out more here.
6. Cruise around the city
Who doesn’t love a day on the water? Escape the city heat and spend your time relaxing (or partying) on some luxurious cruises around the Hudson and East River. From wine tastings, brunching, & dancing, take all your favorite summer activities and make them that much better afloat! Take in the skyline and cheers your friends because there’s a cruise experience for everyone, day or night…hey why not both!? See the full list of cruises here.
7. Explore an enormous indoor adventure park
With 40,000-sq-feet, this indoor adventure park is the ultimate spot for fun! Offering everything from paintball, rock climbing, roller skating, rope courses, and more, there’s no limit to what you can do! See more information here.
8-9. Party on NYC’s best rooftop bars
Whether you’re looking for a good skyline view or a refreshing cocktail to sip on, New York City has all the rooftop bars you could ever imagine.
- Looking for more of a chill, backyard vibe, try The Ready Rooftop.
- Maybe you want a live DJ and somewhere to dance, then check out Somewhere Nowhere.
Whatever you decide, you’re in for a great time and even greater views. Read the full list here.
10. Fly to Paris for less than $150
Take advantage of international travel reopening and book a flight to the City of Light that won’t break the bank. French Bee airline is offering direct flights from NY to Paris at unbeatable prices as low as $139 (less than $300 roundtrip). Without sacrificing onboard amenities, you can get to live your Parisian fantasy in under 8 hours of travel. Find out more information here.
11-12. Put your putt-putt to the test
In for a little friendly competition?
- Test your skills on the many miniature golf courses popping up around NYC like this Pixar-themed course
- Or this climate change-theme pop-up!
13. Cool off in one of NYC’s public pools
If we know one thing, it’s that summers in NYC are HOT! From sweaty subway rides, to AC’s units dripping on you, taking advantage of pools are an essential way to survive the season. Have you been to America’s only floating pool right here in NYC? See the full list of NYC public pools here.
14-15. …Or at one of NYC’s private hotel & rooftop pools
Maybe you’re looking for something a little less…public. You can still take a dip in the many private hotel and rooftop pools around the city sure to cool you down one canon ball at a time.
- Make sure to check out the luxurious Manhattan Park Pool Club.
- And TWA’s infinity pool-cuzzi.
16. Pick your own sunflowers at a farm outside of NYC
Journey through sunflowers towering up to 10-feet at this farm in New Jersey. Visitors are welcome to pick the flowers, sip on some fresh squeezed lemonade, and obviously snap a few pics for the ‘gram! Discover more details here.
17-18. Ride a thrilling rollercoaster
If you’re looking for your next adrenaline rush, try some of the newest coasters in town.
- Coney Island just opened their largest investment yet—the Phoenix.
- Or take a ride on the tallest, longest, and fastest single-rail coaster in the world!
19. See a performance on Little Island
As we welcome live performances back to the city, check out some of the incredible shows happening at “The Amph” and “The Glade” on Little Island. From live storytelling to musical concerts, there’s a show for everyone. And the best part: they’re free! View the full schedule here.
20. Kayak for free under the Brooklyn Bridge
Be active and paddle your way around the East River. Brooklyn Bridge Park is offering free, 20-minute sessions on the water to kayak and see the city from a new perspective. Learn how to reserve your spot here.
21. Walk through magical fields of lavender
Take a little trip outside of the city and head to LI for an aromatic experience you’re sure to love. Journey through a whimsical field of lavender this summer at Lavender By The Bay. The fields are normally in bloom from mid-June through July so get to it before it’s too late! Read more here.
22-23. Learn something new at a museum
Explore all of the wonderful art, educational, & cultural institutions NYC has to offer! Rain or shine it’s always a good time to take advantage of what most people vacation to the city to see.
- Check out the American Museum of Natural History’s newest Hall of Gems
- Or visit the Museum of Ice Cream for a delicious experience.
24-26. Dine on the waterfront
Nothing pairs better than a cocktail in hand and the skyline in sight! Spend your summer waterside at any of NYC’s gorgeous waterfront restaurants and bars like:
- Watermark Bar on Pier 15,
- Island Oyster on Governors Island
- Or even aboard a historic ship at Baylander Steel Beach in Harlem.
27. Watch a baseball game at the ballpark
Whether you’re a Yankees or a Mets fan (no judgement here…well maybe just a little) go catch a ball game at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field for the perfect summer activity.
25. Tan at the best beaches in NYC
Let’s face it, everyone needs a little beach day from time to time. Spend your weekend relaxing oceanside or building sandcastles at these best beaches across NYC.
26-27. Pull up to an outdoor movie
Whether you’re bringing your car, a lawn chair, or a blanket, make the most out a cool summer night by exploring the many screenings happening across the city. Get your popcorn ready because there’s bound to be a film you’re eager to see showing somewhere near you.
- From Skyline Drive-In
- Or Brooklyn Bridge Park
28-30. Taste test the most delicious ice cream shops in NYC
A large scoop of ice cream is the answer to any hot, or cold, day in the city (let’s be honest ice cream is good in any weather). Spend your summer trying every ice cream shop in the city to find your favorite. Need somewhere to start?
- Try Tipsy Scoop,
- Soft Swerve
- Milk & Cream Cereal Bar
Or any of our other favorites here.
31. Hot tub on a sail boat with skyline views
Set sail on the Hudson with this once-in-a-lifetime experience that welcomes you and some friends to a unique taste of luxury like never before. Cruise around the water for 90-minutes and admire the skyline while you lap around Lady Liberty and ship on champagne…in a hot tub….on a sail boat. Yes, we know how incredible that sounds. Learn more here.
32. Do yoga in Bryant Park
All the way through August 18th, Bryant Park will be hosting their free yoga classes in the park. So whether you’re a yogi or a first-time goer, learn from expert instructors for an active and energetic session beyond a mere indoor studio class. See more information here.
33-34. Take advantage of the best happy hour deals
New Yorkers love scoring deals whenever they can, so take advantage of some of the best happy hour deals going on this summer. You know what they say, it’s 5-o-clock somewhere! Try some of our favorites like:
- Mermaid Inn
- Or Chateaû 49.
35-36. Book a city escape
Sure we love the city, but sometimes a few days away is an absolute necessity.
- Relax at some of the state’s most gorgeous and unique airbnbs like this one right near a waterfall
- Or inside a geo dome.
37. Picnic in the park
It’s time to lay out the plaid blanket and prepare the charcuterie board! A picnic in the city is just the thing you should do to celebrate the summer. Who doesn’t love snacking while soaking up a little sun? Find the best spots picnic here.
38. Adventure to Coney Island
Stroll the beach, ride the coasters, or munch on a Nathan’s hot dog. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Coney Island has got you covered!
39. Explore NYC like never before with an immersive quest across the boroughs
Overcome 12 challenges that will take you across the city in an exploration game like never before. Solve clues and unlock secrets you’ve never known as you make your rounds around what you once believed to be familiar territory. Join the fun here!
40. Score some of the best tables in the city
For their semi-annual return, New York’s beloved ‘Restaurant Week’ is back—and with all new signature dining experiences! For more information, see here.
41. Check out this citrus garden wonderland
When life gives you lemons, NYC turns them into an interactive outdoor installation! Ok so maybe that’s not how the saying goes…but for real, this summer check out Citrovia, NYC’s most vibrant and free pop-up that is an absolute magical citrus garden oasis. Read more here.
42. Enter an alternate reality at SuperReal
Travel into the future where reality will blur with fantasy. With the use of cutting-edge technology, visitors will be transported to a multidimensional realm. Grab your tickets here.
43. Admire the sunrise from the top of the Empire State Building
Sure you might have watched the sunrise from your roof, but we’re sure you’ve never seen the sunrise from 1,050-feet in the air. In honor of the Empire State Building’s 90th birthday, New Yorkers have the exclusive chance to watch the city awaken from their slumber—and the view is most definitely worth the early morning. Not to mention, guests will get a complimentary Starbucks coffee to help keep them awake. Be one of the 100 lucky viewers.
44-46. Solve a murder mystery
Choose from three interactive scenarios for a night of mystery, murder, and a delicious 3-course dinner. Take on your role and figure out who is the guilty one!
- Prove your innocence at this doctor’s dinner party
- Solve a millionaire’s murder
- Pretend your a guest at the MTV Music Awards
47-49. Discover the best waterfront parks NYC has to offer
There are tons of beautiful waterfront parks across the boroughs to spend a lovely summer day relaxing. Observe the dazzling skyline from uptown or downtown, the East River or the Hudson, your options are truly endless.
- From Domino Park
- Pier 26
- To NYC’s newest park, Little Island
50. Train on a scenic trip from NYC to Vermont
After the Ethan Allen Express has been out of service for over a year, trips from NYC to Vermont have now returned to Amtrak. Travelers can embark on a gorgeous ride through the Hudson Valley for the perfect summer getaway! Read more here.
featured image source: Facebook/ The Big Bounce America