Discover the 10 Top Things to Do in NYC This Summer

Summer in New York City is something else, you know? The weather heats up, and suddenly, the whole city just comes alive with outdoor stuff. It’s like everyone busts out of their apartments, ready to soak up the sun and find cool ways to chill out. If you’re wondering what to do when it’s warm, this place has tons of options. Seriously, don’t let the heat get you down; there are so many cool things to do in NYC during the summer. I’ve put together a list of the 10 top things to do in NYC to make sure you have an awesome time.

Key Takeaways

• Governors Island is a great escape from the city, offering lots of food, festivals, and even a Jazz Age party.
• Coney Island is perfect for a beach day, with its famous boardwalk, Luna Park rides, and unique freak show.
• Visiting Liberty Island and Ellis Island by ferry is a cool way to learn about history and see iconic landmarks.
• NYC’s public pools, like Astoria Pool and Lasker Pool, are free and open from late June to September, perfect for cooling off.
• Outdoor summer cinema events, like those in Bryant Park and Brooklyn Bridge Park, offer free movies under the stars.

1. Governors Island

Governors Island is a must-visit during the summer. It’s only open seasonally, and it’s packed with things to do. It’s a great escape from the city without actually leaving the city.

There’s always something going on, from festivals to workshops and concerts. For example, the Jazz Age Lawn Party is a super popular event where you can dress up in 1920s attire, sip cocktails, and dance the Charleston. It’s like stepping back in time! This year, don’t miss the Nature Insect Walk, the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council’s River to River Festival, and the Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix.

Governors Island is a fantastic place to spend a day outdoors. You can rent bikes and explore the island, or even go kayaking for free. There’s also Slide Hill, which is basically a giant waterslide that kids (and adults!) will love. It’s a perfect spot for a family outing.

One of the coolest things about Governors Island is The Hills, an elevated park that gives you amazing views of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn, and Jersey City. It’s a great spot to take some photos and just enjoy the scenery. You can even find some beaches in Queens if you want to extend your day trip.

2. Coney Island

Coney Island! Who doesn’t love it? It’s a classic New York summer destination, and for good reason. It’s got the beach, the boardwalk, and that old-school amusement park vibe that just screams summertime fun. It’s a bit of a trek on the subway, but honestly, it’s worth it for a day of sun, sand, and maybe a hot dog (or three).

I remember going there as a kid, and it feels like not much has changed, which is part of its charm. You’ve got the Cyclone, which is terrifying and amazing all at once, and the Wonder Wheel, which gives you some pretty sweet views. Plus, there’s always something happening on the boardwalk, whether it’s street performers or just people-watching. It’s a total sensory overload in the best way possible.

I always make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat because the sun can be brutal out there. And don’t forget cash for the games and food! It’s easy to spend more than you planned, but hey, it’s all part of the experience.

And if you’re into weird stuff, there’s still a freak show that’s been around for ages. It’s definitely not for everyone, but it’s a piece of Coney Island history. Plus, the New York Aquarium is right there, which is a cool way to escape the heat for a bit and check out some sea creatures. Honestly, Coney Island is just a must-do if you’re in NYC during the summer.

3. Liberty Island And Ellis Island

Okay, so you’re in NYC, it’s summer, and you want to do something kinda touristy but also kinda meaningful? Liberty and Ellis Islands are your spots. I mean, it’s the Statue of Liberty! You can’t not see it, right? Plus, Ellis Island is right there, and it’s a super interesting look at immigration history.

Taking the ferry over is part of the fun, offering amazing views of the city skyline. It’s a bit of a time commitment, so plan accordingly. You’ll want to book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer months, because the lines can get crazy long. Trust me on this one.

I remember going a few years back. The sheer number of people who passed through Ellis Island is staggering. It really makes you think about what it means to be an American and the struggles people went through to get here. It’s a heavy experience, but an important one.

Once you’re on Liberty Island, you can walk around the base of the statue, take pictures, and just soak it all in. There’s also a museum inside the pedestal, which is worth checking out. Then, hop back on the ferry to Ellis Island and explore the museum there. It’s filled with artifacts, stories, and exhibits that bring the immigrant experience to life. If you are interested in pitch ideas, this is a great place to get inspired.

4. New York’s Pools

Summer in NYC can be brutal, and what better way to cool off than a dip in one of the city’s many public pools? From late June through Labor Day, these pools open their doors to residents and visitors alike, offering a refreshing escape from the concrete jungle. And the best part? They’re totally free!

New York City’s public pools are a fantastic resource for beating the summer heat.

There are pools all over the city, so finding one near you shouldn’t be too hard. Many of them are Olympic-sized, offering plenty of room for swimming laps or just splashing around. Some even have diving boards and wading pools for the little ones. It’s a great way to spend a hot afternoon without breaking the bank.

Remember to bring your own towel and sunscreen! Also, be sure to check the pool’s hours of operation before you go, as they can vary. And, of course, follow all the rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

5. Summer Cinema

Okay, so when the weather is actually nice, who wants to be stuck inside? Not me! Luckily, NYC knows how to do summer right, and that includes outdoor movies. Forget your couch; grab a blanket and head to one of the many parks or piers showing films under the stars. It’s way more fun than your regular cinema.

There are tons of options, from classic flicks to recent blockbusters. Pack some snacks, maybe a bottle of wine (if the location allows!), and make it a whole evening. It’s a cheap and cheerful way to enjoy the city and catch a movie at the same time. Plus, the atmosphere is just unbeatable. I mean, who doesn’t love a good movie night with a view?

I remember one summer seeing ‘Back to the Future’ in Bryant Park. The energy was amazing, everyone was singing along, and it felt like a real community event. It’s those kinds of experiences that make summer in NYC so special.

Don’t forget to check out the free summer movies available throughout the city!

6. Club World Cup

Okay, so if you’re into soccer (or football, depending on where you’re from), you’re in for a treat. New York is one of the host cities for the revamped Club World Cup in the summer of 2025. This isn’t your average tournament; they’re expanding it to include 32 teams from all over the globe. It’s going to be huge.

Think about it: some of the best clubs, like those big names you always hear about, will be right here. It’s a chance to see some serious talent without having to hop on a plane to Europe or South America. I’m not a die-hard fan, but even I’m tempted to check it out. The atmosphere alone should be pretty wild.

The matches in New York will be held at MetLife Stadium. That’s where the big stuff will happen, including some of the later-stage games. So, if you want to catch the quarter-finals, semi-finals, or even the final, that’s where you need to be. The Club World Cup is scheduled between June 15th and July 13th, 2025, so mark your calendars.

I remember when the World Cup was in the US back in ’94. The energy was insane. Even if you weren’t a huge soccer person, you couldn’t help but get caught up in it. I’m expecting something similar with this Club World Cup. It’s a great way to experience a different kind of sporting event and see some world-class athletes in action.

Wrapping Things Up

So, there you have it! NYC in the summer is pretty special, right? From chilling in the parks to catching outdoor movies, there’s just so much to do. Don’t let the heat scare you away; the city really comes alive when the weather gets warm. Just grab some comfy shoes, maybe a water bottle, and get ready to make some awesome memories. You won’t regret it!