The city that never sleeps has countless activities to keep you up and entertained through the summer months. We’ve gathered the hottest can’t-miss activities for you to check off your summer bucket list — all you have to do is show up.

Make sure to bookmark this guide as we’ll continue updating it with new events, experiences, and discounts. 

Get wild at the Museum of Sex Cocktail Tasting

This rated-X event is sure to excite. In the Museum of Sex’s fantastical Super Funland Bar, discover the secret ingredients to the sexiest drinks in New York. This immersive experience will take you through the creation and tasting of four specialty cocktails, all with on-theme, naughty names. 

Where: 233 5th Ave

Hours: Select Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For more information on Museum of Sex Cocktail Tasting.

Attend a cupcake decorating class

Here’s a sweet — and educational — outing. At this BYOB cupcake decorating workshop, learn how to use various piping tips to make professional looking cupcakes. Sip and frost your way through this intro to cupcake decorating course. 

Where: 118 W 22nd St

Hours: May 12th; May 20th; June 9th; June 16th, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For more information on cupcake decorating.

Brew at the Zoo | June 17

See the beloved Bronx Zoo in a whole new light at its after hours, 21+ party. Get up close and personal with some favorite exhibits while sipping on over 100 alcoholic offerings.

Where: 2300 Southern Blvd

Hours: June 17, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. 

For more information on Brew at the Zoo. 

Picnic in Central Park’s Sheep Meadow

Don’t underestimate this classic outing. Grab a picnic basket loaded with your favorite snacks, a plush blanket, and your favorite card games to spend the day basking in the sun at Sheep Meadow.

Where: West Side between 66th and 69th

Hours: Opens at 11 a.m.

For more information on Sheep Meadow.

Shop locally at Union Square Farmers Market

We look forward to our local farmers market every single week, and summer is no different. Step outside of your comfort zone and discover unique produce you can't find in grocery stores.

Where: North and West sides of Union Square Park

Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information on Union Square Farmers Mark

Grill along the river with epic city views

It’s not summer until someone hits the grill, and cooking up some burgers along the river isn’t a bad start. Set up camp at the Picnic Peninsula Barbeque Area’s public grills. There's also a "beach" and an OddFellows Ice Cream shop nearby, when you’re ready to finish your freshly cooked meal with something sweet. 

Where: Pier 3

For more information on Picnic Peninsula.

Have a chocolate-themed date in a trolley

Nothing goes together better than chocolate and wine — except maybe you and a date enjoying chocolate and wine. Dine under the stars with a rich selection of fine wines and premium chocolates. It’s just one of many romantic dates you and your partner can go on this summer.

Where: 11 W 31st St

Hours: Sunday through Thursday, starting at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, starting at 8 p.m.

For more information on having a chocolate themed date in a trolley.

Take an adventurous day trip from the city

For a more active day out, try some of our favorite day trips. A day of exploration and inspiration at the outdoor museum Storm King Arts Center awaits the art lover in you. Try a fast-paced whitewater rafting trip — an ultimate summer pastime. For something a little more chill, paddle peacefully and sample from a local vineyard with a kayak and winery day trip. If you want to stay on land, no worries. This Long Island winery tour has just what you need.

For more information on day trips.

Attend Emo Brunch

We fell in love with an Emo Brunch — and you will too. This nostalgic event will have you wishing you could post it on MySpace. From the themed food, like the Fall Out Boy Burger, Hashbrown Confessional, and Pancakes! At The Disco, and drinks, like Drink 182, Coffee & Cambria, and Paramore Mimosa, to the iconic music, this brunch experience is devoted to all things emo.

Where: Secret Location

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information on Emo Brunch.

Go on a sunset sail around NYC

Grab your closest friends and take a sunset harbor sail on an intimate charter. With some of the best views of Manhattan, this BYOB experience is perfect for a leisurely journey around the harbor. Looking for a cruise with some heartier offerings? Try an all-inclusive dinner and sailing aboard The Ventura, which features a 6-course chef’s tasting menu and top shelf bar.  

Where: Pier 25

Hours: Times vary

For more information on going on a sunset sail. 

Attend a day party on a rooftop

New York has no shortage of trendy rooftops with incredible views of the city. The Brooklyn Springtime Rooftop Series wants you to make the most of these spaces. Enjoy a cocktail and the gorgeous skyline in some of our favorite open-air spots.  

Where: 98 N 6th St

Hours: May 7th; May 28th; June 4th; June 11th, 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.

For more information on attending a day party on a rooftop in Manhattan.

Enjoy Happy Hour at Watermark Beach

Located at Pier 15 NYC directly on the water, is a tropical oasis with palm trees, cabanas, outdoor grill, games & beach vibes. Experience waterfront dining, craft cocktails, delicious food and live DJs! Watermark Beach will be open for happy hour, weekend brunch and late night vibes. Featuring oysters, seafood towers, lobster rolls, tacos, truffle fries, sliders and so much more! Bucket Listers' guests get admission to Watermark Beach and one of their famous margaritas (regular or flavored) and a petit chips and guac for $19 (regular $25). 

Where: Watermark: 78 South St Pier 15, New York, NY 10038

When:

Monday - Wednesday: 4:00 p.m- 11:00 p.n.

Thursday: 4:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

Friday: 2:00 p.m. - 1 a.m.

Saturday: 12 p.m. - 1 a.m.

Sunday: 12 p.m. - 11 p.m

Not available on July 4 and September 30.

For more information on Watermark Beach.

Watch the Yankees play ball

A classic summer activity for good reason. Snag a seat and a beer to watch a game at Yankee Stadium. Don’t miss out on new stadium food options in 2022, including Korean Bulgogi sliders from King’s Hawaiian (Section 115) and the new The Halal Guys cart (Great Hall and Section 321).

Where: 1 E 161 St

Hours: Hours vary

For more information on Yankee Stadium.

Celebrate NYC Pride in June

Show your colors at NYC Pride! Hit the streets of New York for the historic and annual Pride March on June 26. Throughout Pride Month and Pride Weekend, other celebratory events will also take place, including a “Rainbow on the Hudson” boat parade on June 25, Hester Street Fair at Pier 17 on June 25, “Broadway Sings” concert event at Sony Hall on June 27, "Family Movie Night on June 15", and a celebration for Youth Pride on June 25. 

Where: Fifth Avenue

Hours: Pride March starts at 12 p.m.

For more information on NYC Pride.

Hit up a NYC rooftop

One of the best NYC rooftops is Sushi Lab NYC. Dining on in their garden sanctuary is a welcome change of pace from the bustling sidewalk life. Taking elevated cuisine to the next level, the intimate sushi bar is stationed atop the Sanctuary Hotel and cocooned in greenery and blooming florals. With Sushi Lab serving up Omakase and other creative Japanese fare, you’ll never want to eat sushi at ground level again — and be sure to check out all of the other great rooftops NYC has to offer. 

Where: 132 W 47th St

Hours: Monday, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.

For more information on Sushi Lab NYC.

Check out the city's beer gardens

Have a drink in one of NYC’s many open-air beer gardens. Try the Beer Garden at Bohemian Hall for Czech and craft beers, year-round entertainment, and even a bit of New York history. Head over to Queens for a German-inspired menu at Loreley Biergarten. And be transported to the heart of Europe with authentic food and drink at Williamsburg’s Radegast Hall. 

Where: 29-19 24th Avenue (Bohemian Hall); 7 Rivington St (Loreley Biergarten); 113 North 3rd St (Radegast Hall)

Hours: Hours vary

For more information on where to grab a drink this summer in NYC.

Experience a day on the water with a fun boating experience

Three words, say them and we’re yours: champagne, cheese and cruise. And why not have them all? Grab your squad to indulge in these delicacies while being able to take in all the beauty the New York City skyline has to offer. There are a few boozy yacht options, including a brunch cruise and the champagne and cheese pairing cruise, which offers guests three artisan cheeses, honey or jam spreads, and flatbreads to complement the tasty bubbly!

Where: Chelsea Piers: near 22nd St on the Hudson River

Hours: Friday to Sunday, times vary

For more information on boating experiences in NYC.

Cool off with a colorful summer treat

Keep it cool with an imaginative sweet treat from Surreal Creamery. Try a heaping, indulgent serving of ice cream in a mason jar topped with goodies of your choice, or opt for a swirl of ice cream on top of refreshing boba tea. 

Where: 538 2nd Ave

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 12 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Sunday, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.

For more information on Surreal Creamery.

Dine at Grand Banks

If boats are your thing, but you desire steady footing for happy hour — Grand Banks is calling your name. Aboard this wooden schooner, you'll find panoramic views of the Hudson. Back on the deck of the historic fishing boat, celebrate your expedition with their nautically inspired cocktails and fresh oysters.

Where: Pier 25

Hours: Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 12:30am

For more information on Grand Banks.

Go surfing at Rockaway Beach

A cool hang to beat the heat, Rockaway is a great beach to opt-into during hot summer days. Pro tip: Take the ferry there instead of a train for a picturesque journey — and an early one to beat the crowds. You can also dine and refuel at Rockaway Beach Surf Club after working up an appetite on the waves. 

Where: Beach 3 St. to Beach 153 St. and Boardwalk to Atlantic Ocean

Hours: Lifeguards on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information on Rockaway Beach.

Hang out at a new rooftop park at Hudson River Park's Pier 57

This new rooftop park has plenty of green space for outdoor activities. With a backdrop of the historic pier, the 80,000 square feet area is perfect for hanging out with friends and grabbing a bite to eat. 

Where: Pier 57

Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

For more information on Pier 57 new rooftop park.

Watch free summer movies across the city

What’s better than your favorite movies playing across the city? These movies that are free — all summer long. At outdoorsy venues from Bryant Park to Prospect Park, and with showings like Encanto and Spider-Man, there’s something for everyone. Brooklyn Bridge Park is separately hosting their own summer movie series, “Movies With a VIew,” on the Harbor View Lawn. 

Where: Varies

Hours: Varies

For more information on free summer movies and Brooklyn Bridge Park's “Movies With a View.”

Eat fresh tacos at Domino Park

Visit Williambsurb’s new Domino Park and head over to Tacocina, a local taco stand. Savor some tacos, margaritas, and more in a chill atmosphere overlooking the city and the East River. Plus, there’s happy hour, with $5 Modelos and hard seltzers, $8 margs, and $5 chips and guac every Wednesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: 25 River St

Hours: Sunday, Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

For more information on Tacocina.

Eat a Nathan’s Hot Dog on Coney Island

It’s Nathan’s Famous for a reason. And what better backdrop than the whimsical atmosphere at Coney Island? This pairing goes together like ketchup and mustard.

Where: 1205 Boardwalk W

Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. 

For more information on Nathan’s Hot Dogs.

Sip a cocktail and bask in the sun at Island Oyster

This outing is running on island time. Located on Governors Island, this one-of-a-kind summer destination features a tropical menu, cocktails that taste like summer, and 360 views of New York Harbor and downtown Manhattan. 

Where: To get to this sunny spot from Manhattan, navigate to Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street. The building is just to the northeast of the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. Walk inside, purchase a $2 ferry ticket, and the staff will direct you to board the ferry.

Hours: Ferries depart starting at 10 a.m. and run on the hour during the week and every half hour on weekends.

For more information on Island Oyster.