Summer in the city is quickly approaching, and we're here to tell you to start planning early! With all of the incredible events and activities happening around New York this summer, you’re going to need every weekend possible to make sure you don’t miss anything.

From days at the pool and on the water to summer street festivals and outdoor concerts, here’s everything you should add to your 2023 summer bucket list.

 

The Ultimate Guide to Summer in New York

Shop Local at Union Square's Green 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 locally-grown and unique produce you can't find in grocery stores. Union Square also hosts Summer in the Square with family activities, live jazz, and special events all summer long.

Where: Union Square W &, E 17th St, New York, NY
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Join the Party at New York's Taco & Tequila Festival

Honestly, you had us at tacos with this one, but the drinks, live music, and games don't hurt. This is not just a tasting event but a full-blown experience where you can sip your way through various flavors of margaritas and sample small-batch tequilas alongside some of the best tacos the city has to offer. The all-day extravaganza takes place at BK Backyard on June 15.

Where: BK Backyard Bar: 83 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
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Explore Hell Gate Path on Randall's Island

Have you heard of Hell Gate Path? Located on Randall's Island, this unique bike and pedestrian path threads its way beneath the Amtrak trestle that runs the length of the Eastern shore. Grab your bike or comfiest walking shoes and spend an afternoon exploring the path, which takes you through shady wooded areas, flowering meadows, ballparks, wetlands, and, of course, the impressive arches supporting the tracks overhead. You can also stop and take in views of the Queensboro and Hellgate Bridges, along with New York's scenic waterfront and skyline.

Where: 1 Randalls Island, New York, NY
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Celebrate NYC Pride

Show your colors at NYC Pride! Hit the streets of New York for the historic and annual Pride March on June 30. Throughout Pride Month and Pride Weekend, other celebratory events will also take place, including TEAZE: A Queer Party Experience on June 22 and Youth Pride on June 29.

Where: The Pride March begins at 25th Street and 5th Avenue
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Party at the July 4th Waterfront Block Party

Celebrate Independence Day in style at the 4th of July Waterfront Block Party, an event that guarantees an unforgettable summer night! Enjoy mouth-watering food, live music from ARIZONA and Matoma, and thrilling games—all culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over the water and city skyline.

Where: Skyline Drive-In NYC: 1 Oak St, Brooklyn, NY
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Watch Rooftop Movies With Wine

Spend Wednesday nights watching outdoor movies with rooftop views and a glass of red, white, or rosé. Wine Wednesdays are back at Rooftop Cinema Club with a lineup of favorite flicks like Dumb and Dumber, The Hangover, and All Of Us Strangers. Get yourself a lounge chair, put on your headphones, and settle in for immersive summer movie nights under the stars with your complimentary glass of wine!

Where: Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown: 60 West 37th Street, New York, NY
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Attend a Themed Boat Party

Dance the day away to top-notch live music and DJ sets while sipping on crisp rosé and cruising around the city. This event offers a variety of themes, from Y2k to Christmas in July! No matter your vibe, there’s a boat party for everyone.

Where: Skyport Marina, 2430 FDR Dr, New York, NY
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Have a Pool Day

For days when it's just too hot to enjoy a meal outside or a nice walk in the park, take things poolside. There’s no shortage of places to cool off when it gets a little too warm in the city. From free public pools to swanky rooftop beach clubs, we’ve put together the ultimate list of spots to relax by the pool this summer in NYC.

Where: Various locations.
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Visit Coney Island and Grab a Nathan's Hot Dog

It’s not summer without a trip to Coney Island, and it's not a true trip to Coney Island without stopping by Nathan’s Famous. Grab a bite and spend the day riding coasters, winning prizes, and splashing in the water. This pairing goes together like ketchup and mustard. 

Where: 1205 Riegelmann Boardwalk, 1205 Riegelmann Boardwalk, Brooklyn, NY
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Take a Yoga Class in Central Park’s Sheep Meadow

TBA

Where: 1802 65th Street Transverse, New York, NY 10065
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Plan the Perfect Beach Day at Rockaway Beach

You might not think of NYC as a beach town, but Rockaway may convince you otherwise. Start by grabbing a bite at Rockaway Beach Bakery (don't miss the Smoked Salmon Croissantwich) before heading to the water. If you're there to surf, hit 67th Street, which offers more space and fewer crowds. For a true beach day experience—lounging, boardwalk shopping, beach bars, and concessions—find a spot on the sand between 90th and 98th Street. The beach opens for swimming on Memorial Day weekend!

Pro tip: Take the ferry there instead of the A train for a picturesque journey—and an early one to beat the crowds.

Where: Beach 3 St. to Beach 153 St. and Boardwalk to Atlantic Ocean, Queens, NY
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Pack a Picnic and Catch a Free Outdoor Concert

So what if the cost of living in NYC is three times more expensive than in the rest of the country? We make up for it with all the free summer concerts. Catch jazz, Broadway, live DJ sets, and more throughout the city this summer—all for free. From Bryant Park to Little Island, you can grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in for an evening of music.

Where: Various locations.
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Take an Adventurous (Or Chill) River Trip

Escape the city and explore the outdoors for a more active day out. Sourced Adventures offers tubing, rafting, and kayaking trips on the Delaware River all summer long, with transportation to and from the river included. Whether you want a fast-paced day navigating the white water rapids or a leisurely paddle that ends with a winery tour, there's something for everyone.

Where: The first pickup location is at 85 Delancey St, and the second is at West 45th & 11th Ave in Manhattan
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Catch a Yankees Game

Attending a Yankees Game is a classic summer bucket list experience. Cold beer, a Nathan's Famous hot dog, and Aaron Judge? That's what we call a win-win-win situation. Even if baseball isn't typically your jam, the energy at Yankee Stadium is always a good time—nothing makes you feel more like a real New Yorker than singing Frank Sinatra's 'New York, New York' with 46,000 fans.

Where: 1 E 161 St Bronx, NY
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Take an Oyster Shucking Class

Become an oyster aficionado and break out your new party trick after taking this oyster-shucking class. Instructors will provide a hands-on demonstration, taking participants through a journey of shucking, tasting, and pairing four types of oysters to learn about the various flavors and textures of each. Enjoy wine pairings along the way, and take home the skills and tools you need to prepare a platter of oysters on the half shell at home.

Where: Seamore’s Market Bar & Restaurant: West 52nd Street, New York, NY
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Fire Up the Grill at Brooklyn Bridge Park

The backyard BBQs of suburbia have nothing on Brooklyn Bridge Park's Pier 5 Picnic Peninsula. Set up camp under an umbrella along the riverfront, or snag a grill and cook up a storm as you take in the city views. The BBQs are first come, first served and are open until 10 pm. There's also a "beach" and an OddFellows Ice Cream shop nearby when you’re ready to enjoy something sweet after your meal.

Where: Pier 5, Brooklyn Bridge Park Greenway, Brooklyn, NY
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Take a Private Sunset Sail Around NYC

A sunset sail in New York Harbor on a warm summer night is the stuff dreams are made of. Book a two or three-hour cruise for up to six people, and bring your own snacks, drinks, or dinner on board. Perfect for special occasions, wowing out-of-towners, and small gatherings with your closest crew, you'll enjoy close encounters with the Statue of Liberty and, of course, amazing sunset views of the city. Ice and water bottles are provided on board.

Where: Pier 25, 10013 New York, NY
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Cool Off with a New Flavor at the Viral Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

Try some of the most delicious and unusual ice cream flavors you’ve ever had at this Instagram-worthy spot beloved by New Yorkers and celebs alike. With flavors like banana durian, lychee rose, and black sesame, you’ll need a few trips to try them all. They even have special toppings, like boba!

Where: 65 Bayard St, New York, NY (additional locations in Queens and LES)
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Tour Long Island Wineries

Take a quick jaunt out to the North Fork of Long Island and spend a few hours sipping wine and taking in the serene landscapes. This day tour lets you sample the finest vintages at three carefully picked vineyards on the North Fork. You’ll enjoy round-trip transportation from Manhattan, a hearty picnic lunch, and a friendly SA guide to walk you through the day.

Where: Pickup at 85 Delancey St on the Lower East Side
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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-degree views of New York Harbor and downtown Manhattan.

Where: Head to Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street, just northeast of the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. Walk inside, purchase a $2 ferry ticket, and the staff will direct you to board the ferry.
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See a Summer Concert

Few things are better than spending a summer night jamming out to your favorite music with your friends and a stadium full of concertgoers. So many great shows are coming to the Tri-State area this season, from Alanis Morrissette to Counting Crows and Modest Mouse to Thirty Seconds to Mars. Psst...you can find seriously discounted tickets here.

Where: Various locations.
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Taste Different Rums at New York's Rum Fest

Immerse yourself in the spirited world of rum on June 8 at the highly anticipated New York Rum Festival! Sample some of the best rums from around the globe, enjoy a masterclass led by industry experts, and savor some incredible food pairings while learning about the rich history, flavors, and techniques that make rum so special.

Where: Metropolitan Pavilion: 125 W 18th St, New York, NY
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