Summer is coming to a close in NYC, and we’ve got all the ideas you need to make the most of the season's end over the long weekend. 

Whether you’re out of time to plan a trip away by the first weekend of September, or just want to stay comfortably local—*thank you very much*—these adventures are all right in our own backyard. 

From newly-opened rooftops, can’t miss festivals and sidewalk fairs, and all the wonderful ways to spend the weekend on the water, as well—read on: 

Grab Your Single-Day Ticket to Pinknic

Pinknic is BACK after a year away, with two days of their spectacular food garden, flowing rosé (and frosé), plus world-class DJs and bands to frolic between. They’ll transform all of Governors Island into a pink-and-white playground—flamingo-floatie filled pool included. Our Bucket List readers also get a special summer offer: $20 off single day tickets—available for a limited time! 

Where: Governors Island
When: September 4-5 (Sat and Sunday). Doors open at 12 PM, last performance ends at 10 PM
Tickets: $99 per person (originally $119)
GA Tickets include: Access to food garden and to well-stocked cocktail gardens, activities throughout festival grounds, Pinknic wine glass and Pinknic Blanket (one per person each) and boat transfer to and from Manhattan.

Purchase discounted tickets to PINKNIC. 

Attend the Open Air Saturdays Rooftop Party

Head to The DL's tropical rooftop for Project 91’s Open Air Saturdays Rooftop Day Party! The event boasts a special guest DJ, a ticketed guest list, and a retractable rooftop covering—to keep you comfortable no matter the weather. 

When: Saturday, September 4thh, 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: 95 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002

Purchase tickets to Project 91 Rooftop Party.

Spend a Day on the Water

We’re pretty sure boat days on the Hudson were made for Labor day weekend. Kayak, speedboat, sail or split a private charter to take in the epic views of Downtown Manhattan, the Freedom Tower, Statue of Liberty and more. With so many aquatic options to choose from, we’ve rounded up 12 of the most bucket list-worthy water activities to experience for your labor day weekend. (Pst: don’t skip the boozy yacht cruise for 2+ serving Champagne brunch). 

Read more about the 12 best boating experiences in NYC. 

Take a Day Trip Out of the City

Okay, but if you are trying to get some respite from our beloved concrete jungle, there’s plenty of nature-infused, fresh-air filled activities only a day trip away. From whitewater rafting to white wine tasting, we’ve rounded up seven of our favorite day trip adventures to help you escape the city this summer.

Read about our favorite day trips from NYC.

Check out the New Rooftop Bar on Roosevelt Island

Credit: Graduate Hotels

Back to the must-see local adventures: check out the brand new Panorama Room on top of the Graduate Hotel on Roosevelt Island. The lux spot has a breathtaking 360-degree view of Manhattan, and you can enjoy small bites from their raw bar, fresh pastas, and an impressive array of cocktails like lychee and espresso martinis. Reservations just opened last week (8/13). 

Where: 22 N Loop Rd New York, NY 10044
When: Open Thursday—Sun, Thursday: 5 PM - 12 AM, Friday 5 PM - 2 AM, Saturday 3 PM-2 AM, and Sunday 3 PM - 12 AM. 

For more information on Panorama Room.

Spend the Day at Coney Island

The classic boardwalk is back for spins on the Wonder Wheel, basking on 3 miles of sunny beach, and trying every IPA, pilsner and amazingly themed beer at the expansive Coney Island Brewery. There’s honestly so much to do, we’ve compiled a list of the best activities for the perfect day in Coney Island.

Find more fun activities in Coney Island.

Staycation at an Island Resort in Times Square

Credit: Margaritaville Resort

Why go far for island paradise when there’s a brand new oasis in the middle of Times Square?! Nope, this is not a drill: you can now grab a frozen margarita in an outdoor heated (!) pool, and cheers to their giant replica of Lady Liberty holding a margarita herself.

Where: 560 Seventh Avenue New York, NY 10018

For more information on the new Margaritaville Resort.

Riis Park Beach Bazaar

Credit: Riis Park Beach Bazaar

Speaking of local beachy escapades, we highly suggest getting your sun and surf fix near Riis Park Beach Bazaar! Home to live music, lobster boils, ice cream, fire pits, and spectacular ocean views—all at once. 

Where: 16702 Rockaway Beach Blvd. Rockaway Park, NY 11694
When: Open 12pm M-F and 11pm Sat & Sun

Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit

Credit: WSOAE

Located in the heart of Greenwich Village (not Washington Sq. Park, ironically), is a sparkling event showcasing fine artists and craft artisans from all around New York and beyond! All ages and styles are welcome—there’s something for all! 

When: Labor Day Weekend Sept. 4-6 and Sept. 11 and 12; Noon - 6 PM every show day
Where: Starting at East 13th Street and continuing South along the east side of Washington Square Park to West 3rd Street.