Things to Do in NYC in Summer

New York City is beautiful all year-round but when the sunshine hits the streets, the city comes alive. There are dozens of free events, fun festivals, and exciting attractions for the whole family to enjoy, you’ll never want to leave. If you’re planning a visit and looking for things to do in NYC in summer, check out our list of the top attractions and activities going on this year, including...

• Central Park
• American Museum of Natural History
• Museum of Modern Art
• Landmarks Cruise
• The Met
• Clipper City Tall Ship
• Brooklyn Bridge Tours
• Brooklyn Botanic Garden
• Food Tours

Heading to the area to celebrate Independence Day? Then check out our post on things to do in NYC 4th of July Weekend. You should come back towards the end of summer too - if you do, here are some things to do in New York Labor Day Weekend.

Explore Central Park

One of the nation’s most beloved urban parks, Central Park is considered by many the true the heart of Manhattan. It spans almost 850 acres and is filled with everything from picnic spots and baseball diamonds to works of art. It's also home to attractions like the Central Park Carousel in the Victorian Gardens, skating rinks, and more. Be sure to check out the famous Ramble or spend an afternoon sitting by the lake.

A delightful way to spend a warm summer day is by going on a bike ride through Central Park. With this full day’s bike rental, you can customize your own day of sightseeing without the hassle of needing a rental car or having to sprint to catch a cab. Hit the paths of Central Park, head to the world-famous Museum Mile, or simply ride wherever your heart desires!

Alternatively, a walking tour is a great option for those looking for a more leisurely experience of the city's famous park. Learn all about Central Park and it's history as you take a stroll around the landmarks such as Bethesda Fountain and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir with a knowledgable guide.

American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History, conveniently located adjacent to Central Park, is a family favorite. This museum is most famous for its huge collections of dinosaur fossils and striking gemstones, the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, and the Hayden Sphere.

They also have a number of special programs and rotating exhibitions that run during the summer months, so be sure to add it to your New York City itinerary!

Museum of Modern Art

Fans who prefer contemporary to classical will love the MoMA. This world-famous modern art museum has often been estimated to be the greatest collection of modern art in the world. This is certainly a must-visit for museum and art lovers looking for things to do in NYC in the summer.

Some of the top artists and works of art you’ll see in their collections span the gamut from Picasso to Pollack, including Warhol’s Soup Cans, Van Gogh’s Starry Night, and more. They've also got a few special exhibits running over summer, featuring everything from painting to photography and sculpture.

Landmarks Cruise

One of the best ways to explore NYC's most significant sites is with a cruise. Manhattan is, after all, an island! Hop aboard a Landmarks Cruise to showcase all the best highlights of the New York skyline. Get a great view (and those all-important photos) of sights like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, Battery Park, Wall Street, and many, many more.

This amazing sightseeing cruise will also take you under a number of bridges and within 100 feet of Lady Liberty for those perfect snapshots. Plus, you will experience panoramic views of both upper and lower Manhattan.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met is among the best art museums in the world, and for good reason. This top tier museum has some of the most extensive collections of art and artifacts in the world, numbering more than 2 million distinct items. Highlights of The Met collections include their Ancient Egypt wing, their collection of artifacts from classical antiquity, plus paintings and sculptures from all the biggest European masters.

Clipper City Tall Ship Sail

Another fun way to explore NYC waterways is which a charming historic cruise. For history buffs and especially boating aficionados, the chance to set sail on the 120-foot Clipper City Tall Ship is a real treat.

Work on your summertime glow as you soak up the sun and enjoy a complimentary drink while you take in this bustling city from a maritime vantage point. Sit back and enjoy your journey into the waters off Manhattan, and return refreshed by the sea air and relaxed by the intimate experience.

Brooklyn Bridge Tour

Although there are dozens of tours you can choose from – including TV or movie-themed tours, food tours, and cultural heritage tours – the Brooklyn Bridge walking tour is one of our favorites. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and into the trendy DUMBO neighborhood for great views and fun shopping and dining opportunities.

Another fun way to explore this neighborhood is on two wheels. Hire a bike and cruise over the famous Brooklyn Bridge; you'll defiinitely want to stop for some snaps on the way over!

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

If you love the great outdoors but prefer the feel of a cultivated garden, then you’ll delight in a visit to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Be sure to check out the "Plants in Bloom" section of their website before your visit; it will highlight the plants that are at their finest so you know what to look out for.

This gorgeous collection of flora is also conveniently located next to the prestigious Brooklyn Museum, which features fascinating and inspiring exhibits from around the globe. Combine visits to both into one educational day!

Another fun option if you love nature and botanical gardens is the New York Botanical Garden, nestled in the Bronx.

NYC Food Tours

Many people -- and certainly New Yorkers themselves -- think that NYC cuisine is among the best in the world. With its diversity of culinary experiences and cultural offerings, there's so much to taste. It's nearly impossible to get a sense of NYC's real dining scene on your own.

That's why a guided Food on Foot Tour is a fun idea! It allows you to sample a wide variety of New York delights, with a focus on cuisine, neighborhood, or type of meal. Try the World Famous Sweet Tooth Tour, get your fix on the Ice Cream You Scream, join the Midtown Mix away from the typical tourist haunts or take part in the East Village Variety with six delicious stops. There are so many options!

Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival

This event is an annual showcase of current hip-hop artists plus artists who have influenced the genre. You’ll also find fun family activities, a film festival, hip-hop exhibition, informative lectures, and food and clothing vendors.

Don't miss the "Brooklyn's Finest" gallery. It showcases artwork inspired by legendary Brooklyn-based artists including the one and only Biggie Smalls.

SummerStage Concert Series

For over 30 years, this prestigious free concert series has featured a diversity of performances from theatrical shows to musical performances from hip-hop to opera to folk and everything in between. Events are rain or shine, so don’t forget to bring a blanket or umbrella.

Held each year in Central Park since 1986, SummerStage is an arts and culture festival for locals and visitors alike. The festival was designed to serve as a public resource to enrich the lives of New Yorkers. Today it continues to be a great summer activity for New Yorkers of all ages.

Save on Summertime Activities

There you go. A few things to do in NYC in the summer, including some special events, and other seasonal activities in June, July, August, and September.

Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available with a pass for New York by Go City®. Choose as you go from popular attractions and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate – click here to find out more.