10 Unforgettable Things to Do in New York City in Summer

Let’s discover together the best things to do in New York City in summer, from iconic parks and hidden gems to must-attend events and local favorites. This is an authentic local’s guide to enjoying some summer fun in NYC, with insider tips and unforgettable experiences!

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Here you will find at a glance my favorite activities, tours, hotels and more.
Everything you will need to make this unforgettable!

Top Activities and Tours in NYC:
1. New York Summit One Vanderbilt Experience
2. 9/11 Memorial and Museum
3. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
4. American Museum of Natural History
5. New York CityPass
6. Downtown and Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise

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Our Favorite Hotels in NYC:
1. The Ritz Carlton
2. The Knickerbocker
3. 1Hotel Central Park
4. Lotte New York Palace
5. Pod 39

Summer in New York City is like no other. From sunny days in Central Park to quirky parades and hidden gardens, the city comes alive with energy and excitement. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to do in New York City in summer—whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor. Get ready for insider tips, fun activities, and a few hidden gems to make your NYC summer unforgettable!

If you’ve ever visited New York City in the summer, you know that there’s something truly magical about the Big Apple. The streets buzz with life, and the skyline glimmers under the sun’s warm embrace. It’s like the city itself comes alive, pulling you in with its energy, charm, and endless possibilities.

Now, imagine seeing it through the eyes of someone who doesn’t just visit, but calls the city a second home. I’m Dany, and while I live in Naples, Italy, half of my family lives in the heart of Brooklyn. 

My husband Aldo and I visit as often as we can—mainly to catch up with family, but also to uncover more of what makes this city so fascinating. 

I grew up with the hustle and bustle of New York in my veins, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t made my share of first-time traveler mistakes in NYC.
Trust me, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind and miss the hidden gems or not quite figure out the best way to navigate the city’s vastness!

This is where we come in.
Whether you’re visiting New York City in summer for the first time or you’ve been here before, we’re here to help guide you through the city’s summer adventures, avoid the rookie mistakes, and show you how to experience NYC like a local.

New York City in the summer is in fact a different world from the other seasons.
It’s a time when the sidewalks hum with excitement, and everything feels open and free. 

There’s so much to explore, from famous landmarks to quiet streets and hidden gems tucked away in every borough. I like to do so with my NYC Taylor Swift playlist: I confess I can’t help myself!

In this guide, we’ll be your trusted companion to navigate it all, making sure your summer trip to NYC is packed with the best experiences, just like the ones Aldo and I have discovered over the years.
And yes, before you ask. I’m going to offer all the tips straight from the mouth of Zio Carmine, proud Neapolitan-American!

What to Expect from NYC’s Summer Weather: A First-Timer’s Guide

New York City in the summer.
It sounds like a dream trip, right? 

The sun, the outdoor festivals, the crowded streets filled with people enjoying ice cream cones and grabbing drinks at outdoor patios.
But let me tell you—on our very first trip to the city during the summer, Aldo and I quickly learned that NYC summer is a beast of its own.

Coming from Naples, Italy, where summers can get pretty toasty, we assumed we’d handle it like pros.
After all, Naples is known for its scorching heat, and we were used to sweating under the Mediterranean sun.
We thought the NYC summer would feel just like home, but boy, were we wrong.

Typical Weather Patterns

What we weren’t prepared for was the humidity.
NYC in the summer isn’t just hot; it’s sticky.
The kind of sticky that makes you question why you ever left the comfort of your air-conditioned hotel room. 

On our first trip, we ended up drenched in sweat the minute we stepped outside, with our clothes clinging to our skin.
The heat was intense, but the heavy humidity made it feel even worse.
It was a total shock.

We quickly learned that NYC summers can be unpredictable.
One minute it’s sunny, and the next minute, a heatwave hits or you’re caught in an afternoon rainstorm. 

The temperatures in the summer range from the mid-70s°F to mid-80s°F (24-29°C), but with humidity, it can often feel much hotter.
You’ll also notice that the heat gets trapped by all the buildings—making some areas feel like an urban sauna.

What to Expect

When you’re preparing for your NYC summer trip, don’t just focus on the temperature.
It’s important to be ready for that heavy humidity, which often makes the air feel thick and thick enough to cut through. 

The city’s concrete streets absorb the heat, creating a heat island effect.
So, while Naples is hot, NYC summer is a whole different experience.
And trust me, you’ll want to be prepared.

Luckily, after that first trip, we figured it out.
We swapped out our usual summer clothing for breathable, light fabrics that would allow our skin to breathe. Knowing what to pack for a summer NYC trip is essential.

We also started carrying insulated water bottles everywhere (staying hydrated is key!).
Most importantly, we made sure to plan our outdoor activities for the morning or evening, when the temperatures are more manageable, and we could enjoy the city without feeling completely drained. 

On our second trip, we were able to handle the NYC summer heat with a little more grace and a lot more sunscreen.
It was a complete turnaround—still hot, but much more enjoyable because we knew what to expect.

By the way, Aldo and I have so much fun planning for our NYC summer trips that we even coordinate matching outfits for each visit! 

Whether it’s comfy sneakers for all the walking or light, airy fabrics to combat the humidity, we’ve got it down to a science now.
And honestly, it adds a whole new layer of excitement to the trip! 

If you’re a fan of fashion or just love the idea of coordinating outfits, you can check out my article on matching outfits for NYC trips to get some inspiration for your own travel wardrobe.

Must-Do Experiences for your Summer Itinerary

New York City in summer is like stepping into a whirlwind of activities, each day offering something new. 

Whether you’re wandering through parks, getting lost in quirky neighborhoods, or discovering art in the most unexpected places, summer in NYC is a playground for every type of traveler.

Here are a few of our favorite ways to experience the magic of New York summer.

Stroll Through Iconic Parks

One of the absolute best ways to enjoy summer fun in NYC is by spending time in its iconic parks, and trust me, Central Park is my all-time favorite. 

I always say, if there’s one place that truly captures the essence of New York in the summer, it’s this massive, green oasis right in the middle of Manhattan. 

There’s nothing better than grabbing a towel, spreading it out on the grass, and enjoying a picnic while people-watchers pass by, or even reading a book while surrounded by the city’s hum. It’s also one of our all times favorite NYC activities in spring!

Every time Aldo and I are in the city, we make it a point to visit Central Park.
There’s so much to do—whether it’s renting bikes to explore the park’s winding paths, taking a boat out on the lake, or just kicking back under a tree. 

I particularly love the areas near Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge. The vibe here is relaxing yet lively, and the park itself feels like a world away from the chaos of the city.

Beyond Central Park, another must-see park for me is Hudson River Park, stretching along Manhattan’s west side.
It offers stunning views of the Hudson River, tons of outdoor activities, and beautiful spots to just chill and soak in the summer vibes.

Explore Diverse Neighborhoods

When you think about things to do in NYC in summer, don’t forget about the vibrant neighborhoods that give the city its unique charm.
For me, living in Naples but visiting my family in Brooklyn means I get to explore parts of the city that are often overlooked by tourists. And that’s where you’ll find some of the real magic.

One place my family makes sure to show me is Bushwick.
Zio Carmine, my uncle, is a proud Brooklynite, and he loves taking us around to discover all the hidden gems in this neighborhood. Including places like Dyker Heights (which is almost unknown in Italy where we live), when we visit NYC for Christmas.

Whether it’s the street art murals that turn every corner into an open-air gallery or the hip spots for quintessential NYC street food and drinks, there’s a true local energy to Bushwick that you won’t find in the more touristy parts of the city. 

My advice: take your time wandering the streets, pop into local cafes, and just let yourself get lost in the vibe. 

You might be surprised by what you find—like vintage shops tucked away on quiet side streets or small art studios hosting pop-up exhibits.
Never a dull moment, I swear!

Brooklyn is full of these kinds of places, and what I love most is that every neighborhood feels like a new discovery, with its own story to tell.
From the brownstones of Park Slope to the trendy spots in Williamsburg, there’s always something exciting happening!

Experience the Subway’s Art Scene

I won’t lie—on our first trip to New York, the subway system felt like a foreign maze, and we got lost more times than I can count. 

We had no idea which train to take, where to switch, or even how to make sense of all the maps and signs.
At first, it felt overwhelming, and we spent hours figuring out the system, navigating the city like a pair of confused tourists.

But here’s the thing: once you understand the subway, it becomes your best friend.
Getting around NYC in the summer becomes so much easier. 

The subway is the quickest way to hop from one end of the city to the other, and after a couple of trips, we felt like pros. 

It’s almost like the subway is an art gallery in itself.
Did you know that the NYC subway system houses over 400 pieces of permanent public art? From mosaics to sculptures, you’ll discover stunning works of art while waiting for your train, which really gives you a unique cultural experience.
Plus, navigating it gets easier with every trip, and soon enough, you’ll feel like a local.

The closest thing that came to our mind, being proud Neapolitans, is the new Art Metro line in Naples (Italy). Art offered to citizens and tourists alike, inside the metro stations.
It’s amazing, let me tell you!

So, don’t let the subway intimidate you!
It’s one of the best ways to get around and unlock hidden corners of NYC you wouldn’t be able to reach otherwise.
Plus, it’s totally part of the summer itinerary for New York City.
Just grab a metro card, hop on the train, and let the subway take you to new adventures across the five boroughs.

Discovering NYC’s Best-Kept Secrets

New York City in summer is full of well-known attractions, but if you really want to get a taste of the city’s soul, you have to go off the beaten path. 

There are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered, tucked away in quieter corners of the city, offering a peaceful escape from the usual crowds.
Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, these spots will give you a unique view of NYC and make your summer itinerary even more special.

Elizabeth Street Garden

As someone who’s deeply passionate about gardening (thanks to my Zia Gianna, who passed on her love of plants), I can’t resist spending time in Elizabeth Street Garden in Nolita. 

It’s one of those NYC hidden gems that feels like it was made just for people who need a break from the city’s bustling streets.
Unlike the usual tourist-heavy parks, this garden feels like a well-kept secret.

The moment you step through the gates, you’re greeted by a peaceful oasis filled with flowers, sculptures, and greenery.
It’s a spot that feels far removed from the concrete jungle, with a calming atmosphere that invites you to relax, take a deep breath, and just enjoy the beauty of nature. 

The garden is run by volunteers, who keep it open year-round and host educational events on gardening and sustainability.
I’ve attended a few myself, and they’re always fascinating. Perfect for anyone interested in learning more about the environment while spending time outdoors.

It’s also one of the places not too far from the family house in Brooklyn that we go to when we want to enjoy one of the yummy NYC foodie treats we don’t find in Italy.

Sadly, the city has decided to take down this beloved garden, and the local community is fighting to save it. 

As of mid-2025, the legal team is still working hard on a case to preserve it, but nothing is set in stone yet.
I truly hope that the mayor will listen to the people who love and appreciate this space, because it’s such a peaceful haven in a city that often feels too fast-paced. 

If you’re in Nolita during your visit, make sure to check it out and enjoy its beauty while you can.
Fingers crossed it stays!

Note: if you want to be updated on how it goes, check out the official Elizabeth Street Garden website!

Socrates Sculpture Park

Another hidden gem that should be on your NYC summer bucket list is Socrates Sculpture Park in Astoria, Queens. 

This place is so unique, blending nature and art in a way that feels both unexpected and inspiring.
The park is an open-air museum, filled with rotating sculptures and multimedia installations that are constantly changing, keeping things fresh and exciting for repeat visitors.

The first time Aldo and I visited, we had no idea what to expect, but we were blown away by the creativity on display. 

The park itself is beautiful—overlooking the East River with a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline. 

The best part?
It’s not just a place to admire art—it’s a space where visitors can engage with it, whether through public programs, workshops, or community events. 

We wandered around the park for hours, getting lost in all the different pieces of art, and it felt like a moment of connection between the city, its artists, and its residents.

Socrates Sculpture Park is a little off the beaten path, so it’s not as crowded as some of the other spots in the city, which is why it makes for the perfect summer afternoon escape. 

Plus, it’s totally free, so you can spend the day here without worrying about a thing.
If you’re looking to experience a part of NYC that’s more grounded in local culture and creativity, Socrates Sculpture Park is a must-see. 

Can’t-Miss Summer Events in NYC

Summer in New York City isn’t just about the sunshine and the skyline.
It’s also about the incredible events that fill the city with even more energy.
Whether it’s a quirky parade or a cultural celebration, there’s something happening every week. 

Here are a few of the most exciting events that make summer in NYC so special.
Which are also the ones we loved the most!

Summer Streets

One of the most unique summer events in NYC is Summer Streets, where New York City transforms its busiest streets into car-free zones for pedestrians, cyclists, and runners. Imagine taking a leisurely bike ride down Park Avenue or strolling through streets that are usually packed with traffic—only this time, they’re all yours to enjoy.

I remember our first experience with Summer Streets.
Aldo and I rented bikes and took full advantage of the open streets. 

Pedaling down the wide avenues, we felt the city’s rhythm in a way we never had before.
It’s a great way to see parts of the city from a fresh perspective, and the event is packed with free activities, performances, and wellness classes at various rest stops. 

The best part? You don’t have to worry about traffic. It’s just you, the open road, and a whole lot of fun.

In 2025, Summer Streets should take place on the first three Saturdays of August—August 6, 13, and 20, between 7am and 3pm.

As soon as the official dates drop, I’ll let you know by updating this article!

Coney Island Mermaid Parade

If there’s one event that truly captures the spirit of summer in NYC, it’s the Coney Island Mermaid Parade.
This vibrant parade is a visual feast of mermaids, sea creatures, and all things fantastical, as people march down Surf Avenue to welcome the start of summer. 

The Mermaid Parade has become an iconic part of NYC’s summer scene, and my family never misses it.

Zio Carmine, who’s absolutely in love with Coney Island, considers the Mermaid Parade the peak of NYC’s summer events.
He fondly recalls taking my parents to Coney Island during their honeymoon more than 40 years ago. 

Back then, they couldn’t attend the parade, so when we visited again, we decided to bring the parade home with us. We bought an assortment of mermaid-themed NYC souvenirs. Everything from sparkly trinkets to fun, ocean-inspired goodies. And we made sure to bring them back for my parents so they could feel like part of the celebration.

The 43rd Annual Mermaid Parade in 2025 will be held on June 21st. If you’re lucky enough to be in town, this event is an unforgettable experience, full of creativity, community, and pure joy.

Jazz Age Lawn Party

For a taste of the Roaring Twenties, there’s no better event than the Jazz Age Lawn Party on Governors Island.
This event transports you back in time, with live jazz music, Charleston dance lessons, and vintage outfits galore.
It’s a celebration of all things 1920s, with a modern twist and gosh. It’s so much fun!

When Aldo and I attended the Jazz Age Lawn Party last summer, we went all out with our vintage outfits. 

There’s something magical about seeing everyone dressed to the nines, swaying to live jazz under the warm sun.
The event features everything from picnic games to classic cocktails, and the atmosphere is filled with an infectious energy that makes you want to dance and celebrate all day long.

In 2025, the Jazz Age Lawn Party will take place on June 14-15 and again on August 9-10, from 11am to 5pm.
It’s an absolute must for anyone who loves music, fashion, or just wants to experience a unique slice of history.

Why Summer in NYC is Always a Good Idea

There’s something undeniably magical about New York City in summer. The energy shifts, the city bursts into color, and suddenly, everything feels a little bit brighter. Whether you’re catching a free outdoor concert in Central Park, sipping a cold drink at a rooftop bar, or getting lost in a quirky neighborhood, the city becomes a playground full of endless possibilities.

Aldo and I have been lucky enough to visit NYC during the summer more than once, and with every trip, we’ve discovered something new. 

The first time we visited, we were overwhelmed by the heat, the crowds, and the endless options of things to do.
We made mistakes, got lost, and learned a lot about what works (and what doesn’t) in the city. 

But as time went on, we started to figure it out.
We found our favorite spots, learned how to escape the crowds, and really began to embrace what makes NYC in the summer so special.

For us, it’s all about finding balance.
It’s about getting up early to explore the quiet beauty of the city before the crowds arrive, and it’s about giving in to the joy of spontaneous moments. Like eating NYC pizza in the park, or wandering through a hidden garden in Nolita. 

New York has this way of making you feel both part of something big (huge, even) and also perfectly at home in its quieter corners.

Whether you’re soaking in the buzz of summer fun in NYC with its packed events or relaxing in a hidden garden, there’s no wrong way to experience the city. 

The key is to let yourself get swept up in the energy of it all, while also taking those moments to breathe and truly enjoy what makes this city unique.

So, the next time you find yourself in the Big Apple during the summer, let yourself embrace all of it—the big, the small, the overwhelming, and the peaceful.
Trust me, the memories you make will stick with you long after you leave, and you’ll probably start planning your next visit before you even get back home. 

After all, NYC is a place where summer is always just a little bit more exciting, a little bit more full of life, and a whole lot more unforgettable!

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