Things To Do in New York City During Summer 2025
New York City during the summer is a vibrant, bustling playground filled with endless activities, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, there’s always something new to explore. From iconic landmarks, outdoor festivals, rooftop dining, and waterfront entertainment, there are a plethora of things to do.
If you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, summer in NYC offers something for every pace and preference. Here’s a curated list of the best things to do in New York City during the summer of 2025:
Enjoy New York City During Summer
1. Stroll Through Central Park
Central Park is the heart of New York City, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy its lush greenery. Rent a bike, have a picnic by Bethesda Terrace, or paddle boat on The Lake. Don’t miss the Shakespeare in the Park performances at the Delacorte Theater—it’s a beloved NYC tradition.
- Location: 59th Street to 110th Street, between Fifth Avenue and Central Park West, NY
- Hours: Open daily, 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Phone: (212) 310-6600
- Email: info@centralparknyc.org
- Website: centralparknyc.org
- Price: Free (some activities may require tickets)
- Must-Try: Rowboat rental at Loeb Boathouse
2. Walk The High Line
This elevated park, built on a former railway track, offers stunning views of the city and the Hudson River. The High Line is lined with art installations, gardens, and food vendors. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or a quick snack break.
- Address: Gansevoort St. to 34th St., New York, NY 10011
- Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Phone: (212) 500-6035
- Email: info@thehighline.org
- Website: thehighline.org
- Price: Free
- Must-Try: Seasonal food vendors along the park
3. Explore The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Beat the summer heat by spending an afternoon at The Met. With over 2 million works of art, you can easily lose yourself in its galleries. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop garden for a drink and a view of the Manhattan skyline.
- Metropolitan Museum of Art: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
- Hours: Thurs. to Sat.: 10am – 5pm; Sun. to Tues.: 10am – 5pm; Closed Wednesdays
- Email: communications@metmuseum.org
- Phone: 212-535-7710
- Website: metmuseum.org
- Prices: Adults $30, Seniors $22, Students $17, Free for Members and Children under 12
Get your tickets here - Must-Try: The rooftop garden’s seasonal cocktail
4. Experience Times Square
Times Square is a sensory overload in the best way possible. The bright lights, giant billboards, and street performers make it a must-see. While it’s busy year-round, summer adds an extra layer of energy with outdoor events and pop-up performances.
- Location: Intersection of Seventh Avenue, 42nd Street, and Broadway
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Email: info@timessquarenyc.org
- Website: timessquarenyc.org
- Price: Free
- Must-Try: Visiting at night for the full neon-lit experience
5. Catch a Broadway Show
Summer is a fantastic time to see a Broadway show. From long-running classics like The Lion King to new hits, there’s something for everyone. Check out TKTS in Times Square for discounted same-day tickets.
- Address: Varies by theater; TKTS Booth: Father Duffy Square, Broadway & 47th St, New York, NY 10036
- Hours: Varies by show; TKTS Booth: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM (matinees available earlier)
- Phone: (212) 912-9770
- Email: info@broadway.org
- Website: broadway.org
- Prices: Varies; discounts available at TKTS
- Must-Watch: A classic like The Lion King or a new hit
6. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
For breathtaking views of the city, take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Start early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the cool breeze. Once in Brooklyn, explore DUMBO for its trendy shops and waterfront parks.
- Brooklyn Bridge: Spanning the East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn
- Website: nyc.gov
- Price: Free
- Must-Try: Sunset walk for incredible skyline views
7. Relax in Bryant Park
Bryant Park is a summer favorite for locals and tourists alike. Grab a book, enjoy the free Wi-Fi, or join one of the many outdoor activities like yoga classes or movie nights. The park’s Le Carrousel is a hit with kids and adults.
- Address: New York, NY 10018
- Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Phone: (212) 768-4242
- Email: info@bryantpark.org
- Website: bryantpark.org
- Prices: Free (some activities may require fees)
- Must-Try: Free outdoor summer movie nights
8. Visit the Statue of Liberty
No trip to NYC is complete without seeing the Statue of Liberty. Take a ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island, explore the museum, and climb to the crown for panoramic views. Be sure to book tickets well in advance.
- Boarding Location: 17 Battery Place #324 New York, NY 10004-3507
- Hours: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Email: ContactUs@libertyellisfoundation.org
- Phone: (212) 561-4588
- Website: statueofliberty.org
- Prices: Adults $24.50, Seniors $18, Children $12
- Purchase ferry tickets here
- Must-Try: Climbing to the crown for a panoramic view
9. Discover the American Museum of Natural History
From dinosaur skeletons to the Hayden Planetarium, the American Museum of Natural History is a treasure trove of knowledge. It’s a great spot for families, but adults will find plenty to enjoy too.
- Address: Central Park West & 79th St, New York, NY 10024
- Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Phone: (212) 769-5100
- Email: info@amnh.org
- Website: amnh.org
- Price: Adults $28, Seniors $22, Children $16.50
- Must-See: The giant blue whale model in the Hall of Ocean Life
10. Check Out Smorgasburg
Foodies, rejoice! Smorgasburg is an outdoor food market held in Brooklyn and Queens every weekend. With over 100 vendors serving everything from ramen burgers to artisanal ice cream, it’s a feast for your taste buds.
- Locations:
Fridays: World Trade Center The Oculus at Fulton St. & Church St.;
Saturdays: Williamsburg at Marsha P. Johnson State Park, 90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn (No Pets Allowed);
Sundays: Prospect Park at Breeze Hill, Brooklyn, NY 11225 - Hours: Weekends; 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Email: info@smorgasburg.com
- Website: smorgasburg.com
- Price: Free entry; food prices vary by vendor
- Must-Try: Ramen burger and lobster roll
11. Visit the Empire State Building
For iconic views of the city, head to the Empire State Building’s observation deck. Summer evenings are especially magical, as you can watch the city lights come alive.
- Address: 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10118
- Hours: Daily, times vary by ticket
- Website: esbnyc.com
- Contact form
- Reserve your ticket here
- Price: General admission starts at $44 for adults, $38 for children, and $42 for seniors
- Must-Try: Sunset visit for breathtaking city views
12. Explore Grand Central Terminal
More than just a transportation hub, Grand Central Terminal is an architectural masterpiece. Take a guided tour to learn about its history, or grab a bite at the Oyster Bar.
- Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
- Hours: Open daily, 5:30 AM – 2:00 AM
- Phone: (212) 340-2583
- Website: grandcentralterminal.com
- Price: Free entry; food and guided tours vary in price
- Must-Try: A meal at the historic Oyster Bar & Restaurant
- Grand Central Oyster Bar and Restaurant: Grand Central Terminal, Lower Level
- Hours: Mon. – Fri. 11:30 am – 9:30 pm
- Phone: (212) 490-6650
- Website: oysterbarny.com
- Contact form
13. Hang Out at Rockefeller Center
While Rockefeller Center is famous for its winter ice rink, summer brings its own charm. The outdoor plaza often hosts live music and events. Don’t forget to visit Top of the Rock for another stunning view of the city.
- Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
- Hours: Top of the Rock: Daily, 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Phone: 212-588-8601 or 1-877-NYC-ROCK
- Contact form
- Website: rockefellercenter.com
- Prices: Top of the Rock tickets start at $40 for adults, $34 for children, and $38 for seniors
- Must-See: Evening view from Top of the Rock
14. Check Out a Night Market
NYC’s night markets are a summer staple. From Queens Night Market to Smorgasburg After Dark, these events offer a mix of food, art, and entertainment. It’s a great way to experience the city’s diverse culture.
- Queens Night Market: Grand Central Pkwy, Van Wyck Expressway (behind the New York Hall of Science)
- Hours Saturdays; 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM; April 13th – October 29th 2025
- Sponsor email: sponsor@queensnightmarketcom
- Website: queensnightmarket.com
- Price: Free entry; food prices vary
- Must-Try: International street food like Taiwanese popcorn chicken or empanadas
15. See the New York Yankees
Baseball fans won’t want to miss catching a New York Yankees game at Yankee Stadium. Even if you’re not a sports enthusiast, the energy of the crowd is infectious.
- Address: 1 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451
- Hours: Varies by game schedule
- Website: mlb.com
- Contact form
- Ticket prices: Based on seating and game; See ticket options here
- Must-Try: Classic stadium hot dog or garlic fries; Stadium tour
- Tours email: tours@yankees.com
16. Reflect at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a poignant reminder of the city’s resilience. The reflecting pools and exhibits are deeply moving, making it a meaningful stop on your itinerary.
- Address:Â 180 Greenwich Street New York, NY 10007
- Memorial Hours: Daily; 8 am-8 pm
- Museum Hours: Wednesday to Monday from 9 am to 7 pm and select TuesdaysÂ
- Phone:Â (212) 312-8800
- Email:Â info@911memorial.org
- Website:Â 911memorial.org
- Ticket prices: Adults $26, Seniors $20, Youth (7-12) $15, Free for children under 6
Purchase museum tickets here - Must-See: The Survivor Tree and interactive exhibits
17. Visit Luna Park in Coney Island
For a classic summer day trip, head to Coney Island. Ride the historic Cyclone roller coaster, stroll the boardwalk, and cool off with a dip in the ocean. Don’t forget to try a Nathan’s Famous hot dog!
- Address: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
- Opening weekend: March 29th 2025
- Hours: Varies by season; typically 11:00 am – 10:00 pm in summer
- Phone: (718) 373-5862
- Email: info@lunaparknyc.comÂ
- Website: lunaparknyc.com
- Price: Pay-per-ride options and wristbands starting at $42
- Must-Try: Riding the Cyclone and a Nathan’s hot dog
- View park calendar here
- Nathan’s Famous: 1310 Surf Ave. Brooklyn, NY and Coney Island Boardwalk (Seasonal)
- Phone: (718) 333-2202
- Website: restaurants.nathansfamous.com
- Contact form
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18. Take a Day Trip to The Hamptons
If you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, consider a day trip to The Hamptons. This upscale beach destination offers pristine beaches, charming villages, and excellent dining options.
- Location: Various locations in The Hamptons, Long Island, NY
- Hours: Open year-round; best visited during the summer
- Email: info@hamptons.com
- Website: hamptons.com
- Must-Try: Wine tasting at a local vineyard or a lobster roll by the beach
New York City in the summer is a dynamic, lively destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring world-class museums, enjoying outdoor activities, or indulging in the city’s diverse food scene, you’re sure to have an incredible time. Looking for a mapped out agenda? Take a look at this New York City Itinerary.
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