Bright sunshine and longer days kick off the season alongside plenty of fun things to do in NYC in summer. The warmer temperatures attract tourists who absorb the city’s iconic architecture, historic landmarks, and world-class dining and entertainment. And, when you stay at Park Terrace Hotel in the midst of it all, you’re just a short walk, train ride, or cab ride away from exciting attractions and summer events in New York. 

THINGS TO DO IN NEW YORK IN THE SUMMER

Magic happens during a New York City summer as the city heats up. Dining al fresco becomes the norm. Fountains spring to life. Thespians transform parks into stages. And, the neighborhood around our midtown hotel buzzes with activity. Here are 5 things to do in New York in the summer:

1) NYC OUTDOOR DINING

Dining outdoors is a favorite among New Yorker’s in the summer, because it isn’t an option year-round. Whether you’re looking for a secluded backyard patio, a street-side seat for some prime people-watching, or a rooftop with a view like the Terrazzo at Park Terrace Hotel, New York patios hum with clinking glasses and conversation from sunup to sundown. Bryant Park dining offers an array of outdoor possibilities and seasonal indulgences just steps from our midtown hotel. Take time to revel in the breathtaking views of the Hudson at the seasonal outdoor spot Pier i Cafe, or finish your evening in the urban eatery, Flex Mussels. If it’s libations you seek, check out the best breweries in NYC to enjoy ice-cold craft beer in an upbeat atmosphere.

2) EXPERIENCE THE SPLASH OF NEW YORK’S FOUNTAINS

The park fountains throughout New York come alive in the summer, and these moving works of art are among some of the most recognizable spots in the city. Spend the day under the bright skies and gorgeous sunshine touring a variety of  artful water sculptures. Central Park has several, including the historic Bethesda Fountain, featuring the 26-foot-tall Angel of Waters. The Revson Fountain at Lincoln Center dates from 1964 and was redesigned in 2009, and has made cameo appearances in many television shows and movies. Be sure not to miss the Unisphere in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. This beloved Queens fixture features an impressive 120-foot-diameter globe that was commissioned for the 1964 World’s Fair.

3) SEE SUMMER PRODUCTIONS OF SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK

William Shakespeare could not have been more correct when he said that all the world’s a stage. New York City takes his wise words to heart each summer when the Public Theater produces Shakespeare in the Park. This year’s production of Hamlet promises to be a present-day take on a classic tale. Experiencing a show in Central Park’s open-air Delacorte Theater is a time-honored tradition that makes a summer in New York unlike anywhere else in the world.

4) EXPLORE THE HIGH LINE

Perhaps no single location offers as many summer activities for New Yorkers as the High Line. It’s a park, a performance space, and an inspiration. Built on an elevated decommissioned freight railroad line, the High Line is home to performance art exhibits, public works of art, a vast variety of gardens, and more. It is a wonderful place to soak up some sun, stargaze, dance, and dine.

5) DISCOVER SUMMER GARDENS IN NYC

While the greenery, perennials, and cityscape views offer a stunning view from your Park Terrace hotel room, exploring the rest of NYC in the summer is a delight. You could spend days exploring New York’s most enchanting gardens, as the lush landscaping and colorful flowers bring beauty to every corner of the city. Enjoy the parks and their expansive lawns, and visit the conservatories, arboretums, or botanical gardens to see some of New York’s finest floral displays. 

A walking path along the East River - one of the top things to do in nyc in summer

NYC SUMMER EVENTS

Summer in New York means activities, concerts, and loads of things to do. You’ll have no trouble creating an itinerary when planning to visit for a weekend or a week-long stay. The warmer days don’t chase anyone inside, as you’ll find many activities and festivals popping up throughout the city. With later sunsets and more comfortable evening temperatures, nights in New York during the summer bring everyone out to play. Whether you visit in June, July, or August, here are our top 5 recommendations for can’t-miss summer events in the Big Apple:

1) BRYANT PARK SUMMER EVENTS

Bryant Park in New York hosts summer events that offer something for everyone, whether you seek arts, culture, workshops, or just plain fun. Between classes, performances, paintings, and movies, Bryant Park’s summer art and culture events are worth checking out. Take your fitness routine from your room to the park and join in a yoga session. Challenge a friend to chess, enjoy a carousel ride, or try out the Scandinavian yard game, Kubb. The best part is that all of this entertainment happens just steps from your suite at Park Terrace Hotel so you can drop in anytime.

2) CENTRAL PARK SUMMERSTAGE CONCERTS

Summer marks the start of the SummerStage Festival, some of the best outdoor concert experiences you can find in New York. Hosted in Central Park and others across the city, these concerts offer a variety of paid and free performances to attend, from classical performances by the Met Opera, to masterful funk, jazz, soul, and hip-hop concerts. These events take place every weekend and on select weekdays all summer long, so you’ll be able to catch a tune or two during your New York vacation.

3) SUMMER STOOP CONCERT SERIES

Born out of necessity in 2020, these summer events bring opera to neighborhoods in New York. Programming is handled by a passionate independent opera company that stages a full production using the community as its backdrop. The Opera Next Door is working on this season’s schedule, so check back to see what’s coming to a front stoop near the Park Terrace Hotel.

4) LINCOLN CENTER’S FESTIVAL

The schedule for the Summer for the City Festival for 2023 is in the works, but visitors coming to NYC in July or August should keep an eye out for these exciting summer events. Thanks to the city’s largest outdoor dance floor, there will be no shortage of live music, dancing, and performances, including lessons and workshops for all ages. This festival at Lincoln Center is less than 2 miles from Park Terrace Hotel. 

5) FESTIVAL OF NEW YORK EVENTS

This collaborative community festival brings New Yorkers from every borough together all summer long. Events include a citywide dance party that spans 100 blocks, small business weekends, dance festivals at Lincoln Center, fitness challenges, plus programming that celebrates the immigrant communities, and more. If you’re in NYC this summer, the Festival of New York offers many can’t-miss activities.

Where to Stay in NYC

Park Terrace Hotel near Bryant Park features luxurious, accommodating rooms. Its central location in midtown puts you in the middle of arts, culture, and summer entertainment in NYC. Browse our special offers to get even more value with your stay.

More news
from Park Terrace

Front view of the New York Public Library, the Stephen A Schwarzman building.
5 Reasons To Visit The New York Public Library
an aerial shot of Times Square at night
3 Tips For Planning A Trip To New York City
Drink in the Cityscape From the Park Terrace Hotel
Drink In The NYC Cityscape From Our Bryant Park Hotel
See More News +
Scroll to Top