Summertime is just around the corner and there is no better place to spend it rather than the one, the only, New York City.There are endless opportunities to explore and entertain yourself, many which are surprisingly free or inexpensive. Whether you choose to go by yourself and bring all your friends and family, these ideas are versatile and easily accessible. I hope you get to do and enjoy at least some of my favorite Summer City traditions!

1. Bryant Park Summer Events

Bryant Park is a personal favorite picnic spot for me as it is not as crowded as Central Park and is only a short walk from Grand Central. There seems to always be something going on anytime of year but even more so in the Summer when the weather is enjoyable.

2. Central Park Picnic

Central Park is a classic, everyone has been or has wanted to go. There are thousands of spots to explore and have a picnic throughout the park. Enjoy the nice views and people watching while you enjoy your meal. The Great Lawn and Sheep’s Meadow are popular places within Central Park to sit with friends and relax.

3. Take the Staten Island Ferry

Looking for somewhere new to go? Staten Island is one of the five boroughs and isn’t as far out as everyone thinks. You can hop on the ferry and pass the Statue of Liberty and get a new view perspective on Downtown Manhattan. Did I mention it is free!?

4. Watch a Free Movie in Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great place to explore and walk around and they even put on movies at night during the summer. There are plenty of eateries nearby such as pizzerias and Shake Shack and even a few ice cream places right by there to check out if you get a sweet tooth!

5. Go to Coney Island

It’s a true classic. You have heard of it. Just take the D train all the way to the last stop and see this famous beach and amusement park.

6. Two Words: Free Museums

There are plenty interesting museums throughout Manhattan and the other boroughs. Many museums are suggestion based as well, so you can donate whatever you would like to.

7. Walk on the High Line

It’s in such a nice section of Manhattan and you don’t even need to leave there till dark. There’s views, seating sections, and food! What more could you want?

8. Fire Island

This is a beach very far out in Long Island, so technically it is not in NYC, however I have only heard good things from many friends who have gone and if you have the opportunity I would not turn it down!

9. The Central Park Boathouse

In Central Park there is a section for where you can rent a boat and just row around to see the various beautiful aspects of Manhattan. It’s located right next to a restaurant as well so if your famished after that arm workout you can eat while you watch others struggle as you did.

10. Shakespeare in the Park

Shakespeare in the Park is a hidden treasure. Central Park is so huge and there is so much to find throughout it, one being the lines in the summer time for the plays that are put on in a theatre right in the Park!

11. Smorgasburg in Brooklyn

Every Saturday, good food, good views, and a reason to go to Brooklyn. I mean what else do I need to say?

12. Baseball Game

Yankees and Mets games are all throughout the summer, and its very possible to get very inexpensive tickets. Cheer for your favorite team and enjoy Americas favorite pastime!