Summer just hits differently in NYC. There’s a vibe and an energy you won’t find any other time of year. New Yorkers know the city’s summer heat can be somewhat oppressive but there’s always some way to cool off. You can visit a museum, take a boat tour, or simply sit in the shade in Riverside Park and feel the breezes off the Hudson. Let us clue you into the best things to do in NYC this summer.

Outdoor Entertainment and Summer Events in NYC

 

Summer on The Hudson

Summer on The Hudson is an ongoing outdoor arts and cultural entertainment series hosted by The Riverside Park Conservancy. Events are held at Riverside Park as well as the West Harlem Pier’s Park. Among the entertainment you’ll find movies, dance performances, concerts, children’s theater, DJ dance parties, and much more. The parks play host to educational and wellness programs and day-long festivals too. Here is the calendar of events so you can plan accordingly.

Riverside Park is a short 5 minute walk from The Lucerne but West Harlem Pier’s Park requires other transportation. A cab ride should take about 15 minutes. 

Central Park

New York’s Central Park offers some excellent entertainment throughout the park. Choose from jazz, rock, orchestral performances, and more. The GMA Friday Summer Concert Series is held at Rumsey Playfield as part of Good Morning America’s broadcast. That means doors open at 6 am and concerts are from 7 am to 9 am. The concerts are free but you must request tickets online as seating is limited. These tickets tend to go pretty fast so make sure to reserve yours as soon as you can.

SummerStage Festival at Rumsey Playfield is always eagerly anticipated by NYC residents. With an eclectic lineup featuring all kinds of music these concerts fill up fast. Here is the list of upcoming performances. Most are free to the public although a few do charge admission.

The Naumburg Orchestral Concerts provide a magical experience for fans of classical music. This is a lovely way to spend a summer evening. These concerts are held throughout the summer at the Naumburg Bandshell. They’re free to the public and seating is on a first come basis. Here is the schedule of concerts.

Escape The Heat This Summer in NYC

When the mercury soars and it’s just too hot to do much out of doors NYC has plenty of great ways to escape the heat or those pop-up rainstorms. Here are some of our favorite ways to keep cool and stay dry.

Wander Museums


There's definitely no shortage of museums in NYC. No matter what you fancy, we have plenty of opportunities to pique your interest. Many of the most popular museums are convenient to The Lucerne on the UWS.

American Museum of Natural History

A visit to the American Museum of Natural History is nothing short of amazing. There are over 40 galleries for you to explore, as well as the Hayden Planetarium. Exhibits focus on the natural world and the universe. This museum is great for all ages so bring the family. For fun, before your visit, watch the movie Night at The Museum (the first one which was released in 2006) and plan your visit accordingly. To ensure your visit is at the time you want and on the day you prefer please book online. The American Museum of Natural History is located at 200 Central Park West, a 10 minute stroll from The Lucerne or 4 minutes by car.

Children’s Museum of Manhattan

For the young and the young-at-heart the Children’s Museum of Manhattan is a wonderful way to cool down and discover. The museum features hands-on exhibits to stoke creativity, inform and excite children of all ages and their parents too. Reserve your tickets online. The museum is located at 212 West 83rd, between Broadway and Amsterdam, 4 blocks from The Lucerne. 

The New York Historical Society

Located at 170 Central Park West is a treat for history buffs and those who enjoy learning about New York. Here you’ll find over 400 years of history through exhibits, films, and recorded conversations with renowned public figures and historians. Founded in 1804 the museum has served to expand the understanding of the American experience. Buy your tickets online and check out the highlights before you go to make the most of your visit. 

Summer Cruises in Manhattan


A sightseeing cruise around Manhattan is always a great experience for those visiting the city. Whether you’ve been here many times before or this is your first visit, a sightseeing cruise is one of the best summer things to do in NYC. There are several water tours to choose from depending on your interest and preference. 

Circle Manhattan and see the iconic sights as a tour guide regales you with stories. Take a sunset cruise and see how Gotham glows at night or a dinner cruise with food, drinks, and dancing. You can even take a cruise in an air conditioned yacht to see and hear all about some of NYCs most celebrated architecture.

Fun in NYC This Summer


For more on how you can enjoy summer events in NYC, or for recommendations for water tours, please contact The Lucerne. We offer luxury accommodations suitable for a romantic getaway or family visit to the Big Apple. Book your stay today.