NYC Summer Bucketlist
BY: LAURA LU
Whether you’re staying in NYC for an internship, classes, or just visiting with family, there are always a plethora of activities to do during the summer. Below are some of my favorites as an NYC native!
Bryant Park Movie Nights
If you love watching movies or a film fanatic, the weekly movie nights at Bryant Park would be right up your alley. Every summer, Paramount+ hosts free outdoor movie nights every Monday at Bryant Park. Enjoy the sunset, NYC skyscrapers, and park ambience all in one place! Bring blankets and movie snacks, or shop at the nearby Hester Street Fair for local treats. Although this year’s schedule and movie line-up has yet to be released, the screenings are predicted to be on every Monday from June 10th to August 7th. In the past, they’ve featured movies from Mean Girls to Star Trek. Stay updated on this year’s details on their website!
Where: 41st Street and, 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018
When: Mondays, 5PM - 8PM
Queens night Market
You’ve most likely heard of Smorgasburg, but have you ever checked out the Queens Night Market? Next to the bustle of downtown Flushing is the affordable, open-air night market with over 100 independent, family owned vendors. Each dish is $6 or less from cuisines across the world, celebrating the diversity within Queens and all of NYC. There is no entrance fee and a few seating areas. However, I would advise bringing a blanket to sit on the grass because the benches usually get filled up quickly! For more information check out their website.
Where: 4701 111th St, Queens, NY 11368
When: Saturdays, 4PM - 12AM, April 13 - August 14
Governor’s Island
Filled with nature and fresh air, take a little escape from the bustle of NYC in Governors Island off the southern tip of Manhattan. There are various restaurants, food vendors to fuel your day and even a spa to destress. Host a picnic, barbeque, or rent a bike (my favorite!) to enjoy the scenery. To get to this little getaway from NYU, take the 1, 45, or RW trains to Wall St, Bowling Green, or Whitehall St-South Ferry, respectively. Then take the Governor’s Island Shuttle (Ferry) from Wall Street, Pier 11 for just $5. The last shuttle going to the island departs at 4:34PM and the last shuttle leaving the island departs at 6:00PM, so make sure to plan your trip for the noon-afternoon. For more information on this spot, click here!
Where: 109 Andes Rd, New York, NY 10004
When: Daily, 7AM - 6PM
Mini Golf on Pier 25
NYC’s piers are known for their scenic views and calm atmospheres but have you ever tried mini golfing on Pier 25? Enjoy the 18-hole golf course for just $12 per person. The park is nicely landscaped and resembles an actual golf course, complete with waterfalls, streams, a pond, and more. You can also grab snacks at the snack bar and admire the picturesque city skyline after your golfing session. No reservations are needed, so try to come early to avoid the afternoon line. You can find more details here!
Where: 225 West St, New York, NY 10013
When: Daily, 9AM - 9PM (weather permitting)