I’ve officially experienced fall, winter and spring in New York City. And while I had some strong feelings about spring weather, I am excited that we are officially in the 70s and 80s. I’ve been eager to wear my summer clothes. All the linen, the dresses, sandals. You name it.
Am I excited about sweating and being miserable as hell? Absolutely not. But I feel like I’m ready to come face to face with the torture this summer. And with that, I’m excited to hopefully check off some things on my NYC summer bucket list.
I have always had kind of a mental list of things I want to do in NYC now that I’m living here. From seeing the Rockefeller Center tree all lit up, to seeing Broadway shows on a whim, and making my way through all the pizza and bagel spots to find the best ones.
But summer has its own list that I have been dreaming up for years honestly. So here are some things I can’t wait to do this summer, and hopefully some of my friends reading this will join me on a few of them.
My NYC Summer Bucket List
Here are a few must do NYC summer things that are officially on my bucket list and ready to be checked off. From picnics at the park, to ferry rides, and sporting events, here’s my ultimate NYC summer bucket list. And if you’re visiting in the fall, check out my NYC fall bucket list here.
And P.S., the perfect thing to wear for a hot summer day in NYC is in fact, a great linen dress. Rounding up some favorites below. The one I am wearing is from DISSH, I would recommend sizing up.
Fun Things To Do In NYC This Summer
A Picnic At Central Park
I’m kind of surprised I haven’t done this yet, but the opportunity just hasn’t presented itself yet. Whether it’s an elaborate picnic with all the fixings, or just grabbing a sandwich at Milano Market and walking over to sit on the grass and eat it, I’m down for any and all variations of this.
Rooftop Parties
I’m just anxiously awaiting my invite to rooftop parties this summer. If you know a rooftop, whether it’s the roof of your apartment, or a fun rooftop bar or restaurant, I am down!
Go To A Yankees Game
I still have yet to go to any sporting events and that has to change! I love a good hot dog and sporting event. I grew up with my family rooting for the Yankees and I think I may need to see a game for myself. On my fall and winter bucket list is to see my New York Giants play.
Spend A Day On The Water
I am happiest on a boat, but not a cruise. Just a boat near land. You feel me? A day on the Hudson sounds just what you need for a summer weekend activity.
Go To Coney Island
I’ve never been, and I need to go. Have I mentioned I love a hot dog? So clearly I need to go to have the best, Nathan’s hot dog, ever. Eating a hot dog is truly what a perfect summer day is made of. If I were to plan the perfect summer day, a hot dog would 100% be on the menu.
Eat My Way Through Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg is supposed to be an incredible open air food market located in Williamsburg. Full of great vendors serving up a wide range of cuisines along the river. I have been dying to go and check it out and it’s the perfect way to spend a Saturday trying new foods.
Take The Ferry To Brooklyn
I love taking the ferry in New York. It is such an underrated mode of transportation. And when the weather is nice, it really is such a delight to get to where you need to go on a boat, instead of the sweaty miserable subway. I think a ferry ride to Brooklyn and maybe a stroll through Domino Park is on the horizon for summer.
Experience The Hamptons
This destination has been on my wishlist for the longest time and now that it’s just a short drive away, there’s no excuse not to check it off my list. I know it’s one pricy destination, but even a single overnight stay would be so fun to check out this posh neighborhood.
Have As Much Ice Cream As Possible
A no-brainer. There is something so satisfying about grabbing an ice cream cone when you’re in the city on a hot summer day. It just hits different. I’m slowly making my way through a list of spots to try and flavors to indulge in. And don’t you worry, every cone will be ordered with a side of sprinkles for ultimate sprinkle coverage.
Visit Brooklyn Botanical Gardens
I checked out Brooklyn Botanical Gardens last May when I was here for an extended stay. I loved it, but I would love to see it when new things are in bloom. Sadly, I missed the cherry blossoms both times which are supposed to be stunning.
New York City has so much to offer in every season. Whether you come visit in the spring, or fall, and even the dead of winter, there is something to experience. I am so delighted to get to experience spring and summer which everyone says is what makes the long cold winters worth it.
