50 Free Things to Do in New York City During the Summer
Summer in NYC feels like a fever dream. I’ve lived in NYC for 6 years now and I’m still amazed at all the free things there are to do here in the summer! In this post, I’m covering my top 50 free summer things to do in NYC, but I could easily list way more than that!
If you’re visiting New York City in the summer, you are in for a treat. The city comes alive with festivals, events, live performances, outdoor movies, concerts, and so much more. The best part is that you can experience all of these without spending a dime – although donations are of course always welcome!
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something on this list. Oh and if you’re a foodie, I’ve got you covered with my list of 30 iconic NYC foods that you can get for $10 or less!
So grab your sunglasses, your most comfortable walking shoes, and a MetroCard—you’re about to have one unforgettable summer in the city!
By the way, if you’re looking a FREE printable 3-day NYC itinerary, check out my post on how to spend 3 days in the Big Apple and snag the free printable itinerary!
Free Summer Events & Festivals in NYC
Outdoor movie at Gantry State Park in Long Island City, Queens
1. Attend SummerStage concerts in Central Park
SummerStage is a series of free outdoor concerts in Central Park every summer. You’ll find a mix of genres – jazz, indie, hip-hop, Latin music, etc. It’s a fun event where you can dance and sing along on warm summer nights. Click here to check out this summer’s lineup!
For the longest time, I had no idea these even existed. I haven’t had the chance to go yet, but hoping to finally cross it off my bucket list this summer!
2. Groove at Hudson Yards’ Live at the Edge Series
Want to catch a concert with breathtaking views of the city around you? Head to Hudson Yards for their Summer Concert Series featuring free live music performances on the outdoor sky deck. It’s a fun, breezy way to enjoy NYC’s music scene in one of the city’s newest and most futuristic neighborhoods.
3. Join a free dance party at Lincoln Center
Every summer, the Lincoln Center hosts a diverse lineup of free programs as part of their Summer for the City series. Their dance nights are definitely not to be missed! You’ll find all kinds of dance styles including swing, salsa, disco, silent dance parties, and more.
If dance isn’t your thing, you can check out their other cultural and music events which are free or pay-as-you-wish.
4. Watch Shakespeare in the Park
Shakespeare in the Park is a free professional Shakespeare production that takes place at Delacorte Theater located in Central Park. The theater was closed for renovations, but recently reopened in 2025.
It’s one of NYC’s most iconic cultural experiences and a great addition to your summer bucket list. Although tickets are free, I’ve found that it’s quite hard to get a ticket sometimes! They’re in high demand, so be prepared to queue early or enter the digital lottery to try and get a spot.
5. Explore the NYC Philharmonic’s Concerts in the Parks
The world-renowned New York Philharmonic performs free classical music concerts in several of the city’s parks during the summer. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy beautiful classical music! Click here for more information and the concert line-up.
6. Go to a block party or street fair
Speaking of block parties, NYC is a paradise for block parties and street fairs in the summer! You’ll find these sprinkled throughout neighborhoods in Manhattan and the other boroughs. You can find each year’s schedule through a quick Google search.
These neighborhood events are usually free to attend and feature music, crafts, games, food samples, and a friendly community vibe. Just follow the music and the smell of street food!
7. Attend an Summer Streets Event
For 5 Saturdays every summer, the NYC Department of Transportation restricts vehicle traffic to certain streets in each borough and opens up these streets for people to walk, run, play, jog, bike, rollerskate, dance, etc!
You’ll also find street vendors and performances during the open streets festivals. It’s a really fun event and a great way for communities to come together. Check the DOT website for more information regarding dates and times.
8. Queens Night Market (Free Entry + Live Music)
When I lived in Queens, I would go to the Queens Night Market at least once every summer! It’s a true open-air foodie paradise located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. Although you do have to buy the food, entry is free and it’s fun to just wander around the market even if you don’t buy anything!
Queens is one of the most diverse counties in the world and it’s really cool to see all of the different cultures and cuisines represented in the market. A lot of the food is decently priced and a great way to try out something new. Besides food, you’ll also find handmade crafts and other items for sale in this market. They also feature free music on certain nights!
9. Watch movies under the stars
One of my favorite summertime traditions in the city is watching a free outdoor movie. New York City’s parks transform into open-air theaters during the summer with free outdoor movie screenings in locations like Bryant Park, Prospect Park, and Riverside Park. Here is a listing of the lineup!
Bring a blanket (or your favorite outdoor chair), pack snacks, and enjoy classic films, recent hits, and indie favorites with the city skyline as your backdrop.
My favorite place for the outdoor movies is Bryant Park since it’s surrounded by tall skyscrapers. You literally feel like you’re watching a movie in the very heart of the city!
10. Celebrate Pride in June
NYC’s Pride Month is one of the biggest celebrations of LGBTQ+ culture in the world! It’s a festival that celebrates inclusivity, diversity, and love. Throughout June, you’ll find tons of free events, including the famous NYC Pride March, street festivals, family picnics, and concerts.
11. Celebrate Juneteenth with free community events
NYC honors Juneteenth with a variety of free cultural events throughout the boroughs including live music, art exhibitions, food vendors, history walks, and storytelling sessions. These events are family-friendly and a great way to learn about and celebrate African American history.
Here are some of the Juneteenth events taking place in the NYC Parks, but there are tons of other events and gatherings in the city to check out too!
12. Enjoy jazz in Harlem’s Marcus Garvey Park
Harlem is a must-visit for all jazz lovers! Marcus Garvey Park located in Harlem often features free jazz concerts and cultural events during the summer. Bring a chair or picnic blanket and enjoy the sweet sounds of jazz on a nice summer day.
There’s also so many more family-friendly activities to check out in the park from playing on the playground to swimming in the public outdoor pool.
13. Watch free Friday Night fireworks at Coney Island
From late June through Labor Day, Coney Island hosts free fireworks every Friday night at 9:30 p.m. Grab a blanket and watch the show from the boardwalk or beach. You can also watch it from the ferris wheel for an even more special experience!
It’s a festive way to end a summer night—especially if you’ve spent the day swimming or strolling Luna Park!
Parks & Gardens to Explore
14. Stroll through Central Park
You can’t have a NYC summer bucket list without mentioning Central Park! Whether you’re a NYC native or just visiting for the weekend, planning a summer afternoon in Central Park is a must-do!
The park is huge and has many iconic sights, so make sure to plan out what you want to see before you visit. I highly recommend checking out a map of Central Park and picking out 2-3 areas you want to explore.
This is a great place to take a walk or have an afternoon picnic. In the summer, you’ll also find free concerts and events here so be sure to check those out too.
Here are some of my favorite spots in Central Park:
- Bethesda Terrace & Fountain – Located in the heart of Central Park, Bethesda Terrace is a grand, two-level architectural masterpiece overlooking Bethesda Fountain. With its intricate carvings, arched passageways, and stunning views of the lake, it’s a popular spot for photos, street performances, and peaceful reflection.
- Bow Bridge – One of Central Park’s most picturesque spots, Bow Bridge is a graceful cast-iron bridge arching over the lake. Known for its romantic setting, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding trees and skyline, making it a favorite for visitors, photographers, and even film shoots.
- Strawberry Fields – A serene memorial to John Lennon, Strawberry Fields is a peaceful section of Central Park near the Dakota building, where Lennon once lived. The “Imagine” mosaic, gifted by the city of Naples, serves as the centerpiece, attracting music fans and visitors paying tribute to the legendary Beatle
15. Relax at Domino Park
Located along the East River in Williamsburg, this waterfront park is built on the site of the old Domino Sugar Factory in Brooklyn. In the park, you’ll find a playground, splash pads, a dog run, and an elevated walkway with gorgeous view of the Manhattan skyline. It’s a local favorite for relaxing, people-watching, or catching the sunset.
It’s easily accessible, offers beautiful views of the city, and it’s a great spot to just relax. Plus, there’s many kid-friendly activities here so the whole family can enjoy a day trip to the park.
16. Catch a sunset at Gantry Plaza State Park
I lived in Long Island City for 3 years, so I may be biased but this is legitimately one of my favorite spots in all of New York City! Much like Domino Park, this waterfront park is also located along the East River and provides gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline.
There are many benches and wooden loungers for guests to relax in. There’s also a beautiful waterfront promenade, the iconic Pepsi-Cola sign, outdoor dining, NYC ferry access, and so much more! I could talk about this place for hours, but you have to check it out for yourself!
17. Explore the gardens at Wave Hill
This spot is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful escape without leaving the city. Wave Hill is a public garden and cultural center in the Bronx, offering amazing views of the Hudson River and Palisades.
Admission is free on Thursdays, but admission is only $10 on other days if you can’t make it on a Thursday. The lush landscapes and greenhouses make this a hidden gem that’s definitely worth the trip uptown!
18. Chill on the Great Lawn at Prospect Park
I like to call Prospect Park the “Central Park of Brooklyn”. It’s not as touristy but still has a lot to see and do. Plus, I think it’s more quiet than Central Park.
The Great Lawn is an ideal spot for sunbathing, reading a book, or enjoying a free concert in the evening. It’s also surrounded by wooded trails, a picturesque boathouse, and even a historic carousel!
19. Watch dogs play at Washington Square Park
This square park located in Greenwich Village that’s bustling with energy! There’s always something going on here from street performers to live music sessions. Greenwich village is my favorite neighborhood in Manhattan so I frequently visit this park!
This is where you’ll find the iconic arch and fountain that you frequently see in photos of the city. Plus, there’s many cute cafes and coffee shops in the surrounding streets – so grab a coffee and relax here on a sunny afternoon!
20. Take a walk in Fort Tryon Park
Located in Upper Manhattan near the Cloisters, Fort Tryon Park is a quiet retreat where you can find panoramic views of the Hudson River and George Washington Bridge. This lesser-known park has winding walking paths, scenic overlooks, and the beautiful Heather Garden.
21. Go birdwatching in Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
This activity is for everyone who loves birdwatching or just wants to spend some quiet time in nature. You’ll forget that you’re even in the city! You can walk the trails, spot herons and egrets, and enjoy views of wetlands and tidal ponds. It’s one of the best birding spots in the city, and totally free to visit.
22. Visit a community garden in the East Village
Summer is a great time to check out the many community gardens throughout NYC, especially in the East Village. Some host free events like jazz nights, yoga, or storytelling sessions. They’re also a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Free Outdoor Adventures
23. Visit the High Line
The High Line is an elevated park on the west side of Manhattan, where you can literally walk above the cars and the streets below. It was built on a historic freight rail line and offers unbeatable views of the city.
You’ll also find modern art installations and seasonal flowers sometimes in the spring and summer months. To learn more about the High Line, check out this nifty guide!
24. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
This is a must-do on every New Yorker’s bucket list! It’s an iconic NYC activity, and great if you want to get some exercise too!
The Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, and walking across the bridge will you give you a chance to get stunning views of the Manhattan skyline that you can’t find anywhere else. I suggest walking the 1-mile span at sunrise or sunset to avoid crowds!
25. Bike along Hudson River Greenway
If you’re looking for an active way to enjoy the city for free, biking along the Hudson River Greenway is a must! This scenic route stretches from Battery Park to the George Washington Bridge and is lined with waterfront parks, piers, and rest stops. It’s great for an afternoon bike ride, or even just a walk or jog. It’s also a great way to explore the west side of the city.
26. Enjoy free kayaking at Pier 96
Hudson River Park’s Pier 96 offers free public kayaking sessions during summer months, run by the Manhattan Community Boathouse. It’s a great way to get some exercise or enjoy a lovely paddling session in the water.
It’s also fun to watch kayakers cruising along the Hudson while you enjoy the waterfront breeze and skyline views.
27. Free Outdoor Yoga in the Parks
NYC offers free outdoor yoga all summer long through programs like Shape Up NYC, Hudson River Park’s Healthy on the Hudson, and Prospect Park Yoga. These classes are often held in scenic spots like Pier 25, Socrates Sculpture Park, and Fort Greene Park. Here’s a guide to some of the free yoga offerings throughout the city!
28. Sunset Salsa in Hudson River Park (Pier 76 or Pier 45)
Get your dance shoes on and learn how to salsa for free every Thursday evening in the summer at Pier 76 on the west side of Manhattan! The event includes beginner lessons and social dancing with a live DJ — all against the backdrop of the Hudson River. Check out the calendar for a listing of all the dates, plus other free events along the Hudson River!
Free Activities Along Beaches & Waterfronts
29. Ride the Staten Island Ferry
NYC’s five boroughs are surrounded by water, making it the perfect setting for waterfront activities in the summer. The Staten Island Ferry is one of NYC’s best free experiences and a fun way to explore the city’s waterways.
The ride takes about 25 minutes each way. On the ride, you’ll get views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Lower Manhattan. It’s a nice afternoon break to just sit on the outdoor deck and soak up some sunshine!
30. Walk the Coney Island Boardwalk
Coney Island is the ultimate summer getaway – without even leaving the city! I’ve been to many boardwalks, but the Coney Island boardwalk is by the far the most fun and nostalgic one I’ve encountered so far.
There is so much to do here, especially for families with kids. You can take a ride on the iconic Cyclone roller coaster, watch street performers, get a hot dog at the original Nathan’s, or dip your toes in the ocean. As a bonus, you can also enjoy fireworks every Friday night in the summer (see #14 above for more info!)
Unfortunately, you can’t get here by ferry but taking the “F” train is a pretty easy and convenient way of getting here. You can also drive here, but parking may be a little tight on weekends and holidays.
31. Lounge at Rockaway Beach
Located in Queens, Rockaway Beach is a local favorite for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. It’s one of the few NYC beaches with consistent waves and a relaxed, surf-town vibe. The beach also has a really fun boardwalk with many shops and eating joints.
I’ve found that the best way to get here is by taking the NYC Ferry (which is $4.50 each way), but you can also get here by hopping on the “A” train.
32. Explore the South Street Seaport
The Seaport district in Manhattan is a really cool and unique spot especially in the summer! Here you’ll find tons of history, cobblestone streets, tall ships, and stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge.
In the summer, you’ll find festivals, live music, and street performances here. Plus, it’s right on the waterfront so you’ll find amazing views of the Brooklyn skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. There’s also many restaurants right by the water.
I am obsessed with the Tin Building which is located in this neighborhood. It’s a great place to get a meal, grab coffee, escape the rain, or even just use the bathroom!
33. Catch a breeze at Battery Park
Little known fact – Battery Park is the neighborhood that really made me fall in love with NYC. It’s a very peaceful place to walk around or just sit and relax. You’ll also find views of the Statue of Liberty here, and they also have a beautiful gardens that come alive in the spring and summer.
34. Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park
This waterfront park located in Brooklyn, next to (surprise) the Brooklyn Bridge offers lawns, picnic spots, playgrounds, and scenic walking paths for the whole family to enjoy. You’ll get iconic views of Manhattan, plus free movies and exercise classes during the warmer months.
Plus, don’t miss out on the rocky Pebble Beach which is a great spot to relax, unwind, and catch the sunset above the Manhattan skyline.
35. Walk through Little Island
Little Island is a public park located on the Hudson River, built on concrete columns. It’s free to enter and there’s lots of lush gardens, scenic overlooks, and even live performances you can check out for free during the summer season.
Free Cultural & Historic Experiences
36. Check out the Museum Mile Festival
One of my favorite cultural experiences in NYC are their amazing museums. This summer event is a great way to check out all of the iconic museums in NYC – for free! For one evening every June, Fifth Avenue shuts down traffic between 82nd and 105th Streets for the Museum Mile Festival.
Several world-class museums open their doors for free admission, and the avenue becomes a block party with live music, face painting, and cultural performances. It’s a really cool experience, so I highly recommend checking it out if you can!
37. Take a self-guided tour of Grand Central Terminal
Unfortunately, the free guided tours of Grand Central Terminal have been suspended for the time being. However, you can make your own self-guided tour for this iconic train station. Grand Central isn’t just a train station – you’ll also find beautiful architecture, shops, and restaurants here.
It’s also one of NYC’s largest transit hubs for catching a train for your summer weekend getaway or just to visit Long Island or Westchester. If you just have a few extra minutes, make sure to stop by and marvel the beautiful architecture of this place before catching your train.
38. Visit Socrates Sculpture Park
Located in Queens, this outdoor museum and public park features large-scale contemporary art installations and free yoga classes. You’ll also find other seasonal events here, so be sure to check the events calendar before visiting.
39. Explore free exhibits at the New York Public Library
The main branch of the New York Public Library at Bryant Park isn’t just for book lovers—it also hosts free exhibits, author talks, and rotating art displays. One of my favorites is their Treasures exhibit, which is free to visit.
While you’re here, make sure to check out the beautiful Rose Main Reading Room for its stunning architecture. I love to go here on a rainy afternoon when I want to get some blogging done outside my apartment! It’s also a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy some quiet time.
Oh and on your way out, make sure to say hi to Patience and Fortitude, the famous lion statues that sit just outside the library!
40. See the ruins of Roosevelt Island’s Smallpox Hospital
The Smallpox Hospital is located on the southern tip of the island and was built in the 1800s as one of the first hospital in the country to care for patients with smallpox.
The hospital is no longer functional, but the ruins are still a marvel of 19th century architecture that’s worth a trip to the island.
41. Check out public art at the Moynihan Train Hall
If you’re from Long Island or have ever gotten a train from Penn Station, you have to check out the recent renovation of Penn Station and its Moynihan Train Hall.
When I lived on Long Island, I used to take the LIRR all the time. I hadn’t been back to Penn Station for years and when I finally went back again this spring, I was shocked at how different this place looks now!
There are public art installations, gorgeous architecture, and a ton of great eating spots to choose from. It’s a beautiful and inspiring space to walk through—even if you’re not catching a train. Plus, it’s a great place to escape the heat or the summer rain!
42. Watch free cultural events at Culture Lab in LIC
If you find yourself in Long Island City, make sure to check out one of the events held at Culture Lab, a non-profit organization that supports local artists. They host many free events throughout the week each spring and summer.
You’ll find many different types of events here from jazz performances, dance shows, cultural exhibitions, and so much more. Plus, they have 2 fine art galleries that you can check out for free as well!
43. Browse Chelsea’s art galleries and the Whitney Museum
You don’t need a museum ticket to enjoy world-class art in NYC! Head to the Chelsea neighborhood and browse dozens of contemporary galleries—many of which welcome walk-ins and host free opening events on Thursday nights. Who knows, you might even spot the next big thing in modern art!
If you’re a fan of modern art, be sure to check out the Whitney Museum which offers free admission to those under 25 years of age, and also free admission for everyone on Fridays from 5-10pm.
44. Visit the National Museum of the American Indian
I just recently learned about this free experience! See I’m telling you, NYC is full of hidden gems which is why I love this city so much.
This Smithsonian museum offers free admission and is a great way to learn about Native American culture, history, and contemporary art. It’s quiet, educational, and right near the Staten Island Ferry. There’s a similar museum in Washington DC (which is also free), but this is a great alternative if you can’t visit the Capitol.
45. Annual NYC Poetry Festival on Governors Island
Every July, the NYC Poetry Festival hosts a free weekend event on Governors Island featuring hundreds of poets, live readings, open mics, and writing workshops. It’s literary, quirky, and beautifully scenic—a great excuse to ferry over for the day.
Cool Neighborhoods to Check Out
46. Wander through DUMBO
There are so many amazing neighborhoods to check out in NYC! I’ve highlighted some of my favorite neighborhoods to wander around in the summer below, but trust me when I say there are many many more neighborhoods to explore that each have their own unique personalities.
DUMBO – short for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass” – is one of Brooklyn’s most picturesque neighborhoods and is a must-visit. Here you’ll find cobblestone streets, local art installations, and of course the famous, Instagrammable photo spot of the Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed on Washington Street.
You will also find many cute coffee shops and restaurants here as well. While you’re here, don’t forget to take a photo at Jane’s Carousel and Pebble Beach!
I talk more about this neighborhood in my NYC 3-Day Itinerary, so be sure to check that out for more details!
47. Visit Governor’s Island
Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan or Brooklyn, Governors Island is a peaceful summer oasis with car-free paths, grassy lawns, and waterfront hammocks. You do have to take a ferry to get here, but it’s free before 11AM on Saturday and Sundays. Check out their website for more information and make sure to confirm the free ferry access before you go!
Once there, you can explore public art, walk through historic forts, picnic in the shade, or relax in a giant hammock. It’s a perfect spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the city heat without actually leaving NYC.
48. Explore Roosevelt Island
Tucked between Manhattan and Queens along the East River, Roosevelt Island offers stunning skyline views and a nice little escape from Manhattan.
Once you’re here, you can take a stroll along the waterfront paths, have a picnic, or unwind at Four Freedoms memorial park on the island’s southern tip. In the spring, Roosevelt Island is a gorgeous place to view cherry blossoms!
Admission to the island is free, but you will have to take either a paid ferry or tram ride to get here. The scenic Roosevelt Island Tram is the price of a regular Metrocard swipe/subway ride and it’s well worth the price for the cool aerial tram experience – see the picture above!
49. Stroll around the West Village
At the risk of sounding basic and like every other NYC transplant, the West Village is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Manhattan. There’s just something so beautiful about the gorgeous brownstones, ivy-adorned homes, boutique shops, and cozy cafes around this neighborhood.
Summer is the perfect time to stroll this neighborhood while wandering its quiet streets, window shopping till you drop, and spotting famous spots like the “Friends” apartment and Carrie Bradshaw’s stoop—all for free!
50. Discover art and waterfront views in Long Island City
I mentioned my love for Long Island City above, but really…I am truly in love with this neighborhood. It’s located in Queens and offers a well-designed waterfront promenade, amazing views of the Manhattan skyline, and lots of places to just relax.
It really comes alive in the summer with summer concerts and outdoor movies in Gantry State Park. You can also wander in the inner streets of Long Island City for free public art, murals, and sculptures—many tied to the local art scene and nearby MoMA PS1.
So there you have it, my favorite 50 free things to do during the summer in NYC. If you have other favorite summer freebies in the city, make sure to let me know in the comments below!
🗽 Don’t forget to check out my other New York City guides!
- 50 Free Things to Do in New York City During the Summer
- How to Spend 3 Days in New York City: A Printable 3-Day NYC Itinerary
- 30 Best Cheap Eats in NYC You Can Get Under $10
