Experience the magic of a New York summer! From free concerts in Central Park to outdoor movies by the Brooklyn Bridge, the city comes alive with endless adventures. Discover amazing food, world-class museums, and vibrant street festivals in every neighborhood. Make unforgettable memories in the world's most exciting city.
FREE Summer Activities
Entertainment
- Outdoor Movies opens in a new window | NYC Parks
- Shakespeare in the Park opens in a new window | Public Theater (free by lottery)
- Broadway in the Park opens in a new window | Broadway stars perform hits in Bryant Park
- Summer for the City opens in a new window | Music & Dance all-summer festival, 300+ events
- SummerStage opens in a new window | Concerts in NYC parks
Fitness & Wellness
- Shape Up NYC opens in a new window | outdoor group fitness
- Mindful NYU opens in a new window | meditation & mindfulness
- Summer Streets opens in a new window | August weekends, car-free street event for walking & cycling
- Kayaking at Pier 26 opens in a new window | Summer weekends, kayak the Hudson River
Exploration
- Staten Island Ferry opens in a new window | sails past the Statue of Liberty
- Visit the Whitney Museum opens in a new window | pay what you wish Friday evenings 7-10pm
- NYC Parks | visit student favorites: Brooklyn Bridge Park, the High Line, Little Island, Prospect Park, Washington Square Park, Bryant Park
- NYC Bridges | Brooklyn Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, Manhattan Bridge
Featured on NYU's News Story
- Take Yourself on an Iconic NYC Adventure This Summer opens in a new window | Recommended art, culture, and sports itineraries for the summer
Affordable Summer Activities
- Visit Street fairs & farmers markets
- Citi Bike along the West Side Highway bike path, under $5/30 mins
- Take the MTA Ferry to Rockaway Beach, $9/person round-trip
- Ride the tram to Roosevelt Island, under $6/person round-trip
- Roller Skate at BK Bridge park opens in a new window, $16/person for admission & skate rental
- Play chess in Washington Square Park, usually $5/game
- Bring dinner and watch the sun set over Manhattan from Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Watch the New York City Ballet opens in a new window, $30 tickets if you're under 30 (first come, first served)
- Attend a New York City Football Club opens in a new window game
- Visit the New York Transit Museum opens in a new window in Brooklyn, $10 tickets
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Getting Around
The best way to get oriented in your new home is to familiarize yourself with a map. Know the borough names and placements, the way neighborhoods around NYU are laid out, and how to get from your residence hall to your internship or program.
Taking Public Transportation
Public transit is the most convenient and affordable way to get around New York (NYU does not recommend bringing a vehicle). Read how to ride the NYC subway opens in a new window.