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Stay cool in New York this summer |
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As the temperatures soar, New Yorkers head outdoors to enjoy the sunshine and make the most of every passing breeze. Away from the air-conditioned shops, there are over 52,000 acres of parklands within New York City as well as a great variety of outdoor concerts, trendy terraces, shaded esplanades and even sandy beaches to enjoy. Here are our suggestions for making the most of summer in the Big Apple:
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Parks & Gardens |
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Situated on the southernmost point of Manhatten, Battery Park offers thirty acres of gardens alongside the Hudson River. There are regular summer events, playgrounds and great river views to admire.
Bryant Park, located behind the New York Public Library, is renowned for its film evenings - bring a blanket and a picnic and enjoy classic movies under the stars every Monday evening. This summer, visitors can also enjoy the “Good Morning America” concerts every Friday.
Central Park must be one of the most famous landmarks of this extraordinary city and the lawns around the lake are a popular spot throughout the summer months. Wander the gardens at your own pace, taking in the visitor centre, zoo, carousel and castle or save your feet and enjoy a romantic ride in a horse-drawn carriage - touristy it may be, but this is a must for first-time visitors. The Park plays host to a number of outdoor events throughout the summer including concerts at the Naumburg Bandstand, Shakespeare at the Delacourte Theatre and live music at the Rumsey Playfield.
Blue Heron Park is a 222 acre wetland reserve on Statton Island. If you want to escape the hustle of the city for a while, this is an enjoyable excursion, providing a peaceful retreat and welcome breath of fresh air
Take advantage of the cool shade provided by the big trees of the Brooklyn Botanic Park or join in the summer activities designed to increase your appreciation of the 52 acre garden.
Brooklyn’s McCarren Park attracts a young crowd to its free “pool party” every Sunday. The one-time swimming pool now hosts live music from a variety of hot indie bands. Lay back and relax, enjoy the music, a cool beer and a genuine New York hot dog. |
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Beaches |
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Did you know you could surf in New York City? Did you expect your trip to include a walk along an old-fashioned boardwalk or beachcombing along the sands?
Coney Island is known best for its beach and rollercoasters. A popular weekend excursion, there are sideshows, museums, an aquarium and special summer events.
Protecting the natural landscape to the south of New York, the Gateway National Recreation Area offers fantastic beaches, old forts, sand dunes and a wildlife refuge. Recreational activities include fishing, boating and cycling.
If the heat of the city becomes too much for you, then take the quintessential summer trip out to the Hamptons. East of Long Island, this well known summer retreat for wealthy New Yorkers offers sweeping beaches, elegant holiday homes and busy marinas. Summer events include polo at Bridgehampton, the “Hampton Classic” horse show and the Hamptons International Film Festival as well as numerous star-studded parties at the resort’s chic restaurants, nightclubs and art galleries. |
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Roof gardens & terraces |
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The roof garden at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on the Upper East Side of Manhattan costs nothing more than a museum admission ticket and offers fantastic views over Central Park. If you are in need of refreshment, there is a café on the terrace serving light bites and cocktails.
The Bohemian Hall Beer Garden is a traditional European beer garden. Here you can enjoy a pitcher of pilsner at picnic tables under the stars, listening to the sounds of the polka and surrounded by Czech memorabilia
The Hudson Bar is a trendy spot, ornately decorated with a glass floor lit from below and a ceiling painted by world-renowned artist Francesco Clemente. Sit at the bar and soak up the lively atmosphere or enjoy a signature cocktail in the lush outdoor garden. The Hudson Hotel also offers its guests a private landscaped terrace on the 15th floor with sweeping views over the city and Hudson River.
The award-winning River Café in Brooklyn enjoys a garden terrace with stunning views of New York Harbour and the Manhattan skyline. The views are such that the neighbouring jetty attracts local brides each weekend in search of wedding photographs with a unique New York style.
The Park (118 10th Ave) is a huge designer restaurant/nightclub which is bound to impress. There is a rain-forest themed dining room, a secluded atrium, a penthouse with rooftop terraces and hot tub and a Japanese style outdoor garden. Not only does the Park deliver an inexhaustible range of cocktails, it also serves up a fantastic Sunday family brunch.
The observation decks of the Empire State building are undoubtedly impressive but for a less crowded view of the New York skyline, ride to the viewing platforms at the Top of the Rock at the Rockerfeller Centre. The highest of the 3 observation decks, located on the 70th floor, offers an unobstructed, 360 degree view of New York City and beyond. |
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On the water |
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For a change of pace, escape the everyday hustle and bustle of the city and take to the water in a classic schooner. As well as beautiful city views, you will undoubtedly appreciate the refreshing breeze. For a romantic evening, treat yourself to the champagne cruise and sail by starlight.
For the more budget conscious, the free 25-minute Staten Island Ferry leaves Whitehall Street in Lower Manhattan every half hour for Staten Island, offering fine views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. And the Water Taxis between Manhattan and Brooklyn have an upper outdoor deck where you can also savour a refreshing breeze.
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