Summer in New York City is an experience like no other. The energy is electric, the streets are buzzing, and the possibilities are endless. But let’s be real, the heat can be brutal. As temperatures soar and humidity reaches sauna-like levels, finding ways to cool down in NYC becomes a top priority.
But fear not, fellow heat warriors! This isn’t your average “drink water and stay indoors” guide. We’re diving into the coolest, most refreshing ways to not just survive, but thrive in the summer heat. From hidden oases to unexpected adventures, we’ve got you covered. So grab your shades, slather on that SPF, and get ready to conquer the concrete jungle without breaking a sweat (well, not too much).
1. Dive into a Rooftop Oasis: Where Cool Vibes Meet City Views
Forget stuffy apartments and crowded streets. Elevate your cool-down game (literally) by escaping to one of NYC’s many rooftop oases. These hidden gems offer stunning city views, refreshing cocktails, and often, a pool to dip your toes into.
- The Arlo Williamsburg Pool: This trendy spot boasts a heated pool, delicious drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for soaking up the sun and cooling off in style.
- Mr. Purple: Located in the Hotel Indigo Lower East Side, this rooftop bar is known for its breathtaking views, vibrant energy, and pool parties that will make you forget all about the heat.
- The Ready Rooftop Bar: Situated atop the Moxy East Village hotel, this playful rooftop oasis features a retractable glass roof, colorful decor, and a menu of creative cocktails that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
2. Embrace the Chill: NYC’s Best Ice Cream Shops
When the heat is on, there’s nothing quite like a scoop (or three) of ice cream to cool down in NYC. Luckily, the city is home to some of the most innovative and delicious ice cream shops in the world.
- Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream: This iconic Lower East Side shop is a must-visit for ice cream aficionados. Their unique flavors, like burnt honey vanilla and black coconut ash, are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy.
- Taiyaki NYC: Get ready for a taste of Japan with Taiyaki’s fish-shaped cones filled with soft serve ice cream and topped with everything from sprinkles to mochi.
- OddFellows Ice Cream Co.: With multiple locations across the city, OddFellows offers a rotating menu of inventive flavors like miso cherry and olive oil plum.
3. Get Your Cool-Down on the Water: Kayaking, Paddleboarding, and More
Escape the concrete jungle and cool down in NYC’s surrounding waterways. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-timer, there are plenty of options for getting your cool-down on the water.
- Manhattan Kayak Company: Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the Hudson River with stunning views of the city skyline.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse: Take a free kayaking class or join a guided tour of the East River.
- The Downtown Boathouse: This non-profit organization offers free kayaking and canoeing on the Hudson River, making it a great option for budget-minded adventurers.
4. Find Your Inner Zen: Cool Down in NYC’s Parks and Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find your inner zen in one of NYC’s many parks and gardens. These green oases offer a welcome respite from the heat and a chance to reconnect with nature.
- Central Park: This iconic park is a must-visit for any NYC visitor. Take a stroll through the shady Ramble, rent a rowboat on the lake, or simply spread out a blanket and relax on the Great Lawn.
- The High Line: This elevated linear park offers stunning views of the city, unique gardens, and plenty of shady spots to cool down.
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden: This 52-acre oasis is home to a diverse collection of plants, including a Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden and a Shakespeare Garden.
5. Go Underground: Explore NYC’s Coolest (Literally) Museums and Attractions
When the heat gets unbearable, head underground to explore some of NYC’s coolest (literally) museums and attractions.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art: This world-renowned museum is home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
- The American Museum of Natural History: Explore the wonders of the natural world, from dinosaurs to meteorites, at this iconic museum.
- The New York Transit Museum: Learn about the history of NYC’s subway system and take a ride on a vintage subway car.
6. Sip Your Way to Coolness: NYC’s Best Frozen Drinks
When the temperature rises, there’s nothing quite like a frozen drink to cool you down. From classic margaritas to innovative cocktails, NYC’s bars and restaurants have got you covered.
- Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar: This rooftop bar atop the Conrad New York Downtown hotel is famous for its Prosecco and ice pops, a refreshing and Instagram-worthy treat.
- The Beach at Dream Downtown: This rooftop bar and lounge features a sandy beach, cabanas, and a menu of frozen cocktails that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
- Mother’s Ruin: This Nolita bar is known for its creative cocktails, including a frozen Aperol spritz that’s perfect for a hot summer day.
7. Cool Down with a Splash: NYC’s Public Pools and Beaches
Take a dip in one of NYC’s many public pools or beaches to cool down and beat the heat.
- Astoria Park Pool: This massive pool in Queens is the largest in the city and offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
- McCarren Park Pool: This popular Brooklyn pool features a diving pool, a wading pool, and a spray shower.
- Orchard Beach: This Bronx beach is known as the “Riviera of New York” and offers a wide range of activities, from swimming to volleyball.
8. Cool Down with a Show: Broadway and Off-Broadway Theaters
Beat the heat and enjoy a Broadway or Off-Broadway show in one of NYC’s many air-conditioned theaters.
- Hamilton: This Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers.
- The Lion King: This beloved musical brings the magic of Disney’s animated film to life on stage.
- Dear Evan Hansen: This Tony Award-winning musical explores the themes of social anxiety and isolation in the digital age.
9. Chill Out with a Movie: NYC’s Best Air-Conditioned Cinemas
Catch a movie in one of NYC’s many air-conditioned cinemas to escape the heat and enjoy a cinematic experience.
- Alamo Drafthouse Cinema: This cinema chain offers a unique movie-going experience with food and drinks served directly to your seat.
- Nitehawk Cinema: This Williamsburg cinema features a full bar and restaurant, as well as a curated selection of independent and classic films.
- Film Forum: This non-profit cinema is known for its eclectic programming, which includes documentaries, foreign films, and classic revivals.
10. Bonus Tip: Stay Hydrated and Fuel Up with Summer Treats
Don’t forget to stay hydrated and fuel up with refreshing summer treats to keep your energy levels up and beat the heat.
- Drink plenty of water: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout the day.
- Snack on fruits and vegetables: These hydrating snacks are packed with nutrients and will help you stay cool and energized.
- Indulge in a frozen treat: From ice cream to popsicles, there are endless options for cooling down with a sweet treat.
The Coolest Way to Cool Down in NYC
With these 10 refreshing ways to cool down in NYC, you’ll be able to beat the heat and enjoy all that the city has to offer this summer. So get out there and explore, but don’t forget to stay cool!
