New York City events: June 2012

A 23-block stretch of Fifth Avenue becomes a car-free promenade when ten of the city’s most prestigious art institutions—including the Guggenheim, the Met and the Museum of the City of New York—open their doors to the public free of charge for three hours. The crowds at this annual culturefest can be daunting—more than 50,000 people are expected to show up—but don’t get overwhelmed; plan to get there early if you want to see big-name shows. Musical performances, including string quartets and jazz ensembles, will enhance your walk from one museum to the next.

Salsa music blares, and scantily clad revelers dance along the route or ride colorful floats at this freewheeling celebration of the city’s largest Hispanic community.

Celebrate King Neptune and his mermaid queen, as well as the throngs of semiaquatic (and seminaked) creatures, perched on floats and walking the streets of Coney Island during this annual fete. Over-the-top under-the-sea costumes are de rigueur; smear a little glitter paint on your face, and you’ll fit right in. Stick around for the Mermaid Parade Ball (7pm, tickets $25) at the New York Aquarium.

Lower Manhattan organizations present hundreds of free events—from walks and games to all manner of arts performances—at various waterside venues. Past performers include Patti Smith, Laurie Anderson and the New York City Opera. For the past few years, bookings at South Street Seaport in particular have made it one of the coolest concert series in town. Dates and lineup have not yet been set; visit the website for full schedule.

For the first time in nearly three decades, New Yorkers will be able to cool off at the McCarren Park Pool, scheduled to open for the season on June 28. The newly renovated 37,950-square-foot pond fits 1,500 swimmers and features eight lap lanes, alongside a sand volleyball court and a recreation center.