Looking for things to do outside in New York? Explore parks, beer gardens, outdoor restaurants, beaches and more.
There are plenty of things to do outside in New York year-round, but when the weather gets to be just right and you want to spend as much time outside as possible, the city has some amazing options for a fresh air hang.
NYC parks are beautiful urban oases where you can picnic, play or just relax. Come spring, you can even spot cherry blossoms. All around the city you can find outdoor restaurants, bars and beer gardens to whet your whistle. When temps really rise, head further out to cool off at NYC beaches. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities in New York, and after a long winter, it’s a dream to get out, feel the breeze and soak up some sun.
Read on for the best things to do outside in the city, but if you need a little more nature with your outdoor adventures, check out the best places to go camping near NYC and the best hikes near NYC.
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Cocktails above the clouds? Yes, please. When the weather is gorgeous, New Yorkers instantly flock to the best outdoor rooftop bars for a beverage (or three).
Time Out Tip: We can’t get enough of the views at spots such as Panorama Room on Roosevelt Island and Westlight in Brooklyn.
The best views in NYC are from up or out — whether atop a tall building, up in the sky, or out on the water. These rooftop bars, skyscrapers, bridges and more offer a unique perspective on the city. Experiencing these magical views in NYC, many of which are outdoors, might just be one of the best things to do in NYC.
A few of our favorite spots: One World Observatory, The High Line and Green-Wood Cemetery.
Whether you're on a romantic date or hanging with friends, dinner on the water can't be beat. Ocean breezes and beautiful views can only enhance your dining experience. When perfect weather is upon us, grab a spot with a view of the Hudson and East Rivers or the Atlantic Ocean at NYC’s best waterfront restaurants.
Our top picks: Ellington in the Park and Time Out Market (of course!).
The Metropolitan Museum of Art isn't just packed with art inside—it's even got art on its roof. Head to the rooftop of the Met to see three, massive abstract artworks by Jennie C. Jones titled “Ensemble.”
One of the instruments makes sound when it’s activated by the wind. The other two don’t make sound at all, even though they’re capable of doing so. That's exactly the point. Instead, their potential for sound and the tension between dormancy and activation is where they hold power. Go see these cool sculptures on the Met’s gorgeous rooftop through October 19.
Why go: This will be the last roof garden commission for at least five years as the museum will soon embark on construction of its new annex.
A bevy of open-air night markets will pop up around town this summer, from the upper reaches of the Bronx to Queens. We've rounded up details on all of them, so grab some cash and make plans to eat locally—and deliciously.
Don't miss: The iconic Queens Night Market, ranked one of the best food festivals in the U.S.
If you need another reason to get outside this summer, NYC street fairs take over various blocks in all five boroughs when the weather gets warmer. While frolicking along the city's sidewalks, snack on sensational eats from the best restaurants in NYC and score stellar throwback wares and antiques as you would find at our city’s finest vintage clothing stores.
A few of our favorites: Grand Bazaar and Brooklyn Flea.
Rooftop Cinema Club takes movie-going to a whole new level—literally. This rooftop film series at a midtown skyscraper offers stunning views and an impressive lineup of films.
In addition to the movie magic, the venue also offers movie snacks, a full bar and cute photo opps. This season features movies that will appeal to ‘90s kids, a Grease sing-along, Pride films, Wine Wednesdays and lots more all summer long.
Time Out Tip: You'll get your own set of over-ear headphones that block out street noise, and you can adjust the volume as needed.
Grab your paddles, pickleball fans, because the popular sport is back in Central Park all spring and summer long. CityPickle is open at the park's Wollman Rink through the early fall.
This is the third season for pickleball on 14 courts in the center of Manhattan. This tennis/ping-pong/badminton hybrid has become the country's fastest-growing sport, with more than 130,000 New Yorkers flocking to Wollman Rink's courts in past years. All skill levels are welcome for court rentals, clinics, open play, and private events from 8am to 9pm daily. Plus, expect summer camps, events, and special free programming.
Fun fact: It's the largest pickleball offering in the Northeast.
Despite being seen as a concrete jungle, New York City is home to plenty of beautiful and enchanting gardens. There are small pockets where greenery not only thrives but provides a welcome respite from the hectic pace of urban life—that is, if you know where to look.
From a romantic Upper West garden to a estate-like oasis in the Bronx, here's where to stop and smell the roses.
Time Out Tip: It's worth the journey to Staten Island to visit Snug Harbor.
There's more than one kind of New York City music festival. The first events that come to mind might be the big-tent fests like Governors Ball, but just as important are staple series like City Parks SummerStage and BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!, which keep crowds coming out to our beloved green spaces all season long.
Overwhelmed by all the choices? Check out our hand-picked this guide to the very best summer music festivals hitting town this year.
Time Out Tip: While they're not the big music festivals you may be thinking of, several spots are offering free live music this summer, including Little Island and Bryant Park.
Smorgasburg, the food bazaar spectacular, is back with dozens of great local vendors across three locations.
In fact, with more than 70 vendors, Smorg will be filled with fragrant Ethiopian stews, Hawaii-style street comforts, explosive pani puri, potato puff poutine and lots more.
Smorgasburg WTC runs on Fridays; Williamsburg is on Saturdays; and Prospect Park is on Sundays. Each location is open from 11am-6pm and operates weekly through October.
Forget the 14-hour flight from NYC to Tokyo, you can now discover the tastes of Japan with just a short subway ride to JAPAN Fes. The massive annual food festival just announced its 2025 dates, and the schedule is packed with events.
The organization is hosting nearly 30 outdoor events in NYC this year. What used to be just a summertime festival is now a year-round celebration across Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. Event organizers say it's the largest Japanese food festival in the world, attracting 300,000 visitors and featuring 1,000 vendors every year.
On the menu: Past festivals have featured foods like takoyaki, ramen, matcha sweets, yakisoba, karaage, okonomiyaki and lots more.
Outdoor dining in NYC has always been a huge part of summer in the city. There's nothing better than enjoying a meal while watching the hustle and bustle around you. These luncheonettes, all-day cafes, Michelin-starred stunners, dives, neighborhood favorites and newcomers all have open-air settings to get your attention, and great food and drinks to keep you coming back.
On the list: From a breezily-chic French restaurant to a casual counter-service seafood spot, there's something on our list for everybody.
From Fort Greene to the Bronx, there are plenty of stellar outdoor gatherings of local and organic vendors in town. Rather than lose your sanity in traumatizing Sunday Trader Joe’s lines, head to your local market and smell the fresh fruits and veggies. After restocking your pantry, make sure to pick up a bouquet of blooms so you can bring a bit of the outdoors inside your humble abode.
Time Out Tip: Remember your reusable bags for our farmers market haul.
New York City is full of free art that you don't even have to go to a museum to see. Sculptures, murals and photographs can be found in its parks, sidewalks and on its buildings. Locations such as the High Line, Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum Of Art, Cadman Plaza in Brooklyn and Socrates Sculpture Park in Queens and other NYC locales all have a wide variety of pieces awaiting you, from massive sculptures to eye-popping murals.
Don't miss: Pop by the Garment District for "New York Roots," a massive web-like sculpture on view all summer long.
Contrary to popular belief, the East River and Hudson River are not yet radioactive, and hitting the water can provide a riveting time and some one-of-a-kind views of the city. Many of the city’s most popular boathouses provide free rides, so there’s no reason for you to resist the 20-minute rush of riding on the water.
Good to know: Most are first-come-first-served or by reservation only, so be sure to do your research before you head out.
Filled with Victorian mausoleums, cherubs and gargoyles, Green-Wood is the resting place of some half-million New Yorkers, among them Jean-Michel Basquiat, Leonard Bernstein and Boss Tweed. But there’s more to do here than grave-spot: Check out the massive Gothic arch at the main entrance or climb to the top of Battle Hill, one of the highest points in Kings County and a pivotal spot during the Battle of Brooklyn in 1776.
Fun fact: A century ago, this site vied with Niagara Falls as New York State’s greatest tourist attraction.
Say sayonara to ridiculous brunch lines and leave the ramen at home for once because you have the chance to make an epic sandwich and relax on the grass at one of the city’s lovely and lush parks. You’ll never want to eat indoors again after dining alfresco by the shore at Clove Lakes Park, under the bridge at Astoria Park or on one of Governors Island’s man-made hills.
Friendly reminder: Don’t forget to bring a few dollars so you can hit the shaved ice cart!
If you’re a vintage-sifting fan, a foodie or, hell, a New Yorker, then you need to hit one of the best flea markets in NYC. We have a full guide about how flea-goers can navigate the city’s bazaar scene, so satisfy the itch and start shopping for craft jewels and antiques.
A few can't-miss options: The Brooklyn Flea, Ludlow Flea, and Bushwick Market.
This beautiful, one-of-a-kind park has locals and tourists alike flocking to take in its scenic views and greenery. And you never know what kind of outdoor artwork, nearby food trucks or performances you might stumble upon while you’re there! Running a span of more than 15 blocks, the High Line allows for tons of opportunities to stop by an adjacent fun-having spot.
Time Out Tip: Stargazing is offered every Tuesday in warmer weather.
Live like Robert Mapplethorpe and Patti Smith for just a day and take a fabulous spin around this nationally beloved kitschy playground. There's a good time to be had wherever you turn: Luna Park features some mighty roller coasters, including the nearly century-old Cyclone, and the dames of Burlesque at the Beach perform wild routines year-round. The trip is worth it alone for stuffing your piehole with an authentic Nathan’s Hot Dog.
Don't miss: While you're there, also drop by the Coney Island Museum for some truly thrilling exhibitions.
Sure, the New York Botanical Garden, Queens Botanical Garden and Brooklyn Botanic Garden are open year-round, but there is a lot more flora and greenery to see during the warmer months. Staring in spring, you can see beautiful cherry blossoms alongside other amazing blooms.
Good to know: Make sure to check their calendars for news on upcoming exhibits and shows.
See iconic botanical gardens and other top New York City attractions with a New York Pass.
You don’t have to be a tourist to explore the bastion of history and culture that is NYC. And with niche walking tours springing up at every corner—including ghost hunts in the Upper East Side, Harlem foodie adventures and literary pub crawls in the East Village—there’s plenty of incentive to make your parents proud and actually learn something about the city you call home.
Our favorite: Literary Pub Crawl, which explores Greenwich Village while you learn with libations.
During that most wonderful stretch of the year when it’s neither too hot nor too cold, one of the best places to go for a beer is an outdoor beer garden for some excellent brews with fresh air and fun. With outdoor tables, games, music and of course amazing brews, they're the perfect alfresco option for sipping a cold one on a gorgeous day.
On the list: Whether you're looking for a German biergarten experience or a specialty sours spot, there's a place in our list for you.
If you’re strapped for cash and sick of burning through your mom’s Netflix account, all you need is subway fare and a towel to enjoy some of the best beaches in NYC. There’s likely a sandy shore for whatever mood you're in: partygoers can have a drink at Jacob Riis Park Beach, those looking to relax and get away from summer crowds should hit Fort Tilden; and Coney Island Beach is jam-packed with all the shore-side carnival festivities you could ask for.
On the calendar: Beaches typically open for the season on Memorial Day weekend.
Apparently, not all NYC pools are hidden in expensive sports clubs you can’t afford to join. Dip into the nostalgic rapture of childhood swimming at outdoor pools in every borough—including the sprawling Astoria Pool or the fun-sized Tony Dapolito Recreation Center—before learning (the hard way) that New Yorkers still get sunburns.
Make the most of your day: Check ahead for seasonal opening times.
When the weather is less than ideal, don’t fret—there are plenty of things to do on a rainy day in NYC.
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