Rossilynne Skena Culgan

It’s America’s big day and we're here for it. Head to one of Gotham’s best beaches, grab your sunscreen and your sunnies and prepare for some fun in the sun. After gorging on red-white-and-blue treats and drinks, head out for the night to watch the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks or sail around NYC. RECOMMENDED: Full coverage of the 4th of July in NYC

A beloved New York City tradition since 1976, the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks are back for 2025 with a dazzling show. It's one of the best events to celebrate the 4th of July in NYC. What time is the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks show? On Friday, July 4 at 9:25pm. Where are the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks? The Macy's July 4 Fireworks Show returns to the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River for 2025. Specifically, the show will launch from the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and four barges positioned on the lower East River in the Seaport District. What is the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks show? Every year, the spectacular show launches 80,000 shells off of barges in the river. The extravaganza typically lasts 25 minutes and features numerous effects in 30 colors and shapes. For the first time this year, the East and West towers of the Brooklyn Bridge will serve as a canvas for large-scale projection mapping as part of the Macy’s 4th of July celebration. Also expect dazzling pyrotechnic effects including crackling crown jellyfish, atomic rings, yellow and green sunbursts, strobing lemon cascades, comet fans and more. What are the best places to watch the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks?  As for viewing locations, any anywhere with an unobstructed view of the sky above the lower East River should do the trick. Macy's says that prime public viewing will be available along elevated portions of the FDR Drive with the following access points managed by NYPD: Montgomery Street at Madison Stre

Wednesday, July 2: Get into Wellness Wednesdays with these free classes in Brooklyn. In honor of Atlantic Terminal’s 20th anniversary, they’re hosting a slew of free events, including wellness events on Wednesdays. Keep reading for the scoop. It’s rare to be in the greatest city on earth and not have plans, but if you’re stumped for things to do in NYC today, consider us your entertainment saviors. Daily, there are awesome events to stream and new attractions to see, but if you’re searching for something really specific like new happenings at the city’s top destinations or something low-budget—like free things to do—we have everything you need listed right here. RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar

Looking for the best things to do in NYC this weekend? Whether you’re the group planner searching for more things to do in NYC today or you have no plans yet, here are some ideas to add to your list for this weekend: July 4th celebrations, the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, JAPAN Fes, a rock 'n' roll exhibit, and FIFA World Cup watch parties—plus free events around town. All you have to do is scroll down to plan your weekend! Start planning a great month now with our round-up of the best things to do in July.  RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best New York attractions Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in New York City news, culture and dining. 

As much as New Yorkers love their city, they want to be transported to another space and time — at least that's the trend museums, companies and artists are capitalizing on. Immersive exhibits, events and experiences are popping up all over NYC these days. From theatrical experiences to trippy digital art taking over massive spaces, there's no shortage of ways to be immersed in a different reality. With so many ways to be immersed, we decided it was high time to round up all the cool, immersive events, exhibits and experiences happening in NYC now and coming up soon so you won't miss the chance to experience something new and potentially mind-blowing. RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now

You know that peak summer feeling: sweating on the subway, baking on the sidewalks… the unrelenting heat and humidity makes you crave a dip in a cold pool. While the city is home to a number of public pools, sometimes you’re looking for the whole shebang—poolside cocktails, towel service, a cabana with friends and maybe a DJ—the kind of setup you’ll find at a swanky hotel or resort. Well, you’re in luck: you too can enjoy some amazing hotel rooftop pools in NYC. For a fee, some of the top hotels in the city open their pools, and all the poolside amenities, to the public. Once you procure a day pass, you’ll be splashing it up like you’re on vacay, kicking back on a chaise lounge with a cocktail in hand. Many of these hotel pools double as rooftop bars, so you’re in for a real summertime party. RECOMMENDED: The best beaches in NYC for fun in the sun  

If you’re looking for the best things to do in NYC this week, or even for today, there are tons of fun options, including July 4th celebrations, the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, free dance lessons in Brooklyn, an 'Everybody Loves Raymond' exhibit, and awesome free events in NYC! For more ideas, scroll down to see this week's best things to do in NYC. RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in New York Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in New York City news, culture and dining. 

There's nothing more "summer in NYC" than taking in a movie in the great outdoors, under the hardly-seen stars and set to the humming soundtrack of the city. Even better, all of the screenings listed here are free to attend. New Yorkers love to take in films on the nicest rooftops, on the best beaches, and in our city's greatest parks (preferably with a drink or popcorn in hand). Luckily, NYC has no shortage of movies in the park you can attend in the warmer months. Prefer to watch your favorite films indoors in the A/C? Check out the best movie theaters in NYC. And for some at-home inspiration, you can always catch up on the best NYC movies of all time. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to things to do in the summer in NYC 

June 30, 2025: Summer in NYC is in full swing, so get out there and soak up the sun. Our iconic museums, big attractions and favorite restaurants have the coolest exhibits, shows and menus right now. Even after all the 4th of July events simmer down, the fun doesn’t end. From music festivals to movie nights and beaches to rooftop bars, there's so much to do right now. Time Out editors traverse New York City from end to end looking for the coolest things to do, the most delicious places to eat and the most impressive shows to see. We then pick the very best items to make it to this list each month.  From its art museums (The Met and MoMA) to its attractions (The Bronx Zoo and sunrises from the Empire State Building), we are certan that New York City is the best city in the world. Its dining and drinking scenes are still unbeatable with killer bars, restaurants and creative culinary inventions. Every day, we’re discovering something new and wonderful about our city, whether it’s one of the best parks, some incredible views, must-see art or hidden gem stores—and we’re highlighting the best of the best right here. So, consider below your NYC Bible.  RECOMMENDED: Check out Time Out’s interactive map of the best things to do in New York City

Some of the best things to do in NYC this summer happen in July. Even after all the 4th of July events simmer down, the fun doesn't end. After Independence Day, enjoy fantastic outdoor fun, hit up one of the city’s many rooftops and make sure to pencil in getting a tan at the best beaches in NYC while the weather is still hot, hot, hot.  RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar

New York City’s cultural amenities are many, but none quite match the number, scale, and variety of its museums. There is literally an institution for every interest, whether it’s in art, history, science, or quirkier subjects. From 5,000 years of art history at The Metropolitan Museum to cutting-edge art at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York City is an art lovers' paradise. There are dozens of other types of museums, too, like the encyclopedic American Museum Of Natural History, the classical New-York Historical Society, and the sultry Museum of Sex. Photography fans have to check out the International Center of Photography, architecture buffs should head to the Skyscraper Museum, and transit lovers can't miss the New York Transit Museum. And, of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg, even if you don’t count all of the other museums in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. Is it a lot to take in? Certainly. But if you want to find a museum with your name on it, look no further than our complete guide to the best museums in NYC, complete with highlights at each one.  RECOMMENDED: 🖼Full guide to the best museum exhibitions in NYC

New York City has tons of things going for it, from incredible buildings to breathtaking parks. But surely, the top of the list includes NYC’s vast array of museums and galleries, covering every field of culture and knowledge: There are quirky museums and interactive museums, free museums and world renowned art institutions like the Met. Between them, they offer so many exhibitions of every variety and taste that it's hard to keep track of them. But if you’ve starting to suffer a sudden attack of FOMA (that's fear of missing art ;)), don't worry! We've got you covered with our select list of the best museum exhibitions in NYC. Don't waste any time—head to NYC's best museum exhibits now! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to museums in NYC

At this live show, two comedians will watch Planet Earth, then you can try and stump them with animal trivia. Each time the hosts get a question wrong, they take a shot. Drunk Planet Earth is hosted by comedians Brian Morabito (Comedy Central) and Stephen Buckley (UCB). Find this delightfully nerdy free show at Caveat on the Lower East Side. Upcoming shows are on: June 28 and July 26.

Sometimes you need to escape the city—without actually leaving the city. The Rockaway Hotel + Spa is the perfect place to do exactly that.   An oasis in Queens, the Rockaway Hotel feels like a beachy, remote retreat even though it’s just over an hour’s subway ride from midtown. Decorated in natural blue and tan tones and packed with art, the hotel evokes relaxation along with a sense of New York City cool from the moment you step inside. The luxurious and design-forward 84,000-square-foot hotel offers 53 guest rooms and eight extended-stay residences each with Atlantic Ocean or Jamaica Bay views. Best of all? It’s just a five-minute walk to the Atlantic Ocean—if you can tear yourself away from the hotel’s on-site pool to make the short walk to the beach, that is. At the hotel’s heated outdoor pool, relax on a lounge chair, drop by the hotel’s cedar saunas and order poolside snacks and drinks from attentive staff. If you’ve got a large group, book a cabana in advance. You can even book a poolside spa service, like the scalp therapy drizzle or the after-sun skin reset. Speaking of spa services, the hotel’s spa really delivers with an array of treatments from massages to facials, along with wellness classes. As for dining, there’s the Pool House with a casual, poolside menu from dawn til dusk. Indoors, you’ll find Margie’s, the ground-floor restaurant that feels like a neighborhood dining room with its menu of American classics. Start with the tuna crispy rice and a citrus salad

We hope that you are prepared to loudly sing La Marseillaise while raising a glass of champagne—Bastille Day is coming soon! On Sunday, July 13, L'Alliance New York is hosting its is annual fête along Madison Avenue.  Expect cultural programming, live performances, film screenings, a Citroën Car Show, more than 50 French and local vendor booths, and free activities for all ages. This year's theme is outdoor living in the Côte d’Azur, so get ready for a beachy twist to the festivities.  The celebration typically welcomes more than 25,000 people, so expect a packed party once again this year! Activities run from 12-5pm on Madison Avenue, from 59th to 63rd Street on the Upper East Side. See the full line-up right here.

And Scene is a half-scripted comedy show where actors and improvisers are paired up to perform scenes together. The actors can only say the words as they come in the script, and the improvisers don't know what play they're in, making for a truly chaotic and hilarious evening. The June 16 show at Caveat boasts a stacked lineup including: Marc Evan Jackson (Brooklyn 99, The Good Place), Neal Bledsoe (Othello Broadway, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), Connor Ratliff (Mean Girls 2024),  Eden Malyn (Orange is the New Black), Brian Morabito (Dropout, Queens of the Dead), Cameron Moir (Daredevil: Born Again), Erin Darke (Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Danny Garcia (American Horror Story), Alex Dickson (Raaaatscraps, Stepfathers) and Desi Domo (The Conjuring). Upcoming shows are on July 21, August 18, September 15, October 20, November 17, and December 15. 

Watermark—the 10,000-square-foot bar and restaurant in the Seaport—has gone tropical for summer. Colorful umbrellas, towering palm trees, and surf-inspired decorations have taken over the outdoor terrace, making the space feel more like Saint Lucia than the Seaport. Keep an eye out for the playful presence of flamingos for a photo opp. Twinkling overhead lights will keep the party going even after the sun sets. The menu offers a tropical twist as well with oysters, crispy coconut shrimp, lobster rolls and more. As for drinks, there's a long list of boozy beverages served pouches—like the Kiwi West, BeachSide Bourbon, and Suavemente. If margaritas are more your style, there are a bunch of options, including the "mega fishbowl." Or if shots are your thing, there's a whole list of options called "The Shot Clinic." As always, Watermark at Pier 15 is known for its views of the Lower Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. If you squint, you can pretend the East River is the ocean instead.  Make a reservation in advance here.

There's nothing quite like dancing under the summer night sky. That's why Sholay Productions is bringing its signature South Asian LGBTQI+ dance party to Cobble Fish at Pier 16 on Friday, June 27. Sholay: Desi Queer Pride on the Pier will be a "a sunset celebration of queer love in all its beautiful forms," with beats by Ashu Rai. The event is free to attend if you get there before 8pm; after 8pm, admission is $20. A a cash bar will be available on-site. If you haven't heard of Sholay Productions yet, it's the New York-based organization behind Desilicious, the longest running LGBTQ+ South Asian dance party in North America. It's dedicated to providing safe and affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ South Asians, friends, and allies to come together and celebrate music, South Asian cinema, and dest-queer culture.

Edge, the highest outdoor sky deck in the western hemisphere, is throwing an exclusive 4th of July Celebration that’ll offer unparalleled views of the fireworks from 8–11pm. Tickets will give you private access to Edge’s indoor and outdoor viewing areas with its thrilling glass floor, angled glass walls and skyline steps. Plus, you’ll get access to an open bar and unlimited appetizers. A DJ will provide the soundtrack as you watch dazzling fireworks displays from New York City and New Jersey. Tickets start at $400/person. Or, if you're really adventurous, you can opt for a sunset City Climb offer starting at $650. This ticket includes exclusive access to Edge’s Fourth of July celebration, along with the premium thrill of scaling the building just in time for sunset. This special City Climb experience begins at 7:30pm, followed by entry to the main event, with festivities continuing through the evening.

Celebrating their 25th season of Movies With a View Presented by Pluto TV, Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy will show movies through August. Boasting free tickets, classic fan-favorite films, and a view of the Manhattan skyline, it simply cannot get more “summer in NYC.” Find the free outdoor film festival on Thursday evenings at Pier 1, Harbor View Lawn. July 10: BottomsJuly 17: AlienJuly 24: WaitressJuly 31: The MatrixAugust 7: The Wizard of Oz

The Naked Comedy Show promises "New York's nakedest stand-up comedians." Yes, the comedians are legit naked. At this secret Brooklyn venue (you'll get the address in your confirmation email), the first two rows of audience are nudity-optional. These nights of jokes and genitals will take place on Thursday, June 12.  Here are the line-ups:  7pm Rachel Green Tony Sykowkski Dan Martin Olivia Levine Andy Ofiesh (the Godfather of naked comedy!)   9pm Arjun Banerjee Josh Ri'Esgo Julia Desmond Marty Cunnie Dani Riedel Both shows are hosted by Billy Procida (bad Lifetime dating show). Two things to note: Sexual activity is prohibited. Audience members' phones will not be allowed out during the show.

Times Square will be both busier than ever and calmer than ever on Friday, June 20—the summer solstice—for the annual "Solstice in Times Square: Mind over Madness Yoga" event. Thousands of yoga practitioners will congregate from sunrise to sunset to take part in free yoga sessions throughout the day. This year, the event runs from 7:30am to 8:30pm at the intersection of Broadway and 7th Avenue between 43rd and 48th Streets. Over the past 23 years, this event has grown to welcome thousands of yogis taking multiple classes throughout the day and filling one of the busiest intersections in the world with peace and calm. Seven classes are available throughout the day; make a reservation for the in-person classes here. Free yoga mats will be provided to registered attendees while supplies last; be sure to bring your own water bottle. If you can't make it in person, you can livestream the class at TSQ.org/Solstice, on YouTube, or on the Times Square Facebook page.

Treat your ears to some free music at Battery Park City every Thursday evening this July. The Battery Park City's River & Blues Concert Series is a celebrated NYC summer tradition celebrating Global and American folk, roots and blues music. Expect to hear renowned artists on the cutting-edge of the jazz and blues scene. Picturesque Rockefeller Park serves as the an idyllic venue with breathtaking views of Hudson River sunsets, picnic-friendly fairgrounds and refreshing waterfront breezes. Here's the lineup: • July 10, Maggie Rose: After years on the Nashville music scene, Maggie Rose’s hard work was rewarded when her latest album, No One Gets Out Alive, was nominated for a Grammy award. • July 17, Amythyst Kiah: On her latest release Still + Bright, Amythyst Kiah’s storytelling is merged with a twist on rootsy alt-rock, exploring the struggle and joy of self-discovery. • July 24, Afro Latin Jazz Alliance: The award-winning Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra led by Arturo O’Farrill has enamored international audiences with its dynamic performances featuring the music of jazz legends and new compositions from the Latin music scene. • July 31, Lady Blackbird: Harnessing a mighty voice and fabulous regalia, Lady Blackbird effortlessly portrays heart-rending yearning in her jazz-soul sets.

Need some skating tips before you attempt to navigate Manhattan’s obstacle-ridden ice around the holidays? Head to this Queens arena, where dozens of weekly classes are available in addition to daily open sessions year-round. If you need to refuel after all that gliding, the World Ice Cafe serves rinkside grub during most public skating hours. Admission is $8 for weekdays and $12 for weekends and holidays; skate rental is $6. You must register online before you arrive to skate.

July 4th is almost here! It is, of course, a time to remember the revolutionary Americans who fought to free us from the rule of a king nearly 250 years ago. It's also a day for taking Americana to the max—fireworks, hot dogs, parties and red-white-and-blue treats galore.  New York City is the perfect place to celebrate given our own revolutionary history and our penchant for parties. The main event is the Macy's July 4th Fireworks, which will delight millions of onlookers around NYC and via television, but there are tons of other cool events, too. Here's everything you need to know about how to celebrate America's big day in NYC, where to see the fireworks and how to get around despite multiple street closures. RECOMMENDED: The best 4th of July events in NYC for 2025 Photograph: By Mihai_Andritoiu / Shutterstock All the details on the Macy's July 4th Fireworks This massive Macy's July 4th Fireworks show begins at 9:25pm on Friday, July 4, 2025 and lasts for about 25 minutes. The show will launch from the Brooklyn Bridge and four barges positioned on the lower East River in the Seaport District. You'll be able to see the fireworks from any area with an unobstructed view of the sky above the lower East River. Macy's says that prime public viewing will be available along elevated portions of the FDR Drive with the following access points managed by NYPD: Montgomery Street at Madison Street; Robert F. Wagner Sr. Place and Brooklyn Bridge off/on ramps; and Broad Street at Water

Transport yourself to the heart of the mosh pit—figuratively, that is—at this new immersive exhibit all about rock 'n' roll. Titled "Rolling Stone Presents Amplified: The Immersive Rock Experience," this digital exhibition is hosted at ARTECHOUSE in Chelsea, known for its stunning visual and audio presentations.  You'll get to explore the legacy of Rolling Stone magazine through more than 50 years of music and pop culture. Narrated by Kevin Bacon, "Amplified" features more than 1,000 photographs, 1,300 iconic magazine covers and a massive 270-degree digital canvas. Adult tickets start at $39, and the show is on view through August 31.  RECOMMENDED: Incredible immersive experiences to do in NYC right now The show will take you on a 50-minute journey featuring iconic visuals and, of course, incredible music. You'll get a tour through the story of revolutionary music and the changes it brought. Expect to see rare live performance and behind-the-scenes footage, exclusive portrait sessions, album art and posters, delivering one of the most comprehensive collections of rock 'n' roll imagery ever assembled. Photograph: By ATH Studio / Rolling Stone Presents Amplified: The Immersive Rock Experience More than 300 iconic artists whose music changed the world are featured in the show, including The Who, David Bowie, Sam Cooke, and Tinashe, to name a few. As for imagery, more than 500 photographers and film directors, such as Mark Seliger, Danny Clinch, Lynn Goldsmith, Anton Corbijn, B

ARTECHOUSE, the immersive art experience in Chelsea, typically features the work of a single artist exploring a single topic, such as Afrofuturism, AI·magination and outer space. But for their new installation, ARTECHOUSE has turned over the venue to dozens of emerging artists for a wide-ranging, year-long art extravaganza. Titled “Submerge,” the show will feature more than 100 artists over the course of 2025. The work of artists from across the globe will rotate every four months amid an open call for submissions. Expect to see everything from 3D animation to AI innovation to multimedia storytelling—anything that takes creativity out of confines of computer screens and onto an IRL canvas. Submerge is open to all ages through May 3, 2025 with tickets starting at $23.85.  RECOMMENDED: Incredible immersive experiences to do in NYC right now Think of Submerge like a living laboratory and launchpad for a new generation of creatives. Visitors are asked to "submerge" themselves in a continuously changing world of digital art that expands the boundaries of what art can be. The project offers resources, collaboration, mentorship, and exposure to help emerging digital artists thrive.  Photograph: Courtesy of ARTECHOUSE “Submerge Project does for digital art what MTV did for music videos and Hollywood did for movies: it redefines how we experience immersive art today, and helps shape the democratization of its future," ARTECHOUSE leaders say.  The first group of Submerge artists inc

It's always fun when a bar has a pinball machine. Everyone ends up gathering around it, watching the silver ball zip back and forth across the playing field while keeping an eye on the ever-elusive high score. But this new bar in Brooklyn's Greenpoint neighborhood boasts not just one, not just two, but 39 pinball machines.  Called Scrappleland, the pinball bar is the latest venture from the team behind Brooklyn's beloved Sunshine Laundromat, a functioning laundromat with pinball machines and a bar in the back. The new spot doesn't have any laundry machines; instead, it's dedicated to fast-paced pinball and smooth-flowing drinks.  RECOMMENDED: Greenpoint, Brooklyn neighborhood guide Among the 39 pinball machines, you'll find games with the following themes: Lost in Space, Galactic Tank Force, The Big Lebowski, Spider-Man, The Addams Family, Batman, Ghostbusters, Jurassic Park, Godzilla, and Stranger Things, to name a few. Each one is in excellent condition, even the more vintage models, making the player experience a blast.  Photograph: Courtesy of Scrappleland "The pinball machines keep multiplying!" as Scrappleland's Alison Bisset puts it. So you might just see even more machines when you visit next. If you want to put your pinball prowess to the test, the venue often hosts tournaments with MatchPlay, the NYC MatchPlay Pinball League, and the International Flipper Pinball Association. While you'll get to play against people in your same level, you'll also get to compete ag

Pride Weekend is here! Of course, New Yorkers have been celebrating all month long, but this weekend—with multiple marches and special events—makes for an epic grand finale.  While this weekend is certainly about fun, remember that Pride is a protest. After all, the first Pride march held a year after the Stonewall Uprising was an unpermitted political protest against anti-LGBTQ+ policies and attitudes; this Saturday's Dyke March is still an unpermitted protest. When thousands take to the streets for Sunday's Pride March, it will be part of a crucial annual civil rights demonstration. Here, we've rounded up everything you need to know about the event.  RECOMMENDED: NYC's best Pride events for 2025, from the marches to concerts When is the NYC Pride March? The NYC Pride March is on Sunday, June 29, 2025, starting at 11am. What is the theme for the 2025 Pride March? NYC Pride 2025's theme is "Rise up: Pride in Protest." It's a more defiant stance compared to recent years. "As the LGBTQIA+ community faces increasing hostility and legislative attacks, this year’s theme is a reflection of the Pride movement’s origins in protest—and is a powerful call to action for our communities and allies to rally and march in defiant celebration, advocacy and solidarity," their website reads. Who are the 2025 Pride March Grand Marshals? President Joe Biden's Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has been named as one of the grand marshals for the NYC Pride March. Other grand marshals this year in

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 to make the most of summer 2025. Here’s the full list of what’s coming to Rooftop Cinema Club’s big screen. RECOMMENDED: The best NYC movie theaters Photograph: Courtesy of Rooftop Cinema Club Rooftop Cinema Club NYC 2025 lineup June  Pride Month (all month): Films this month will spotlight iconic LGBTQ+ stories, queer joy, and the people who make our spaces vibrant, bold, and beautifully themselves. A few highlights include Love Lies Bleeding, Queer, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Keep an eye out for an LGBTQ+ Singles Night on June 12. Drag Me to the Movies (June 29): Celebrate The Birdcage the only way that makes sense: with a rooftop drag performance with more drama than a dinner with the Keeleys and more sparkle than Agador’s thong drawer. Photograph: Courtesy of Rooftop Cinema Club July July Fourth at Rooftop Cinema Club (July 4): Sunset views, summer air, and a curated lineup perfect for July Fourth Weekend. Slow Summer (July 7-20): If Nancy Meyers made a summer rooftop, this would be it. Think chilled Chardonnay, salt-air romance, soft laughs, and the kind of movies

Amid the Hollywood Red Scare nearly eight decades ago, Paul V. McNutt offered these words that still ring true today: “It does not require a law to cripple the right of free speech. Intimidation and coercion will do it.” McNutt, who was serving as lead counsel for the Motion Picture Alliance, went on to explain that the film industry cannot be a free medium if it’s called “un-American” any time it introduces a new idea or produces a film critical of the status quo. His words, which encapsulate the Hollywood Blacklist era, are now part of a new exhibit at The New York Historical titled “Blacklisted: An American Story.” It’s on view at the Upper West Side museum through October 19, 2025; it's included with general admission ($24/adult). RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now The museum began working on the exhibit two years ago in partnership with the Jewish Museum Milwaukee, where the show debuted.  “When The New York Historical decided to mount ‘Blacklisted,’ none of us could anticipate the timeliness of an exhibition that focused attention on the history of the Hollywood Red Scare,” the museum’s president Louise Mirrer said in a statement. “‘Blacklisted’ can seem almost contemporary in its exploration of the intersection of politics, economics, art, and the social dynamics that impacted American First Amendment rights.” Photograph: By Glenn Castellano, The New York Historical The exhibition digs into the Red Scare of 1945–1960, a time when political and

For the past three years, tall fences closed off one of the most beautiful parts of Central Park. Now, after three long years of extensive restoration, the spectacular Conservatory Garden is open once again and is in full bloom.  The Conservatory Garden is a six-acre formal garden located in the northeastern quadrant of the park known for its peaceful design and historic charm. The garden underwent at $25 million glow-up, the most significant investment in the space since it was built in 1937, the Central Park Conservancy announced this week. Go see it along Fifth Avenue between 104th and 106th Streets in Central Park.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Central Park The garden's three distinct styles—French, Italian, and English—have attracted many weddings and photoshoots over the years.  It's also a beloved spot for New Yorkers looking for a moment of tranquility in the city. Visiting feels like a taking stroll through a European garden without having to buy a plane ticket. In the springtime, peonies and lilacs surge into bloom at the Conservatory Garden. In the fall, look for a bevy of mums among the garden's neatly trimmed hedges.   Photograph: Courtesy of Central Park Conservancy While many of the garden's horticultural elements were addressed in 1983, this restoration focused on the comprehensive renewal of its historic hardscape, such as restoring bluestone pavers, updating stormwater draining, modernizing fountains, installing ramps and realigning paths. This ty

It's the newest holiday in New York City and a very important one: Juneteenth is here for 2025, so it's time to celebrate! Events across the city will commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. Black Americans have been marking the day since the late 1800s, but in 2020, the holiday garnered renewed attention as Black Lives Matter demonstrators called (and still call) for meaningful policy changes following the death of George Floyd at the hands of police officers. Juneteenth events in NYC this year include festivals, musical performances, comedy shows and family-friendly activities. Many festivities take place on the actual day—Thursday, June 19—but other events will run throughout the weekend, so you can keep the party going. Read on for our top Juneteenth picks and catch our full guide to the holiday here. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Juneteenth in NYC Photograph: Black Owned Brooklyn| Juneteenth Food Festival Parades and festivals  1. Juneteenth Family Festival Where: Lewis Latimer House | Flushing, QueensWhen: Saturday, June 20How much: Free to attend The Juneteenth Freedom Celebration at Lewis Latimer House features live performances, hands-on activities and powerful tributes to Black innovation, creativity and resilience. Inspired by Latimer's legacy, this immersive event brings history to life through interactive S.T.E.A.M. activities exploring light, sound, flight and invention. 2. Juneteenth Food Festival Where: Weeksville Heritage Center | Crown Height

In the shadow of the Empire State Building, a nine-foot-tall gorilla gazes toward the iconic skyscraper. A few steps away, a massive brown bear raises its head curiously, and a polar bear lifts a paw into the air. These gigantic sculptures newly placed along Park Avenue look remarkably lifelike—and incredibly cute.  They also raise important messages about the beauty and vulnerability of the natural world, especially endangered species. The sculpture collection by renowned French artist Michel Bassompierre titled "Fragile Giants" is on view along Park Avenue between 34th and 38th Streets. This open-air gallery is free to visit through May 11, 2026. RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor art in NYC this summer The powerful open-air installation features nine monumental animal sculptures, which stand tall as majestic figures among the city's skyscrapers. Many of the sculptures have already toured through Europe, but there's one sculpture that was unveiled exclusively for New York City. Titled "Le Majestueux (The Majestic)," it's Bassompierre's largest gorilla sculpture to date. Find it at the corner of Park Avenue and 34th Street with a serene presence and noble form meant to honor the strength and dignity of its species.  This reconnection with the beauty of nature is necessary to make people want to protect it. "We need to create wonder," the artist said in a press release. "This reconnection with the beauty of nature is necessary to make people want to protect it."  Photograph: By

Three colorful figures are now brightening up the intersection of 124th Street and Lenox Avenue in Harlem: Called "Aunties," these figurative sculptures by local artist Fitgi Saint-Louis honor the women who passionately nurture and embolden the Harlem community. As the artist puts it, "Aunties is an ode to the collective of women, builders, leaders, caretakers, changemakers and creatives who transform Harlem and beyond all while having impeccable style." You can visit the artwork through April 2026. RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor art in NYC this summer, including sculptures To create the larger-than-life figures, Saint-Louis used layers of wood, then painted the wood with bold yellow, red and green hues. The works are meant to be monumental in scale—like the icons of the community—and they're intended to remind passersby of heritage craft traditions and connection to land. "Aunties is intentionally positioned with open space between figures to invite people to stand with them," the NYC Department of Transportation explained in a press release. "The installation recognizes the continued contributions of aunties to the collective fabric in the past, present and future." View this post on Instagram A post shared by NYC DOT Art (@nyc_dotart) The project was commissioned by the NYC DOT as part of the Community Commissions initiative. Under this project, the DOT works with local organizations to design temporary, site-specific artwork. In additi

Head west this summer to experience some of the best cultural activities in the city—for free. West Side Fest is back for its third year with gratis fun for all ages at museums, parks, performing arts centers and cultural institutions across the west side of Manhattan.  Programming runs from July 11–13 with a packed weekend of activities, including free admission to The Whitney, tai chi classes on the High Line, tours of Poster House, zine-making at Print Center New York and much more. It's hosted by The West Side Cultural Network, a group of museums, parks, performing arts centers and cultural institutions located within a half-mile portion of the city.  RECOMMENDED: The best NYC events in July 2025, including July 4th parties, movie nights, and free music The event is meant to highlight the west side as a cultural destination with a mix of history, fresh activities and open gathering spaces.  West Side Fest highlights include: A Free Friday Night at The Whitney Museum of American Art with music by Public Records Curator-led tours of Fallout: Atoms for War & Peace and other exhibits at Poster House Art workshops focused on creating pieces inspired by the plants, soil, fungi and insects in the High Line gardens. Tai Chi and Afro-Brazilian Dance workshops on the High Line (Sunday only)  A backgammon tournament on artist Sam Moyer's handcrafted boards at Hill Art Foundation Walking tours that engage with the local ecology of the Hudson River hosted by Hudson River Park A paint