This summer will definitely be different than last summer! Everything is starting to move in the right direction and the city that never sleeps is coming back to life. Over the summer, instead of watching TV and sleeping all day, here are ten AMAZING things you can do this summer right here in New York City. 

1. Take a trip to the new floating park

The new floating park recently opened in the Hudson River Park. It was built on massive pylons that come straight out of the Hudson River. This is an awesome place to take in the beautiful green scenery and hang out with friends and family while listening to performances that will be happening on the island all summer!

2. Try to make it to a few local museums

Only a few minutes away from the Ramaz Upper School, one can find many museums. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, and the Museum of Natural History to name a few. What’s better than having a relaxing and educational day, looking at beautiful artwork, learning history, all while roaming the streets of New York City in the summer?

3. Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Have you ever dreamt of stepping inside one of Van Gogh’s paintings? Well, now you can at the Van Gogh Immersive Experience. With 360º projections, 15,000 square feet of screens, and virtual reality, you will be able to feel as if you are inside Van Gogh’s paintings. 

4. Take a Citi Bike around Central Park

Bike-riding will allow you to get outdoors and travel through New York City. The beautiful green scenery around Central Park will amaze you! Make sure to stop by the Turtle Pond and visit the turtles and ducks! Remember: Don’t forget a water bottle!

5. Go on a double decker tour bus

What better way to spend a hot summer day than on the upper deck of a New York City tour bus. You may think that you have seen all of New York City, but you will be surprised by the many places that you haven’t been to. Additionally, you can never get tired of seeing the landmarks and the places that make this city New York City. 

6. Try to catch the new cast of Gossip Girl part 2 filming at the MET

If you were obsessed with the first Gossip Girl series, you should be screaming at the news that there will be a Gossip Girl part 2. They have been spotted filming at the infamous MET steps more than once. Spend the day sitting on the MET steps, reading, eating ice cream, or drinking iced coffee, and you may just find yourself sitting next to the filming of a Gossip Girl scene. 

7. Go to a drive-in movie

No. It’s not just something they did in the “olden days.” Grab some friends and drive right up to the movie. Don’t forget some popcorn and some fountain sodas, so that you can enjoy the entire experience!

8. Visit the highline

One of the most beautiful views in New York City is the highline. Imagine looking out at the most amazing view with some family or friends. Bring some picnic snacks and a book and just sit back and relax as you admire the best of New York City. 

9. Have a picnic in Central Park

A classic but a good one. Travel through Central Park and find the perfect spot. Some of the best places to have a picnic are the Great Lawn and Strawberry Fields. Don’t forget a blanket to sit on, some yummy food, and of course some sunglasses! After you are done picnicking, don’t forget to take a walk through Central Park!

10. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

If you have never walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, this is the summer to do it! Grab some family and friends and walk across the bridge. You can also bike or even run across, whatever suits you best! Make sure to take pictures and enjoy the outdoors.