Hayden Planetarium

Take the ferry to Liberty Island and climb 354 steps to the crown for panoramic views of New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline. This iconic 305-foot copper monument, a gift from France, stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and democracy that has welcomed generations of visitors to America's shores.

Escape to this hilltop oasis featuring manicured gardens, medieval art at the Cloisters, and sweeping Manhattan views—perfect for picnicking, strolling, or catching the sunset.

Lace up and step into the ultimate basketball destination in Times Square. This massive 35,000-square-foot NBA Store stocks gear for every team, premium basketball shoes, and exclusive merchandise, plus you can test your skills on an official indoor half-court. Immersive video displays and interactive experiences make shopping here feel like stepping onto an NBA court.

Beat the heat in this interactive Manhattan tech playground where you can actually touch, build, and experiment with cutting-edge exhibits. Perfect for curious minds of all ages seeking hands-on summer fun indoors.

Paddle through New York Harbor for free at this volunteer-run nonprofit kayaking center on Pier 96. Walk-up kayaking is available weekends and holidays from 9am to 6pm, plus weekday evenings in summer, with beginner classes offered Wednesday evenings—no experience necessary to get on the water.

Explore over 30 authentic colonial buildings and learn what daily life looked like in early America through hands-on demonstrations, guided tours, and period crafts at this expansive open-air museum.

Explore diverse habitats where upland forests meet tidal marshes and sandy shores along Raritan Bay. This ecological gem offers excellent wildlife watching and beach access in one of the city's most pristine natural areas.

This 83-acre cultural oasis blends historic Greek Revival architecture with world-class gardens, theaters, and museums—a vibrant hub where art, nature, and community come alive for visitors of all ages.

Lace up your skates and roll into a summer full of action and excitement at this Tottenville hotspot. With open skate sessions perfect for all skill levels and special family-friendly events throughout the season, it's the ideal spot to cool off and have a blast with friends and loved ones. Come experience classic roller skating fun in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

This beautifully restored 1929 landmark on Staten Island's North Shore stands as a testament to the island's golden age of entertainment, now serving as a vibrant performing arts center showcasing theater, music, and cultural events.

Explore nearly 900 acres of gardens, museums, and sports venues in this transformed former industrial site that's hosted everything from World's Fairs to the U.S. Open. Catch a Mets game, stroll lakeside paths, or spread a picnic blanket under the open sky.

Get ready to dive into hands-on science fun with over 450 interactive exhibits that bring physics, space, and life sciences to life. It's the perfect spot to spend a summer day experimenting, tinkering, and unlocking big ideas at every turn.

Get up close with amazing animals from the Americas at this 18-acre Flushing park—spot Andean bears, moose, cougars, and vibrant flamingos while enjoying interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences perfect for families.

Escape into 39 acres of blooming gardens where roses, herbs, and seasonal flowers create a peaceful retreat from the city's pace. This verdant sanctuary celebrates the diverse cultures of Queens while offering the perfect summer backdrop for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or quiet moment surrounded by nature.

Catch the thrill of thoroughbred racing at this historic Queens track, where prestigious stakes races and top jockeys compete year-round. Pair your day at the track with gaming, dining, and entertainment at the adjacent Resorts World Casino.

Lose yourself in 250 acres of blooming gardens and verdant landscapes where seasonal exhibits, family-friendly mazes, and outdoor concerts create the perfect summer escape in the Bronx.

Experience America's pastime at this iconic Bronx ballpark, where you can catch a Yankees game amid world-class amenities and stunning stadium views. Upgrade your visit with the Yankee Inside Experience, featuring a player meet-and-greet, guided tour, and lunch.

Step into The Bronx's living history at this landmark institution, where colonial homes and literary legacies reveal how one borough shaped America. Summer strolls through the grounds connect you to centuries of stories—from the Valentine-Varian House to Edgar Allan Poe's cottage.

Explore over 600 species across world-class exhibits like Tiger Mountain, the Congo Gorilla Forest, and Wild Asia Monorail at the world's largest urban zoo. Feed penguins, watch sea lion demonstrations, and ride camels through lush habitats right in the heart of the Bronx.

Escape to this stunning 28-acre hilltop garden overlooking the Hudson River, where woodland trails, seasonal blooms, and waterfront views create the perfect retreat. Year-round art exhibitions, outdoor performances, and nature programs blend horticulture and creativity in one of the Bronx's most beautiful cultural spaces.

This legendary Fort Greene venue brings world-class theater, dance, and film to life across multiple stages, mixing classic productions with daring contemporary work that pushes artistic boundaries. Since 1861, BAM has been where bold ideas meet audiences ready to be challenged and inspired.

Experience classic boardwalk thrills at this iconic Brooklyn destination, where dozens of independently operated rides and attractions create nostalgic summer fun. Home to legendary events like the Mermaid Parade and the historic Coney Island Museum, this vibrant neighborhood blends amusement with arts and culture.

Brooklyn's 526-acre masterpiece offers endless summer fun: picnic across the Long Meadow, explore the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, catch concerts and outdoor movies, or rent a bike to loop the scenic paths. The zoo, lakes, playgrounds, and cultural institutions make it perfect for families.

Experience world-class chamber music in an unforgettable setting—a historic barge on the East River with stunning Brooklyn Bridge views. This intimate venue hosts performances four nights a week year-round, making it the perfect escape for a summer evening of live classical music. Best of all, free community concerts and discounted tickets make exceptional music accessible to everyone.

A short ferry ride from Red Hook brings you to this 172-acre island oasis featuring historic forts, art installations, the famous Hammock Grove, and sweeping harbor views. Spend your day relaxing in a hammock, catching live music and outdoor movies, or exploring green spaces and sports courts—all connected by free ferry service.