It always feels like Memorial Day is our goodbye to spring and hello to summer. This is a great season full of so many things to do in the city. A few classic options include a picnic in Central Park to free concerts, some of the best places to dine by the Hudson River, a Broadway show, exploring Times Square and so much more.
Our list has a full guide from a New York City local, which is less of touristy options and more of the best things to check out that the locals are doing. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a longtime New Yorker, there is no shortage of things to do this month. This month, we will be beating the heat and enjoying the best events happening throughout the city. This guide has something for everyone. So grab your favorite sunglasses, put on some comfortable shoes and let’s explore the magic of June in the greatest city in the world.
Here is everything we are looking forward to this month:
Black Restaurant Week
June 15th-29th is the 10th anniversary of Black Restaurant Week in the Tri-State area. We love supporting local businesses and showing our support for minority owned brands as well. Here is a list of just a few of our favorite black owned restaurants in the city!
See a Show on Little Island
The Little Island is just a few years old and it’s one of those spots that is really good to get some steps in at with great views. They have an amphitheater there and will be having performances all summer to check out!
Art on The MET Rooftop
The Met’s Roof Garden Commission features Petrit Halilaj: Abetare, a large-scale installation transforming the rooftop into a vibrant, immersive environment inspired by the artist’s childhood drawings and cultural heritage. This playful work lets you to reflect on memory, identity and the power of imagination against the backdrop of the skyline.
Broadway Shows
We have a full list of shows we have our eye on and love at the moment linked here. There truly is no such thing as a show not worth seeing on Broadway! With tons of family-friendly options and shows perfect for date night, there are endless days to plan.
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CityPickle
CityPickle is at the Wollman Rink!. With 14 state-of-the-art courts ready for play, reservations will be available daily from 8AM- 9PM. This season will feature expanded kids’ programming, private event spaces, coaching sessions, and open play, making it even better than before. Check out their camp programs here if you are looking for camp options this summer for your kiddies.
The Greens Rooftop Pier 17
The Seaport District continues to impress. Rent your own mini lawn on The Greens rooftop and enjoy great views, drinks, and music. The Summer Concert Series here features live performances all season long, and the atmosphere is unbeatable. We love doing this with friends! It will be opening up soon.
Luna Park
There’s no better way to kick off summer than with a day at Luna Park in Coney Island, now open 7 days a week! From iconic coasters like the Cyclone to family-friendly rides, games, and boardwalk treats, there’s something for everyone. As a family, we love the mix of legendary roller coasters and more gentle rides, so it’s good for all ages!
Tribeca Film Festival
Running from June fourth through June fifteenth, the Tribeca Film Festival is one of New York’s biggest cultural events. With over one hundred feature films and more than forty short films, there is something for every film lover. Expect live music, panel discussions, and special guest appearances following many screenings.
Brooklyn Film Festival
Film fans can also check out the Brooklyn Film Festival, which runs through June ninth. Featuring over one hundred and fifty films, including international selections, the festival also offers virtual screenings for those who prefer to watch from home. It runs through June 8th.
Bryant Park Picnic Performances
Bring a blanket and enjoy live music and performances on the Bryant Park lawn. With events running through mid-September, this series features everything from opera and dance to emerging artists and concerts by Carnegie Hall performers.
Brookfield Place Outdoor Fun
Brookfield Place is a go-to summer destination. Enjoy a rotating lineup of DJs, pickleball courts, Pride celebrations, and more throughout the season. Their schedule is packed with fun and excitement for all ages. They will have a series of free waterfront concerts and DJ sets this summer, starting with Pride Concerts at BFPL on June 4 and 25, featuring live performances, DJ sets, and a special Pride cocktail supporting the NEW Pride Agenda. Then, enjoy Sound Waves: A DJ Series every Wednesday in July 9th–30th, with lunchtime and evening sessions showcasing global sounds from DJs like modrums, Raat Ki Rani, Bembona and Tres Dos. All events are open to the public with no registration required.
Answer the Call Block Party
On June 26th Answer the Call will host its annual free, family-friendly Block Party at Brookfield Place in New York City. This lively event will feature carnival games, rides, delicious treats and interactive activities with members of the NYPD and FDNY. Open to the public, the Block Party is a special opportunity for families and supporters to come together, celebrate community spirit and honor the legacy of New York’s fallen first responders.
NYC Cycle Boats
Pedal around Manhattan on a cycle boat with friends. These BYOB tours offer an hour and a half of views, music, and fun. You can book a single seat or reserve the entire boat for up to twenty-six guests.
Father’s Day Things to Do
Celebrate Dad on June sixteenth with a baseball game, a special brunch, or a day trip to Governors Island. Options like Bateaux cruises and outdoor dining at Public Kitchen make for memorable experiences.
Museum Mile Festival
On June eighteenth, museums along Fifth Avenue open their doors for free from six to nine in the evening. Participating institutions include The Met, The Guggenheim, and El Museo del Barrio. Enjoy art, music, food trucks, and activities for the whole family. It’s on June 10th from 6-9PM.
Bryant Park Movie Nights
Catch free outdoor movies every Monday at Bryant Park. Concessions open at five in the evening, and movies begin at sunset. It is a relaxed way to enjoy summer evenings in the city.
Smorgasburg
This massive open air food market features dozens of local vendors. With locations throughout the city, you can sample everything from barbecue to handmade desserts. Check their site for dates and locations.
BEAST Speedboat
Hold on tight for a wild ride down the Hudson on The BEAST. This high-speed boat offers an adrenaline rush along with views of Manhattan’s skyline. Be prepared to get soaked and have a blast.
Coney Island Mermaid Parade
This iconic event returns on June 21st. Join the fun or dress up and march in celebration of sea creatures and creativity. Registration is open now.
Shakespeare in the Park on PBS
While The Public Theater undergoes renovations, enjoy classic Shakespeare plays on PBS all month long. Featured titles include Hamlet and Much Ado About Nothing.
Summer Solstice Music Festival
Celebrate the longest day of the year on June 18th from 4-6PM with a festival on Park Avenue hosted by Grand Central Partnership. Enjoy live music and community vibes in the heart of Midtown.
SummerStage Festival
This free outdoor festival hosted by City Parks Foundation brings music of every genre to parks across the city. Some performances are also available digitally.
Juneteenth Celebrations
Celebrate Juneteenth beginning on June thirteenth with events leading up to the nineteenth. The city hosts educational and cultural experiences, including the Juneteenth Festival, to honor this important day in American history.
Pride Month Events
June is Pride Month, and the city will be buzzing with events. The Pride March takes place on June 29th starting at 12PM, followed by Pride Fest, which begins earlier that day. Celebrate love and community with music, food, and performances.
North River Sailing
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride with views of the skyline and sunset. North River Sailing offers BYOB sails, and you can even help steer the boat. A perfect day or evening activity for friends or couples.
Yankees and Mets Games
Cheer on your favorite baseball team this summer. Whether you are team Yankees or Mets, catching a game is a classic New York experience.
Grand Banks
This floating oyster bar on Pier 25 is a must visit during the summer season. In fact, it is one of the best ways to ring in the season itself. The drinks are refreshing, the seafood is fantastic, and the views of the Hudson are unbeatable. Make a reservation early.
National Doughnut Day
Celebrate on the first Friday of June by grabbing a sweet treat. Many doughnut shops around the city participate with free giveaways. It is a delicious excuse to indulge.
Midtown Rooftop Cinema Club
Catch classic films under the stars at this rooftop cinema on 37th Street. The lineup includes fan favorites and rom coms. This is one of the most charming spots for a summer movie night.
Hudson Yards Big Screen
Enjoy live sports broadcasts all summer long on the massive screen at Hudson Yards. Grab some snacks and meet friends to cheer on your favorite teams.
Gov Ball
One of the biggest music events of the year takes place June 6th-8th at Corona Park. With artists like Tyler, the Creator and Benson Boone, this is the festival to attend.
Jazz Age Lawn Party
Get your 1920s gear ready and head to Governors Island on June 14th and 15th for a jazz-themed celebration with dancing, vintage outfits, and live performances.
Governors Island
Relax at the QC Spa, dine at Island Oyster, or stay overnight at Collective Retreats. This summer oasis offers everything from yoga classes to sunset soirées, making it an ideal escape without leaving the city.
NYC Kids Fest
Perfect for families, this festival on June 13th-15th features workshops, live performances, and tons of fun activities for kids under twelve. It is a joyful way to spend a weekend with the little ones.
For more NYC guides, visit here!
