People from around the world come to NYC - no matter the weather. Although the city boasts year-round, world-famous entertainment going on indoors (live theater, opera, ballet, museums, and clubs all just steps from The Manhattan Club), there is plenty going on outdoors too. As the warmer weather approaches, we’re delving into the all-time best outdoor activities, events, and things to do in NYC to add to your itinerary.
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1. Central Park Activities
The largest urban park in the city welcomes over 42 million visitors annually. There truly is something for everyone in the 843-acre park. Notable architectural features include Belvedere Castle, Bethesda Terrace, and the Gapstow and Bow Bridges; statues like Alice in Wonderland, Columbus Circle Monument, and William Shakespeare; and peaceful natural spaces like The Lake, Umpire Rock, and The Mall. Spring brings cherry blossom blooms, summer ushers in the return of outdoor theater and boat rides, the park is awash in gorgeous foliage come fall, and then transformed into a magical winter wonderland with an ice-skating rink.
2. NYC Ferry, Boat Tours, and Cruises Around Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty
See all five boroughs from the water, glide under famous bridges connecting Manhattan to the rest of the city, or cruise to landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. NYC ferry service is year-round, with sightseeing excursions typically departing from The Battery at the southern tip of Manhattan.
3. Brooklyn Bridge
A trek across the historic bridge with its grand gothic towers is quite the experience, especially during the summer and winter holidays with the amount of pedestrian traffic. The walk is around a mile long and takes about 30 minutes, but don’t stop when you reach Brooklyn. Take the time to visit the adjacent neighborhoods like Dumbo and Fulton Ferry.
4. NYC Public Outdoor Art
The parks and streets of NYC are home to a wealth of artistic creations in every shape and form. We recommend visiting the NYC Dept. of Parks and Rec’s online NYC Public Art Map and Guide. The art map displays the hundreds of permanent and temporary works, sculptures, and monuments on display at any given time.
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5. NYC Public Parks and Green Spaces
Explore a very different, much greener part of NYC in the city’s public parks. Central Park may be the largest, but it’s certainly not the only one worth your time. We take a look at 10 of the best Manhattan parks on our NYC Travel Guide.
6. NYC Walking Tours and NYC’s Most Famous Streets
There are so many options to see the city on foot. Download a self-guided audio tour through the city’s most interesting neighborhoods, book a customized, small group walking tour with a reputable company, or hop on one of the many free tours offered in Central Park or by Free Tours by Foot. Our concierge can help find one best suited to your needs and desires.
Of course, Manhattan has its share of iconic streets that are a great starting point for leisurely exploration. Consider Park Avenue, Fifth Avenue, Broadway, Wall Street, Bleecker Street, Canal Street, Madison Avenue, and Doyers Street.
7. NYC Outdoor Dining
New Yorkers are always eager to dine al fresco (even in the winter, you’ll find cozy, heated options). There’s no better time to get a taste of NYC’s award-winning dining scene than in the spring and summer months, when outdoor patios, hidden gardens, and rooftops are open. See some of the best outdoor dining spots in NYC.
8. NYC Outdoor Theater
Shakespeare in the Park held in Central Park’s beautiful Delacorte Theater is the quintessential experience for anyone coming to NYC in the warmer months, but also check out Broadway in Bryant Park (Broadway’s biggest musical hits performed outdoors at lunchtime) and SummerStage (with nearly 80 free and benefit performances presented in parks across all five boroughs). See more of the best open-air theaters and entertainment options in NYC.
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9. NYC Parades: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, NYC Pride March, Village Halloween Parade, and More
Parades are an essential part of almost any New York or holiday event. You’ll typically see a majority of them marching down Fifth Avenue, the major thoroughfare in Manhattan that’s just two blocks from The Manhattan Club. The most popular celebrations include the NYC Pride March, Village Halloween Parade, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Veterans Day Parade, Easter Bonnet Parade, Lunar New Year Parade, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the world’s largest parade that draws millions to see its massive floats, celebrities, and sky-high balloons.
10. Manhattan Club Penthouse Terrace
Just a few blocks from Times Square, Central Park, and the Theater District, The Manhattan Club makes it easy to explore and also relax right in the middle of all the action. And with valet parking and 24-hour security, we’re pleased to make your NYC getaway efficient and worry-free. Our expansive Penthouse Terrace is exclusively available to all Penthouse Suite guests. Mix, mingle, and enjoy privileged access to the terrace overlooking Manhattan, possibly offering one of the best rooftop settings in the city. Settle into plush chairs and enjoy the panoramic views high above Midtown, just steps from your private suite.
Looking for more excellent views from above? See 10 of the best NYC views from up high.
Your Penthouse Suite at The Manhattan Club features high ceilings and oversized windows offering views of the metropolis. The 600-748 square-foot retreat also boasts an elegant seating and dining area, a king size bed in a private bedroom, kitchenette, and two enviable bathrooms.
When you stay in our luxury Penthouse Suite, our dedicated staff is at your service. We are available to arrange transportation, make restaurant and tour reservations, and recommend new dining and theater experiences - offering you an insider’s perspective during your time in Manhattan at our upscale hotel.
Book your stay in the Penthouse Suite high above Manhattan. Choose from our best rates and special offers when you book direct with The Manhattan Club.
