Things to Try This August August 3, 2023

Visit the Montauk Lighthouse & Sag Harbor 

MTA Away runs a variety of trips through MetroNorth and Long Island Railroad. Take a trip to Montauk, the ultimate seaside community located at the tip of Long Island, without the stress of a long drive, traffic or planning your day. After your train pulls into the station, you will board a bus to “the End”, making stops at Montauk Village and the Montauk Point Lighthouse. The Montauk Point Lighthouse was the first lighthouse in New York State and is one of the oldest active lighthouses in the U.S. today. Climb to the top or stay at the ground level and explore the gift shop, museum, and surroundings in Montauk Point State Park. Then, head to the heart of the Hamptons, Sag Harbor, for a quaint escape. Explore all the sights this historically rich port has to offer, from beaches and nature preserves to museums, vintage shops, and fine dining.

Find a Street Fair

New York City has over 100 street fairs and festivals between April and October. Below are a list of those street fairs occurring throughout the Spring, Summer, and Fall of 2023. Unless otherwise noted, these festivals are free to attend and all events are held rain or shine. You can use this link to find a street fair in your borough. This list will be updated throughout the spring and summer, so make sure to check back! nycarnivals.com/street-fairs-in-new-york-city-2023/

Free Kayaking

Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse is bringing their kayaks out for visitors to enjoy the simple pleasure of kayaking, for free, with breathtaking views of the skyline. Weather permitting, the boathouse will offer free sessions from Pier 2 on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays starting May 31st through the end of September. You don’t need any prior kayaking experience to take one out for a spin on the water, but they do recommend wearing water-friendly clothes as your feet and seat may get a bit wet. 

Picnic by Waterfalls in Central Park

Central Park contains a few different kinds of environments within its great expanse, such as large grassy fields like the Great Meadow, woodsy trails in the Ramble, a stunning lake at the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, and even a medieval castle! What many New Yorkers may not know is that Central Park contains a hidden oasis of mini-waterfalls. Tucked away in the Ravine, the stream valley section of the North Woods that spans 40 acres at the top of the Park has at least five different waterfalls. Charming stone bridges round out the scene, and it’s especially perfect during this time because the area is never very crowded.

Take a Summer Bike Ride

Even if you don’t have your own bike, Citibike is an easy and affordable way to get around the city while exercising and spending time outdoors. One of the most recommended bike routes in NYC is West Side Highway/Hudson River Greenway! The Hudson River Greenway spans most of the West Side of Manhattan starting uptown at Inwood Hill Park and ending at Battery Park. You can join it wherever, but some highlights include the mighty Intrepid at 46th St. and Freedom Tower and 9/11 Memorial down at the final portion. At the very end, you’ll be able to take in views of the Statue of Liberty.