Summer in NYC can be quite hot and humid, but there are plenty of ways to beat the summer heat in New York City and stay cool. Here are some of the best ways to stay comfortable during the summer months:
The Best Places to Beat the Summer Heat in New York City
Hit the beach
NYC has several beaches that are perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and relaxation. Some of the popular ones are Coney Island, Rockaway Beach, and Jones Beach State Park.
The best public beaches in New York City
New York City may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of beaches, but there are several public beaches that are perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and relaxation. Here are some of the best public beaches in New York City:
- Coney Island Beach: Located in Brooklyn, Coney Island is one of the most famous beaches in NYC. It has a boardwalk, an amusement park, and plenty of restaurants and shops.
- Rockaway Beach: Located in Queens, Rockaway Beach is one of the largest beaches in NYC. It’s great for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
- Orchard Beach: Located in the Bronx, Orchard Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. It has a promenade, playgrounds, and several concession stands.
- Brighton Beach: Located in Brooklyn, Brighton Beach is a great place to swim in the ocean and catch some sun. It’s free to the public and has several restaurants and shops.
- Jones Beach State Park: Located on Long Island, Jones Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach has several facilities, including restrooms, showers, and concession stands.
Visit a public pool
If sand is not to your liking but water is, beat the summer heat in New York City at one of the many swimming holes. NYC has plenty of public swimming pools, many of which are free to use. Head to one of the city’s pools for a refreshing dip and a break from rising temperatures.
The best public pools in New York City
New York City has many public pools where you can take a refreshing dip and beat the summer heat. Here are some of the best public pools in NYC:
- Astoria Park Pool: Located in Queens, Astoria Park Pool is one of the largest public pools in NYC. The Olympic-sized pool is free and open to the public during the summer months.
- McCarren Park Pool: Located in Brooklyn, McCarren Park Pool is another popular public swimming hole in NYC. The pool is Olympic-sized and has a large sunbathing area.
- Lasker Pool: Located in Central Park, the Lasker Pool is an Olympic-sized pool that is open to the public during the summer months. There is also a wading pool for children.
- Tony Dapolito Recreation Center Pool: Located in Greenwich Village, this indoor pool is open year-round and offers swim lessons and other programs.
- St. John’s Recreation Center Pool: Located in Crown Heights, this indoor pool is open year-round and offers lap swim, recreational swim, and swim lessons.
- Thomas Jefferson Pool: Located in East Harlem, Thomas Jefferson Pool is an indoor pool that is open year-round and offers lap swim, recreational swim, and swim lessons.
Remember to check the hours of operation and any admission fees before heading to any of these public pools or beaches.
Other ways to beat the summer heat in New York City
Explore indoor attractions:
Museums, galleries, and other indoor attractions offer a respite from the heat. Check out the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History, or the Museum of Modern Art.
Go shopping:
Many of NYC’s stores are air-conditioned, so take advantage of this and spend some time shopping in stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, or Macy’s.
Enjoy outdoor activities in the morning or evening:
If you want to spend time outside, it’s best to do so in the early morning or evening when the temperature is cooler. Take a walk through Central Park, go for a bike ride, or have a picnic.
Stay hydrated:
Drink plenty of water and other hydrating fluids throughout the day. You can also enjoy some iced coffee, smoothies, or iced tea to stay cool.
Take advantage of air conditioning:
If you have access to air conditioning, make the most of it. Spend some time indoors with the air conditioning on, and avoid spending too much time outside during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperatures will be heating up soon, and NYC’s many public swimming locations are a great way to beat the summer heat in New York City. If splashing and sunbathing aren’t your thing, indoor activities also offer a great escape from the soaring temps.