Summer Adventures: Must-Do Activities in NYC
While the Upper West Side is magical all year round, you can truly experience it at its best during the warmer seasons. Whether you're traveling here alone, with your significant other, or the entire family, you should never run out of ideas of what to do in NYC in the summer. But if this seems to be the case, don't fret, as we're about to reveal some of the most exciting must-do activities near The Wallace Hotel.
Summer Festivals
If you crave unforgettable musical experiences, consider visiting the Lincoln Center this summer in New York. The center presents a series of free performances from June 11 to August 9, featuring family-friendly shows, so bring your kids along if they're traveling with you. A few upcoming highlights include Music Storytime with LaFrae Sci, DJ CherishTheLuv's People Power Disco Hour, and Nathalie Joachim. Located just a 15-minute walk from The Wallace via Broadway, Lincoln Center Plaza is easily accessible, making it a convenient destination for all kinds of music lovers.
Central Park Activities
There's no better way to become acquainted with Central Park's mesmerizing lake than by boarding a boat and exploring it at your own pace. That is why we recommend renting a rowboat from the Central Park Boathouse (formerly the Loeb Boathouse) to make the most of your day trip, family excursion, or romantic date. It's also incredibly affordable, as renting a boat will only set you back $25 per hour between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. But be sure to get there early, as boats are made available on a first-come, first-served basis. Enter Central Park at 72nd Street and walk east to find the Boathouse.
If you’re more in the mood to explore, the official Central Park tours led by the Central Park Conservancy are a great way to see another side of the park, and they start just a short stroll from The Wallace. These walking tours provide an in-depth exploration of the park’s fascinating history and natural beauty. Options like the Heart of the Park tour or the Iconic Views of Central Park tour offer fresh perspectives on popular sights, such as Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, and Bow Bridge. Many of the tours are reasonably priced, costing just a few dollars, and all of them are led by experts who know the park inside and out.
Cultural Institutions
One popular landmark stands out among the many fantastic options available, making it worth a visit during your upcoming summer in New York. The American Museum of Natural History showcases dinosaur fossils, the Hall of Gems and Minerals displays gemstones, whereas the Hayden Planetarium vividly depicts our vast universe in great detail. These are perfect for families or those with an inquiring mind, and there are also kid-friendly programs designed to ignite curiosity. It's only a 10-minute walk to reach The American Museum of Natural History from The Wallace via the W 76th St. and Columbus Ave route.
Children's Museum of Manhattan (CMOM)
The Children's Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) has been sparking creativity and curiosity in young minds since 1973. It welcomes over 350,000 visitors annually with interactive exhibits, public programs, and children’s classes that ignite the imagination. On the museum's website, you can buy tickets ($17-$18 for adults and children), unlock membership benefits, or donate. If you plan on visiting with your kids, the rich virtual experiences CMOM offers will surely impress them and become the highlight of their summer. This museum is accessible via Broadway and only a 10-minute walk from The Wallace.
Riverside Park Strolls
If you’re wondering what to do in NYC in the summer, consider Riverside Park South, a modern extension of the park renowned for its recreational activities. Locals and visitors love frequenting this area for its basketball courts, skate park, and soccer fields. But if a leisurely stroll is all you want, this locale is perfect before noon, when the scenery truly stuns with its picturesque beauty. The park's open and tranquil spaces are ideal for nature lovers who wish to view the sky as it turns golden. The park is only a 7-minute walk from The Wallace.
Outdoor Dining
Cafe Luxembourg, an Upper West Side institution since 1983, blends French flair with American classics, serving succulent steak frites and rich duck cassoulet. The restaurant's elegant dining room exudes Parisian charm with antique mirrors and soft linens. But it's during summer in New York that the breezy outdoor seating truly shines, offering a refreshing oasis in the city. Whether you are a local or just visiting, Cafe Luxembourg lets you unwind with refreshing craft beers and creative cocktails like Espresso Martini, Peach Cos-No, and Spicy Ginger Brew. It's only a short 8-minute walk from The Wallace via the Broadway route.
Enjoy Comfort And Splendour At The Wallace Hotel
The summertime offers tourists and visitors endless exciting activities and unforgettable experiences. Kick off the fun at Central Park, where you can rent a rowboat to explore the stunning lake. Next, enjoy a free music show at Lincoln Center. Then, indulge in a culinary experience at Cafe Luxembourg. With The Wallace as your home base, you'll be perfectly positioned to take in all these phenomenal activities and enjoy the very best of the Upper West Side.
Book a room at The Wallace to enjoy a comfortable stay while you make the most of your summer in New York.