12 things to do in New York City this August

Mark your calendar for summer fun!

We love New York City. The food, the people, and so much fun! That's why we want to recommend some of our favorite NYC activities and events taking place in August (and sometimes beyond).

  1. Get into the groove of SummerStage Festival
    With over 100 free concerts and shows to attend, you can’t beat SummerStage! One highlight for our fans of rock: Manchester Orchestra and Jimmy Eats World come to town for a benefit concert on Wednesday, August 23.
  2. Dine out for NYC Restaurant Week
    Love food as much as we do? Then you’ll love the new cuisines and discounts available at over 380 participating restaurants during this year’s NYC Restaurant Week.
  3. Visit the Little Island at Pier 54
    This recently opened artificial island on the Hudson River hosts events, art exhibitions, and some of the most beautiful sights and scenery in New York City.
  4. Kayak on the Hudson & East Rivers

While seats are limited, it’s worth grabbing a free time slot at Manhattan Community Boathouse or Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse for a breathtaking view of the city from the water.

  1. Brooklyn Social Ice Cream Half Marathon & 5K

A fun run, ice cream, and Prospect Park – how can this event get any better? Sign up for either the half marathon or 5K race on August 26 to receive a medal, t-shirt, and fruit and ice cream at the end.

  1. Picnic in Central Park
    Everyone thinks about it, but when was the last time you picnicked in Central Park? From the Great Lawn to Cherry Hill, there are many spots to keep you coming back for relaxing afternoons.
  2. See the sunset from Domino Park

The former home of the Domino Sugar Factory, Domino Park now hosts beautiful greenery, food vendors, playgrounds, and inspiring views of the New York City sunset.

  1. Explore the photos of Fotografiska

Calling all photo art lovers: Fotografiska NYC has hosted this incredible exhibition since 2019, featuring incredible pieces plus a restaurant and cocktail bar.

  1. Spend a day at the beach
    From Brighton Beach in Coney Island to South Beach on Staten Island, get away from the city for the day to enjoy the water, sand, sports, and relaxation.
  2. Stroll through a flea market
    Artists & Fleas at Chelsea Market is one of our favorite places to support NYC brands and local vendors while finding things you won’t see anywhere else.
  3. Visit the Museum of Ice Cream
    Did you know a sprinkle pool exists? You do now! The Museum of Ice Cream in NYC offers unlimited treats and fun history about everyone’s favorite summer treat!
  4. Enjoy the Blues BBQ Festival

Revel in free music and New York City’s best BBQ to support the Hudson River Park Friends at Pier 76 on Saturday, August 19.