It's officially summer in New York City. This week we are looking at 90 plus temperatures all week.

As New Yorkers, we spend the better part of our lives in hibernation, so when the weather starts to warm up, we want to run free.

Because of that, we put together a Bucket List of all the things we want to do for the two months out of the year where you can actually walk outside without catching frostbite.

After years of creating and refining my list, I finally can say I have a list of 19 must-dos before summer is over.

19 Summer Must-Dos in New York City

1. Watch a Free Movie in the Park

After being cooped up in my tiny apartment all winter long, there is nothing better than laying out on the grass watching a movie under the stars.

It is one of my fave things to do in the summer. The best part is that you can find a free movie in the park all summer long. Just check out the list here and make plans for a cheap night out.

2. Sunset Picnic

There is no shortage of places where you can enjoy a sunset picnic in NYC. Pack a picnic basket, fill your swell bottle with some wine and make a night of it with your boo or your BFF. It's a great way to spend a summer evening. And it's cheap.

3. Wine Tasting

Did you know that you can go wine tasting right in NYC? Yes. You heard me right. There are several wineries right here in the city, and my favorite is Rooftop Reds.

A rooftop with a view of NYC and all the wine. I think we just checked off a couple of items off this list.

If you want to level up your experience check out this Champagne Sail.

4. Picnic in Sheep Meadow

Nothing says summer in NY like spending a Saturday in your bathing suit in the middle of central park. The few of us that do not make summer in the Hamptons summer in Sheep Meadow on the weekends.

Just be mindful that you may get ticketed if you are caught with alcohol so use your discretion.

5. Kayaking on the Hudson

Did you know you could go kayaking on the Hudson for Free? Head on down to Pier 26 all summer long and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity.

Enjoy the sunset from your kayak on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings, where kayaking is available from 5:30pm-7:00pm. On the weekends, kayaking is available all day from 9am-4:30pm.

6. Drink at the Met Rooftop

Spend the day at the Met, and don't forget to head to the Rooftop for a cocktail. The Rooftop is open from 11am- 4:30pm on Sunday- Thursday and until 8:15pm on Friday and Saturday. 

The Rooftop is only open seasonally, so this is definitely the place to be if you find yourself in NYC in the summer. This is probably one of the best NYC rooftops in the summer.

7. Governors Island

Pack a picnic and make it a day. The ferry is free before 11 am, so I like to get there early. You can bring your bike and ride around the island or just spend the day lounging in a hammock with a juicy novel. Afterward, have a glass of Rose and Oysters at Island Oyster.

Photo Cred: Island Oyster

8. Beach Day

Did you know you can take the train and even the ferry to the beach? 

New York City in the summer can be hot; therefore, this is the perfect opportunity to explore some of the fantastic beaches within the hour of the city. You can take the subway to Brighton Beach, The LIRR to Jones Beach, or the Ferry to Sandy Hook, and the options are endless.

9. Day Trip Upstate

So technically not NYC but jump on the Metro-North and head just north of the city for some hiking. Traveling just an hour north, you will be met with some relief from the hot and sticky city.

There is nothing like being in the mountains where the air is crisp. Bonus if you can take a swim in a nearby lake or even the Hudson River.

Here are some other day trip ideas to keep in mind:

10. Coney Island

Nothing says summer like Coney Island.

Coney Island is a neighborhood located in the southeastern part of the borough of Brooklyn in New York City. The area is known for its amusement parks, beach, and Nathan's Famous hot dogs. Coney Island is bounded by Sea Gate to the west, Brighton Beach and Manhattan Beach to the east, Sheepshead Bay to the north, and Gravesend to the south.

Get up early and catch the train to coney island, where you can spend the morning on the beach and the afternoon eating hot dogs, drinking beer, and taking a ride on the cyclone if you dare. I wouldn't advise doing it in that order, though.

11. Sunset Cruise

You don't have to be a tourist to take a sunset cruise around the island of Manhattan. You can score a great deal on Groupon if you do your homework in advance. It's a great way to spend a summer evening. And it is also an even better way to admire this beautiful city I call home. I did this last year, and I plan on doing it again this year.

12. Shakespeare In the Park

This is another excellent free summer event. Tickets can be hard to come by, but it is worth putting your name in the hat. If you are looking to score free tickets, there are a few ways you can do it. Most people try their luck at the digital lottery. Tickets are also distributed at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park beginning at Noon. Finally, tickets are distributed throughout the boroughs at a different locations. Be sure to check the site for more details.

Photo Cred: Public Theater

13. Sunset Yoga

Continuing with the free things to do, you can attend a yoga class for free overlooking the Hudson River every Thursday night at Pier 46. Bring your mat and enjoy. Pack a picnic for afterward. Not a bad way to spend a Thursday night. Free workout. Cheap date night. I call that a win-win situation in my book.

14. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

I love spending a summer night walking the bridge. Although it will be you and hundreds of your neighbors, there is something magical about walking the bridge on a summer night. Don't forget to stop in the middle to admire the beautiful city views. Whether you're coming from Brooklyn or Manhattan, there is a ton to see and do. One of my favorite things to walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn and have a picnic in Brooklyn Bridge Park is one of my favorite places in the city.

You can also bike the Brooklyn Bridge as well.

15. Go to a Baseball Game

Whether you are a Yankee fan or a Mets fan getting to a baseball game is a must. Even if you don't like baseball, just go for the food and beer and stay for the entertainment. New York has some of the most die-hard fans. You don't even have to watch the game. Just mingle with the crowd and don't mess up the wave. You will be sure to have a good time.

My favorite thing to do is take the train up to Yankee Stadium on a warm summer night. You can sign up for alerts to get tickets for as little as $5. Click here to sign up for ticket deals.

16. Go to the Pool

Several New York City Pools throughout the five boroughs are free to the public. However, my favorite is Brooklyn Bridge Pop Up Pool in Brooklyn Bridge Park. It does get crowded on the weekends, but you get city views. There is a beach concession stand, and capacity is limited, so you can actually enjoy a little bit of breathing room when it comes time to dip your toes in the water.

17. Eat Everything

This is the opposite of what everyone says in the months leading up to summer when you're working on your summer body. But you only live once, and Smorgasburg is the place to be all summer long where you can eat your way through the world, all while admiring the beautiful NYC skyline. Warning, it can get crowded, but there is something for everyone with all the food options.

If you love food like I do you can also go on a food tour. Just pick a neighborhood and get ready to eat your way through NYC. Here are some awesome food tours to check out.

18. Rent a Bike

Rent a bike and explore the city. With over 60 miles of bike lanes, New York City has become more and more bike-friendly over the years. On the west side, for example, you can ride from Battery Park all the way up to 181st Street. I suggest doing a ride along the Hudson during sunset. Not only will you enjoy a beautiful sunset over the water, but this is the time when the temperatures start to drop, which makes for fabulous summer evenings.

19. Have a barbecue

Just because you don't have a backyard or any outdoor space doesn't mean you have to miss out on one of the best parts of summer. Barbecuing is allowed in designated areas of many NYC parks; therefore, find a location closest to you and plan a barbecue. It is a great way to spend a summer day and night with friends.

More Fun Things to do in New York City

Those are my top 19 favorite things to do in NYC in the summer; however, we must keep the list going. There are so many more things to do in New York City.

So here are some more fun things to add to your Ultimate NYC Bucket List.

Enjoy a slice (or two) of New York Style Pizza.

There is nothing like a hot and greasy slice of New York Pizza. You can fight me on that. There is excellent pizza worldwide, but something about a slice of NY Pizza just hits you the right way.

Whether you stand on line to get a slice from Prince Street, go to Brooklyn for Juliana's, or get a dollar slice, you will not be disappointed. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

Take a Walk on the High Line

Visiting the High Line is a must for any New York City visitor and even locals. It is one of my favorite places to relax, read, and people watch. The best part is that it's free! And you know we love free around here. You can access the High Line from several points in Chelsea and the Meatpacking District.

Visit the Birdland For Some Live Jazz

Birdland is a must for jazz lovers. It is one of the oldest jazz clubs in New York City and has been around since 1949. Some of the biggest names in jazz have graced the stage at Birdland. You can check out the schedule on their website to see who is playing while in town.

Visit the Statue of Liberty

You can take a cruise around the New York Harbor that will take you alongside the Statue of Liberty. Still, there is nothing like actually making your way to Liberty Island and Ellis Island and getting up close and personal with Lady Liberty.

Visit Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island is a great way to spend an afternoon or a day. The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, the Smallpox Hospital Ruins, and many more exciting places to explore. It's also home to incredible views of the Manhattan skyline. However, the best part of visiting Roosevelt Island is getting there.

If you're looking for a unique way to experience Roosevelt Island, then take the tram. The tram is one of the best ways to get to and from the island, and it offers some of the best views of Manhattan. The ride is short, but it's definitely worth it.

Visit The Oculus at the World Trade Center

Built-in 2016 and designed by Spanish Architect Santiago Calatrava, the Oculus deserves a spot on your NYC bucket list.

The Oculus is actually a transportation hub where you can catch one of 12 subway lines that will take you to almost any part of the five boroughs and the PATH train into New Jersey.

The Oculus is buzzing during rush hour, but in addition to being a train station, it is also home to shops and restaurants. It is definitely must visit in downtown manhattan.

Enjoy a Boozy Brunch

If you're looking for a fun way to spend a weekend morning/early afternoon in New York City, then head to one of the many restaurants that offer boozy brunch. Boozy brunch is pretty much what it sounds like – a meal where you can enjoy cocktails with your food. Many restaurants in NYC offer bottomless brunch where you pay one price for unlimited brunch cocktails for a specific amount of time.

There are plenty of options for boozy brunch, and I like to use google maps to find an excellent boozy brunch near me. Just type in boozy brunch near me, and Google will share some options, including reviews and links to make reservations.

Get up Early and Go to Summer Stage

Summer Stage is a must for any music lover. It's free, and you can see some fantastic concerts in a beautiful setting. Every summer, SummerStage presents over 100 concerts for free across NYC. The concerts are held in parks across the five boroughs; however, some of the best well-known artists will show up to concerts held in Central Park. And did I mention that the concerts are free?

Visit the Top of the Rock

If you're looking to experience the New York City Skyline from a different vantage point, then get yourself a ticket and take a ride up to the Top of the Rock. From the Top of the Rock and you'll be able to see at least three of the boroughs – Manhattan, The Bronx, and Queens. And if you're lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty.

Take a Tour of the NBC Studios

If you're a fan of TV, then a tour of the NBC studios should be at the top of your NYC bucket list. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the studios where some of your favorite shows are filmed. You can even take a picture on the set of the Today Show. The tour is a little pricey, but it's definitely worth it for any TV lover.

Visit the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is a must-visit for anyone visiting New York City. The views from the top are magnificent, and you can see all of the major landmarks from up high. The Empire State Building is located in Herald Square, home to some great restaurants and shops. While you're there, make sure to check out Koreatown.

Koreatown

Koreatown is one of my favorite neighborhoods in New York City. It's home to some fantastic restaurants, shops, and bars. If you're looking for a taste of Korea, then Koreatown is the place to be.

If you're looking for a swanky experience with amazing views, check out Gaonnuri, located on the 39th floor. For noodles, Her Name is Han is excellent. And for the best Korean fried chicken, check out Turntable.

If you're looking for some nightlife, then Koreatown is definitely the place to be. There are plenty of bars and clubs that will keep you entertained well into the night. We love going to Japas for karaoke, and it's the spot we always end up in when we want to keep the party going.

Enjoy Greek Food in Astoria, Queens

The Greek immigrants who first arrived in Astoria, Queens, in the early 20th century were welcomed with open arms. They were hard-working people looking for a better life, and they found it in Astoria.

Headed by the influx of Greek immigrants in the early 1900s, Astoria has long been known for its exceptional Greek food. From souvlaki and gyros to baklava and loukoumades, you can find just about any Mediterranean dish you're craving in this Queens neighborhood. And suppose you don't want to trek all the way out to Astoria. There are plenty of excellent Greek restaurants located throughout Manhattan in that case. Check out Village Taverna, Milos, Anassa, or Kiki's for some of the best eats in town.

Spend the Day Wandering Central Park

Central Park is a must for any New Yorker or visitor to the city. There's so much to see and do in the park, you could easily spend an entire day there. My favorite thing to do in Central Park is just wander around and take in all the sights and sounds.

While visiting Central Park, you can rent a bike or even go on a guided tour of the park to learn more about its history.

🚴🏽‍♀️ Click here to check rates and availability for bike rentals in Central Park.

Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most famous museums in New York City. It's home to a vast collection of art from all over the world. The museum is so large that it can be a little overwhelming, but there's something for everyone.

The museum is especially popular with families. There are plenty of exhibits that kids will enjoy, and there's also a great children's museum on the premises.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is definitely worth visiting for any art lover.

Poor In A Private Plane Tip: If you are visiting in June during the Museum Mile Festival, you can visit The Met for free in the evenings.

Save time with this guided tour of the MET, including skip the line admission. Click here to see rates and availability.

Visit the Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum is another of the most famous museums in New York City. It's home to a vast art collection, including some of the most famous pieces by Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock.

The Guggenheim Museum is an art museum located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. It is home to a vast art collection, including some of the most famous pieces by Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock.

In addition to being home to a fantastic collection of art, The Guggenheim Museum is a piece of art in it itself.

The museum has a unique layout, and it's definitely worth exploring. Be sure to check out the famous spiral staircase.

The museum is especially popular with art lovers, and it's a great place to spend an afternoon. The Guggenheim Museum is definitely worth visiting if you're in New York City.

Take a Stroll down the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Head across the east river to Brooklyn Heights and take a stroll down the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. The Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers some of the best views of Manhattan, and it's a great place to take a walk or relax and enjoy some of the best views of the NYC skyline.

Visit the Tenement Museum in the Lower East Side

The Tenement Museum is a museum that tells the story of immigrant life in New York City. The museum is located in two old tenement buildings once home to over 15,000 immigrants from over 20 nations between 1863 and 2011.

The museum offers guided tours of the building, and there are also some exhibits on display. It's a great way to learn more about the history of New York City and the immigrant experience.

The Tenement Museum is a must-see for any history lover visiting New York City.

Then go on a food tour of Chinatown.

If you're looking for a delicious way to explore Chinatown, then book a food tour.

On the tour, you'll get to try some of the best Chinese food that Chinatown has to offer. You'll also learn about the history and culture of Chinatown and its cuisine.

The tours are offered in several different languages are multiple tour companies offer them.

We love this walking tour of Chinatown, SoHo and Little Italy. Click here for rates and availability.

See a Broadway Show for Cheap

Visiting New York City and not seeing a Broadway show is like visiting Paris and not going to the Eiffel Tower. While the prices for Broadway shows can be a little steep, there are ways to see them for cheap.

One way is to purchase rush tickets the day of. You can often get discounts of up to 50% by purchasing your tickets this way.

Another way is to see a matinee show. Shows that start before 6pm usually have cheaper tickets.

You can also purchase tickets the same day at the TKTS booth, located in times square.

Finally, you can try standing-room-only tickets. These tickets are available for purchase at the theater on the day of the show and allow you to watch the show from the back of the theater.

No matter how you do it, seeing a Broadway show is necessary when visiting New York.

Visit Little Island

Visit Little Island is the newest addition to Hudson River Park, and it is a great place to check out on the west side. Hudson River Park hosts several Free events at Little Island during the summer months, from concerts to interactive workshops for the whole family. You can learn more about Little Island and the events here.

Go to a Book Store Bar in the Bronx

The Lit Bar, where you can bookstore and chill, is located in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx, and it is the only one of its kind in New York City. Stop in, grab a book and a glass of wine and enjoy connecting with other book and wine lovers.

Go Camping at Camp Rockaway

Did you know that you can go camping right in NYC? And you don't even need a car. Located in Fort Tilden and accessible by mass transit Camp Rockaway allows you to go glamping right here in NYC and right by Rockaway beach. I mean, you can't get better than that. You can learn more about my experience at Camp Rockaway here.

Spend the Day In Brooklyn Bridge Park

People often forget that Brooklyn has its own waterfront. And what a waterfront it is. With over 85 acres of parkland, Brooklyn Bridge Park has something for everyone. The park stretches for 1.3 miles all the East River with amazing views of lower Manhattan.

There are many different things to do in the park, including walking, running, biking, fishing, kayaking, and more. You can also check out one of the many events hosted in the park throughout the year.

No matter what you do, spending a day in Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great way to spend a summer day in NYC.

People watch in Washington Square Park.

People-watching is one of my favorite things to do in NYC, and Washington Square Park is the perfect place for it. Located in Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is a small but popular park that is always full of people.

Musicians often play at the park, and there are also several street vendors selling food and drinks. It's the perfect place to relax, people watch and take in all the sights and sounds that NYC has to offer.

Its proximity to NYU means that the park is filled with students taking advantage of the weather and entertainment on the weekend. You will see everything from tight rope walkers to a pianist, and I am not even kidding.

Watch a movie under the stars in Bryant Park.

You already know that watching an outdoor movie under the stars is one of my top things to do in New York. However, if you only have one opportunity to do this, make sure you do it in Bryant Park. Every Monday evening during the summer, Bryant Park closes its lawns for moviegoers. Pack a picnic and a blanket and get comfortable. The experience of watching a movie in the middle of Manhattan is an experience that needs to be at the top of your New York City bucket list.

Take a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry.

You know I love me some free. So if you want a way to get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty from a boat without paying for it, then jump on the Staten Island Ferry. Taking a ride on the Staten Island Ferry, you can enjoy amazing views of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and more without spending a dime. The ferry runs from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island and vice versa 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Visit one (or more) of New York City's botanical gardens.

One of my favorite things to do in the summer is to visit one (or more) of New York City's beautiful botanical gardens. My favorites are the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and The New York Botanical Garden. Still, several other gardens are located in different parts of the city.

The best part is that most of these gardens are free to visit on special days. They offer a variety of activities for visitors, including exhibits and special festivals.

Admission to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden is $18. Still, if you visit during the winter on weekdays, you can pay what you wish.

Admission to the New York Botanical Gardens is $30, and free on Wednesdays between 10am-11am.

Go to the top of One World Trade Center.

One World Trade Center is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and offers some of the best views of New York City. If you want to add it to your bucket list, then make sure to go to the top of the building.

The views from One World Trade Center are absolutely fantastic. You can see all of lower Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn and Queens, and it's definitely worth adding to your list if you want to get a great view of NYC.

Visit the New York Public Library

The New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue is a beautiful building worth a visit. The library was founded in 1911 and is now home to more than 2.5 million items.

The library is open seven days a week, and admission is free. Some of the things you can do when you visit include checking out one of the exhibitions, borrowing books, using the computers, or just relaxing in the courtyard.

The architecture of the building is stunning, and it's definitely worth taking a walk around to admire it. If you're looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of NYC, then the New York Public Library is a great option.

The New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue is one of my favorite places in NYC. It's a beautiful building, and the inside is just as gorgeous as the outside.

Enjoy the Manhattan Skyline from a rooftop bar.

One of the best things about summer in New York City is the fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline. If you want to get a great view of the skyline, I recommend heading to a rooftop bar.

There are several rooftop bars located in different parts of the city, and they offer some of the best views of the skyline. My favorites include The Roof at Park South, The Ides at Wythe Hotel, and The Rooftop at Output.

Make sure to head to a rooftop bar during summer in New York City for some fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline.

Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is one of the most beautiful buildings in New York City, and it's definitely worth a visit. The terminal was opened in 1913 and is now sees more than 44 million visitors each year.

Some of the things you can do when you visit Grand Central Terminal include checking out one of the exhibits, taking a tour, shopping, or getting a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.

The architecture of the building is stunning, and it's definitely worth taking a walk around to admire it. Grand Central Terminal is definitely a must-visit for anyone visiting New York City.

Fort Tryon Park

Located in Hudson Heights and Inwood neighborhoods, Fort Tyron Park is a great place to experience another side of NYC.

If you're looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of NYC, then Fort Tyron Park is a great option. The park is located in Upper Manhattan, and here you will find rolling hills and amazing views of the Hudson River.

The park is also home to several different gardens, including the Heather Gardens and the Alpine Garden. The Cloisters museum is located in the park, which is home to several different works of art.

If you're looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of NYC, then I recommend visiting Fort Tyron Park.

Prospect Park

There is no shortage of green space in NYC. And one of the hidden gems (or not so hidden) in Prospect Park in Brooklyn. It's a hidden gem, in my opinion, because most visitors to the NYC area think of Central Park when they think of green space. However, Prospect Park is definitely a must-visit.

Prospect Park is surrounded by the neighborhoods of Park Slope, Prospect Heights, Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Flatbush, and Windsor Terrace. It is also conveniently located next to the Brooklyn Museum and Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

You can make a day of a visit to Prospect Park. You can start an early morning visit to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens followed by a picnic in prospect park. Stop in at the Brooklyn Museum in the after and pop into one of the many eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods for an early dinner or a happy hour cocktail.

Whitney Museum

The Whitney Museum of American Art is located in the Meatpacking District in lower Manhattan. The museum was founded in 1931 and is now home to more than 21,000 works.

The Whitney Museum of American Art is open seven days a week, and admission is free for visitors under the age of 18. Some of the things you can do when you visit include checking out one of the exhibitions, borrowing books, using the computers, or just relaxing in the courtyard.

The architecture of the building is stunning, and it's definitely worth taking a walk around to admire it. The Whitney Museum of American Art is definitely a must-visit for anyone visiting New York City.

Walk the Manhattan Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is great and all, but if you want a quieter experience, visitors to New York City should definitely walk the Manhattan Bridge. The bridge was opened in 1909 and connects Lower Manhattan with DUMBO and Brooklyn.

The views from the bridge are incredible, and it's a great way to see a different side of NYC. It's also a great way to get some exercise while you're visiting the city.

The walk across the bridge takes about 30 minutes, so it's a perfect activity for a morning or afternoon.

I definitely recommend walking the Manhattan Bridge during your visit to New York City. Then afterward, head over to Time Out Market NY for some pizza and a glass of wine.

Time Out Market New York

You've probably heard of Chelsea market, which is a food lovers' paradise. But I have one better for you. It's called Time Out Market NY, located in DUMBO in Brooklyn.

So what is so special about Time Out Market New York. Let's start with the food. At Time Out New York, you can find classic favorites like Jacob's Pickles, Pat LaFrieda, and Clinton St. Baking Company. They also have a full bar.

On the weekends in the evenings, the rooftop hosts live music from local and up-and-coming artists.

And the best part is the views. Overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge, East River, and Lower Manhattan. They even have a happy hour Monday-Friday where you can get select beers for $5, specialty cocktails for $8, and select wines for $7.

Visit the Union Square Farmer's Market

The Union Square Greenmarket is open year-round on Friday, Saturday, Monday, and Wednesday from 8am to 6pm. The market features local and regional farmers, fishers, and food artisans selling their products directly to the public.

Some of the items you can find at the Union Square Greenmarket include fresh produce, meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, honey, maple syrup, jams and jellies, pickles, chutneys, sauces, condiments, baked goods, flowers, and plants.

The Union Square Greenmarket is a great place to find fresh produce and snacks for your trip to New York City.

In addition to food, you can also find several vendors selling handmade crafts and art. Nearby in Union Square Park, you will also be treated to entertainers from jugglers to singers. And don't forget to check out the chess players. It is pretty fascinating to watch them at their art.

Check out the brownstones in the West Village.

One of my favorite things to do in NYC is to head to the West Village and get lost in the maze of streets home to some of the most beautiful brownstones in NYC.

The West Village is a neighborhood in lower Manhattan known for its brownstones, winding streets, and trendy shops and restaurants. It's definitely one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city, and I always enjoy spending time there.

There are many great restaurants and bars in the West Village, and it's the perfect place to go if you're looking for a relaxed atmosphere and some good food and drinks. My favorites include The Spotted Pig, Blue Bottle Coffee, and The Dutch.

The West Village is also home to a lot of great shopping. You can find everything from high-end boutiques to thrift stores here, so it's definitely worth taking a stroll through the neighborhood to check out.

The West Village is full of cute cafes, restaurants, and shops, so you'll never run out of things to do. And if you get tired, just find a bench in one of the parks and relax for a bit.

The West Village is definitely worth visiting during your stay in New York City.

Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards is a new development located on the West Side of Manhattan between Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. Hudson Yards is home to The Vessel, which stands at the center of Hudson Yards. The Vessel is made of 154 flights of stairs and 80 landings. Visitors can take in the fantastic views of the Hudson River and midtown Manhattan.

The Vessel is temporarily closed; however, there is so much more to do in Hudson Yards. Hudson Yards is also home to a large retail and dining complex where you can shop familiar brands like Sephora and grab a meal at any eateries from Shake Shack to Fuku.

Madison Square Park

Speaking of Shake Shack, an NYC bucket list is not complete without visiting Madison Square Park. Many associate Madison Square Park with Shake Shack in the Flatiron District.

Shake Shack started as a cart in Madison Square Park before it became what it is today. Now Shake Shack has restaurants around the country. Still, there was a time when if you wanted one of those great shakes or mouth-watering burgers, you had better be prepared to stand in a long line.

Madison Square Park is the perfect spot to enjoy a bit of a break in the middle of NYC. Most people who work in the area will visit the park during their lunch break, making it a great place to people watch.

On the weekends, tourists visit the park for views of the Flatiron Building and, of course, to grab lunch at Shake Shack.

Wander the city streets

If you have been there, done that, and seen it all, then the best way to really take in all that New York City has to offer is to wander the city streets and take in the sights and sounds of one of the busiest cities in the world.

There's always something new to see in NYC, so you never know what you might stumble upon while wandering the streets. You could find yourself walking past some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, or you might end up in a neighborhood you never knew existed.

Either way, wandering the streets of New York City is a great way to experience all that the city has to offer.

The Ultimate Summer Bucket List

Summer in the city can be a magical time. Especially on the weekends when everyone flees to their summer homes. It almost feels like you have the city to yourself at times. What is on your NYC summer bucket list? I would love to hear what you have in mind? Happy Summer.

-Taima