Escaping The Concrete Jungle This Summer
This past weekend at Sunday Brunch, a friend and I were discussing our upcoming summer plans (or lack thereof) and all the things we REALLY wanted to do this summer. As the list grew, I thought, “This could make a perfect blog post,” and perhaps I could introduce New York Buzz readers to some NYC activities they wouldn’t have thought of. If you’re sticking around the city this summer, here are some great ways for your to take advantage of the outdoors while also escaping the city streets.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding: This is one of those things I’ve wanted to do for ages. While in theory I’d certainly prefer to do it on a tropical vacation somewhere, I’ll settle for the Hudson River. From everything I’ve heard it’s an amazing way to get some sun and a great upper body workout. Here are two companies in Manhattan that offer Stand Up Paddle Boarding: New York Kayak Company (classes are $50/hr), Manhattan Kayak Company (classes start at $35/hr),
Kayaking: Kayaking is a great way to explore NYC from the water while also getting a good workout. There a number of paid and FREE options in Manhattan including: The Downtown Boathouse (FREE), Manhattan Kayak Company (classes are $95/2hr), Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse (FREE), New York Kayak Company (classes are $50/hr)
Biking on Governors Island: I like to think of Governors Island as the easiest day trip from Manhattan, and it really is just a 5 minute & $2 ferry ride away. The former military base has taken on a total transformation over the years and is opening an additional 30 acre park for the 2014 season. The island is open 7 days a week for bike riding and hammock swinging. Rent a bike on the island for just $25 for the day and check out the ferry schedule to plan your trip.
North River Lobster Company: I recently found out about this new addition to the Hudson River bar scene and am dying to check it out. Docked at Pier 81, this seafood shanty serves up lobster & chowder galore and to top it off, it sets sail on 45 minute cruises periodically throughout the day. This just screams happy hour with the gang.
Surf Lessons: Last summer I took my first official surf lesson with a few friends in the Rockaways and had the best time, so this summer I’m planning to repeat the experience and improve my skills. My lesson was at Skudin Surf, and from what I’ve heard they seem to give the best lessons for beginners. Myself and all of my friends were able to get up on the baby waves by the end of the class. Classes are $65/1.5 hrs.
Willy Wall: The “Honorable William Wall” is the floating clubhouse of the Manhattan Sailing club anchored in the New York Harbor north of Ellis Island. It’s also the best place in the city to watch evening sailboat races and catch views of the Manhattan skyline. The Admiral’s Launch will transport non-members out to the clubhouse from North Cove Dock F for a fee of $18. There is a bar in the clubhouse and guests may bring their own food. Launch tickets may be purchased here.
The Crow’s Nest at The Water Club: The Crow’s Nest is located on the upper deck of The Water Club on the East River and offers seasonal outdoor dining. With breathtaking views of Manhattan and a lively atmosphere The Crow’s Nest is the perfect place to get together with friends after a long day at the office.
The Water Table: Brooklyn’s first restaurant on a boat is a true dining experience! The menu is prix fixe and New England inspired with ever changing seasonal options like lobster rolls, bouillabaisse stew and mussel salad. Enjoy quality food and drinks while you cruise the New York harbor. The three course menu costs $75 and includes the 2.5 hour boat ride. You can make your reservations on their website.
Montauk: It’s not an NYC summer without at least one Hamptons getaway and Montauk, all the way at the tip of LI is as Hamptons as it gets. Head to Ditch Plains beach for surfing or Gin Beach for some basic relaxing then make your way too The Sloppy Tuna for some dinner, drinks and dancing.
Hiking: Sometimes it’s nice to ditch the concrete jungle of Manhattan for a day and get back to nature, but that can be hard to do if you don’t have a car. Luckily the city’s public transportation system can bring you to nearly a dozen hiking opportunities. Did you know that you can be dropped off right at the Appalachian Trail trail head on the Metro North Hudson Line? The train only runs on weekends and the stop is literally called Appalachian Trail. If you’re looking for a flat easy hike, try the Old Croton Aqueduct hike from Tarrytown to Yonkers, also accessible by Metro North. Take the Hudson line to Tarrytown and follow signs for the aqueduct route. In Yonkers you can catch the train back to Manhattan at Greystone Station. Check out these hikes and as well as alternative options here.
So not that you’ve seen my summer MUST DO list, it’s time for you to make your own!
This entry was posted on Thursday, May 29th, 2014 at 8:16 am and is filed under New York City Events, Other Musings..., Public Relations. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.
