Sometimes it’s nice to escape the cars, people, and food carts and run to the calming waters that surround Manhattan. If you’re new to sailing, take some lessons at the Offshore Sailing School. Or relax and let the pros at Hudson River Sloop Clearwater do the work with a three-hour sail on the Hudson that teaches you about the ecosystem.
For a bigger taste of adventure, get out and kayak in New York Harbor with Red Hook Boaters. If you’re willing to venture to Brooklyn, they offer free kayaking to city dwellers on a first-come-first-serve basis. Or, if you’d prefer to stay in the city, check out the Downtown Boathouse on Wednesday nights for free lessons or tour the city by water with Manhattan Kayak Company. Older kids can even take a stand-up paddle board lesson with New York Kayak Company!
Looking for a more peaceful afternoon? Foot traffic may be high on the streets, but there’s plenty of relaxing by the sea. Be sure to grab a hot dog at Nathan’s Hot Dogs at Steeplechase Pier in Coney Island after reeling in some fish, rent a boat in Sheepshead Bay in Brooklyn, or stay in the city for some good old catch-and-release at the 107th Street Pier. Psst—the electric lighting and roof at 107th makes it a great way to beat the crowds at nighttime or during summer showers.
More from our SUMMER FUN GUIDE:
11 Top Water Parks Within Driving Distance
Our Favorite Beaches Around NYC
Editor’s Picks: Camping For Families
(Inter)Active Fun In Parks & Zoos
Garden Oases, Animal Encounters, And Good Learnin’
