By Kate Weinberg
Typically, summer has been the time that students have the freedom to do as they please. Without the usual classwork responsibilities, the three months that follow finals are often filled with friends, trips, and whatever else you can think of. However, summer 2020 was anything but a typical summer.
After a semester of transitioning to online classes in your home, taking lunch breaks in your home, taking tests in your home, communicating through Zoom in your home, you begin to crave an adventure outside of your living quarters. But in line with COVID-19 protocols, there are restrictions that require you to think twice about your days’ plans. However, New York City has not skipped a beat in creating activities accessible during this strange time. Activities may look different, but there are plenty of highlights to choose from.
Here are some of my personal favorites!
The Cliffs at DUMBO
Located under the Manhattan bridge, the cliffs at DUMBO is an outdoor rock climbing experience allowing you to test your strength.
Kayak at Brooklyn Bridge Park
From August 19 until October 14, you can head to the East River for an amazing view of lower Manhattan and see the Statue of Liberty for FREE on Wednesday evenings.
Drive-in Movie Theater
Yup, the drive-in movie theaters are making a comeback, exciting news especially since normal theaters have been closed for months. These drive-ins are popping up all over town: Brooklyn Drive-in, Queens’ Bel Aire Diner drive-in movie theater, Uptown Drive-In at Yankee Stadium, Courtesy Queens Drive-In, Queens Drive-In at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The Skyline Drive-in is a must-see, offering a view of the city and a movie. You can visit here to find your next movie near you!
The High Line
The High Line has reopened! Now instead of taking long walks in your own neighborhood you can venture out to the Highline and lift yourself above the city and into an oasis of historic buildings and beautiful scenery!
Governor’s Island
New York City has a 172-acre island dedicated to recreation. Grab a roundtrip ferry ride for just $3 and head to a day of fun. What is there to do? Ride bikes, lay in the hammock grove, go on slides, and explore art and historic sites!
While COVID-19 had the potential to put a damper on the summer, there are many ideas just like these to enjoy your time. Finding the perfect activity takes a bit more research, but with creativity and effort to enjoy the city, there are endless opportunities.