Summer in NYC is a uniquely sticky, stinky, and stupefying proposition. Sure, there is the ubiquitous odor of sun-kissed miscellaneous garbage and decomposing door dash leftovers wafting in the air, the pyramidal heaps of bloated black trash bags, subway temperatures soaring to levels more appropriate for a Sky Ting yoga class, and, of course, the dank urban humidity that seems to permeate the fibers of even the most moisture-wicking fabrics. But, if you can see through the heat and occasional foul NYC summer potpourri, it is one of the best times to hop around town.
Many NYC residents travel on weekends (Long Island, Fire Island, Catskills, etc.) or work remotely during summer. Fewer tourists file along the narrow sidewalks and parks, and Midtown becomes oddly tolerable (Midtown during the high season has what some might call a prickly pedestrian problem). Restaurants like Una Pizzeria Napoletana and Tatiana are more accessible for walk-in scenarios, and Downtown has a distinctly more “local” and minimal vibe (heat keeps tourists and Westchester county daytrippers at bay).
The numerous museums offer a chilly respite from the heat. Among the many world-class museums, the Met, where these two enjoy impromptu ice cream, is not only nicely air-conditioned; it is the 4th largest museum in the world. And don’t be fooled by the crowds of people and yellow cabs by the 5th Ave entrance; there are more than 2.2 million (yes, that’s million) square feet to explore. And there is always a nook tucked away where you can feel a sense of calm and relative isolation. So, if you want to escape the balmy NYC heat, look no further than the Met, even on the weekend. And don’t forget to bounce around the city and graze at the many tasty eateries and gelaterias. What’s your favorite NYC summer maneuver?
