How to Spend Your Summer Fridays in Manhattan

Of the five boroughs of New York, Manhattan is the most densely populated while, geographically, the smallest. The city of Manhattan certainly leaves a lasting impression. This energetic city is filled with buzzing traffic, diverse groups of people, a fast-paced environment, and a 24-hour lifestyle. It's no secret that summers in Manhattan are seasons to remember. Fridays, as they usher in the weekends, are prime times to have some fun around the area.

If you're heading to Manhattan this summer, you may be wondering how to best spend your time on a busy Friday. Read on to learn some of the best things to do in this vibrant and iconic city.

 

Fittingly nestled on top of Rockefeller Center, the Top of the Rock is one of the most popular places for residents and locals to spend their time on a summer Friday.

The Top of the Rock is famous for its stunning and uniquely expansive view, enabling visitors to see miles of Manhattan easily. More specifically, you'll view the equally renowned Central Park, Midtown, and Lower Manhattan skyscrapers. You can choose to go at any time of day, but you'll find that a summer evening — as the sun sets over the skyline — will provide you with an extraordinary viewing experience.

Whether you go alone or with friends or family, and either during the day or at night, Top of the Rock is undoubtedly an unforgettable venture. Depending on when you plan your visit, you may be able to enjoy some of the events that are commonly held at the Rockefeller Center, such as immersive art installations and the annual summer Farmer's Market.

 

Suppose you want to take a break from the haze and humidity of the Manhattan summer. Then head over to The Morgan Library and Museum, the most extensive library in the city. Here, you'll get to enjoy a plethora of books from various genres to take your mind away. But if you're not interested in reading, the MLM has so much more to offer.

For instance, you can take advantage of one of the museum’s ongoing exhibitions. Whether you're interested in literary works, art, or music, the MLM always offers an immersive display for viewers to enjoy. And if you need to break for a bite to eat, simply visit the Morgan Cafe for great food and a casual dining atmosphere. The newly opened garden, recently restored, provides a welcome sanctuary and is fun to explore.

What's even better? The Morgan Library and Museum offers a Free Fridays program. It takes place from 5 pm to 7 pm every Friday, and all you need to do in advance is make a reservation. Once you arrive, you can explore everything that they have to offer.

 

It's nearly impossible to visit Manhattan without visiting Times Square. Here, visitors can dine, play, and stay, which provides an unforgettable experience in true New York fashion. There are hundreds of things happening each weekend in Times Square — make sure to check show listings well in advance if there’s a musical or play you’ve been dying to see, and make a reservation at the popular dining spots to secure a table.

If you're looking to satisfy your appetite, you'll enjoy that Times Square has a variety of restaurants to meet your needs. Restaurants like Pure Ktchn provide healthier meals created by an array of nutritionists. For those in the mood for Italian, consider Bond 45, a New York Italian Kitchen and Bar, and if you're looking for a grab-and-go experience, visit the Goldfinch Coffee Shop, which prides itself on the perfect brew. You can also check out one of Caryl Berenato’s favorite Japanese restaurants, IZAKAYA E.A.K.

If you're looking for fun, take advantage of all the entertainment available directly in Times Square. Visitors will enjoy an array of theaters of all kinds, such as The Town Hall, Caroline’s on Broadway, and The Times Center. If you're looking for even more fun, head to Dave and Buster's for food and arcade games or Bowlmor Lanes for a fun bowling experience.

Can't get enough of Times Square? Then consider staying at a luxury hotel for a weekend directly within Times Square to make that summer Friday even more exciting. Enjoy a chic stay at the Row NYC Hotel; stay with a high-rise view at New York Marriott Marquis or The Westin New York at Times Square for a contemporary hotel experience.

 

The Highline is notable because it's an entirely defunct metro line remade into a public park, a feat only possible in a place like Manhattan. With that said, The Highline is the perfect place to enjoy a summer Friday stroll in nature while still feeling the city's energy.  If you like to wander, the Highline is undoubtedly the ideal opportunity. Along your walk, you'll find various points of interest to get into, making your Friday in Manhattan feel much more memorable.

Between Gansevoort Street and 13th Street, you'll see the beautiful Donald Pels and Wendy Keys Gansevoort Woodland, featuring vines that cascade over the railings in the summer months. Between 14th and 15th Street, you can discover the Diller-Von Furstenberg Sundeck, a family favorite during the summer months. This area includes a subtle, flowing water feature, allowing you to dip your toes and beat the heat on a hot summer Friday.

Need a break? Stop at 22nd Street, where you can enjoy the seating steps, perfect for resting and impromptu picnicking. You'll also enjoy site-specific art installations, such as their annual mural on a neighborhood building.

For a quick break from the city’s more in-your-face experiences and a chance to immerse yourself in nature, Central Park is a must-visit. Comprised of 843 acres of land, Central Park offers plenty to do and see on a beautiful summer Friday. Central Park has a host of events throughout the summer months for everyone to enjoy.

You'll also enjoy an array of tours available at Central Park, such as weekly walks at the East Meadow Tree-Scape, Conservatory Garden, and a Statues and Monuments Tour. You can also explore the North End to learn about the natural beauty that exists in New York and the many species of wildlife.

Another New York icon is the Empire State Building. If you're looking for fun on a summer Friday, the Empire State Building certainly has more than enough to enjoy, with a variety of observatories and exhibits. On the main deck is the 86th-floor observatory, New York's most famous open-air observatory. Here, visitors can take advantage of a 360-degree view of New York with views of popular spots like Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

On the top deck, located on the 102nd floor, visitors can take advantage of floor-to-ceiling views that stretch up to 80 miles on a beautiful, clear summer day.

While you're on the way to the top floor of the Empire State Building, be sure to enjoy some art on the 2nd and 80th floors. Exhibits are constantly changing, which certainly keeps these floors interesting for visitors.

No Friday is complete in Manhattan without visiting a lounge. The good news is that Manhattan certainly has no shortage of them. Whether you're looking for one that feels more low-key or a nightclub just as energetic as the city itself, you're sure to find something that meets your particular taste.

Located at 10 Columbus Circle, on the 4th Floor, this luxury NYC cocktail lounge and event venue is a great way to spend a Friday evening in Manhattan. Ascent Lounge is by City Night's Hospitality and introduces an elevated nightlife with a beautiful view of the city. Guests will enjoy premium cocktails and cuisine with exceptional service and elegant design for a luxury atmosphere.

Located inside the AC Hotel in Times Square, the Castell Rooftop Lounge is sure to give you an experience you won't forget. Feel the warm summer breeze while enjoying one of their exclusive martinis. Guests will also appreciate the beautiful view of the city, the contemporary lounge aesthetic, and the comfortable atmosphere for the perfect night out.

If you're looking for another lounge with a view, consider the Ophelia Lounge NYC, located at the top of Beekman Tower in Manhattan. Guests will enjoy a 360-degree greenhouse terrace, a complete panorama of Manhattan, and a 5-star menu.

Fine dining is at the core of Manhattan. Be sure to stop at one of Manhattan's most popular restaurants to enjoy good food and atmosphere.

Located at 113 MacDougal Street, this restaurant offers a variety of authentic French meals. You can enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and drinks from their extensive wine and spirits list.

Yet another French restaurant is Daniel. Located at 60 East 65th Street, guests will enjoy this luxury restaurant with quality French cuisine and a traditional dining atmosphere.

Located at 652 10th Avenue, Kochi offers authentic Korean cuisine in a more laid-back atmosphere. Guests will appreciate their select menu of popular Korean dishes with vibrant flavor and a unique dining experience.

Manhattan is undoubtedly the perfect place to spend a summer Friday. Whether you want to visit the iconic Times Square, spend time in nature, or relax at a lounge, there's always something going on in this vibrant city. Are you interested in Manhattan townhomes for sale? Contact Caryl Berenato today to see an exclusive listing.