Let your ESTA take you to New York City and experience the best things to do there during summer

ESTA makes it easy for you to head out to New York City and enjoy the Summer in the City that never sleeps

With the ESTA travel authorization, you do not require a US Visa. So it’s time to head to New York City and have a great summer. NYC is already an interesting and lively place to visit regardless of weather conditions. When Summer arrives, however, and the sun begins to shine, the fresh air brings forth an array of alternatives to explore the city. Your days will be filled with music festivals, enriched with rooftop movies, and animated by free dance parties. Those parties can be found in NYC’s most vibrant parks, creating remarkable summertime moments. Have a look at our list of things do in New York during summer, and get ready to request those overdue vacation days.

Complete your ESTA application here and before you know it, you’ll be heading to NYC for fun and games
No more US Visa required

1.    New York City invites you to dance at MoMA

MoMA hosts the popular annual Warm Up party series: an event where meeting interesting people, appreciating the most prominent contemporary art exhibitions, and “dancing in the moonlight” comes together beautifully. Get moving with an impressive and well-selected musical lineup, that has featured names like Afrika Bambaataa, Questlove, Francois K, Danny Krivit, the Scissor Sisters and LCD Soundsystem. These year’s artists and DJs are soon to be announced, so make sure to leave your Saturday afternoons free for this.

This weekly summer party, held for nearly two decades at the Long Island City museum courtyard, has maintained its high-quality lineup and characteristic vibe and is now bigger than ever before. Last year’s highlights included experimental ambient producer Elysia Crampton and rapper Kamaiyah, while also displaying captivating outdoor art. Hence, we can’t wait for 2018’s series to begin.

2. Coney Island Mermaid Parade guide

This annual parade, hosted on Surf Avenue, is one of New York’s characteristic summer attractions. Due to its unique and somewhat bizarre atmosphere, where King Neptune and Queen Mermaid feature as the most vibrant marchers, the event draws thousands of spectators from around the globe who come to watch this curious “glittered procession” around the neighborhood.

The parades date back to 1983, when Coney Island founder, Dick Zigan, introduced the idea to the area. In 2018, the Mermaid Parade will take place Saturday, June 16, at 7 pm, starting from the crossroad between Surf Avenue and W 21^st Street, moving along Surf Avenue and the Boardwalk, until it reaches the Steeplechase Plaza. It is worth arriving early in order to get a good spot among the crows. Otherwise, you can always become a member of the Coney Island USA (for U$ 150) and sit undercover at one of the Judge’s Stands. Regardless of where or how make sure to visit the area known for some of NY’s best beaches.

3.     New York City and your party with creatures of the sea

As an informal funfair held every year, the streets of Coney Island are invaded by eccentrics and enthusiasts half-dressed in glittered sea-creature costumes. This year, New York’s iconic seaside procession will be led by musician Amanda Palmer and Neil Gaiman – or rather Queen Mermaid and King Neptune.

Complete your ESTA application here and before you know it, you’ll be heading to NYC for fun and games

No more US Visa required

4.     Eat and Drink on the streets in New York City

One of the things that make summer in NYC so enticing is the carefree atmosphere that envelops the streets. When the weather starts to warm up, a series of street fairs begin to pop up across the various blocks and areas of the city. This is a great opportunity to stroll around these pedestrian roads and explore some of NYC best restaurants while taking a peek (and possibly shopping) at the city’s most eclectic vintage clothing stores. Alternatively, you may choose to dive into free events – like outdoor concerts and street art exhibition – or enjoy some of the city’s random yet fun parties.

5. Cool off in the pools New York City has to offer

Anyone who has lived in a big city, surrounded by skyscrapers, knows the importance of cooling down (literally) during summertime. Luckily for those living and visiting New York this summer, the city’s outdoor pools will be open from late June, allowing for a much-needed temperature readjustment throughout hot days. There are more than 60 public pools across the five boroughs, so you are bound to stumble upon the opportunity to go for a dip at some point in your day. Among the cleanest (and completely free) swimming pools in NYC, are the Astoria Pool and its intricate Art Deco interior, and the 7-lane Bronx-based The Floating Pool.

6.     Jazz Age Lawn Party

This party is held on the renowned Governors Island. The Jazz Age Lawn Party is an interesting and fun way for someone looking to grasp some of NYC’s past. While doing so, you might as well enjoy the sophisticated cocktails and live music performances. After you have had your fair share of New York beaches and rooftop bars, catch the ferry to the island. There you will experience a 1920s-themed event. An event, that will make your summer experience in the city that much more memorable.

It takes place on two different weekends, the first on the 16^th and 17^th of June, and the second on the 25^th and 24^th of August, from 11 am until 5 pm. This year’s lineup includes Michael Arenella and his Dreamland Orchestra, as well as the popular Charleston dance contest. A contest, that is as fun to watch as it is to participate.

Complete your ESTA application here and before you know it, you’ll be heading to NYC for fun and games

No more US Visa required

7.     Catch a flick at Rooftop Cinema Club

Being a movie fan is enough reason to check out the Rooftop Cinema Club. If you are a fan of cocktails and sunsets, then this rooftop cinema will be your place. It certainly deserves a spot on your to-do list in NY. There is a whole experience to be had behind each screening. They also make sure to back it up with comfortable seats, wireless headphones, as well as carefully selected films. The films they show range from alternatives to classics and Oscar winners. And of course, let’s not forget. great popcorn. The 2018 party was held at the SkyLawn at Embassy Suites by Hilton, in Midtown. This kick-started another edition of movie screenings. All those featured, as usual, the special offer of a bottomless box of popcorn for only $3 extra.

8.     Scream your guts out at Luna Park

Nothing represents the start of summer better than the reopening of Luna Park. This is Coney Island’s iconic amusement park, rated as one of the most exciting in the world. Despite being a new institution, the theme park has gained popularity for its amazing seaside location. It’s more than 50 attractions, from the Cyclone, the Air Race, and the Endeavor, are all must do’s. Furthermore, there is also a variety of attractions such as carnival games, theme rides, splashing water slides. Parties, concerts, and live performances round up the picture and make the park a great destination for all ages.

On top of an array of entertainment, Luna Park also has a great infrastructure of restaurants and cafes. Special attention is drawn to the popular burger at Cyclone Cafe. A general admission ticket gives you access to around 28 rides. However, in case you feel like you need more adrenaline, specific rides can be tried out for an additional fee. A fee, which is often well worth it!

See also: American football: The United States’ passion

Complete your ESTA application here and before you know it, you’ll be heading to NYC for fun and games

No more US Visa required

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