Sunday, July 24, 2011

Best of New York: What to Do When It's Hot


Last week's heat wave had New Yorkers asking the perennial summer question: What do you do in NYC when it's hot? While warm summer weather is perfect for barbecues, beach days, and rooftop drinks, weather like this finds many people inside in front of the air conditioner. But for those who are searching for ways to beat the heat, try one of these activities that are fun no matter what the weather.

See the Sea Life at the New York Aquarium

An aquarium is the perfect way to enjoy the cool water without having to endure the hot sun that goes with it. At the New York Aquarium, you can watch sting rays soar, see jellyfish float by, and even watch sea lions show off for the crowds. Plus, you can finish your trip by stopping by Coney Island across the street and taking a quick dunk in the water yourself.

Surf Ave and W 8th St, Brooklyn. nyaquarium.com

Catch a Film at the Ziegfeld

Why go to the movies when you can be a part of theater history? In this historic setting, you can see films where the Ziegfeld Follies used to play, and where the Broadway musical Show Boat opened in 1927. Reopened as a movie theater in 1969, it remains one of the most opulent houses in the city, with a crystal chandelier and gold trim. You can't see the last Harry Potter in just any old theater, after all.

141 W 54th St, Manhattan. clearviewcinemas.com/zigfield
Throw a Strike at Brooklyn Bowl

Bowling is a classic "I'm bored today" solution, but Brooklyn Bowl takes the activity to a whole new level. Sure, you can join a few friends for a few frames, but then take a break and enjoy the extensive lunch and dinner menu (where they just shot a segment for Food Network's "Best Thing I Ever Ate"). Spend another half hour on the lanes, then enjoy one of the concerts the Bowl hosts every night of the week. Afterward, treat yourself to a Bourbon Street Milkshake, served with a scoop of Nutella and a shot of bourbon. You won't even realized you've spent the whole day there.

61 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn. brooklynbowl.com

Take a Food Tour at Chelsea Market

Outdoor markets are fun, but in the heat it's hard to get excited about wilted produce. So head over to Chelsea Market for a delectable - and air conditioned - food excursion. Check out the amazing array of Italian delicacies from Buon Italia, and watch loaves be kneaded and baked at Amy's Bread. Best of all, the Market hosts stands from Ronnybrook Milk Bar, L'Arte de Gelato, and People's Pops, all of which will give you a much-needed and delicious brain freeze.

460 W 16th St, Manhattan. chelseamarket.com

Make a Splash at Splish Splash Water Park


Sometimes, nothing will beat the heat except a dunk in a (very chlorinated) pool. If you're feeling the urge, your best bet is Splish Splash Water Park. With slides like the Tunnel or Terror, the Dragon's Den, and Shotgun Falls, you can have a heart-stopping good time, or you can take it easy on the circular Lazy River and bob around in the Wave Pool. And if you're coming from New York, Long Island Railroad offers round-trip packages, including park admission and shuttle service, all summer long.

2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton, NY. splishsplashlongisland.com

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