by guest blogger Katherine Salyi
There’s nothing quite like an NYC rooftop pool scene in July: sunbathing, day drinking, loud music, dancing, and socializing… that’s when you use Hello Sitter, of course. With kids along, you have to rethink how to stay cool in the city.
As a mom and real estate agent, I spend a lot of time exploring kid-friendly New York. Along the way, I’ve discovered these eight places to survive summer in NYC and beat the heat with kids. (But sometimes, you just have to hand this list off to a sitter and make your way to that rooftop pool party….)
Hudson River Park has it all: shady trees, a cool breeze, gorgeous sunsets, water activities, and a summer calendar packed with free and low-cost cultural, recreational, and educational events and programs. One of the best features of the park is the location along the river. And don’t forget the many restaurant and bar options!
Located in SoHo, Freshmade NYC is a bright and airy cooking studio with classes and summer camps for kids ages two to teen. Drop your kiddos off or stick around (maybe you can pick up a few tips).
iPic Movie Theater is a seriously elevated cinema experience, with cushy leather recliners, reserved seating, and full-service dining (and drinks!) throughout the show from a James Beard award-winning chef. Head here to enjoy the summer’s blockbusters in an environment so cool, blankets are available.
Chilling out at the mall: it’s a classic move, right? While away a few hours at our local shopping emporium, Brookfield Place, home to art, fashion, ice cream, games, music, and plenty of cold air. Redemption can be found on the waterfront terrace!
With weeklong camp options for gymnastics, soccer, basketball and more, Chelsea Piers is the ultimate indoor playground. Can’t commit to trekking to the far west side all week? They also offer tons of drop-in classes for both kids and adults.
No back garden or private club membership? No problem! Buy a kiddie pool on Amazon and head to your local playground with a picnic lunch. Instant pool party!
One of the best family museum programs around is at the very cool Whitney Museum. Take a guided tour of the museum and then beeline to the open studio, where kids can create their own inspired creations. Plus members get serious discounts at dozens of shops and restaurants throughout MePa, including Helmut Lang, Dos Caminos, and Bubby’s High Line. So worth it.
Central Park has 21 playgrounds! Plus the zoo, a carousel, ice cream vendors, boat rentals… we know you know this. Now take action! (The official park guide is here to help you plan.)
Stay cool, kids!
Katherine Salyi is a mom, lifelong New Yorker, and family-friendly real estate broker with Sotheby’s International Realty on Fifth Avenue. She can be reached at katherine.salyi@sothebyshomes.com and on IG @ksalyi
