Top 10 Things to do in New York City on a Sunny Day

It's finally Sunny in New York City! Explore New York City's unique side with activities like East River kayaking, rooftop yoga, stand-up paddleboarding at Jamaica Bay, horseback riding in parks, art at Socrates Sculpture Park, self-portraits at Fotolab Studio, and kite-flying at Brooklyn Bridge Park. FotoLab Studio's team put together this guide to lead you through the city's unconventional and charming adventures.

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1. Kayaking the East River

• Location: Downtown Boathouse, Pier 26

• Description: Experience the thrill of kayaking along the East River, passing iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan skyline.

• Secret Tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot as it's a popular activity, and don't forget sunscreen and a waterproof phone case.

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2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) in Jamaica Bay

• Location: Rockaway Beach

• Description: Try stand-up paddleboarding at Rockaway Beach's calmer Jamaica Bay, offering a unique perspective of NYC's coastline.

• Secret Tip: Weekday mornings offer the best conditions with fewer waves and fewer people, making it ideal for beginners.

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3. Rooftop Yoga

• Location: Various rooftop venues (e.g., The William Vale, Yotel)

• Description: Practice yoga under the open sky at one of NYC's rooftop venues, combining exercise with stunning skyline views.

• Secret Tip: Bring your own mat and arrive early to snag a good spot and relish the serene atmosphere before classes start.

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4. Horseback Riding in Van Cortlandt Park

• Location: Bronx Equestrian Center, Van Cortlandt Park

• Description: Enjoy horseback riding through scenic trails in Van Cortlandt Park, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

• Secret Tip: Book a guided trail ride in advance and wear closed-toe shoes for a more comfortable experience.

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5. Outdoor Rock Climbing

• Location: Rat Rock in Central Park

• Description: Try outdoor bouldering at Rat Rock in Central Park, a favorite spot among climbers with routes suitable for various skill levels.

• Secret Tip: Bring your climbing shoes and crash pad if you have one, and check the weather as rain can make the rocks slippery.

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6. Sunset Sailing Cruise

• Location: Chelsea Piers

• Description: Embark on a sunset sailing cruise along the Hudson River, enjoying the city's skyline as it transitions from day to night.

• Secret Tip: Opt for smaller group tours for a more intimate experience and bring a light jacket as it can get breezy on the water.

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7. Birdwatching in Pelham Bay Park

• Location: Pelham Bay Park

• Description: Explore the diverse bird species in Pelham Bay Park, one of the largest parks in NYC, with serene marshlands and woodlands.

• Secret Tip: Bring binoculars and a field guide, and head to Orchard Beach for birdwatching opportunities along the coastline.

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8. Outdoor Sculpture Garden Exploration

• Location: Socrates Sculpture Park, Queens

• Description: Wander through the outdoor sculpture garden at Socrates Sculpture Park, showcasing contemporary art against the backdrop of the East River.

• Secret Tip: Check their website for any art workshops or events coinciding with your visit for a more immersive experience.

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9. Self-Portrait Experience at Fotolab Studio

• Location: Fotolab Studio, 227 W 29th St, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10001

• Description: Visit Fotolab Studio, the first self-portrait studio in NYC, and explore a unique experience capturing your own professional self-portraits using their innovative setup and guidance.

• Secret Tip: Book a session in advance to secure your spot and take advantage of their professional equipment and personalized assistance for an unforgettable self-portrait session. Check out our Instagram for pose inpso beforehand!

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10. Kite Flying in Brooklyn Bridge Park

• Location: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 5

• Description: Embrace the windy conditions by flying kites at Brooklyn Bridge Park with panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan.

• Secret Tip: Bring your own kite or purchase one from nearby stores, and aim for late afternoons when the wind tends to pick up, making it perfect for kite flying.

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New York City offers a wealth of unconventional activities, from water sports to rooftop yoga and artistic explorations. Our guide brings you closer to the city's unique charm, inviting you to experience the unexpected and discover the diversity of adventures beyond the typical tourist paths.