Free Things to Do in the Seaport This Summer

Free Things to Do in the Seaport This Summer

There’s no mistaking it—it’s summer in the city and we’re all looking for things to do outdoors and ways to keep cool. From rooftop movies to al fresco DJ sessions and beyond, the Seaport District is a hub for some of the best summer activities in Manhattan. Better yet, all the ones on this list are free.

Catch a Movie on the Rooftop

Outdoor movies are a hallmark of summer in New York City. At our Seaport Cinema series, you get all the joy of watching classic films and fan favorites al fresco, with the added bonus of Brooklyn Bridge views as your preview. Hit The Rooftop at Pier 17 on Monday nights to enjoy this summer’s movies—each one of them voted into the lineup by the public. Arrive early to snag a good spot, and enjoy movie-themed drinks and snacks.

Groove to Summer Sounds

You don’t have to hit the club to enjoy sets from some of the world’s best DJs. We’ve got them right here in the Seaport, in our Summer Sounds sessions presented by Heineken. Both Garden Bar and the Heineken Riverdeck play host to our guest DJs every Thursday and Friday evening, and on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and nights throughout the summer. From the cobbles to the rooftop, Summer Sounds is the best (and cheapest) way to meet up with friends for outdoor drinks and a soundtrack of the hottest music.

Immerse Yourself in Art

There’s artwork every you turn in the Seaport District this summer, with fun and colorful installations by Wade & Leta on the cobblestones on Fulton Street as well as Mike Perry and Tin & Ed at Pier 17. Also at Pier 17 is The Nautilus, a public art installation by Lincoln, Atlantic Re:think and SOFTlab. On your way into Pier 17, you’ll encounter Others Built New York, a mural by Black Gotham Experience, on display all summer long. Created by artists @zukie_art@broadcastlevel@kamauware and @camocustomz, the mural illustrates the presence and impact of the African Diaspora on New York City.

Even More Art

For even more art, keep your eyes peeled for pop-up exhibitions from wallplay, including Nitemind: SYNC,a multi-channel sound and light exhibition currently on show at 26 Fulton Street. And, don’t miss the 62nd World Press Photo 2019 exhibition at 10 Corso Como Gallery through August 25th. The show features the winners of a contest for the best photojournalistic images of the past year.

Get Fit for Free

Work out with the ultimate motivator—fresh air and gorgeous views of the Brooklyn Bridge and East River. Our Seaport Fit series of fitness classes returns to The Rooftop at Pier 17, with a mix of complimentary boot camp and barre classes, along with group runs around Lower Manhattan. Join us for free workouts hosted by Physique 57, Trooper Bootcamp, the Mile High Run Club, and more, thanks to our partners, New York–Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital and LIFEWTR. Need some inspo to get started? Check out some motivational tips from Physique 57’s master trainers here.

Wander the District

As one of the oldest neighborhoods in New York City, the Seaport District is home to some of the city’s most beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets. An oasis of calm in the urban jungle, it’s a great place to wander on a summer’s day, stopping to window shop, enjoy an ice cream cone, or watch the kids enjoy playing in the sand at Imagination Playground. You can also stroll the waterfront and savor a cool breeze by the East River. Pier 17 has plenty of space where you can sit and enjoy some of the best views in all of New York. Fresh air and perfect photo opps in front of the Brooklyn Bridge? Priceless.