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New York in August…can get hot. While summer is arguably the best time to see New York, it’s likely you’ll want to escape the sunshine in the middle of the day and chill out somewhere cooler. But where do you cool off in a city like New York?

Despite being a bustling city, New York is also the greenest city in the USA, with more parks and green spaces than any other city in the country – and that’s not all. Whether you’re looking for pools, beaches, or simply an attraction that has air conditioning – New York offers a thousand (or more) escapes from the midday sun.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

One of the best ways to cool off in New York is by getting close to the water. Whether it’s by boat, kayak, on a local beach, or even a dip in the Hudson – there are plenty of ways to get into the water in the city, but it’s not always practical. If you’re looking to cool off without getting wet, the waterfront parks in New York will offer a cool breeze and a great view. Our personal favorite park is Brooklyn Bridge Park, offering views across the Manhattan skyline and the Hudson River while providing plenty of shady spots to sit down, relax, and escape the city heat.

Go Underground

While the subway is a lot hotter than the city streets, some stations aren’t – notably, the abandoned ones. City Hall Subway Station was abandoned in 1945 and has been disused ever since. Now the station is only used for private tours. Considered an architectural masterpiece, the station has been preserved with its original features, ornate tiles, and skylights to the streets above – and most importantly, it provides the perfect respite from the summer heat.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Located just ten minutes from the Hotel Beacon, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the best galleries in the city – and it’s air-conditioned. With a vast collection of art from all over the world, the Met is a must-see for any art enthusiast and provides a diverse cultural selection of both modern and ancient artworks.

The Conservatory Garden

Central Park is everyone’s go-to when the sun hits New York – with pools, ponds, shade, and plenty of places to grab a drink, it’s easy to see why. But that isn’t all the park has to offer. If you’re looking for an oasis in the city, the Conservatory Garden provides just that. With three different gardens to visit, there are plenty of places to find a quiet spot to relax and chill out after a long day in the sun.

New York Aquarium

In New York with your family and looking to escape the heat? Visit the New York Aquarium and meet some of the world’s most amazing marine animals up close and personal. The aquarium is the oldest continually running aquarium in the USA and is well worth the visit. If you don’t fancy a full day indoors, the aquarium is located in Coney Island – New York’s beach playground – offering sandy beaches, numerous eateries, and the famous Coney Island rides.

Are you visiting New York in the next few months? The Hotel Beacon is a great choice located in the heart of the Upper West Side whether you’re traveling alone, with your family, or with your partner.