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As the sun comes out, New York City’s streets become small ovens – and being able to escape them is the trick to enjoying your summer in the Big Apple. Despite being one of the world’s busiest and most developed cities, green spaces are not unheard of in NYC – if fact, far from it.

There are almost 30,000 acres of green space in the city, including parks and beaches – covering over 14% of the entire city. Meaning even in the heart of Manhattan, you can find an oasis in the dynamic urban sprawl.

Picnics are a great way to keep your expenses down while enjoying a great day out in the sun. Park vendors – especially in some of the bigger parks – are known for their elevated prices (particularly throughout summer) and one of the best ways to keep costs manageable is packing your own food.

Whether you’re lucky enough to have a self-catering apartment or hotel room, or you choose to hit up the local delis and supermarkets on your way into the park – a day out in the sun doesn’t have to break the bank!

But where should you go?

Central Park

As the closest green space to the Hotel Beacon and the biggest urban park in the city (maybe even the world), Central Park is an obvious choice. At almost 4km2 there are a variety of places to enjoy lunch in the sun within the park, and there is plenty of space – even when it gets busy. Check out Great Hill, Great Lawn, Sheep Meadow, and East Meadow for the most popular and picturesque spots in the park to enjoy your lunch.

Astoria Park

Known for great views and great outdoor swimming pools, Astoria Park comes alive in the summer months. Located between Robert F. Kennedy Bridge and Hell Gate Bridge, the park offers tennis courts, a running track, multiple playgrounds, and panoramic views across the Manhattan Skyline. If a lazy picnic is more your style, there are bars, cafes, and restaurants within the park that offer “take out” to be enjoyed on the central lawn and other outdoor picnic areas.

Clove Lakes Park

There is nothing quite like being at the lake on a hot summer’s day – and being in New York City doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Just 1 hour away from the Hotel beacon (on public transport) you will find Clove Lakes Park. With a shoreline BBQ area (no permit required for groups under 20 people), a cherry tree orchard, and lots of green space - Clove Lakes is a breath of fresh air on a hot summer’s day.

The Hotel Beacon’s apartment-style suites come complete with their own mini-kitchen – the perfect place to prep your alfresco picnic basket.