In New York, there’s nothin’ you can’t do, as Alicia Keys once said. But doing things that are relaxing can be a challenge, given that the city is a very busy hub of tourists, locals and business. Having said this, we do have a list for you to unwind and relax in the Big Apple.
We have given 6 ideas for you to choose from, some will be weather dependent others not so much. If this is your first time to New York you probably will want to get amongst it, in which we have posts for you to check out. If you are going to Time Square or Brooklyn then those posts will be useful.
Now let’s crack on with the top 6 relaxing things to do in New York.
1. Find a quiet place in Central Park
As you probably know Central Park is a sizable green area within walking distance of the Empire State Building and Time Square. There are nice parts of Central Park and some not so nice. I would recommend having a good walk through and finding a spot that suits you for having a picnic or just sitting back reading a book, some places to try are The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir.
Other options to relax and enjoy Central Park is an early morning stroll, be great if it’s the summer months and catch a sunrise of the iconic city. Again in the summer months, rent a rowboat from the Loeb Boathouse and spend time on the lake taking in the beautiful surroundings.
You can take a visit to the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain. Head to Bethesda Terrace, a picturesque area with a grand staircase and a stunning fountain. Sit on the steps, watch the world go by, or you can simply enjoy the view of the surrounding Bethesda Terrace Arcade.
There is so many options to mention but will just put here for you to do your own research: Conservatory Garden, Shakespeare Garden, Great Lawn Relaxation, Literary Walk, Conservatory Water, Nature Exploration, Bow Bridge Views & Yoga or Meditation in the Park.
2. Take the Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry in New York City is not just used by commuters to get from A to B. It’s an experience that offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
The ferry departs from Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan. Now the great thing about this option is it’s FREE. It will take you across New York Harbor to Staten Island. As the boat glides through the water, you are treated to panoramic views of iconic landmarks including impressive skyscrapers.
The spacious decks allow you to soak in the sights from different vantage points, and whether you’re standing on the open deck or lounging inside the cabin, the experience is both relaxing and awe-inspiring.
Once in Staten Island, you have the option to explore the borough, enjoy the waterfront parks, or simply catch the return ferry for another round of scenic beauty as they sail back to Lower Manhattan.
3. Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Who doesn’t enjoy a Botanic Garden as a way to relax?! Located in the heart of Brooklyn, this botanical spectacle spans 52 acres and is a sanctuary of diverse plant life, themed gardens, and tranquil pathways.
You are greeted by the vibrant hues of the Cherry Esplanade, where cherry blossoms burst into bloom in spring. As you walk through the themed gardens like the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the Cranford Rose Garden, and the Fragrance Garden offer a harmonious blend of colours, scents, and textures, provide a serene escape from the city’s hustle. Exactly what we are trying to achieve.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is not just a collection of flora but a living classroom, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Educational programs, workshops, and seasonal events are often put on to engage visitors of all ages, making it a hub for botany enthusiasts and casual admirers alike.
Whether you’re wandering through the Shakespeare Garden, finding solace in the peaceful Lily Pool Terrace, or participating in the annual Sakura Matsuri festival celebrating Japanese culture, a day at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is such a great way to spend a relaxing day.
4. Have a read at the New York Public Library
Spending a day at the New York Public Library is a literary and cultural immersion into one of the world’s most iconic repositories of knowledge. Begin your day by exploring the historic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, where the library is on the first floor. Located at Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street.
Take in and admire the majestic Rose Main Reading Room, adorned with grand chandeliers and regal bookshelves, offering an ambiance that beckons readers and researchers alike. Delve into the vast collections, including rare manuscripts, historical documents, and an extensive array of books spanning every imaginable genre.
Take advantage of the library’s serene corners, such as the Bill Blass Public Catalog Room, for a quiet reading session surrounded by the hushed whispers of literary exploration. Attend a lecture, workshop, or exhibition that may be taking place within the library’s walls to enrich your understanding of literature and culture.
For a leisurely break, head to the library’s outdoor spaces, such as the serene Bryant Park just behind it, where you can enjoy a peaceful moment amidst greenery and perhaps bring along a book you’ve discovered during your exploration. The New York Public Library isn’t just a repository of books; it’s a haven for knowledge seekers and a cultural retreat in the heart of Manhattan.
5. Visit these 1 or both of these Museums
The Frick Collection
Nestled in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, The Frick Collection is a cultural gem that transports you to a bygone era of opulence and artistic refinement. Housed in the former residence of industrialist Henry Clay Frick, the museum showcases a remarkable array of European paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and period furnishings.
The intimate setting of the mansion itself, designed to resemble a European grand house, enhances the visitor experience, allowing for an immersive journey through centuries of artistry. Highlights include masterpieces by renowned artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Goya, all displayed in elegantly appointed rooms that evoke the ambiance of a private home. Providing you a unique and intimate viewing experience.
The Museum of the Moving Image
The Museum of the Moving Image, located in Astoria, Queens, is a dynamic institution that celebrates the art, history, and technology of moving images. Housed in a sleek modern building, the museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of cinema, television, and digital media.
Exhibitions feature a captivating array of artifacts, from vintage film cameras to iconic costumes, providing you with a hands-on and immersive experience.
The Museum of the Moving Image goes beyond static displays, offering interactive installations, screenings, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of film-making. Visitors can engage in activities like dubbing their voices into famous movie scenes or experimenting with stop-motion animation.
6. Visit The Met Rooftop Garden
There are many rooftop gardens you can visit in New York, but I am going to talk about the one I think is the best, The Met. The others that lend themselves to be Rooftop Gardens but not necessarily exclusive are ‘The High Line’ & ‘Rockefeller Center’s Top of the Rock’.
Let’s talk about The Met Rooftop Garden. Perched atop the Metropolitan Museum of Art, it seamlessly blends art, nature, and breathtaking views of New York City. Open seasonally, typically from spring to late fall, the rooftop garden serves as a dynamic space that features both stunning horticulture and thought-provoking contemporary art installations.
You are not only treated to a lush garden oasis but also to an ever-changing display of sculptures and artwork by renowned artists. One of the main attractions of The Met Rooftop Garden is its panoramic views of Central Park and the surrounding skyline. The elevated vantage point allows you to appreciate the architectural beauty of the city while surrounded by the calming influence of nature.
The garden’s design, with its carefully selected plantings and seating areas, encourages contemplation and relaxation, creating a serene atmosphere amidst the vibrant urban landscape. Whether you’re an art enthusiast seeking inspiration, a nature lover looking for a peaceful retreat, or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of New York from a unique perspective, then this is the place for you to relax.