The summer sun is calling your name. It's time to let loose and enjoy what is arguably the most fun season: summer. As busy adults, it's essential to unshackle from the indoors and allow ourselves to make the most of the longer summer days. As parents, we know that life gets a little crazier and messier with the little ones around all day. So taking your summertime activities outside, helps lighten the cleaning load inside. The good news is you don't need to flee the city to do this. Here's some great things to do outside (courtesy of Time Out New York) to help you clean less and enjoy NYC more this summer:
Take Your Meals Outside
Whether it's lunch at the playground or dinner in the park there is something about enjoying a meal in the fresh air that makes summer extra special. Try coordinating with sunrise and sunset. Check the exact time the sun will be setting and aim to be there at least an hour before. Prepare the night before by stocking a cooler, backpack or picnic basket full of basics: blanket, sunscreen, bug spray, stackable reusable dishes, cups and utensils, trash bag, napkins, kid-friendly fun food, and drinks. Most importantly, choose a great location. Here's some NYC parks to consider: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Riverside Park, East River State Park, Central Park, Governors Island, Madison Square Park and Prospect Park.
Yoga in Bryant Park
Whether you’re a die-hard yogi or a noob searching for vinyasa, folks of all fitness levels are welcome to find Zen beneath the trees in Bryant Park. The outdoor hub is launching its 13th season of yoga, presented by sportswear brand Athleta, during which instructors from Yoga Journal help you perfect poses while you focus on deep breathing. If yoga isn’t your beat, there are several other workouts from cardio to Tai Chi to try this summer. Upper Terrace, 41 W 40th St between Fifth and Sixth Avenues (bryantpark.org). Every Tuesday starting May 17–Sept 22; 10am–11am. The Lawn at Bryant Park every Thursday from 6–7pm.
Catch a Play in Central Park
New York’s favorite and totally free outdoor theater—Shakespeare in the Park—is back! This year, Tony-nominated director Phyllida Lloyd presents Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew with an all-female cast (a bold twist of which we think the Bard would approve). Fiery leading lady Katherina is played by the extraordinary Cush Jumbo, who must outwit wild outsider Petruchio, played by the marvelous Janet McTeer. Tickets are distributed every day at the Delacorte Theater at noon. Remember: If you snooze, you lose. Enter at Central Park West and 81st St (212-539-8500, publictheater.org). May 24–June 26 at 8pm; free.
Kayak on the Hudson
Manhattan Community Boathouse has two locations along the Hudson River where you can enjoy some time on the water. Head to Pier 96 or the dock at 72nd Street for first-come, first-served sessions perfect for beginners. After you sign a waiver and strap on a life vest, climb into your kayak from the water-level floating dock and float away for 20 minutes. You will get wet, so wear the right clothing (and try not to drink anything)! You can also volunteer to help out at the boathouse as well as become a member by making a donation of $20 or more. Pier 96 at 56th Street in Hudson River Park; Saturdays and Sundays 10am–6pm May 28–October 9, 2016; Monday-Wednesday 5:30–7:30pm June 6–September 4, 2016. 72nd Street north of Pier i Cafe in Riverside Park, Saturday–Sunday 10am–5pm, June 4–September 4, 2016.
See the Stars at Lincoln Center
If you think you can’t spot stars in the city, prepare to get schooled. The Amateur Astronomers Association sets up its high-powered telescopes by the fountain at Lincoln Center every Friday and Saturday through the end of July, so come take a look at the planets and the moon and other celestial wonders. Gazing begins at sunset and continues until 11pm. The Fountain at Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Fridays and Saturdays at 7pm; free.
Film Fest Under the Stars
Bring your friends and the popcorn to Brooklyn’s alfresco film fest, SummerScreen, which lets you bask in ’90s nostalgia. Guard your ground, sprawl out on a blanket, and watch free flicks like Scream (July 6), The Fast and the Furious (July 20) and 10 Things I Hate About You (July 27). Bonus: There’s live music at 6pm and food trucks like Pizza Moto for when you get the munchies. McCarren Park, Bayard St to Nassau Ave between Leonard and North 12th Sts, Brooklyn. July 6–Aug 10; Wed at 6pm; free.
Don't Go It Alone
Give yourself more free time to enjoy the summer fun and spend time with family and friends by calling in cleaning reinforcements. Let the professionals at NY Brite take care of the everyday dirty work or summer deep cleaning. After a deep summer clean, you’ll notice that your home stays cleaner, longer. Our trained staff will clean all surfaces of your home, from top to bottom, including walls, floors, windows, furniture, counters, baseboards, cabinets, appliances, carpets, upholstery, laundry services and more, providing cleaner and healthier living spaces.
For more CLEAN TIPS read:
Clean Tips For Staying Cool This Summer
Keeping Hardwood Floors Clean In The City That Never Sleeps
5 Cleaning Tips for New Yorkers in a Hurry
Managing Dust Bunnies In Your Manhattan Home or Office
Winter Fresh Cleaning Tips
CleanTip: Count Down To Thanksgiving
A Clean Fridge Is A Healthy Fridge
