Free Summer Ideas for Teens!

Right now, many teens are anxiously wondering, “What is this summer going to look like?” This is true across the United States and the world, as more and more people get vaccinated against COVID-19. (If you are 16 years or older anywhere in the US you can get a vaccine right now! Click here to find walk-in appointments in NYC!). 

In New York City, the summertime cultural shift is already becoming obvious. On days around 60 degrees Fahrenheit and above, the streets of Brooklyn are bustling with people: kids drawing with chalk, people holding stoop sales, neighbors talking on the corner. Parks in Manhattan fill up every day with college students, skaters, artists, and dog-walkers. The outdoors are magnetic when the weather is warm.

For teenagers who want to escape their bedrooms this summer, it can be difficult to know where to start. Sometimes all you need is a solid idea. Hopefully, this list can offer some approachable (and affordable) options for NYC teens!

1). The Brooklyn Public Library and reading (of course!)

Starting May 10th, Central Library and twelve BPL branches opened up for browsing. This is something I personally have been very excited for! Although we may not yet be able to lounge and nest in the library like it’s a second home, there is magic to be found in looking through the shelves. My suggestion (and what I plan to do as soon as I can) is drop by the Central Library, take some time to select 2 or 3 books that look interesting, and find a nice spot outside to read in the sun. This is a totally free activity that could be elevated more by bringing someone you love and some snacks to enjoy while reading.

2). Casual beach day!

If you’re permitted to go to the beach on your own or with a friend, it can be a really indulgent and fun experience. Family beach trips are often exhausting and annoying, but enjoying the coastal privileges of NYC on your own terms is seriously awesome. Grab the biggest bag or tote you can find, and pack an old sheet to put down, a good book or a journal to write in, towels, water, lunch, snacks, and LOTS of sunscreen. Then just throw on some comfy, airy clothes over a swimsuit and head out. For the beach itself, there are plenty of local options. Why not try Rockaway Beach in Queens? There’s miles and miles of sand to enjoy, and the trip over on the A train is surprisingly scenic. Maybe collect some seashells while you’re at it.

3). Free museums!

I always thought going to the museum was a super expensive and exclusive activity. For some places that is true, sadly, but many NYC museums offer free admission! The Metropolitan Museum of Art, for example, allows anyone residing in New York State or studying in NY, CT, or NJ to pay what they want. That means you can basically make a donation of your choice or go in completely free. The Brooklyn Museum, which I adore, offers free admission to anybody under the age of 19. There’s also a service called “Culture Pass” where you can use your BPL, QPL, or NYPL library card to reserve free tickets for a whole lot more museums and other cultural institutions. This service is really amazing and underutilized, so definitely check it out!

There are really infinite options, but I hope these ideas can inspire someone to go out and have a good time this summer. The world feels a lot more welcoming these days, and we should all prioritize our happiness right alongside staying healthy and safe. Get vaccinated when you can, and have a great summer!