This is a pro tip, but also a summer tip, take the ferry from Lower Manhattan to Rockaway and spent the day. The beach is great and the area is impossible to gasp that it's 30 min from Manhattan (without traffic) - Eat as many tacos you can, cause it's the best in the state of New York!

Beach approachable by public transportation and can be connected with a visit of MOMA PS1 Art Installation (Katharina Grosse House) Also less crowed than other beaches in NYC.

Free ride through the harbor and right past lady Liberty with beautiful views of the city. You can even drink a beer on the boat for a very reasonable price

The best place to see a dramatic sunset is right by Valentino Pier in my neighborhood of Red Hook, Brooklyn. This was right after a storm. It's wild and brilliant and peaceful all at once.

Love it or hate it...If I'm in NY I want to feel it and see it, the view here is just incredible. Pretty people, strong drinks and late nights...