Summer in New York City ignites a sense of adventure and exploration for anyone who visits or calls it home. Everywhere you turn, it seems like there’s something new to see, do, eat or drink. As Labor Day draws closer, though, it’s time to take a look at your calendar and see what iconic NYC summer things you need to check off the list before the warm weather leaves. At Rockefeller Center, there’s an entire itinerary of activities awaiting those eager for a magical, iconic end-of-summer Manhattan excursion.
Behold: the ultimate bucket list for the dog days of summer.
1. Eat Dinner at Le Rock
The newest jewel in Rockefeller Center’s crown comes from the James Beard Award-winning owners of the beloved New York restaurant Frenchette. Glamorous art deco details and a deliciously upscale menu of French classics make Le Rock the ultimate dining destination.
Le Rock is located at 45 Rockefeller Plaza.
Photo by Gentl + Hyers
2. Have a Date Night with a Friend at Flipper’s
With the renaissance of disco populating the charts from the likes of Beyoncé, Lizzo, and Kylie Minogue, it only makes sense that roller disco has made its much-deserved resurgence. Bring a friend to Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace — currently taking over The Rink — put on your skates, and enjoy some good vibes and ‘70s magic.
Flipper’s is located at The Rink at Rockefeller Plaza between 50th and 49th Streets.
3. Watch the Sunset at Top of the Rock
Unbeatable panoramic views from midtown Manhattan await visitors looking to catch the perfect sunset. Step out onto the observation deck and you’ll get a front-row seat to the cityscape illuminated in a golden aura. Look west as the sunset drops behind the city’s towers, the Hudson River, and New Jersey.
Top of the Rock is located at the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
4. Get a Scoop (or Two) at Van Leeuwen
The best way to beat the midtown heat during the summer? Get a cup (or delicious cone!) full of Van Leeuwen’s artisanal line-up of ice cream flavors. With large dairy and vegan assortments to choose from, this is the most delectable way to cool down.
Van Leeuwen is located at 1250 6th Avenue.
5. Attend an Album Signing at Rough Trade
Music lovers and classic vinyl enthusiasts will find their rhythm at Rough Trade, which made the major move from Williamsburg to 30 Rockefeller Plaza in 2021. The space blends the eclectic vibe of classic NYC record stores like Bobby’s Records and Disc-O-Mat, with the chic quality of a midtown boutique. Visit their website to find out about album signings to plan your visit.
Rough Trade is located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
6. Slip In For a Sip at Other Half
Stop into this Manhattan watering hole and summertime drinking respite for a taste of local brewing. With an outdoor beer garden in addition to its large indoor taproom, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the aptly titled “Top of the Broc” beer.
Other Half Brewing is located at 600 Fifth Avenue.
7. Play the Big FAO Schwarz Piano
When the iconic toy store made the move to Rockefeller Center, along came a century's worth of memories, joy, and imagination. The ultimate toy destination for shoppers of all ages, come get lost in seemingly endless shelves of dream-come-true treasures, including the iconic giant piano — as seen in the 1988 Tom Hanks film, Big.
FAO Schwarz is located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza
Photo by Richard Cadan
8. Find One-of-a-Kind Treasures at Of The Cloth
It’s not a New York day without a little bit of shopping. At Of the Cloth, explore elemental, well-crafted home essentials you won’t find anywhere else. From organic textiles to hand-crafted ceramics, these beautifully unique wares are designed to create a space with divine purpose.
Of The Cloth is located at 1250 6th Avenue
9. Share Oysters at Pebble Bar
Trust us, you’ll want to find yourself in this ultra-chic townhouse watering hole sprawled across multiple levels, courtesy of the masterminds behind New York nightlife mainstays The Jane and Celestine. Stop in for oysters, and stay until the sun goes down for the ultimate see-and-be-seen action.
Pebble Bar is located at 1240 Sixth Avenue.
Photo by Max Flatlow
