This upcoming week is already gearing up to be unbearably hot, and with limited access to air conditioning and limited funds it is easy to get frustrated by the heat. However, there are some really fun and interesting ways to take advantage of the city's culture and entertainment AND free or cheap air conditioning.
1. Starbucks - $2.45 (Venti Iced Coffee)
Starbucks is a classic when it comes to beating the heat. Bring a book or computer, find a seat and sit back and enjoy their premium air conditioning and delicious beverages. The beauty of Starbucks is that they never kick you out, so one coffee provides an all access pass to their AC and free wifi. In addition, the bathrooms are kept in tip top shape which is a must if you plan on spending the day.
2. Museums - Free
If you are looking for a slightly more cultural way to spend a hot afternoon, museums are excellent. In addition to their state of the art temperature control system, they house really interesting materials that are curated specifically for your enjoyment. The Metropolitan Museum of Art has a beautiful Sargent exhibit is open through October 4th and a rooftop garden with a view of Central Park open through November 1st. The Museum of Modern Art is also nice if you prefer more modern art or just want to make fun of people who like Modern Art. If you hate art but love science or taxidermy, the Museum of Natural History is a great alternative on the West Side. All are free (or suggested donation) for New York City students.
3. Galleries - Free
If you are feeing particularly bougie and too good for a regular museum, there are tons of art galleries in Chelsea and on the lower east side open during the week, free of charge. Here you can see more conceptual and contemporary art and pretend you can afford to collect it. David Zwirner, between 10th and 11th, is open Tues - Sat from 10am- 6pm, as is the Gagosian. Both have host of the best exhibitions in the city, and are a short walk from many cafes and restaurants for cooler day out. Time Out New York, has excellent profiles on some of the best galleries in the city.
4. The Beach - 5.50 (two rides on the subway)
Although it can be a schlep to get there, tanning on the beach and letting the ocean breeze wash over you is a great way to not only beat the heat, but actually enjoy it. Although the commute can be hell, Jones Beach and Far Rockaway are two favorites and both are free. Alternatively, for a little more ($22) you can make it to Long Beach which is a little less crowded and a LOT easier to get to. Just make sure to buy the combined beach/LIRR pass to get the best deal. And, if you're really feeling adventurous, NYC Parks extend to beaches. Some are much nicer than others, but all are safe to swim in at this time.
5. Movies - $8 - 15
Movies are a bit more expensive but that can be a great way to escape the heat both mentally and physically. Currently in theaters are: We Are Your Friends-- the new Zac Efron movie, Trainwreck, American Ultra, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Straight Out of Compton, and much more. While movie tickets can be pricey, AMC Loews in Manhattan have Matinee pricing ($8) for movies that start before 12. So if you pick a movie starting at 11:30, you can spend the better part of an afternoon there.
It's easy to get discouraged, but there is a way to beat the heat. And enjoy, rather than resent, these last few weeks of summer.
