New York does not lack places to find friends, experiences and fun. Everyone has their own New York of the places they go and the memories those places hold. When I was in college and too timid to try to get into bars (yes, you can get into bars and be underage. The shock! The horror! I know), I found other places to spend my time.

In the summer, it is easy. Outdoors are bustling and it feels like there is an event around every corner. This is the list I wish I had when I was not creative enough to find things to do, food to eat, or places to sneak into. This is my Manhattan.

Septuagesimo Uno Park

.04 acres seems small, but when I strolled past this public space squished between two buildings, I walked right in and spent an hour reading, writing, and eavesdropping on a conversation that taking place in a mix of English and Spanish. The space was well kept and there was plenty of sun to soak in! I wish there were more spaces reinvigorated by parks and public spots instead of garages, skyscrapers, and land left to rot. I love spaces like this one or the High Line where they have been reinvented to be loved and appreciated by passersby and community members.

Tea Drunk

Tea Drunk is a welcoming spot with traditional Chinese tea. You can sip tea for hours in this intimate shop. Be sure to ask about the tea pets!

Liberated Movement

Dance it out here. There are plenty of different types of classes. On Halloween, partake in a Thriller class and costume party. Plus, classes are donation-based!

Riverside Park

Yes, Central Park is nearby, but Riverside Park is just as cool. On one side you can see down residential streets and the other you can see the view of the Hudson River (and Hudson River PARK!) as well as the skyline of New Jersey. It also has plenty of recreational activities from the basketball court to the playground to the paths to bike.

Butter Lane Cupcake Baking Classes

Whenever I need a sugar fix, Butter Lane is the place I go. With a choice of cake (vanilla, chocolate, or banana) and a great selection of frosting, you can't go wrong. The class is fun and intimate. Bonus: there is usually a Groupon to sweeten the 2-hour class deal.

Washington Mews

A stroll down Washington Mews is a regular day in Florence or maybe, Paris. It may only be a block, but it is filled with culture (NYU houses language centers here) and color.

Any NYPL

All the New York Public Libraries offer cool events and welcoming space to relax. Library cards are free and if you have time to kill, there is probably a library nearby that you can relax in.

First Friday at Many Museums

Many fine art museums offer free extended hours on the first Friday of every month. Sometimes they are coupled with other activities and events such as movie screenings. Why not soak up some knowledge on your Friday night?

AMC 84th Street 6

A menu of your favorite greasy foods, reclining seats, and entertainment -- what more can you ask for?

Tucker Square Greenmarket

This tiny farmer's market on Thursdays and Saturdays all throughout the year is the perfect spot for delicious apple cider donuts. The cinnamon and sugar ones are my favorite. There are tables and chairs to

Little Cupcake Bake Shop

A sustainably-oriented bakery that has its roots in Brooklyn, but has a home on Prince Street too. It's open later than many bakeries (11PM!). Sandwiched between Little Italy and SoHo, it is in a great location for roaming around and people watching.

Athleta Studio Classes

Athleta in the Flatiron District offers free exercise classes every day! All you have to do is sign up! I have tried many different workouts from dance classes to IntenSati to yoga.

Fair Folks and a Goat

For $35/month, you can get unlimited coffee and tea at this cozy store, cafe, and lounge as well as discounts on merchandise. You can study or vent to a friend in style.

Elizabeth Street Garden

Another green space in between two buildings and filled with sculptures. This garden is a lively spot in Little Italy.

TOMS Roasting Co. Coffee

Coffee and shoes -- what more could you ask for? Sometimes they even have events like Cocktails and Coloring.

Petrosino Square

It's more like a triangle flanked by SoHo streets. A few feet from the benches and CitiBike stand, you can try Eileen's cheesecake, brunch from Jack's Wife Freda, a slice of pizza or delicious Mexican food.

Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB)

Need some laughs? UCB has your back for improv and comedy. Tickets are usually under $10! What a steal for entertainment!

I could go on and on about all the places I love to read, to drink tea, or to eat at, but I don't want to give it all away. Shout out to Time Out for always having five-star recommendations. Now go out, and take advantage of wherever you live. Find your own gems.