things to do in New York City this week (July 28–August 4)
Looking for fun things to do in New York City this week (July 28–August 4)? Whether you’re into outdoor movies, live music, art workshops, or farmers’ markets, the city is packed with events for every interest and age group. From scenic pilates sessions in the park to disco nights in Brooklyn, here’s what’s happening across the boroughs.
Here Are The Best Things To Do in New York City This Week
Pétanque at Washington Square Park
Kick back with a game of pétanque in this iconic downtown park. Bring friends or join a new crew, enjoy the laid‑back French atmosphere, and learn a fun new lawn game. All equipment is provided on site, just show up ready to play.
• Website: Washington Sq Park
• Date: Every Wednesday
• Venue: Washington Square Park
• Price: Free
Hayrides at Queens Farm
Enjoy a tranquil ride through the farmland amidst NYC greenery. Learn about local agriculture while taking in seasonal scenery and meeting friendly farm animals. Perfect for an easy, family‑friendly outing outside the city’s hustle.
• Website: Queens Farm
• Date: Daily
• Venue: Queens County Farm Museum
• Price: $6 per person
Waterfront Movies Series: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Watch Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone under the stars on Astoria Park’s Lawn. Bring your own blankets or chairs and enjoy a classic family film with stunning views of the East River. Free pop‑up film event ideal for a relaxed summer evening.
• Website: NYC Gov Parks
• Date: July 28, 2025
• Venue: Great Lawn in Astoria Park
• Price: Free
Fort Washington Greenmarket
Start your Sunday with a visit to the Fort Washington Greenmarket, a trusted neighborhood spot for seasonal fruits, vegetables, meats, and baked goods. Local farmers and vendors gather at 168th & Fort Washington Ave to offer everything from leafy greens to small-batch honey. It’s a simple way to shop local, eat well, and connect with the community.
• Website: Grow NYC
• Date: Every Sunday
• Venue: 168th Street & Fort Washington Ave, Manhattan
• Price: Free entry
Museum of Interesting Things
Experience a fascinating showcase of antiques and historic inventions right in the heart of the city. Curator Denny brings quirky, hands-on demonstrations to Washington Square Park, sparking curiosity in visitors of all ages. The rotating selection of vintage gadgets and relics promises a different surprise each week.
• Website: Washington Sq Park
• Date: Every Tuesday, starting July 22nd
• Venue: Holley Plaza, Washington Square Park
• Price: Free
Pilates in the Park
Join a refreshing outdoor Pilates session led by certified trainer Melissa Ricci from Base Fitness®. This flowing, multi-level mat class strengthens your core, improves flexibility, and leaves you energized. Bring your mat and enjoy a serene Hudson River waterfront workout.
• Website: Riverside Park NYC
• Date: July 29, 2025,
• Venue: 66th Street Plaza
• Price: Free (first-come, first-served)
Art in the Park
Let your creativity flow with hands-on craft projects designed for kids of all ages and abilities, one of the many fun things to do in New York City this week (July 28–August 4). The activities change each week, so there’s always something new and fun to explore.
• Website: Washington Sq Park
• Date: Every Wednesday
• Venue: Washington Square Park
• Price: Free
The Head and the Heart – Aperture Tour
The Head and the Heart bring their signature indie-folk sound to Central Park’s Rumsey Playfield on July 30 as part of the Aperture Tour. Known for emotional lyrics and rich harmonies, their live shows strike a balance between high-energy and introspective. With the park as a backdrop and a summer night breeze, this outdoor concert offers a relaxed yet powerful music experience.
• Website: City Parks Foundation
• Date: July 30, 2025
• Venue: Central Park, Rumsey Playfield
• Price: Tickets starting at $76
Sunset Wednesdays: Fabiola Méndez at Wave Hill
Spend your evening at Wave Hill’s Sunset Wednesdays with a live performance by Puerto Rican cuatro player Fabiola Méndez. Her Latin-influenced sound pairs beautifully with the garden’s sweeping views of the Hudson River and Palisades. Settle in on the Great Lawn with a blanket or chair and let the music carry you through golden hour in one of the Bronx’s most peaceful green spaces.
• Website: Wave Hill
• Date: July 30, 2025
• Venue: Great Lawn, Rain Site: Armor Hall
• Price: $10-$15
Jazz at Pier 84: Pucci Amanda Jhones
Jazz vocalist Pucci Amanda Jhones brings her soulful sound to Pier 84 for an evening of music by the water. Set against the backdrop of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline, this free outdoor concert invites you to unwind with classic and contemporary jazz. Grab a seat, bring a friend, and enjoy the laid-back vibe as the sun sets over the city.
• Website: Hudson River Park
• Date: July 30, 2025
• Venue: Hudson River Park, Pier 84
• Price: Free
Movies Under the Stars: Captain America
Spend the evening outdoors with a screening of Captain America: Brave New World at Rainey Park on July 30. As part of NYC Parks’ free Movies Under the Stars series, it’s one of the more laid-back things to do in New York City this week. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and settle in early for a casual night of action, fresh air, and waterfront views by the East River.
• Website: NYC Gov Parks
• Date: July 30, 2025
• Venue: Lawn Area in Rainey Park
• Price: Free
Pier I Picture Show: The Grand Budapest Hotel
Head to Riverside Park’s Pier I on July 30 for a screening of The Grand Budapest Hotel as part of the Pier I Picture Show series. With the Hudson River just steps away, this outdoor movie night offers a relaxed way to enjoy Wes Anderson’s quirky visuals and humor. Bring a blanket, snacks, and good company for a quiet evening that mixes film, fresh air, and scenic views.
• Website: Riverside Park NYC
• Date: July 30, 2025
• Venue: Pier i at W 70th Street, New York
• Price: Free
Norwood Farmstand
The Norwood Farmstand offers a weekly dose of fresh produce, baked goods, and pantry staples from local growers in the Bronx. Located at East Gun Hill Road and Dekalb Avenue, it’s a Thursday staple for residents looking to eat healthier and support community agriculture. Whether you’re meal planning or just browsing, it’s a low-key way to connect with local food sources.
• Website: Grow NYC
• Date: Every Thursday
• Venue: E Gun Hill Rd & Dekalb Ave
• Price: Free entry
Camoufly + DJ Something at Elsewhere
Dance the night away at Elsewhere’s warehouse party with Camoufly and DJ Something spinning fresh beats. Expect energetic crowds, pulsing rhythms, and an unforgettable club atmosphere. Late-night NYC nightlife at its best
• Website: Elsewhere
• Date: August 2, 2025
• Venue: Elsewhere, Brooklyn
• Price: $30
The Hustle ‘70s Disco Party at DROM
Step onto the dance floor at DROM’s The Hustle ‘70s Disco Party on August 2 and relive the era of funk, soul, and mirror balls. With DJs spinning nonstop classics, this East Village event channels the energy of Studio 54 without the velvet ropes. Whether you’re dressed in flared pants or just there to vibe, it’s a fun, nostalgic night for anyone craving throwback beats.
• Website: Drom
• Date: August 2, 2025
• Venue: The DROM, New York
• Price: $18
Whether you’re into calm afternoons at the park, live music, or family-friendly events, there are plenty of things to do in New York City this week (July 28 to August 4). From outdoor movies to local markets, the city has something happening every day. For more things to do in NYC this July, check out Free And Paid Things To Do in New York City In July 2025.
More…