Did summer treat you right? Did you play volleyball at Water Taxi Beach or go surfing in Montauk? Did you chug frozen margaritas on a rooftop bar or dance in the rain at an outdoor concert? Or is the onset of Labor Day causing your un-tanned skin to quiver ‘cause you let the season fly by without taking advantage of life beyond your couch? Don’t freak out, there’s still time to squeeze in some fun before sweater season.
Rock Away at McCarren Pool
You won’t want to miss the last of JellyNYC’s Pool Parties—and by last, we mean the venue is done-ski. Hoboken, NJ, indie rockers Yo La Tengo close out not only the season this Sunday (Aug. 24), but also the free concert series’ three-year run. Sonic Youth will play the actual final show here on Aug. 30, but that one won’t be free—tickets are $35. Mayor Bloomberg has authorized a $50 million renovation of McCarren Pool, meaning it will be swimmable by 2011, for the first time since 1984. While we’re happy Greenpoint is getting its pool back, we’re sad to see the free concerts go. If you feel the same way, you can sign a petition in support of a new venue to keep the free party going in—where else—Bushwick.
Make Like a Carnie and Amuse Yourself
Going once, going twice—Coney Island’s Astroland amusement park has been sold to shopping mall developers, folks, in case you haven’t heard. Although plans for a shiny new assortment of rides, a water park, and a hotel sound nice enough, we all know the boardwalk’s charm has centered on its tawdry, rickety kitsch factor. This summer might be your last chance to enjoy authentic Coney Island—for real, this time! While you’re on your retro trip, grab a hot dog at Nathan’s or barbecued ribs at Beer Island, and work it off roller-skating with the wannabe pin-ups at Lola Staar’s Dreamland Roller Rink.
Show Some Skin
Highbar
That floral mini-dress and those high-waisted shorts might not be “in” next summer—so make the most out of your itty-bitty duds before they go back to the innards of your closet. While you’re at it, strap on some skimpy sandals and be sure to get one last deluxe pedicure before your toes are jammed back into your trusty leather boots. Go out dancing with the girls at your favorite rooftop club (Highbar?), and let your epidermis—and confidence—glow.
Go on a Fro-Yo Scavenger Hunt
There’s an epidemic going on in NYC—an invasion of frozen, creamy active cultures, destined for our stomachs. Strains include Pinkberry, Red Mango, 16 Handles, Yorganic, Yolato, Oko, and numerous others. But seriously, when the winter weather arrives, will we really have a need for all of that cold deliciousness? We say, gather the troops while it’s hot, and see how many fro-yo shops you can hit in one day (or in one week, should you not be into competitive eating). By the end, you might find yourself saying, “No mo’ fro-yo, bro!” (Ok, hopefully you won’t really be saying that.)
Say Om
We know you like to give your liver a workout after a long day at work, but how about those achy back and leg muscles? With so many free outdoor fitness classes offered in the city, you really have no excuse. And there’s nothing like doing sun salutations in actual sunlight. Bring your yoga mat at 6:30pm on Wednesdays to Riverside Park South, or head to Bryant Park at 7:30pm on Thursdays for Tai Chi.
Pack a Picnic
Tired of scarfing down reheated leftovers at your desk for lunch? Mix up your routine and have a friend or your sweetie meet you for a picnic in the park—or just bring a good book. Pack this Picnic & Beyond Terazzo Picnic Case for Two ($99 on sale) full of goodies made with fresh, seasonal produce—all those crunchy fruits and veggies won’t be as good (or as easy to find) when summer’s over. Tell your boss you’ve got an important meeting, and dart out to soak up the midday sun. If you’ve got nothing too important on your agenda, linger in the shade with a travel mug concealing your favorite libation (just don’t forget to hide your liquor breath with mints). After all, you’re not really playing hooky if you end up back at the office, right?
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