Offbeat July Adventures: Free Kayaking, Riverfront Hikes, and Hidden Spots in NYC

Tired of the usual NYC summer routine? July is the perfect time to ditch the tourist traps and explore the city’s lesser-known outdoor gems — all without leaving the five boroughs.

Here are a few offbeat, unforgettable, and mostly free adventures to try this month:

🚣‍♀️ 1. Free Kayaking on the Hudson or East River

Yes, it's real! You can kayak for free at places like:

• Pier 96 (Manhattan Community Boathouse)

• Brooklyn Bridge Park

• LIC Boathouse in Queens

Glide under skyscrapers and feel the breeze — all without spending a dime.

🌳 2. Hike the Overlook Trail in Inwood Hill Park

Escape to a forested trail in Manhattan! Inwood Hill Park features caves, cliffs, and views of the Hudson — and it feels more like upstate than uptown. Pack water and snacks for a hidden-in-plain-sight adventure.

🛤 3. Walk the Bronx River Greenway

Forget the High Line — try this lush riverside walk in the Bronx, where you’ll pass turtles, community gardens, and maybe even a heron. It’s a peaceful slice of nature in one of NYC’s most vibrant boroughs.

🏖 4. Swim at the Far Rockaways — Then Explore

Catch the A train or the ferry to Rockaway Beach, then explore the art scene, surf shops, and laid-back cafés nearby. It’s not just a beach — it’s a neighborhood.

🏠 Bonus Tip: Want to Live Near These Gems?

If you’ve ever dreamed of living near the water or the woods without leaving NYC, now’s the time to explore neighborhoods like:

• Red Hook (Brooklyn)

• Inwood (Manhattan)

• Astoria/LIC (Queens)

• Throggs Neck (Bronx)

These areas offer real estate options that feel far from the city — but are still subway or ferry accessible.