Taking it to the Streets

Summer Streets is back! Don't miss this annual family fun fiesta. This year it includes a mega water slide and a zipline. The best part? It's all free!

It's a unique, "only in NY" type of experience...and it's happening again, soon! On August 1, 8, and 15, from 7 am to 1 pm, Park Avenue from Central Park down to the Brooklyn Bridge is closed to vehicular traffic. That translates into 7 miles to bike, walk, and play, with five themed rest stops along the way.

How enticing is Summer Streets? A few years ago, I worked on Park Avenue between 32nd and 33rd. After seeing the preparation for Summer Streets, I decided to take my kids. I commuted from Suffolk County. Being August, it was hot. Going back into the city early on a Saturday morning, after working all week, was not a decision made lightly. But it was so worth it. I still remember what a kick my kids (and all of the kids, it seemed) got out of being able to run around in the street. A city street! Without having to look both ways, even!