Your Uptown Girl’s Guide to Beating the Heat in NYC
New York summers are no joke. But there is still a way to make the most of your summer! We’ve rounded up some of our favorite cool girl spots (emphasis on “cool”) so you can still enjoy the city without melting into the pavement.
Whether you're shopping, sipping, strolling, or seeking out some AC, here’s your go-to guide for staying stylishly chill in NYC this summer.
Shopping to Beat the Heat
There’s no shame in planning your errands around air conditioning. These uptown shops not only offer cold air but plenty of hot finds:
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The Niche Shop (UES + UWS) – Okay, we’re biased, but The Niche Shop is truly the perfect summer hideaway. Not only are both our UES and UWS locations fully air-conditioned, but we’ve also got racks full of breezy vintage dresses, and some of the best summer accessories you’ll find uptown
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Allegra Vintij (UES) – A perfect Upper East Side gem with true vintage pieces, and if you are an upcoming bride there is a stunning bridal section in the back. Playing dress up in the AC is the best way to spend a hot summer’s day.
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Second Street (UWS) – Second Street has multiple locations, but the Upper West Side is their newest addition! With a mix of cheap deals and second-hand designer finds you are bound to find something.
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Housing Works (Multiple locations) – With a wide selection of clothing and homeware, Housing Works is the perfect place to kill time when you need to cool off.
Sweet Treats to Cool Off
A heatwave is the perfect excuse to eat dessert before dinner. Some of our favorite uptown spots for frozen goodies:
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Anitas Gelato (UES) – 100% handmade scoops, aesthetic interior, and AC that makes you forget it’s 95° out.
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Van Leeuwen (multiple locations) – Iconic small-batch ice cream with vegan options galore. Get the Earl Grey or Honeycomb if you know what’s good.
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Lena’s Italian Ice (Harlem) – An old-school neighborhood fave. Try the mango or watermelon for that nostalgic summer taste.
AC-Fueled Culture Breaks
Nothing says “hot girl summer” like a little air-conditioned education. These museums are not only gorgeous inside, but they’re also the perfect cool-down spot between brunch and your next iced matcha:
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The Met – Art, fashion, and sculptures for days — plus, their rooftop garden has one of the best views in the city (and a seasonal cocktail bar).
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Cooper Hewitt – A smaller, design-forward gem on the UES. Plus, it’s rarely crowded.
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The Jewish Museum – Always great exhibitions and often overlooked. And yes, the AC slaps.
Cool Walks & Shady Hangouts
Sometimes you just need to walk it out — but with a game plan. These uptown oases offer plenty of shade and just enough breeze to make it bearable:
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Carl Schurz Park (UES) – Waterfront views, shady benches, and usually a nice dog or two to say hi to.
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Riverside Park (UWS) – A long, quiet stroll with some of the most underrated views in the city.
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Conservatory Garden at Central Park (110th & 5th) – Hidden, peaceful, and beautifully landscaped. Bonus: not nearly as crowded as the rest of the park.
Indoor Fun Without the Sun
When the heat hits code red, these are the best ways to stay inside and still have a summer moment:
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Cinema 123 by Angelika – Newly renovated cinema that originally opened in 1962, showing first-run indie, foreign & some mainstream films.
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Symphony Space (UWS) – Catch a reading, concert, or quirky live event in the comfort of a dark, air-conditioned theater.
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Westsider Rare & Used Books (UWS) – An indie bookstore where you can browse for hours and hide from the sun guilt-free.
Final Tip: Hydrate, Accessorize, Repeat
Vintage bucket hat? Check. A thrifted summer bag? Check. A reusable water bottle and your cutest Y2K tank top? Double check. Summer in NYC is no match for someone who knows how to style and survive it.
And remember, when in doubt, pop into The Niche Shop for a cool down and a scan through the racks. We’ll keep the AC on for you.