The school year is just around the corner. I know—we can’t believe it either. But with the buying of backpacks and books also comes New York University’s well known Welcome Week! 5 days of new, eager students and excited, albeit likely nervous, parents, all coming together in the heart of this great city. What more could you ask for?
We’ve put together a list of our favorite things to do during the much-anticipated week of August 28th – September 3rd—both for you and your freshman, as well as you on your own. here are 10 NYU Welcome Week activities to share with your family.
For you and your freshman…
1. What should you do when you and yours first arrive in the City? Go to Washington Square Park, of course! This is where your NYU freshman will be spending a lot of time, particularly during this year of their collegiate career. Freshman dorms (all but one) are in very close vicinity to WSP, so this is where they’re likely to congregate, getting to know one another and their immediate surroundings. Have a part in it before they’re ready to spread their wings.
2. Central Park Summer Stage has been going on since June 4th, and it’ll run right through Welcome Week. The City Parks Foundation puts it on, and with so many different presenters, you’re bound to find a great event for the whole family. And guess what? Pick an event, any event: it’s free.
3. Rooftop Films. Yup. This is definitely one of the cooler things you can do in New York City. But you’ll have to act fast once you’ve arrived later this month: Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be playing in Coney Island… on the beach, on August 29th. Yes, you read that correctly: on the beach. Talk about an iconic way to start your new life in The Big Apple.
4. We know how hot it can get in the epicenter of NYC in August; want to get out of Manhattan and someplace a little cooler? Head over to this seven lane ‘Floating Pool’ in the Bronx. It sits atop a movable barge, so you can swim with a view of the water. Not too shabby, huh?
5. It might seem a little cheesy, but you (and your freshman) will remember it forever—we promise. Head over to Broadway for a show during this special week you’re sharing with one another. There is so much on the stage that really shouldn’t be missed right now. For a complete list of possibilities, visit this link.
… Or, a little alone time.
1. Moving in is exhausting. So once all is said and done, head over to the High Line; it’s an elevated section of an out-of-service railroad spur that’s been converted into a NYC visitor’s dream. During your visit, you’ll be presented with astonishing views of the Hudson, exceptional architecture, and gorgeous plant design. The park extends from Gansevoort Street to 34th, and is open from 7 am to 11 pm during this time of year. It’s as green and gorgeous as ever during August and early September—try your best not to miss it!
2. Here’s a challenge: take a day and hit as many museums as you can. It’ll be exhausting, but oh so worth it. Be sure to include: The Whitney, The Metropolitan Museum of Art (I mean, how could you not), The MoMa, The National 9/11 Memorial and Museum, The Frick, and if you’re feeling really adventurous, The Cloisters. Going to all of these places will keep you busy all day—the Cloisters is about a 45 minute subway ride from Greenwich Village—probably from dawn ‘til dusk, but it’ll sure quench your thirst for museums this summer!
3. Chances are, your NYU freshman is going to be out and about on the town a few of the days (or nights!) you’ve stuck around in the City. So while they’re out making new friends and getting their bearings, catch a production in the park… any park! Check the listings here for the days you might be interested in relaxing in front of an outdoor theater performance. There’s a whole lot to choose from.
4. Happening on the very last day of Welcome Week is Washington Square Park’s Outdoor Art Exhibit; it’s one of our favorites, and right within earshot of the hotel. The Exhibit will take place from September 3-5th, and features over 100 artists from near and far.
5. You’ve done a lot to get your beloved youngster to this point. So while it’s nice to hear “well done!” from us, why don’t you treat yourself? A sunset cruise accompanied by some choice champagne sounds like a good idea, no? On August 29th, set sail from Chelsea Piers for an evening of relaxed sightseeing and champagne sipping. Like we said: you deserve it.
So, what do you think? Think you have enough to do when you’re in town for Welcome Week? And don’t forget! After all is said and done, be sure to visit us at the North Square Restaurant for a bite to eat. We’ve got everything and more that a hungry traveler and their ravenous college student might want. We can’t wait to meet all of you! Until then—happy packing!
Photo Credit: “Around NYU, Start of the Fall Semester” by Barry Solow is licensed under CC BY 2.0
