Taking it to the Streets

By Christina Vercelletto July 28, 2015

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.

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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!

The big draw is sure to be the Foley Square stop, where Slide the City is setting up a 270- foot water slide amidst lounge chairs, palm trees, and a misting station. You need to pre-register online, as there is no on-site sign up.

On Leonard Street between Lafayette and Centre, find the 165-foot long, 30-foot high zipline. That one is first come, first served.

You'll probably find me and my kids at the Astor Place rest stop this year, though, with our new pup, Pickles. We want to check out the American Kennel Club's Dog Park, where Pickles can try the agility course, right alongside us.

See you there!