12 Ways to Queer Up Your NYC Summer
We made it! Another winter has come and gone, and as the city thaws, NYC’s LGBTQ+ community is gearing up for another unforgettable summer. Whether you're a local looking to shake up your routine or a visitor eager to experience queer NYC at its best, we’ve got 15 ways to add some sparkle to your 2025 summer. From beach days to block parties, here’s your ultimate guide to a sun-soaked, pride-filled season.
1. Lounge at Jacob Riis Beach
Jacob Riis Beach, aka "Queer Beach," is the ultimate LGBTQ+ summer hangout. Grab your best swimsuit, slather on the sunscreen, and spend the day soaking up the sun with a vibrant crowd.
Tips:
There aren’t a lot of amenities, so it is better to bring your own snacks and drinks. A cooler and a sun shade are lovely luxuries that will keep you comfy all day.
Transportation. Carpooling with some friends is always my favorite, but you can also get to Jacob Riis by ferry, bike, bus and subway. https://www.mta.info/guides/beaches/rockaways
Parking is $20 per vehicle per day - but if you’re going to be a regular, consider a season parking pass.Consider getting a season park pass
2. Join an LGBTQ+ Intramural Sports League
Stay active and meet new friends by joining an LGBTQ+ sports league. Whether it’s soccer, volleyball, or my favorite softball, leagues offer inclusive, fun environments to break a sweat and build community in NYC
Basketball: @FrootHoops
Running: @frontrunners is a longer-standing queer run club in NYC, but many other clubs are active and do regular runs like @Queerfeet and @dykerunnyc
Softball: Big Apple Softball @BASL_Softball
Big Apple Rec Sports - for LGBTQ+ kickball, pickleball, dodgeball and bowling!
3. Celebrate at NYC Pride (and Beyond!)
NYC Pride is legendary, but the party isn’t just the parade. From the Dyke March to Pride Island and the Black Queer Brooklyn Pride, there’s something for everyone. Check out the full calendar and make your pride plans early!
4. Take a Weekend Escape with Big Gay Hudson Valley
Need a break from the city? Big Gay Hudson Valley (IG: @biggayhudsonvalley) curates events and retreats that bring queer folks together for a perfect upstate escape. From vineyard tours to farm-to-table feasts, it’s a great way to get fresh air and connect with the wider LGBTQ+ community.
5. Hit Up Bushwick’s Queer Block Parties
Bushwick knows how to throw a party, and its queer block parties are legendary. Keep an eye out for events hosted by venues like The Bush (IG: @bushdykebar), 3 Dollar Bill (IG: @3dollarbillbk), House of Yes (IG: @houseofyesnyc) and C’mon Everybody (IG: @cmoneverybodybk), where DJs, drag performers, and dancers turn the streets into a full-on festival.
6. Set Sail with KSA Queer Sailing Club
Ever dreamed of sailing the NYC waterways with a boat full of queer adventurers? KSA Sailing Club hosts LGBTQ+ sailing excursions where you can learn the ropes or just enjoy the ride. Check out their website for regular meetups on land and in the water: KSA Sailing
7. Fire Island!
It really is all that magical. Governors Island isn’t just for picnics—it’s also home to some incredible LGBTQ+ events in the summer. From drag brunches to queer art exhibitions, check out their event schedule for hidden gems. Personal fav? Spectating at Lez Volley - the annual LGBTQ+ volleyball tournament hosted in Lesbian paradise, Cherry Grove.
8. Sip on Craft Cocktails at Queer-Friendly Bars
Cool down with a refreshing drink at one of NYC’s many LGBTQ+ bars. From Boyfriend Co-op (IG: @boyfriendcoop) in Bushwick to Grotto (IG: @grotto.nyc) or BABE Wine Bar (IG: @babewinebar) pop-ups, there’s no shortage of great spots to enjoy a summer bevvy among new friends.
9. Check Out Queer Art at The Leslie-Lohman Museum
Support LGBTQ+ artists by visiting the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art, which showcases groundbreaking exhibitions featuring queer narratives - they host excellent summer events and artist talks.
10. Take a Drag Brunch Cruise
Brunch, drag, and the NYC skyline? Say less! Book a ticket on a drag brunch cruise and enjoy bottomless mimosas while some of the city’s top drag performers serve looks and laughs.
11. Discover New Talent at Queer Comedy Nights
From the legendary Club Cumming to basement comedy clubs, NYC has a thriving queer comedy scene. Catch hilarious LGBTQ+ comedians and support the next big stars in stand-up. My faves are Ashley Gavin’s weekly Sunday show at Sour Mouse, Sam Jay when she’s in town, and checking Lavender Laughs for upcoming shows (IG: @lavender_laughs_nyc)
12. Volunteer with LGBTQ+ Organizations
Make a difference while connecting with the community by volunteering with organizations like The Ali Forney Center, New Alternatives, or Housing Works. Many groups have summer programs that need extra hands!
Start Planning Your 2025 Queer Summer Now!
Whether you’re here for a weekend or the whole season, NYC is packed with ways to celebrate LGBTQ+ joy and community this summer. Which of these activities will you be adding to your list? Let us know in the comments, or submit a form to plan your perfectly curated queer getaway in NYC.