Bastille Day Celebrations, Waterfront Art Fest, and Romantic Jazz Cruises - A Summer Sunday in NYC

Welcome to "Things to do in New York City" for Sunday, July 13, 2025! Whether you're a local looking for fresh adventures or a visitor ready to dive into NYC’s summer magic, today’s lineup is packed with excitement.

The city is buzzing under classic July sunshine, with temperatures expected in the upper 80s—a perfect day for those iconic city strolls or breezy river cruises. Air quality is good, and the parks are alive with both locals and tourists savoring every sunbeam.

Let’s jump right into today’s highlights:

- **Bastille Day on Madison Avenue**: From noon to 5 pm, the city’s largest French street festival transforms Madison Avenue into a hub of French food, music, and kids’ activities. Join 30,000+ revelers with live performances, champagne tastings, and a celebration of all things French—perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike[7].
- **West Side Fest**: The Whitney Museum and cultural neighbors along Manhattan’s West Side wrap up a three-day arts celebration with free museum admission, outdoor programming, performances, and hands-on artmaking. Advance tickets are recommended—don’t miss a chance to step into 3D Hopper paintings or join special gallery tours[10].
- **Atmospheric Jazz Cruise**: Wind down your evening aboard a 1920s-style yacht, sipping a complimentary drink as you listen to live jazz and watch the Manhattan skyline sparkle after dark. This is one of the city’s most romantic and unique summer experiences[1].
- **Wimbledon “The Hill” at Brooklyn Bridge Park**: Tennis fans can enjoy the electric energy of Wimbledon finals on giant screens along the East River, complete with strawberries, cream, and a leafy English garden vibe—entry is free with some walk-up spots still available[4].
- **Sports Action**: Cheer on the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium as they face the Chicago Cubs at 1:35 pm, or catch the WNBA champion New York Liberty at Barclays Center at 3:00 pm—family-friendly giveaways included at the baseball game[1].

Local news and updates: New York just enacted new laws to expand public bathrooms and install more water fountains in parks across the five boroughs, making summer outings more comfortable for everyone—especially as the city’s population soars during seasonal festivals[8]. On the streets, the city continues addressing quality-of-life issues, with local leaders promising better public safety and cleanliness in high-traffic areas[2].

If you’re looking to make the most of your Sunday, consider these must-do’s:
- Marvel at city views from the Empire State Building or the Edge at Hudson Yards—no NYC visit feels real until you’ve seen the skyline from above[9].
- Discover hidden waterfalls, secret gardens, and Revolutionary War sites on a guided walking tour in Central Park’s lesser-known corners. Even seasoned locals are surprised by the park’s untold stories and tranquil spots[3][6].
- For nightlife, check out a comedy show with Jeff Dunham tonight or find your new favorite rooftop bar to toast the sunset—NYC’s summer evenings are legendary[1].

Local tip: Central Park isn’t just a patch of green—it’s a masterpiece designed as the “lungs of the city.” Seek out the North Woods or the Conservatory Garden for a peaceful escape from the crowds[3]. And with newly expanded public restrooms and water fountains, it’s never been easier to explore for hours[8].

Coming up tomorrow: Bryant Park’s beloved outdoor movie series returns—bring a blanket and catch a film under the stars, all for free. Stay tuned for more hidden gems, can’t-miss concerts, and the latest city happenings on “Things to do in New York City.”