By Michael Romei, Chef Concierge; Member Of Les Clefs D’or—International Executive Board

When visitors to the hotel ask me what to do in summer, my answer is simple—enjoy the outdoors! New York City is all about outdoor activities this time of year, with great weather, wonderful parks, gardens, and waterways surrounding us.

One of my favorite spots is Rockefeller Center (steps from the hotel on Fifth Avenue between E. 49th and 50th Streets). The Channel Gardens feature an ever-changing display of flowers and verdant shrubbery. From 8:00 am to 11:00 pm, take an elevator up 70 floors to the observation deck for breathtaking, 360-degree views of Manhattan.

On hot afternoons, Greenacre Park (E. 51st Street between Second and Third Avenues) and Paley Park (E. 53rd Street at Fifth Avenue) are hidden gems with waterfalls. For a different type of water adventure, consider a boat cruise. Cruise companies abound, but one of my favorites is The Classic Harbor Line. Passengers enjoy stellar views of New York Harbor from either an 80-foot luxury yacht or an old-fashioned wooden schooner.

Each weekend, shoppers and collectors search for fabulous finds at a number of impromptu markets (ask the Concierge Desk for the schedule). Farther a field, explore Green Flea (Greenwich Avenue and Charles Street between W. 10th and 11th Streets on Saturdays; Columbus Avenue at W. 77th Street on Sundays) for great finds.

If you long to leave the pavement completely, ramble in Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted’s paean to nature and the country’s first landscaped public park. Attractions include the Central Park Zoo and Wildlife Center, the Children’s Zoo, boat rentals at the Boat Basin, the Victoria Gardens at Wollman Rink (a mini-amusement park), and the Bethesda Water Fountain and Terrace. If you prefer to ride, rather than walk, head to Claremont Stables (Columbus Avenue at W. 89th Street).

Our concierge would be delighted to assist you or provide information on these or other excursions. For The Waldorf=Astoria, visit the Main Lobby or call (212) 872-4790. For The Waldorf Towers, visit the ground-floor Towers Lobby or call (212) 872-4718.