Summer Streets in NYC

I read recently that the city is on a quest to turn NYC into one giant, adult-friendly playground, as if it isn’t already?! But their efforts really shine through with Summer Streets. This is the third year of turning a 6.9 mile stretch, mainly Park Avenue and Lafayette Street, into a pedestrian and cyclist heaven. Closed to traffic from 7 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. for three Saturdays in August, it’s truly a unique experience.

The first Saturday I walked a good portion of the stretch and shared a posting in my blog how the city converted dumpsters into swimming pools in front of Grand Central. I decided to bike it this time. Not a fast ride on my red devil bike, but a “take in the sights” ride on Spartan, my get-around-town bike.

We started early with the morning temperature a cool 68 degrees. Took a short cut through Central Park and headed for Park Avenue. Perfect, made it before all the masses decided to do the same thing.

It was fun riding through the passageway of the Helmsley Building. How often would you get to experience places only vehicles get access to and then top it off with this incredible architecture?

Of course I couldn’t resist the urge of having Spartan experience valet parking at the Grand Hyatt. Ahhh…the corporate days…many visits to the Grand Hyatt.

If you visit NYC during August, this is a must on your list of things to do. Plenty of free bikes and roller blades available along the way or just take a walk. So adios, Summer Streets. Until next year!

Of course I had to purchase this adorable tshirt from Bicycle Habitat on Lafayette. Great service experience, but I reserve the right to try them again. I’ve found cycling shops to be the WORST when it comes to service here in the city. So far my guy Imbert at Master Bike Shop is the best: small shop, consistent service, he gets it!