There are plenty of ways to savor the summer at the luxurious One Manhattan Square residences on the Lower East Side. Take a stroll through the lush manicured gardens designed by world-renowned West 8. Invite some friends over for a summer afternoon barbeque prepared in the outdoor kitchen, followed by a game of pingpong. Or, gain a new perspective on those warm summer nights by stargazing from the building’s observatory. But perhaps the greatest of One Manhattan Square’s summer-centric amenities is its proximity to the East River.
While you could just watch the river roll by from the floor-to-ceiling windows in your Meyer Davis-designed residence, why not head out on the water?
Take a Happy Hour Cruise
Tired of heading to the same old bar for after-work drinks? For a different spin on happy hour, invite your colleagues and friends for a post-work get-together on the water with an “Alive After Five” cruise, hosted by Hornblower Cruises & Events. Let the day’s worries drift away as you float around the East River and New York Harbor with a cocktail in hand and a DJ spinning the tunes. If you want to take your happy hour up a notch, this cruise offers a variety of packages, some of which include unlimited beverages during the two hours you’re on board.
Hop on the NYC Ferry (It’s Not Just for Commuting)
Over the past few years, the NYC Ferry has gotten quite the overhaul. Not only has this transportation system extended its routes, but it also offers lower fares, and has a number of new boats in its fleet. What was once a drab commuter ferry is now a sleek and modern one, where you can cruise up and down the East River in style — with drinks. Take the ferry to Brooklyn, Queens, or just stay on it for a while and enjoy the views.
Governors Island Ferry
The “cruise” to Governors Island is less about the on-the-water experience and more about the destination. Right below South Street Seaport, and just a 15-minute walk from One Manhattan Square, is the Battery Maritime Building, from which a quick ferry ride delivers you to 172 acres of warm-weather fun. While at Governors Island, indulge in delectable seafood from Island Oyster, a James Beard Award-nominated restaurant that has a beachy yet sophisticated vibe. Or, you can take a bike ride (rental bikes are plentiful on the island) and catch some more spectacular Downtown Manhattan vistas.
Sightseeing Tour
To put the stunning views you’re seeing from the water in context, get on board a sightseeing tour that leaves from Pier 11. City Sightseeing has a hop-on, hop-off boat complement to their popular bus tours. Yes, this is a tourist activity. But with expert narration and dockings at some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, such as the Hudson River Greenway, the Theater District, and Battery Park, it’s an excellent way to appreciate your town and learn something, too.