Sure, it’s a concrete jungle. But there are still some sustainable things to do in New York City, whether you’re a tourist or a resident!
By Diane Small
New York is a city full of life, with a blend of well-known landmarks and electrifying culture. But that being said, if you’re looking to get out in nature, or even just to do something that doesn’t involve consumerism and spending a lot of money, it can be tough.
Luckily, if you look around a bit, you can indeed make greener choices!
From exploring green spaces to engaging in eco-friendly activities, here are ten sustainable things to do in New York City. They’re all guaranteed to make anyone’s experience so much more enriching!
10 Sustainable Things To Do In New York City
1. Go thrifting
Yes, clothes shopping in NYC can be incredible. You’ll find every single big international and national brand here. But whether you’re looking for luxury brands are simple streetwear, you’ll be delighted by all the thrift shops!
There are literally countless thrift stores, vintage shops and consignment boutiques around NYC. You’ll find everything from gently used Louis Vuitton bags and discarded wedding dresses to 50s vintage clothing and 70s hippy gear.
Of course, secondhand shopping curbs waste, giving garments an extended life and keeping them out of landfill. Revamping your wardrobe has never been so fun!
2. Rent a bike and hit the trails
One of the best sustainable things to do in New York is to rent a bike! You can go wherever you like, of course. But a great – and green – option is to explore the Hudson River bike trails.
These trails offer great views of the river and the city skyline, from Battery Park all the way to the George Washington Bridge. Plus, biking reduces your carbon footprint and allows you to experience the city’s beauty at a leisurely pace.
By using NYC’s bike-sharing program, CitiBike, it’s a breeze to rent a bike for just a few hours or all day long, which really makes this an added convenience on your eco-adventures.
3. Go to a farmer’s market
Forget about supermarkets. Visiting any one of NYC’s farmer’s markets, such as the Union Square Greenmarket, is one of the best ways to support local agriculture! It will also help reduce some of the environmental costs related to food.
The farmers’ markets reflect great fresh seasonal produce and artisan foods. All of it comes from outside the city, from New York state. Shopping locally supports the regional economy and reduces carbon emissions from having to transport food over long distances, benefiting the health of the planet in general. But you’ll also find lots of inexpensive, unique and tasty food here!
4. See a Broadway show
Many tourists ask “what’s playing on Broadway now?” And why not? Catching a Broadway show is a quintessentially New York activity. If you hit a show, you’ll be supporting the arts, and can have some fun without engaging in consumerism and generating waste. Plus, did you know that many theatres are using greener practices by recycling their costumes and sets, and using more energy-efficient lighting systems?
5. Go on an architecture tour
Show your support for classical architecture with a tour!
Architecture tours in NYC encourage sustainable tourism. Walking tours, such as those provided by the Municipal Art Society of New York, will focus on landmarks and neighbourhoods with notable art, sculptures and architecture.
Many tours will even point out buildings featuring sustainable designs and historical significance to help you appreciate the development of the city through an eco-conscious lens and an informed perspective.
6. Picnic in Central Park
One of the most sustainable things to do in New York is also one of the cheapest. Simply pack a picnic and head to Central Park! Grab a blanket and some of your favourite foods. Find a spot that’s got a great view, be it of nature itself, interesting people, or fab street performers.
Make sure yours is a zero-waste picnic by using reusable containers, utensils and napkins.
7. Go on a walking tour
Walking tours are another of the most sustainable things to do in New York City. They provide an eco-friendly way to explore the neighbourhoods, history and culture of the Big Apple. From cobblestone streets in the West Village to vibrant murals in Bushwick, there is a walking tour for every interest.
Not only does walking reduce carbon emissions, but it also enables you to enjoy the close-up scenery of the city. Many tours put great emphasis on sustainability by visiting local businesses and highlighting green initiatives to create further appreciation for the environment.
8. Explore Randall’s Island Urban Farm
Randall’s Island Urban Farm is one of those unknown jewels within the city. The project focuses on urban agriculture and sustainability, and offers learning programs on the growth of food in urban areas, and the importance of sustainable farming practices.
You can take a tour around the farm, participate in workshops and learn about composting and beekeeping and other eco-friendly activities. It’s a great way to connect with nature and understand the role of urban farms in creating a sustainable city.
It’s one of the best sustainable things to do in New York City with kids, too!
9. Check out the vegan restaurant scene
From high-end restaurants to comfort food, vegan restaurants in NYC are on the rise!
You’ll find everything from fine dining at HAGS to traditional Indian food at Temple Canteen. Or why not try Clemente Bar’s cocktails and vegan food on a big night out? Or maybe vegan Chinese food at Spicy Moon? The options are endless!
Of course, one of the most effective individual actions that people can take to reduce their environmental impact are related to eating vegan, as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and saves water and land.
10. Sail down the Hudson
Biking? Ok. Walking? Meh. One of the best ways to see the Big Apple is by boat!
Green boat tours go beyond energy-efficient vessels into operations of least environmental degradation. If you head out in the daytime, you can check out the unique skyline and see the city from unusual perspectives. But why not take a sailing tour of the Hudson at night?
Seeing the city lights from the water is a really serene experience! And a breathtaking sail down the Hudson River at nighttime marries sustainability with romance.
Each of these activities shows you how to experience and explore New York City in the most sustainable manner, reducing your carbon footprint by making ecologically friendly choices that further enhance your travel experience.
Do you know of more sustainable things to do in New York City? Let us know in the comments, below!
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