1. Named for the original Coney Island playground which burned down in 1944, the brand new Luna Park opens this weekend with nineteen (later expanding to 23) year-round rides promising lots of speed and stomach flips. Admission is free, but you’ll have to purchase armbands for unlimited riding or $1 credits for individual attractions, typically running $3-$5.
2. What’s better than a live music show outdoors? A live music show outdoors on a boat! Political rappers The Coup share a bill with Wayne Kramer of the MC5 on this Rocks Off Concert Cruise.
3. Our favorite Gowanus spot BKLYN Yard opens this weekend with an activity for every taste. On Saturday, there’s a clothing swap with DJs and live screenprinting; Sunday brings the return of the Sunday Best dance party, and on Monday, indulge in eats from the best NYC food trucks at Parked.
4. On Saturday, Rooftop Films screens a variety of home movies, from the story of a man looking at his parents’ relationship in the wake of his own failed marriage (heavy) to a story where a game with the iRevolver app goes tragically amiss (silly). When it’s over, there’s free Radeberger Pilsner at the afterparty.
5. Before the Whitney Museum breaks ground on a new spot downtown, they’ve commissioned a series of large-scale works at their new site. Currently up at the corner of Gansevoort and Washington Streets in the Meatpacking district is an installation by Guyton\Walker: a mural-like wrapping of vinyl printed with colorful graphics of zebras and fruit.
6. It’s Fleet Week! While we’d just be content to sit at the Frying Pan trolling for seamen, there’s a whole list of activities scheduled, from Broadway performances to the famous military Tug of War.
7. On Saturday, The Cloisters hosts its annual Family Festival, a weekend of child-friendly activities exploring the theme of medieval castles. While you’re there, take a garden tour, free with museum admission.
8. Seating is first come first served, but if the weather permits the music from the New York Philharmonic’s annual Memorial Day Concert at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine will be piped out onto the Cathedral’s Pulpit Green.
9. Led by professional photographer and instructor JP Pullos, this event promises wannabe shutterbugs an opportunity to learn the basics of photography composition, shading, style, and other photo techniques while hiking through Central Park.
10. Last but certainly not least: imbibe outside at a newly-opened rooftop bar!