1. The Public Theater Operates the Delacorte Theater Presenting Shakespeare in the Park

Perhaps one of the most recognizable summer activities in New York City is attending the annual Free Shakespeare in the Park. Organized by the Public Theater, this program stems back from the Public’s original roots set down by Joe Papp, making it one of the city’s most beloved traditions.

In Central Park every year, two Shakespeare plays are put on (this past year A Mid Summer Night’s Dream and Julius Caesar), often featuring a notable celebrity actor among the talented cast, which have included Anne Hathaway, James Earl Jones, Patrick Stewart, Meryl Streep, and Al Pacino, to name a few.

More than five million people have attended the free summer series. If you haven’t gone to the Delacorte, we highly suggest adding this to your list of summer activities.

Next, check out 17 Historical Theaters in NYC’s Times Square and go Inside the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater: A History of the Chelsea Improv Theater and Comedy School.