No one will blame you if you’ve canceled your plans to visit New York City this summer, considering the coronavirus outbreak’s impact on the city. However, for those diehard NYC fans who still want to spend time in our beloved city this summer, here’s what you need to know.
While most of the city’s cultural events have been canceled, as the city begins its multi-phase reopening process, the city’s potential for tourism and travel could return. New York City is in the first phase of reopening, which means that most retail stores and restaurants are only open for curbside and in-store pick-up and delivery. Hotels are permitted to reopen under strict cleaning, disinfecting, and social distancing measures as are campgrounds and RV parks throughout the state. Recreational activities that are outdoors and considered low-risk are permitted. These activities include visiting parks, catching a film at a drive-in movie theater, and renting non-motorized watercraft as well as individual sports activities like golf and tennis. Public and private beaches, playgrounds, and pools may be open, but it depends on the local authorities and requires social distancing guidelines to be followed. Groups are currently limited to ten individuals. If you come to the city, you are expected to wear a face mask and follow social distancing practices. Businesses can refuse service if you are not in compliance.
A minimum of 14 days separates each phase or reopening so authorities can monitor local infection rates to ensure public health and safety. If all goes well, then phase two can begin. Once phase two begins, outdoor dining may occur as well as in-store retail operations.
In phase three, restaurants will be permitted to serve indoors with limited capacity, and group limits will be raised to 25 individuals. It isn’t until phase four that recreation, arts, and entertainment activities will be able to resume.
While many events have been canceled for this summer, some have been rescheduled for a later date. You can find updates on New York travel and restrictions by visiting New York City’s Official Convention & Visitors Bureau website or iloveny.com.
