NYC Summer Spots to See: Five Manhattan Spots

The summer is upon us and that means it's time to get out and get to all those places in New York City that we've all been meaning to check out. Here are a few places you can head out with your posse or your loved one and begin to create your own New York City summer memories.

High Line Park: The newest portion of the High Line Park just opened up in June and people are really jazzed. The High Line Park runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District all the way up to West 34^th Street on the far west side of Manhattan. Section 1 of the park (Gansevoort until 20^th Street) is a part of the park you've probably seen before but the newest section (West 20^th to West 30^th Street) just opened up on June 8 of this year. The High Line Park is open from 7am until 11pm and there are numerous spots for handicapped access, so that everyone can come see what's going on. The High Line Park is for relaxation and elevating yourself above the fray of the streets below. For the very latest on High Line Park information, follow the park on Twitter.

Peter Minuit Plaza: If you're hoping to get a little bit of authentic feeling New York City history, you should head on down to Battery Park City and see what's swinging at the Peter Minuit Plaza. Named for the Dutchman who bought Manhattan Island from the Lenape Indians, this plaza features gardens and the organic Merchants Market Caf. There also will be events at the Plaza throughout the year so make sure and keep up with what's new.

Shakespeare in the Park: One of the most celebrated events, year after year, in Manhattan is the 57 year young tradition of The Public Theatre's Shakespeare in the Park. Taking on a pair of works from the dramatist, the Delacorte Theatre in Central Park is the place. From the looks of the strong attendance and support from huge corporations, Shakespeare in the Park isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Shakespeare in the Park is also free and runs for eight weeks. Come on out and see some of the world's biggest celebrities and most celebrated actors perform the works of the Bard; if not this year, then soon!

Mostly Mozart Lincoln Center: Lincoln Center is at it again and the Mostly Mozart Festival is back at Avery Fisher Hall. This year's pieces include Mozart's "Overture to Le nozze di Figaro" and "Symphony No. 36 in C major ("Linz")" as well as one piece from Stravinsky: "Symphony in C." Many people love classical music and can't quite put their finger on why but the Mostly Mozart Festival is a great way to get out and enjoy the music. The free concert this year is taking place on Saturday July 30, 7:30-9:30pm. If you RSVP at the Mostly Mozart Facebook page you can find out about getting free tickets to this date. Avery Fisher Hall 135 West 65^th Street. 212-595-0631.

Brunch at Irish Rogue: Of course you've got to eat when you're out and about doing all this fun and adventuresome city digging. While you may be working on the weekend, you may also be lucky enough to have the time off. Head on over to one of my favorite places for brunch, The Irish Rogue. Brunch is served from 11-4:30 and inclusive of two drinks and your breakfast for only $11.95, The Irish Rogue can calm even the most hearty of appetites. If you're from out of town, you may balk at eating in a bar but if you come by early enough you could find yourself back before the end of brunch the same day as the value and food are so good! 356 West 44^th Street.

A child of a couple of Marine brats from Corona, Jesse Schmitt has New York City deeply rooted in his blood. Having lived in different neighborhoods in Manhattan, the Bronx, Queens, and Brooklyn and tasted every corner of the five boroughs possible, Schmitt has an informed New York voice.