Whether you're dreaming of PSLs (pumpkin spice lattes for the non-obsessed) or soaking in every last second of sunny weather, the reality is that lax days of summer are soon behind us — while the grind of the school year and cool days are about to set in. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. It still is mid-August, which means there's plenty left to do.
If you're looking to pack in the remaining weeks of the season and spend as much time outdoors as possible, we have a list of must-dos and must-visits for every type of outing. From sunflower trails to free concerts, don't miss these simple (and affordable) ways to enjoy summer — no extravagant vacation needed.
Outdoor Bar
If you're looking for a whole alfresco vibe, no one does it like Concourse Club. The rooftop bar/lounge/restaurant's outdoor area has swanky seating, creative cocktails, and light bites to go with it. And you'll be in good company. Setting foot at Concourse Club, you know you're surrounded by fellow diners and drinkers who are ready to make the lively atmosphere come to life. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays through August you'll find their live DJs pumping the music, plus, come out as they host a Paint 'n Sip on August 21.
Outdoor Brunch
The only thing better than brunch is outdoor brunch. And Haven Edgewater is serving up both with a side of the Manhattan skyline. On the brunch menu, find delicious dishes like Brioche French Toast, Lobster & Crabcake Benedict, and Southern Fried Chicken & Waffles, washed down with one of their specialty cocktails like the White Peach Cosmo or mocktails, such as the Pom Basil Lemonade. While we're huge fans of brunch, Haven elevates the experience and is worth the visit while the warm sun is still shining.
Field Station: Dinosaurs
This preshistoric spot will soon be extinct when the fall season comes to a close, making now the best opportunity to visit. Field Station: Dinosaurs, the family-friendly dino theme park, has live shows, games, and of course, life-sized dinosaurs — all with an educational twist. Plus, they'll be hosting events through the rest of the summer until it's closed for good in November, including campouts under the stars, Superstars of Science with lead puppeteer Chris Palmieri, and Dinosaurs After Dark in October.
Sunflower Trail Photoshoot
Bring your best smile for Ort Farms Summer Fest Sunflower Trail, coming up on August 23 to 24 through mid-September. Walk among the flowers as you snap picture-perfect shots and enjoy fun farm events. There are tons of other sunflower farms worth visiting, too, including Stony Hill Farms, Von Thun Farms, Happy Day Farm, and Sussex County Sunflower Maze, opening August 22.
Free Outdoor Summer Concert
Weekly live music is still very much a go, so its worth heading to a nearby town to catch some tunes at an affordable price. AKA free. On August 15 in Woodcliff Lake, enjoy a special concert from Frank and Beans featuring the music of some greats — Pink Floys, Adele, Elvis, Taylor Swift, and so many more. At Riverside County Park in North Arlington, take in the tunes of Steppin Out on Tuesday, August 19, featuring soul, R&B, and rock classics. The Wortendyke Barn Museum in Park Ridge is hosting Crash Gorden & Debra Dynamite's rockabilly hits on August 31, while London Calling, the number one Beatles tribute band is performing at Davies Memorial Field on August 21. Or head to Fair Lawn for its summer concert series, which includes Alternate Groove Party Band on August 17 and The Cameos on August 24.
