If you’re new to the city, one thing you may have noticed is the fact that there always seems to be something going on. Shows, games, performances, festivals, concerts…the list goes on and on. When considering sports, check out some of these sweet spots and activities you can get physical with — or just cheer others on while you sit in the stands.

Free Kayaking on the Hudson River

Many popular boathouses offer free rides, and kayaking on a beautiful day in New York can provide you with some breathtaking views. The Downtown Boathouse offers free tours on weekends and holidays until Oct. 10. The Boathouse has two locations, one at Pier 26 right on the Hudson and another on Governor’s Island, which is currently closed.

Pickup Soccer (Brooklyn Bridge, Chelsea Piers)

Another great way to get outside and enjoy the great game of soccer involves a quick train ride to the Brooklyn Bridge field or heading over to the Chelsea Piers. Brooklyn Bridge park even offers an adult league for those more serious in pursuing a competitive team environment. The park is the premiere location for sporting and spectating with its panoramic views. Extra points for jogging there. Chelsea Piers, on the other hand, is more local for the average NYU student and has a plethora of open sports options, including soccer, hockey, bowling and rock climbing, to name a few. In addition it serves as the home rink for NYU’s hockey team which starts its fall season on Oct. 7.

Beach Volleyball at Pier 6 (Brooklyn Bridge Park)

Beach volleyball is a great summer/fall sport that anyone can have fun with. Take advantage of this before the crisp fall takes over. These public courts located just one pier over from soccer are a great place to go with friends and spend a day playing with a great view.

Pickup Basketball (Palladium, Tompkins Square Park, other outdoor courts)

If you’re looking to channel your inner LeBron (or Steph) there are always people playing pickup basketball at Palladium, the courts on Sixth Avenue by the West Fourth Street Subway Station or any number of other outdoor parks around the city. Additionally, NYU offers club and intramural leagues that any student can participate in, including basketball.

Attend an NYU Athletics Event

NYU’s sports teams play all over the city giving those who attend the opportunity to take in a sport while supporting the university and explore what the world beyond Manhattan has to offer. Support the men’s and women’s soccer teams, the women’s volleyball team and the cross country team in the fall, among others, with more sports beginning in the winter. Home offerings this weekend include women’s volleyball tonight at the Brooklyn Athletic Facility. Though not technically at home, they also play at Baruch on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Attend a professional sports event

Madison Square Garden is one of the most iconic basketball venues in the world, and the Barclays Center in Brooklyn is another must-visit arena. If you’re lucky enough to score tickets to a New York Jets or Giants football game, definitely do not pass up the opportunity to go. Additionally, New York Rangers or Islanders games are always entertaining and fast-paced. Both teams are in home preseason action in the coming week for those desperately waiting for October to come around. And if you want to slow things down a bit, a Yankees game in the Bronx or a Mets game in Queens isn’t a bad option. And if the steep price tag is in your way, be sure to check out any cheap ticket options available to students.

Email Brendan Duggan at [email protected].