New York City is a unique, exciting and vibrant city, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. There’s a plethora of great things to do and see, and best of all, many of them cost nothing. From world-class museums and breathtaking park views, to legendary music venues and vibrant festivals, here are some of the best free things to do in New York City.
Explore Central Park
Central Park is certainly the crown jewel of New York City’s outdoor attractions. You could spend days exploring the park’s 843 acres of ponds, trails and meadows, or simply enjoy its peaceful green spaces. It also boasts several iconic attractions and facilities, most of which are free to access, including Belvedere Castle, Conservatory Garden, Wollman Rink and the Central Park Zoo. Take in stunning vistas from the famous Bethesda Terrace or enjoy some of the park’s free concerts and events.
Visiting NYC Museums & Galleries
New York is full of amazing art, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the city’s impressive cultural offerings without spending a dime. The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers free admission every Friday. The American Museum of Natural History offers an “Pay-What-You-Wish” policy all week. The Museum of Modern Art, Cooper Hewitt Design Museum, the Bronx Museum of the Arts are always free. Don’t forget other small galleries and museums, like the Metropolitan Opera Museum, the Museum at Eldridge Street, and the Jewish Museum all offer free entry.
Be a Tourist in Your Own City
New York City offers some iconic sites free to the public. Take a free walking tour with Free Tours by Foot, and visit famous landmarks like Grand Central Station, the High Line and the Brooklyn Bridge. Check out The Sphere, located at the 9/11 Memorial Plaza and Survivor Tree, growing on the memorial grounds.
Experience Outdoor Music & Movies
New York has a long tradition of enjoying outdoor concerts, films and shows. Concerts can be heard most nights of the week in parks and public spaces across the city. Free outdoor movie screenings at venues like Brooklyn Bridge Park, Socrates, Prospect Park and Riverside Park are a great way to enjoy a night at the movies without spending a dime.
Catch Some Street Performers
For hundreds of years, New York’s talented street performers, or “buskers”, have shared their skills with the public. Each year, thousands of singers, dancers, actors, comedians and musicians perform in public spaces throughout NYC, from Times Square and Washington Square Park to the subways stations, Brooklyn Bridge and the South Street Seaport. Give back, if you can!
Enjoy Fresh Produce at the city’s Greenmarkets
There are over 50 Greenmarkets in New York, allowing you to enjoy the best of local produce and seasonal flavors right at your door step. These markets feature all kinds of local, seasonal and artisanal foods, as well as live music, cooking demonstrations and more.
Explore the City’s Riverside Parks
Brooklyn Bridge Park and Hudson River Park offer up an amazing amount of waterfront fun. Walk through Brooklyn Bridge Park and be rewarded with stunning views of the river and Lower Manhattan, or catch a breathtaking sunsets at Pier 45. Check out the events and the incredible variety of food options available.
Learn about NYC History
From the city’s Dutch roots to its urban growth and multicultural present, NYC offers a variety of historic sites, monuments and educational programs, all free or low cost. Join free guided tours or go to City Hall and see a live-action reenactment of the ratification of the Bill of Rights. Make sure to check out the Tenement Museum in the Lower East Side or the National Museum of the American Indian. Enjoy performances from the Poetry Brothel, a free literary and cabaret project.
Cultural Festivals
New York’s diverse population means that there’s no shortage of cultural festivals to attend, with most of them offering free admission. Walk the streets of Chinatown or participate in the African-American Day Parade in Harlem. Head to the Lower East Side to join the Israeli Parade or to Sunset Park to enjoy the Brazilian Day celebration.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring New York’s amazing offerings doesn’t have to break the bank. There’s no shortage of exciting things to do and see, and the best part is that they’re all free. From exploring its numerous parks and museums, to learning about its rich history and enjoying cultural festivals, New York City has something for everyone. Get out there and start discovering!
