The beautiful city of New York, or the Big Apple as some would call it, is probably on most travelers’ bucket lists. After all, it’s a city that never sleeps, perfect for those who love exploring until late at night.
While New York is famous for a lot of things, especially its landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Times Square, and Brooklyn Bridge, it’s also well known as an expensive city to live in and travel to.
But you know what? You don’t have to spend much to experience the best of the Big Apple. We’re here to help you with that! From taking walks in the park to admiring the city’s skyline views, here are some free things to do in New York that you can add to your itinerary.
1. Take a walk on the High Line
The High Line is the perfect spot for a walk with a view / Photo from Trey Ratcliff on Flickr
Also known as a “park in the sky,” the High Line Park in the city is one of the best free things to do in New York! This elevated park offers amazing city views and even free events for both locals and travelers to enjoy. It has garden zones for those looking for a scenic stroll: Donald Pels and Wendy Keys Gansevoort Woodland, Washington Grasslands & Woodland Edge, and Diller – von Furstenberg Sundeck & Water Feature.
Visitors can also marvel at the art here, which changes from time to time. There’s an open-air theater where you can see live performances and other artist-led events. Some performers include Dominique Fung, JJJJJerome Ellis, Matty Davis, and Azikiwe Mohammed.
High Line
Address: The Diller – von Furstenberg Building, 820 Washington Street, New York, NY 10014
Opening Hours: 7:00am to 10:00pm (Daily)
2. Ride the Staten Island Ferry
Riding the Staten Island Ferry is a classic NYC experience / Photo from InSapphoWeTrust on Wikimedia Commons
The Staten Island Ferry is a fare-free passenger ferry operated by the New York City Department of Transportation. Riding the ferry is one of the most famous free things to do in New York, so make sure to catch at least one ride. This experience is perfect for those who want a quick tour of the city and a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty from a distance.
As the ferry goes along its route, you’ll be able to spot amazing views of Manhattan, New Jersey, and Brooklyn. The ride takes about 25 minutes, giving you enough time to take in the scenery and capture the views to commemorate your trip.
3. Explore Central Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Central Park
Central Park has got to be one of the most famous parks in New York City! There are just so many things to do here, perfect for your list of free things to do in New York. You can visit some landmarks and iconic attractions, take a stroll, have a picnic, bike around, and much more. You can also catch some free events in New York right here at Central Park!
Central Park is the perfect place if you’re looking to get active or just relax. You can jog, run, or stroll around the open paths. You can also bring mats and snacks to set up a little picnic area. There are also some art installations that you can see for free as you explore the park, as well as some free attractions to visit, such as Belvedere Castle, Strawberry Fields, and Bethesda Terrace.
Central Park
Address: New York, NY, United States
Opening Hours: 6:00am to 1:00am (Daily)
4. Visit the New York Public Library
Step inside history and architecture at the New York Public Library / Photo from Vincent Desjardins on Flickr
Another one of the best free things to do in New York is to drop by the New York Public Library! Here, you can admire breathtaking architecture, see many different exhibits, and even take a free tour of the library.
You can start by visiting the Library’s Visitor Center, where you’ll see interactive exhibits about the Library’s legacy, as well as collection items. One thing not to miss is the Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library's Treasures, home to millions of preserved and collected books, important documents, and other materials that will inspire you to explore and learn new knowledge.
For architecture, an impressive sight is the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, as well as the grand Rose Main Reading Room.
New York Public Library
Address: Fifth Avenue at 42nd St, New York, New York 10018-2788
Opening Hours: It depends on the area you’re visiting. See the full schedule on their official website.
5. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
Visiting the Brooklyn Bridge is a must in New York / Photo from Andrew Mace on Flickr
Another icon in New York is the Brooklyn Bridge! This bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, allowing you to enjoy amazing views of both. You can also spot the East River and the Statue of Liberty from here. Your trip to the Big Apple will not be complete without a visit to the Brooklyn Bridge.
Remember to take lots of photos, as the view from and of the bridge is postcard-perfect! And hey, for a less crowded experience, we highly suggest you visit before 9:00am. But if you want to catch the bridge all lit up with majestic lights, feel free to visit at night.
Brooklyn Bridge
Address: New York, NY 10038, United States
Opening Hours: 24/7 (Daily)
And there you have it! You now have some free things to do in New York to add to your itinerary. All you need now is to pack your bags and enjoy the beautiful city of New York! Happy and safe travels.
FAQs
1. What are the best free attractions in NYC for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors, some of the best free things to do in New York are: walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, riding the Staten Island Ferry, and exploring Central Park.
2. Is the Staten Island Ferry really the best way to see the Statue of Liberty for free?
Yes, riding aboard the Staten Island Ferry is the best free way to see the Statue of Liberty.
3. Are there any free museums or free admission days in NYC?
Yes, many museums in New York offer free admission days or are always free. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is free on the first Friday of every month, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum’s outdoor memorial is free for everyone, and the New York Botanical Garden is free on Wednesdays (between 10:00am and 11:00am).
4. What free things can you do in Central Park?
You can enjoy so many free activities in Central Park, like going on a picnic in areas like Sheep Meadow and Harlem Meer, walking through some famous locations like Bethesda Terrace and The Mall, and exploring the Conservatory Garden and Belvedere Castle.
5. Is walking the Brooklyn Bridge free, and what is the best time to do it?
Yes, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is free, and the best times to do it are early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid large crowds.
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