Delve into the heart of NYC without digging into your wallet. Read on to uncover a treasure trove of complimentary attractions and experiences this city has to offer.
This Article Contains
19 Free Things to Do in NYC
Here are the free things you can explore in NYC:
- Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
- Visit Times Square
- Explore Central Park
- Ride the Staten Island Ferry
- Wander Through Chinatown
- Take a Free Walking Tour
- Admire Street Art in Bushwick
- Visit the New York Public Library
- Walk Along the Hudson River Park
- Explore the High Line
- Visit Grand Central Terminal
- Window Shop on Fifth Avenue
- Explore the Financial District
- Enjoy Street Performances in Washington Square Park
- Admire the Views From the Staten Island Ferry
- Visit the Museum of Modern Art (free on Fridays)
- Explore the Bronx Zoo (free on Wednesdays)
- Walk Through Little Italy
- Visit the Federal Reserve Bank
1. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Image Credit
Beneath Brooklyn Bridge #2, NYC, November 2013 by
Thomas Claveirole is licensed under
CC BY-SA 2.0.
Experience the charm of New York City by taking a walk across the historic Brooklyn Bridge. This iconic structure offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines. It’s an unforgettable, completely free activity you can enjoy in the heart of the city.
- Location/Address: Brooklyn Bridge, New York, NY 10038.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The Brooklyn Bridge is accessible at all hours, but the best time for a walk is at sunrise or sunset for a stunning view of the cityscape.
- Nearby Landmarks: City Hall Park, South Street Seaport, DUMBO.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the walk, and be sure to stay in the pedestrian lane for safety.
2. Visit Times Square
Image Credit
Yahoo! Sign in Times Square in NYC on New Year’s Eve by
Kevin Bedell is licensed under
CC BY-SA 2.0.
Immerse yourself in the heart of New York City by visiting Times Square. Known for its vibrant lights, towering billboards, and dynamic atmosphere, Times Square offers you a taste of the city’s pulse in one location. From street performances to bustling crowds, there’s always something captivating to see.
- Location/Address: Times Square, Manhattan, New York, NY 10036.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Times Square is accessible 24/7, but the radiant displays are most impressive after sunset.
- Nearby Landmarks: Broadway, Rockefeller Center, and Madison Square Garden.
- Tips: Times Square can be crowded, so keep an eye on your personal items and consider visiting in off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
3. Explore Central Park
Image Credit
Central Park, Bridge, NYC by
Joan Piazza is marked with
Public Domain Mark 1.0.
Central Park is the green heart of New York City, offering an oasis of tranquility amidst the urban hustle. With its beautiful landscapes and countless walking trails, you can immerse yourself in nature, enjoy a picnic, or simply people-watch.
- Location/Address: Central Park, Manhattan, New York, NY 10024.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Central Park is open from 6 AM to 1 AM. The park is especially beautiful during spring and fall.
- Nearby Landmarks: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and consider bringing a map of the park to navigate its vast areas.
4. Ride the Staten Island Ferry
Image Credit
Staten Island Ferry Station NYC by
AVID Vines is licensed under
CC BY 2.0.
The Staten Island Ferry offers a delightful journey through New York Harbor. This free service provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the mesmerizing NYC skyline. You can bask in the scenic beauty and the refreshing ocean breezes during your ride.
- Location/Address: The ferry departs from Whitehall Terminal, 4 South Street, New York, NY 10004.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The ferry operates 24/7, but the sunset ride offers a splendid view of the skyline.
- Nearby Landmarks: Battery Park, New York Stock Exchange.
- Tips: Opt for the right side of the ferry while heading to Staten Island for the best view of the Statue of Liberty.
5. Wander Through Chinatown
Image Credit
Lower East Side Chinatown Street NYC by
Brett VA is licensed under
CC BY 2.0.
Chinatown in New York City is a vibrant hub of culture and history. With its bustling streets filled with exotic food markets, traditional medicine shops, and unique trinket stores, you can immerse yourself in a world that’s a delightful blend of the old and the new.
- Location/Address: Chinatown, Lower Manhattan, New York, NY 10013.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Chinatown is always open, but the best time to visit is between 10 AM to 5 PM when most shops and markets are in full swing.
- Nearby Landmarks: Little Italy, SoHo, and the Lower East Side.
- Tips: Try to have some cash on hand as some smaller shops may not accept credit cards.
6. Take a Free Walking Tour
Experience the Big Apple like never before with a free walking tour. You can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, iconic architecture, and dynamic culture. This engaging activity will not only allow you to explore NYC on foot, but also learn fascinating facts from knowledgeable guides.
- Location/Address: Various locations, depending on the tour. Common starting points include Central Park and Times Square.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Most tours operate daily from 10 AM to 4:30 PM. It’s best to check the specific tour’s schedule for accurate timing.
- Nearby Landmarks: This will vary depending on the tour, but may include Central Park, Times Square, Wall Street, and the Statue of Liberty.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be on your feet for a substantial period. Also, even though the tour is free, consider tipping your guide as a gesture of appreciation for their time and knowledge.
7. Admire Street Art in Bushwick
Bushwick is a vibrant neighborhood in Brooklyn known for its stunning display of street art. The streets here are a canvas where local artists showcase their creativity and skill. You can take a self-guided tour and enjoy this colorful, urban gallery at your own pace.
- Location/Address: Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York, NY 11237.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The street art in Bushwick can be admired at any time, but daylight hours are recommended for the best viewing experience.
- Nearby Landmarks: Maria Hernandez Park, Bushwick Collective Street Art.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot, and be respectful of the local community when exploring the neighborhood.
8. Visit the New York Public Library
Image Credit
Back of New York Public Library by
Kathleen Tyler Conklin is licensed under
CC BY 2.0.
Immerse yourself in a world of knowledge at the New York Public Library. This majestic Beaux-Arts landmark isn’t just filled with books, but also offers free exhibitions and stunning architecture. Here, you can delve into diverse collections, admire the magnificent Rose Main Reading Room, and marvel at the iconic lion sculptures out front.
- Location/Address: 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018, USA.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Open Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Mornings are less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: Bryant Park, Grand Central Terminal.
- Tips: Check online for any special exhibitions or events taking place during your visit.
9. Walk Along the Hudson River Park
Image Credit
Hudson River Park Manhatten NYC (5) by
TijsB is licensed under
CC BY-SA 2.0.
Hudson River Park is an urban paradise, offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. With its scenic views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, get some exercise, or simply relax and take in the sights.
- Location/Address: Hudson River Park, New York, NY 10014.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: Hudson River Park is open 24 hours a day, but the best time to visit is during sunrise or sunset when the views are particularly breathtaking.
- Nearby Landmarks: The High Line, Chelsea Market, and Whitney Museum of American Art.
- Tips: Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes, and if you’re planning to stay for a while, pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas.
10. Explore the High Line
Image Credit
High Line park NYC – Manhattan – New York City by
David Berkowitz is licensed under
CC BY 2.0.
Experience the beauty of New York City from a unique perspective by exploring the High Line. This elevated park built on a former railway track offers stunning views of the cityscape, lush greenery, and innovative artwork. Meander along the path, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the urban vibes.
- Location/Address: The High Line, New York, NY 10011.
- Opening Hours/Best Times to Visit: The High Line is open from 7 AM to 10 PM daily. However, the best time to visit is during the weekday mornings when it’s less crowded.
- Nearby Landmarks: Chelsea Market, Whitney Museum of American Art.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot, and consider bringing a snack to enjoy at one of the many seating areas.
Weather and Events in NYC
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Easy Ways to Book Hotels and Rent Cars in NYC
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Explore free things to do in other cities:
