Living in NYC is hell costly for everyone, be it a student or a working person. You must be wondering how I relate to it? This is because I’m also a corporate employee working to pay my bills while living in a city where time is gold and pennies aren’t enough to survive.
I attended one of the free events in NYC today. It was the best event you can attend even without spending a penny for it. Just go in and collect the serotonin being widely distributed around freely.
Earlier I used to think that to have fun in New York City, I needed to spend money always. I was wrong. One of my colleagues recently introduced me to some of the free stuff to do in NYC, and I’m going to tell you more about it, because sharing is caring. Isn’t it?
Free Things to Do in New York City
Are you also looking for things to do in NYC for free? You don’t need to be rich or pauper to have fun in New York City. You just need to have open eyes and ears to enjoy, like I did.
Parks and Public Spaces
Ever thought of taking a stroll in the park or reading a book under the shade of a tree? I like to spend time with nature and it rejuvenates me like nothing else does!
Central Park
Thinking of a place where you can enjoy free family activities in NYC today? It is one of the most visited 843-acre urban parks in the United States, with over 42 million annual visitors, is also the best for taking a stroll, recreational activities and other recreational activities.
It’s home to one of the most beautiful and iconic landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and Belvedere Castle. For me the most interesting thing was the strawberry fields in the park. Built as a memorial, it is one of the most peaceful and picturesque areas of the park.
The High Line
This park was built around the long abandoned railway tracks in Chelsea. It’s the perfect place to get away from the hustle bustle of urban life while being in the city. I loved this park as it shows how nature can thrive and make any place beautiful, even if it was previously inhabited and now abandoned by humans.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Being an enthusiast about how infrastructures have evolved over time, I was all jumping jack when I visited this marvel. Truly considered as the 8th wonder of the world, it’s a must visit place in NYC. The mesmerizing views one gets while standing on the bridge are the best.
If you are an opacarophile, this is the best place to enjoy the twilights. The setting of the sun behind the Manhattan skyline is the most stunning sunset I’ve ever witnessed.
Cultural Spots
Ever searched for cultural spots offering free events in NYC ? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.
Staten Island Ferry
If you want to understand why this ferry is still used to connect to Manhattan or is free of cost, you need to deep dive into the historical perspective. I’ll tell you why this ferry is one of the must free things to do in NYC this weekend. I would recommend you to hop on to the ferry to witness some of the most spectacular views like Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, Brooklyn Heights, sunsets and sunrises.
Chelsea Galleries
If you want to explore art galleries as one of the free activities in NYC, then you should visit Chelsea galleries. Famous for contemporary art, various artists put up their works in exhibitions. I was in awe when I went to these galleries. It reminded me of how much we all need some vibrancy in life.
Free Museum Days
Recently I got to know that some museums have the policy of paying what you wish or walking in free. This was no doubt one of the best free things to do in NYC. I had explored the top 5 museums in New York City and admired the history while getting to know the city more with these little free museum tours.
Historic and Iconic Sites
Not being a fan of history has always kept me far away from these places, but, when it’s free, what’s the harm in exploring? Isn’t it? Here are some of the best iconic cultural and historical sites which you can include in your free things to do in New York itinerary.
Brooklyn Bridge
I am a huge fan of taking a stroll at the waterfront. The cool breeze from the water body refreshen you instantly. Since not many people are interested in going here during early morning or late evening hours, this place is best for spending your leisure time in peace.
Grand Central Terminal
This place is a gem for all those souls who would like to gobble on food as well as enjoy their surroundings. Visiting this huge place should be counted on top of things to do in New York for free. There are various stunning things which cannot be left unappreciated, viz., Information booth clock, whispering gallery, the architectural details, main concourse ceiling and many more.
Street Art in Bushwick
Did the graffiti ever intrigued you? At least It did to me! I always found freestyle art as the best form of art. Street Art in Bushwick is something I would never miss this place and would include it on top of my free things to do in NYC today.
The energy and vibrancy one feels on visiting areas like the Morgan Avenue area of Bushwick is so relaxing. Enjoy the murals, chocolates or shop for yourself if you want, but do not miss this place if you love the colors!
Free Events and Market
Awaken the social side of yours and head to some of the best free events and markets in NYC today. Ask your siri or google assistant to provide you with the details of such free events NYC this weekend. I’ll provide you with some, help yourself with the ones you find good enough to visit.
- Total Body Fitness at Gymnasium in St. John’s Recreation Center, Brooklyn
- Arsenal Gallery at The Arsenal, Manhattan
- Yoga at Brooklyn Public Library- Gerritsen Beach, Brooklyn
- Creative Career Residency for TEENS at Multi-use Room A, Manhattan
- Hands on History: Victorian Valentines at King Manor Museum, Queens
- Chinese New Year Carnival, Manhattan
- El Amor Paint Night at Classroom A, Manhattan
- Love is in the Air Pixel Event, Manhattan
You can also explore some of the markets and neighborhood walks like Chinatown or Greenwich Village. You can also participate in the upcoming free summer concerts and movie series in Central Parks. In short, one will never be in dearth of things to do in Manhattan for free. If you want a complete guide of NYC’s best attractions, go through our informative blog on it.
Take Away
NYC, though a bustling city with time being equated to gold and pennies not enough to survive, is always open to people who want to explore it and have fun without being a spendthrift. While visiting NYC, one can always find numerous free things to do in Manhattan,
So, pack your bags, head to the ever glittering city and enjoy the place for free. You just have to spend for your food and place to stay which you can book at HolidayKeepers. They provide the premium vacation rentals for your stay in New York City and are always open for any queries. Contact them if you have any questions and be good to go for your exploration trip!
Paul P, Senior Editor and Travel Planner at HolidayKeepers, brings over 10 years of experience from New York. He expertly combines storytelling with extensive knowledge in travel and hospitality. Known for turning vibrant travel experiences into engaging articles, Paul covers everything from hidden gems to the latest in vacation rentals, resonating with adventurers and leisure-seekers alike.
