23 Free & Cheap Things to Do in NYC Right Now

1. Explore The New York Public Library

With free admission, The New York Public Library is an iconic fixture in the city for its grand architecture and cozy nooks. Inside, you are greeted with ceilings that stretch to the skies and windows that drench the space in sunlight.

The Main Reading Room, with its grandiose atmosphere, invites you to take a seat and flip through pages of history and fiction. Sometimes, you might even spot a movie being filmed—after all, this library is a celebrity in its own right!

Insider Tip: Look out for the original Winnie-the-Pooh stuffed toys. Yes, they are there, sitting in a cozy corner, waiting to greet fans.

2. Events at Lincoln Center

New York City sparkles with live performances, and the esteemed Lincoln Center is a beacon for culture. It’s your passport to high-quality entertainment without the hefty price tag.

Free summer festivals have become the talk of the town, and you’re in luck because they’re sprouting up faster than tulips in Central Park.

It’s not just summer; weekly free performances ensure that your calendar is brimming with options.

Budget tip: Pack a picnic! Sandwiches never tasted as divine as when paired with a free concert under the stars.

3. Visit Governors Island

Hop aboard a ferry and set sail to the charming Governors Island, just a stone’s throw from Manhattan’s hustle. This peaceful oasis offers a refreshing break with its wide-open green spaces and stunning skyline views that won’t break your piggy bank.

Here, the past meets the present, with historic buildings alongside modern art installations that pepper the landscape. Stroll or bike around; rentals are a bargain and cover the entire day.

Do keep an eye on event calendars; from jazz festivals to art fairs, Governors Island often plays host to events that are as easy on the wallet.

4. Walk Around Times Square

Walking through Times Square is like entering a live-action scene with bright lights and billboards towering over you. It’s the place to take in the buzzing energy of New York City.

Free street performances often pop up, so you can watch as dancers, musicians, and artists share their talents.

Don’t miss the less conspicuous treasures like plaques studded into the sidewalks, honoring legendary entertainers. Browsing through the many souvenir shops opens up a world of trinkets and treasures to bring home.

For an extra zip of fun, grab discounted Broadway tickets and make your evening sparkle with a dash of drama.

5. Stroll Through Bryant Park

In the heart of the city, Bryant Park awaits you with its lush lawns and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll that won’t cost a penny.

Find a cozy bench and become mesmerized by the parade of passersby, from speedy cyclists to keen-eyed chess players. It’s a people-watcher’s paradise!

Make sure you peek at the events calendar before you visit. Bryant Park is renowned for its dynamic roster of events, many of which are free.

From outdoor yoga sessions to live performances, your day could get a sprinkle of spontaneous entertainment.

Fun Fact: The park is built over a library! The New York Public Library extends underneath Bryant Park.

6. Attend a Free Performance

Who says you can’t enjoy the finer things in life without spending a fortune? The Juilliard School is not just any old music conservatory; it’s a vibrant hub where the future stars of stage and screen hone their craft.

This institution regularly hosts free performances across music, dance, and drama. Instead of shelling out heaps of cash for a Broadway show, bask in the glow of the stage as future virtuosos serenade you with Mozart or dazzle you with pirouettes.

7. Visit Central Park

Central Park is a leafy retreat in the heart of New York City, bursting with activities that won’t break the bank.

To savor a moment of peace, find the hidden Conservatory Garden. It’s lesser-known and lets you enjoy colorful blooms away from the crowds. For a small fee, you can paddle across the serene lake.

Glide on the ice in the winter months at Wollman Rink, surrounded by skyscrapers. Prices are lower on weekdays.

And if you’re keen on history, many statues and monuments have fascinating backstories, such as the Alice in Wonderland sculpture—a whimsical spot for a photo that’ll remind you of childhood fairy tales.

8. Ride the Staten Island Ferry

If you’re looking to soak in the New York City skyline without squeezing your wallet, the Staten Island Ferry is your golden ticket, skimming across the New York Harbor since 1905.

This isn’t just a boring boat ride—it’s a voyage that offers breathtaking views of Lady Liberty against the sweeping cityscape backdrop, all at no cost to you.

To skip the packed crowds, aim for midday sails between 12pm and 3pm. You’ll find plenty of room to roam the deck and find your perfect photo spot. Instead of battling for views on the crowded lower levels, head up to the top deck.

9. Pay Respects at the 9/11 Memorial

The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum stands where the Twin Towers once touched the sky. It’s a place that conjures up a deep sense of reflection amidst the city’s energy.

The memorial fountains won’t cost you a dime; they are free for everyone to visit. At the heart of this visit, you’ll find the twin reflecting pools, inscribed with the names of those we lost.

With artifacts and stories, the museum offers a poignant look at the events of that day. There’s a fee, but it’s well worth it; it gives you a way to connect with history on a personal level.

10. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

With each step of the Brooklyn Bridge, you’re following a path that millions have tread, connecting the hustle of Manhattan to the charm of Brooklyn.

Start from the Brooklyn side in the morning to catch the skyline as it wakes up. The bridge is busiest around midday, so an early jaunt ensures a more peaceful walk.

This outing won’t cost you more than the soles of your shoes and the energy to propel you forward. It’s totally free, which is a lovely treat in a city known for stretching wallets!

11. Visit the High Line

The High Line is a linear park built on a historic freight rail line, that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. It’s an outdoor gallery with contemporary pieces that are as thought-provoking as they are delightful.

Hit the path early to bask in the serene morning light with fewer crowds. Look for the small nooks between the plants, they’re perfect for a peaceful moment!

Grab a coffee and a snack from a local vendor and have a picnic on one of the benches. Keep an eye out for free events and tours that often take place on the High Line.

12. Museums on Free Admission Day

Visiting museums in New York City doesn’t have to mean waving goodbye to your wallet. On free admission days, you can soak in culture and history without spending a dime.

• American Folk Art Museum: This cozy spot showcases the creativity of self-taught artists. Free entry every day makes it a sweet deal for art enthusiasts on a budget. For an extra sprinkle of delight, visit on a Thursday evening when there’s often live music.
• MoMA PS1: It’s the cooler, edgier cousin of the MoMA. All New York residents get free admittance to this contemporary art haven.
• Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum: Interested in design and innovation? Check their schedule, and you might just witness design genius without spending a penny.

13. Ride the Roosevelt Island Tram

The Roosevelt Island Tram is a delightful way to enjoy unforgettable views without emptying your wallet. It’s not every day you get to float from Manhattan to Roosevelt Island for the price of a subway fare.

Once you land, stroll down to the southern tip of the island to find a serene retreat at the FDR Four Freedoms Park. Here, you can pay homage to President Roosevelt’s famous Four Freedoms speech—freedom of speech and religion, and freedom from want and fear.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the giant staircase at the park’s edge—it’s a phenomenal spot for photos. Early birds catch the best light and fewer crowds!

14. Visit The Cloisters

Discover a slice of medieval Europe right in Manhattan by visiting The Cloisters. Tucked away in Fort Tryon Park, this branch of The Met is dedicated to the art and architecture of medieval Europe. The building itself is an artwork – pieced together from European monasteries and abbeys.

While there’s a suggested donation, it operates on a pay-what-you-wish basis for New York residents. That means you can enjoy this tranquil oasis without worrying about the cost.

15. Use Your Culture Pass

Think of the Culture Pass as your all-access pass to some of New York City’s most incredible attractions – without the price tag! Museums? Check. Historical houses? Got ’em. Vibrant gardens? You bet.

Simply flash your library card from the New York Public Library, Queens Library, or Brooklyn Public Library.

Here’s a hot tip: make reservations in advance. Spots can fill up as quickly so planning ahead means you won’t miss out.

16. Smorgasburg Food Fest

Brooklyn’s own Smorgasburg Food Fest is your go-to weekend activity. Nestled in the heart of New York’s coolest borough, this food gathering is a buzz with flavors, smiles, and the collective chatter of happy visitors.

Savor bites from hundreds of vendors, showcasing Brooklyn’s finest, often with a nifty global twist. Get there early to beat the queues and snag the freshest goodies!

17. Check Out the Street Art in Bushwick

Bushwick, a canvas that stretches across Brooklyn, is splashed with vibrant street art that tells a story at every corner. Each piece, a hand-crafted narrative, represents a unique voice in this outdoor gallery.

Begin your adventure on Troutman Street, where the colorful walls are a feast for your eyes. Don’t miss the intricate creations that add a spark to St. Nicholas Avenue.

Discover murals by Sipros Naberezny and his renowned Big Ears characters, or wander off the beaten path and find the hidden gems that many walk right past.

The best sunlight for photos is in the early morning or late afternoon, perfect for capturing the stunning array of hues.

18. Birdwatching in Prospect Park

If you’re craving a touch of nature without leaving the city, birdwatching in Prospect Park might be just the feathered adventure you’re looking for.

You’ll find over 250 species throughout the year, and being a prime spot on migratory pathways, it’s a revolving door of birds each season!

The worms, as they say, are for the early birds. Visit between dawn and 11:30 a.m. to see the most activity.

19. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour

Exploring New York City’s historic neighborhoods is like flipping through the pages of a vibrant history book but without the paper cuts.

Greenwich Village: Here, the twisting streets tell tales of artistic legends and the Beat Generation. Begin at Washington Square Park, with its iconic arch as your backdrop. Let your curiosity guide you through streets where poets once pondered and musicians strummed into the night.

Central Park: Take in the lush scenery without spending a greenback. Waltz across Bow Bridge or rest your feet by Bethesda Fountain.

Financial District: March down Wall Street, where the air buzzes with the echoes of hustle and ambition. Uncover lesser-known spots like the tranquil Stone Street, lined with cozy eateries tempting your snacking whims.

20. Visit the Socrates Sculpture Park

Discover an oasis of creativity at the Socrates Sculpture Park in Queens. Unique to the core, you’ll find sculptures and multimedia installations that change with the seasons.

There’s no cost to wander and admire, making this spot a win for your wallet! Stroll through exciting workshops and maybe join in on a spontaneous creative session.

On special event days, the park buzzes with energy from live performances and local food markets. Check out the events calendar before you go, so you don’t miss out!

21. Enjoy a Free Kayaking Session

Mark your calendar for a splash of fun because the Hudson River offers free kayaking sessions. Check out Pier 96 or the Downtown Boathouse for their kayaking offerings.

To make the most of your adventure, arrive early as it’s first-come, first-served. Don’t worry if you’re new to kayaking; the friendly staff are happy to show you the ropes.

Remember, these sessions typically run from May through October, perfect for a lovely day out when the weather is warm and welcoming.

22. Discover The Green-Wood Cemetery

Strolling through a cemetery might not be on your typical fun-things-to-do list, but The Green-Wood Cemetery is no ordinary resting place. It’s a sprawling 478-acre sanctuary that doubles as an outdoor museum—and it’s free to visit!

This Brooklyn landmark is where the charisma of history meets the calm of nature. It’s home to grand mausoleums, cherub-adorned tombstones, and countless stories etched in time.

Insider Tip: Look out for the famous residents like Leonard Bernstein or Boss Tweed. A game of historical hide-and-seek, if you will.

23. The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Eager for an escape from the city hustle? The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is your perfect hideaway. You’ll be in awe of the variety, from over 330 bird species to the occasional horseshoe crab.

Circle the West Pond or amble over to East Pond for quiet contemplation. Each turn on the trail gifts you a fresh glimpse of nature’s wonders at this majestic sanctuary.