New York is the most famous metropolis in the world, in terms of tourists who populate its streets every year. This post will help you to plan your trip and to know what to do for free in New York. A week in New York can cost you dearly, but don’t worry, there are many ways to visit this city without coming home crying. Not all the activities listed here can be done at any time of the year, but I am sure that many will serve you for your journey. Maybe start with a free tour of the city can be interesting, book here!
MUSEUMS
New York is famous for offering its museums to its citizens as well as tourists for free. Donations are free you can donate 1 cent or 100 USD, they will thank you in the same way. Careful with MET museum, from 2018, you pay an entrance fee of 25 USD. The museums where you can enter for free in New York are:
- Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration: free access to the museum but to access it is necessary to buy the ticket for the cruise.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): every Friday from 16 to 20.
- Memorial & Museum 9/11: Tuesday afternoon free. Reservations required.
- American Museum of Natural History
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden: it’s not a museum, but it’s worth taking advantage of free Tuesday afternoon in the summer or on weekends in the winter.
- New York Aquarium: “Pay as much as you want” Friday from 3pm until closing.
- Guggenheim Museum: “Pay as much as you want” on Saturday from 17:45 to 19:45.
- Victoria’s Secret exhibition: it’s not a museum, but it’s free forever.
ATTRACTION FOR FREE IN NEW YORK
The statue of Liberty is a classic of the city, instead of visiting it, many decide to see it for free from the ferry to Staten Island. It’s a quick and cheap option, I’ve done that too.
The High Line is one of my favorite free activities in New York, it deserves to be seen. Another interesting stop is The City Hall of New York. The visit must be booked in advance, I found it interesting but not very useful if you don’t have time. Would you like some advice on what to taste in NY? Read here!
ACTIVITIES
Movies with a View at Brooklyn Bridge Park away to see a movie outdoors and with a spectacular view of Manhattan.
Not many people know that the Central Park Conservancy offers free guided tours this link opens in a new tab of Manhattan’s largest park. Not many people know that the Central Park Conservancy offers free guided tours.
Until mid-October, you can take a kayak out for free on the Hudson River at Pier 26. Street. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Hungry? Maybe you will appreciate this recommendation.
CONCERTS AND EVENTS
Celebrate Brooklyn! During the summer, go to Prospect Park Bandshell. While there are always a few ticketed benefit concerts, nearly all the shows are open to anybody.
Shakespeare in the Park. If you like theater it’s a great opportunity, it’s in the heart of the central park. A certain amount of free tickets are offered each afternoon to those who arrive early or are lucky enough to win the online lottery.
Broadway in Bryant Park. At this annual summer tradition, actors from the current Broadway and Off-Broadway show wow audiences with song-and-dance numbers.
Fans of the Tonight Show can watch a taping with Jimmy Fallon at NBC’s studios in Rockefeller Center with a bit of advanced planning. Free tickets a month in advance, don’t miss your chance.
More info about New York you can find here! New York in one week.
