10 Budget-Friendly Activities To Do in New York City
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge offers a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline and is completely free. The walk is approximately 1.1 miles (1.8 km) long and takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. There are plenty of spots to stop and take photos along the way, and you can also enjoy views of the East River and Brooklyn.
Visit Central Park
Central Park is one of the most famous parks in the world and offers plenty of free activities. You can take a stroll through the park, have a picnic, watch a performance at the Delacorte Theater, or visit one of the many sculptures and monuments throughout the park. There are also plenty of bike rental options available if you want to explore the park on wheels.
Explore the High Line
The High Line is a unique park built on an abandoned elevated railroad track. It's free to visit and offers beautiful views of the city, as well as art installations and gardens. You can take a leisurely stroll or sit and relax on one of the many benches along the way.
Visit the Statue of Liberty
While entry to the statue and Ellis Island can be costly, you can still see the statue for free by taking the Staten Island Ferry. The ferry runs 24 hours a day, and the ride offers views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. The ferry ride takes about 25 minutes each way.
See the 9/11 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial is a moving tribute to the victims of the September 11th attacks and is free to visit. The memorial features two large reflecting pools with waterfalls that sit in the footprints of the original Twin Towers. There are also names of the victims inscribed around the pools.
Visit the New York Public Library
The New York Public Library is a historic building with beautiful architecture and is free to enter. The library's main reading room is a sight to see, with its massive chandeliers and ceiling murals. The library also hosts many events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met has a suggested admission fee of $25, but visitors can actually pay what they wish. The museum is home to over two million works of art from around the world, including ancient artifacts, modern art, and everything in between. The museum also offers a variety of tours and exhibitions throughout the year.
Explore Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village is a charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and plenty of independent shops and cafes to explore. You can take a stroll through Washington Square Park, check out the street performers, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many local eateries.
Enjoy a slice of pizza
New York is known for its pizza, and you can enjoy a slice without breaking the bank at local favorites like Joe's Pizza or Prince Street Pizza. You can also try other local specialties like bagels, hot dogs, and pretzels, all available for reasonable prices throughout the city.
In conclusion, New York City offers plenty of budget-friendly activities, from exploring parks and neighborhoods to visiting landmarks and museums. With a little bit of planning and research, you can enjoy all that the city has to offer without overspending.