22 Free Things to Do in NYC

It’s no secret that NYC is one of the most expensive cities in the world. A $20 vodka soda is the norm, and $300/night for a hotel is considered a steal. After 8 years of living here, I’ve rounded up 22 of my favorite FREE things to do in NYC. Babes on a budget – this one’s for you.

 

22 Free Things to Do in NYC

 

1. Brooklyn Bridge Park

   This park is one of my favorite places in NYC. As you walk through it you’ll find soccer fields, basketball courts, rock climbing walls, dog runs, a ton of amazing restaurants and food carts, and a breathtaking view of the New York skyline. Also, in the summertime there’s free kayaking, a public pool, plus beach volleyball!

2. Gallery Hopping in Chelsea

   I’m honestly a bit mad it took me 5 years to find out about this! Particularly on Thursdays, there are several gallery openings in Chelsea. You can attend these openings for free, enjoy the art, mingle, and even sip on complimentary wine & beer. Also, this is a super fun & free way to pregame before a night out! I recommend downloading the app Chelsea Gallery Map or head over to their website to keep track of all the upcoming openings.

3. Samsung 837

   While I am a loyal iPhone user, I have to admit Samsung is giving Apple a run for their money with this store! They host free concerts, fitness classes, and multiple free virtual reality experiences.

4. Comedy Shows

   If you head to Macdougal Street in the West Village you’ll come across some people on the street yelling about free comedy shows. While entry is free, there is a two-drink minimum. But you can always just get a few sodas instead of splurging on $15 cocktails 😉

5. TV Show Tapings

   Not only can you watch some of your favorite TV shows live, but you can also get paid for it! Just sign up at OnSetProductions.com beforehand and you can apply to be an audience member on shows like Beat Bobby Flay and Teen Moms 2! Also, the majority of these shows will pay you anywhere between $20-$75 cash at the end of the show just for being an audience member. Just make sure you’re on time and dressed appropriately!

6. Washington Square Park

   This is a gorgeous Park full of culture! You’ll see anything from a classical pianist (how did he get that piano there?!) to hip hop dancers. In addition, it’s perfect for people watching, plus everyone from NYU hangs out there- so you’re bound to meet someone interesting.

7. Friends Apartment
   

   So no one told you life was gonna be this wayyy? See where it all went down at 90 Bedford St, New York, NY 10014.

8. Sex and the City Apartment
   

   Since you’ll be in the neighborhood, you might as well stop by Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment next! Find it at 66 Perry St, New York, NY 10014.

9. Staten Island Ferry

   Take a free ride to Staten Island and enjoy a view of the Statue of Liberty on the way! I particularly enjoy doing this in the Spring/Summer – otherwise it can be miserably cold.

10. MOMA
    

    Enjoy the city’s most modern masterpieces for free, every Friday evening from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

11. Concerts

    One of my favorite staffing jobs I ever had was just standing on the street telling people that there was a free Ariana Grande concert going on! Yes, I got paid for that- and it was awesome LOL. I remember one girl was so excited that she sprinted home to drop off an armful of groceries, and then came back for the show. Surprisingly this happens more than often in NYC. There are tons of free concerts year round! Also, stay up to date by checking NYCFreeConcerts.com and donyc.com/topfreeshows

12. Brooklyn Botanic Gardens
    

    This place is BEAUTIFUL. If you are in need of a reset, come here and let nature do its work. You will feel so at peace you won’t believe you’re in NYC. In addition, entry is free from December-February on weekdays Tuesday–Friday, and free Fridays before noon year round.

13. Central Park

    I’ve lived in NYC for almost a decade now and still haven’t managed to explore all of Central Park. It seems every time I go I can discover something new. My favorite parts would have to be The Lake, The Lawn, Sheep’s Meadow, The Loch (a hidden waterfall!), The Alice in Wonderland Statue, & The Bethesda Terrace Arcade. Also, this park is perfect for a picnic, sports, watching street performances, or just walking and chatting with a friend.

14. Coney Island Boardwalk & Beach

    Stroll down the boardwalk and you’ll feel like you were transported to Venice Beach. Sure, it’s not as nice, but it’s the closest thing you can get here in New York. Furthermore, in the summer I love heading down to the beach to lay out and taking a walk around the amusement park!

15. Movies

    NYC hosts free outdoor movie screenings all summer long! Some are even sponsored so you get free snacks 😉 Stay updated by checking the schedule & make sure to get there early with a comfy blanket in tow.

16. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

    I love starting on the Manhattan side and venturing into DUMBO. This is a super scenic walk, but be warned it’s almost always crowded. Also, watch out for bikes and walk like a New Yorker!

17. The High Line

    Stretching from 14th street to 34th street, take a scenic walk in the sky on this old railroad track turned park. You’ll find amazing works of street art along the way, as well as some amazing architecture.

18. Union Square

    There is always something going on in Union Square – it really is where people come together. Walk through the Farmer’s Market, watch one of the many street performances going on, or join a game of chess!

19. Battery Park
    

    This park boasts beautiful views of the NJ skyline and the Statue of Liberty! It’s a great spot for a picnic or even laying out.

20. Street Fairs

    These fairs pop up every weekend during the summer. They change the location each week so make sure you check the schedule to keep up. In addition, there are tons of free food samples, plus you can browse through antique jewelry and vintage clothes.

21. Bryant Park

    Watch people ice skating during the winter, or enjoy free movie screenings during the summer! Also, there are tons of tables and chairs to sit at, which are perfect for an outdoor lunch with friends.

22. Shakespeare in the Park

    Watch your favorite Shakespearean plays in Central Park totally free! Also, click here for all of the different ways to score tickets, and here for the schedule.

A Handy Map –

 

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