Cheap Things to do in Nyc
New York is a fantastic tourist destination, but it isn’t always cheap. Still, there are a wide variety of ways to see the sites without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking to check out the farmers’ market, walk the High Line, or relax at Central Park, you'll never be bored. Keep scrolling to see our list of the best free and cheap things to do in the Big Apple! To make the most out of your travel experience, make sure to check out our All-Inclusive pass and Explorer pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Explore the City
If you’re a total foodie, then the next item on our list might just be for you. Attracting a whopping 60, 000 shoppers per day, the Union Square Greenmarket offers a superb selection of fresh produce and artisanal food at super affordable prices. As if that wasn’t enough, visitors can also find beautiful plants, unique handmade goods, and craft whiskey and beer all in the same space. Browse the stalls, take in the fresh air, and soak it all in!
Another one of our favorite parks in the city is the High Line. Running from Hudson Yards to the northern edge of Chelsea, this unique green space provides the perfect spot of recreation for out-of-town visitors and natives alike. Since its renovation in 2005, the elevated park now features flourishing greenery and outdoor art installations in addition to spectacular views of the city skyline. Take a casual stroll, have a picnic, or watch the sunset – the day is yours!
Whilst New York is known for its world-class museums and towering skyscrapers, the city’s parks offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy the area. Situated between the Upper West and Upper East Sides of Manhattan, Central Park stands as the most visited urban park in the United States – and with good reason. Whether you’re looking to take a biking tour, catch a free concert, or see the Conservatory Garden, there’s plenty to see and do all year round. Some of our favorite free events include Shakespeare in the Park, SummerStage Festival, and New York Philharmonic.
One of the main draws of the city is its striking world-famous architecture. Since its opening in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge has grown to become an evocative symbol of New York lifestyle. This architectural gem draws in millions of sightseers each year to appreciate its beautiful Neo-Gothic towers and sensational views of Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Waterfront. Trust us when we say that this is an essential part of the New York experience which you don’t want to skip on!
Get Cultured
New York is a real treat for art lovers, and luckily, the city provides a wide array of options that won’t have you breaking the bank. One of our favorite spots for creative intellectualism is El Museo de Barrio, located just near the northern end of Fifth Avenue’s Museum Mile. Combining creativity with culture, the museum seeks to preserve, interpret, and exhibit Puerto Rican, Caribbean, and Latin American art for a broad audience. Engaging and interesting, the institute provides a great space for visitors to learn about art history from around the globe.
New York City is well-recognized for presenting a wealth of fine cultural amenities. Those who are looking for a budget-friendly option should head over to the National Museum of the American Indian, where visitors can learn more about the Indigenous cultures of the Americas. The institute houses a magnificent collection comprised of around 800, 000 artifacts pertaining to Native American culture, including intricately detailed clothing, traditional artworks, and everyday tools. A total must-see for history buffs, the museum provides a fascinating educational experience at a fair price.
Celebrated as a center of innovation and creative thought, New York is home many art institutions that you can check out at a fair price. Situated in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, the Museum at FIT seeks to showcase the history of fashion in all its glory. Here, you can view an expansive collection of over 50, 000 pieces dating from the 5th century right through to the present day. Through award-winning exhibitions, educational programs, and special events the museum provides a unique visual experience for all visitors.
Try Something New
Those who are interested in viewing some of the city’s best graffiti should consider booking a street tour. As captivating as they are Instagram-worthy, Joseph Ficalora’s pay-as-you-like excursions seek to showcase and interpret the vibrant outdoor street gallery gracing the walls of Bushwick Collective area. Along the route, you’ll be able to view major works by Banksy and Shepard Fairey, as well as other pieces by up-and-coming artists. In addition, you’ll be able to learn more about the history of the New York street art movement as well as what makes the artists tick.
New York has long been recognized for its stunning architecture, presenting in a wide range of styles. Those who are interested in exploring the historical and constructural integrity of the city might want to check out St. Patrick’s Cathedral in the Midtown Manhattan area. Built in 1878, the noble structure remains one of the largest Cathedrals in the United States. Visitors can take free walking tours to view the majestic pillars and appreciate the romantic stained-glass windows up close.
Though visitors flock to New York for the bustling city and its monumental buildings, we highly recommend venturing a little further out to truly appreciate the intrigue of the area. An emblematic city attraction and totally free, the Staten Island Ferry provides scenic views of some of the city's most famous sights, including Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty and the Lower Manhattan Skyline. The ferry stops at St. George Terminal, where you can alight for a relaxing day exploring this unique borough. Check out the South Beach Boardwalk, kick back at Silver Lake Park, or visit Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden – the world’s your oyster!
Enjoying New York on a budget is totally possible if you’re willing to plan ahead. With a little creativity and forethought, the city should open up right in front of your eyes. Whether you’re an art lover, a total foodie, just looking to see the sites, there’s no reason why you should miss out on the quintessential New York experience. Make the best out of your travel experience with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less.