Visiting New York on a Budget - A Simple Way to Save on Your Vacation

By Lindsay Eagan

Visiting New York on a budget can sometimes feel limiting when it comes to deciding what to see and do during your trip. But guess what, it doesn't have to be hard. The built in admission discounts and flexibility of a New York City Explorer Pass can help maximizes savings for any type of traveler. Here's a quick list of some popular attractions you can visit so that you can allot more of your New York vacation budget towards other things like lodging, dining, and more.

Save on Admission to Tourist Attractions

Admission to many of these New York City tourist attractions and are available on the New York City Explorer Pass. The New York City Explorer Pass give you the flexibility to choose as you go from dozens of top attractions to create a vacation tailored to your family's interests. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. A few of the attractions include:
  • Empire State Building
  • Top of the Rock
  • Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferry
  • American Museum of Natural History
  • and more!

Top Attractions to Visit for a Budget Friendly Trip Empire State Building

Image of Empire State Building, Landmark, Tower, Filled with various historical exhibits, restaurants, and shops, the Empire State Building has only grown over time as an essential stop for visitors to New York City. Up at the 86th floor observatory you will get to enjoy some awe-inspiring views of the city. For those interested in the history of the building itself, the Dare to Dream exhibit includes original documents, architectural sketches, and reproductions of photos and mementos from the workers that worked on this monument to the American Dream. Lower in the building, a new sustainability exhibit showcases the Empire State Building's groundbreaking sustainability initiatives. Getting In: Empire State Building tickets are an available option on the New York Explorer Pass

Top of the Rock

Image of Building, Cityscape, Urban, City, Outdoors, Nature, Aerial View, A legacy left by John D. Rockefeller, the Rockefeller Center was established as a place for business and community congregation. Aptly named, the Top of the Rock allows visitors to witness the urban scene from two indoor floors and an open air observation deck on the 70th floor. Indoors, the interactive Beam Walk lets visitors make their own version of the iconic photo of construction workers having lunch on a beam. For those who enjoy more luminous attractions, the Top of the Rock is also home to the "Joie", a fiber-optic illuminated chandelier crafted by Swarovski with over 14,000 crystals. Getting In: Top of the Rock Observatory tickets are an available on the New York Explorer Pass.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Image of Art, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Designated a National Monument in 1924, the Statue of Liberty stands tall as a universal symbol of freedom. For the past 80 years, members of the National Park Service have taken care of this gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States. During your visit, Park Rangers and volunteers can answer questions about the history of the statue, Ellis Island, and other portions of the area that you may take interest in. Getting In: Ferry tickets for Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island are an available on the New York Explorer Pass.

American Museum of Natural History

Image of Indoors, Museum, Bench, Animal, Sheep, Computer Hardware, Electronics, Hardware, Monitor, Screen, The American Museum of Natural History stands in New York City as a survey of the world's cultures, a manual of its plants and animals, and a window into the vastness of the universe. The museum houses 45 permanent exhibition halls with additional non-permanent exhibitions. Tours (both public and self-guided), programs, and resources are available for adults and children of all ages. To help plan your trip, the museum website also provides an official interactive map. Getting In: American Museum of Natural History tickets are an available on the New York Explorer Pass.

THE RIDE

Image of Bus, Vehicle, City, Car, Urban, Tour Bus, Person, Double Decker Bus, A truly unique sightseeing experience, The RIDE is the perfect choice for those that wish to take in the streets of New York City. It combines the natural NYC backdrop with street performances, improvisation, and stadium seating in multi-million-dollar coaches. With interactive hosts and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, "You won’t be able to tell where the New York City streets begin and the show ends!" Getting In: THE RIDE NYC tickets are an available on the New York Explorer Pass.

Fun Options to Visit During Your Trip:

Even when visiting New York on a budget, there seems like no end to the places that you can take in. Here are some more suggestions for those with different tastes, or simply more time - each of which is available on the Explorer Pass. The Museum of Modern Art -An ever-expanding range of visual expression, including art in mediums such as sculpture, photography, architecture, and performance art. 9/11 Tribute Center & Tour - Exhibits which connect you to the events and aftermath of the 9/11 tragedy through stories, images, and film. Hop On Hop Off Uptown/Downtown Bus Tours - Tour bus routes that cover everything from Uptown to Brooklyn, with hundreds of stops to see and explore. Landmark Cruise: Circle Line Sightseeing - Sightseeing cruise that gets you a good look at the Statue of Liberty, the “Freedom Tower” at One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, and all three bridges that connect Manhattan to Brooklyn. Yankee Stadium: Classic Tour - Stadium tour that includes the New York Yankees Museum, Monument Park, and additional sites based on season and availability.

Free Activities for a Budget Friendly Vacation

Central Park - The most frequently visited urban park in the United States, Central Park is 843 acres of history, design, and ecology. The High Line Park - A 1.45-mile-long urban park repurposed from a disused railway, with naturalized plantings and various cultural attractions. Battery Park - Home to the Castle Clinton National Monument, this park was named after an artillery battery the first Dutch settlers built to protect the harbor and New Amsterdam. Times Square - An icon of urban culture for over a century, you'll always be able to find an event or some form of entertainment at Times Square.

Let's Recap on Visiting New York on a Budget

There you go - a few great recommendations for things to do when visiting New York City on a budget. Remember, many of these great budget friendly attraction options and more are included on the New York Explorer Pass, where you can save up to 50% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. So when you are planning your trip, consider including some of these options to your New York City vacation itinerary.

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Statue of Liberty in front of the Manhattan skyline
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The Best Time to Visit The Statue of Liberty

Perhaps the definitive emblem of American freedom, the Statue of Liberty is a must-see attraction on any visit to New York City. Sure, it can be seen from dozens of vantage points around Manhattan: the 86th floor of the Empire State Building, Battery Park, Brooklyn Bridge, the One World Observatory... and the list goes on. But nothing beats getting right up close with a roundtrip on the ferry to Ellis Island, where you can visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and various parts of the Green Goddess herself. Yep, that even includes the 162-step climb up the internal spiral staircase and into the famous crown: one for those with a head for heights only! Read on for our guide to the best times to visit this American icon. Opening hours The park is comprised of Ellis Island, Liberty Island and their various attractions, and is open from 9AM until 5.45PM daily, including most holidays. The park is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Please check the Statue City Cruises website for the most up-to-date ferry schedule and seasonal variations on opening hours. Advance booking is required. Your Go City attraction pass includes the return ferry trip, plus entry to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and ground level area of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. Best time to visit the Statue of Liberty The first thing to know is that the Statue of Liberty is one of the most-visited attractions in NYC. The second is that, if you plan to visit both Ellis and Liberty islands in one day, you should aim to get as early a ferry as possible. Services start running from 8.30AM in summer, which should even leave early risers with enough time for a leisurely breakfast before boarding. Summer is Lady Liberty’s busiest season, with more frequent ferry services leading to denser crowds and, by extension, longer lines. Spring and fall see slight dips in tourism, meaning less time spent waiting around, while winter is the quietest season of all, with queues often non-existent. But it’s a hardy soul who braves the cold of Liberty island in New York’s famously freezing January. Inevitably weekends are busier than mid-week, but it really is all relative and there is truly no quiet time to visit the statue. Our recommendation is to catch the first ferry departures Tuesday–Thursday if you really want to beat the crowds and get inside the museums ahead of anybody else. Note that the popularity and limited capacity of the statue’s crown and pedestal areas (not included in the standard ferry ticket) mean advance booking is essential. Getting to the Statue of Liberty The only way to get to the Statue of Liberty is via ferry from departure points in Battery Park in Manhattan or the Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Aim to arrive approximately 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time as there’s a required security screening of all passengers before boarding. Tickets You can check the latest schedule and book tickets on the Statue City Cruises website. All ferry tickets include access to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and Statue of Liberty Museum and grounds. If you want to visit the pedestal or climb the spiral staircase to the crown, you’ll need separate tickets. These must be booked in advance via the Statue City Cruises website. Save money with a Go City Explorer or All-Inclusive pass for New York attractions, which includes your ferry ticket plus entry to the museums. Passes also give you access to dozens more iconic attractions around the Big Apple, including the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the Guggenheim and the Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observation deck. Where to eat Fancy a picnic? You’re welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks to both islands, but all items must be sealed during the screening process and large coolers are not permitted. No food or drink can be taken inside the pedestal or crown of the Statue of Liberty; lockers are available for storing items. There are also snack bars on the ferries as well as cafes serving a variety of sandwiches, snacks, salads and ice creams on both islands. In brief... Visiting as early in the day as possible, ideally Tuesday to Thursday during spring or fall makes for the most comfortable weather conditions and the shortest lines. In truth, there is no time to visit the Statue of Liberty when it won’t be at least a little busy, but the tenet of booking the earliest ferry in the day holds true regardless of season or day of the week. It really is your best chance of dodging the lines and being first inside the museums before the tourist crowds descend. Finally, don’t forget to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit the pedestal or crown areas. Get the Go City attraction pass to make great savings when visiting this and other top New York City attractions! Useful links Book tickets online Get the Go City attraction pass for New York Visit the Statue of Liberty with Go City Further information for visiting the Statue of Liberty
Stuart Bak
Blog

Best Brunch Spots in New York

Brunch is a serious business in New York. It’s when everyone rolls out of bed, fights through that weekend malaise (or possible hangover), and heads out to the new hot spot for the decadent food and bottomless mimosas. For brunch lovers heading to (or living in) New York City, we’ve pulled together our favorite venues for this timeless weekend rite. To help fill out the rest of your day, we’ve also made some suggestions for other fun things to do in the area after you’ve eaten your fill. Red Rooster View this post on Instagram A post shared by Red Rooster (@roosterharlem) on Feb 2, 2019 at 9:01am PST The brainchild of famed chef Marcus Samuelsson, this Harlem hot spot boasts a menu filled with all the luscious southern favorites you can imagine—fried chicken and waffles, biscuits, gooey cinnamon rolls, and the ever-popular rooster slam, a delectable combo of hot honey chicken, blueberry waffle, French toast, beef sausage, bacon, and a fried egg. Things to do Nearby: We like the walking tour of Harlem that focuses on the history of gospel in this neighborhood, or the self-guided bike tour of Harlem to help you burn off that eggs benedict. Jacob’s Pickles View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jacob's Pickles (@jacobspickles) on Aug 22, 2019 at 9:53am PDT You’ll probably need to wait at this immensely popular UWS spot, but it’s worth every minute. Their abundant menu features practically everything we can imagine wanting for brunch: more southern favorites like biscuits and gravy, the French classic Croque madame, deviled eggs, catfish tacos (I know, right!?) and, of course, their signature array of pickled veggies. Things to do Nearby: Jacob’s Pickles is conveniently close to many cultural attractions like the American Museum of Natural History and the New York Historical Society Museum, as well as the west side of Central Park. Victor’s Café View this post on Instagram A post shared by Victors Cafe (@victorscafenyc) on Aug 26, 2019 at 9:01am PDT A sumptuous array of Cuban cuisine awaits you at Victor’s Café. Located in Hell’s Kitchen, this brunch powerhouse offers classics alongside new inventions—our top picks include ceviche de pargo, bartolito (plantain croquettes), empanadas, and the Cubana frittata. They also offer hearty brunch entrees that feel more like dinner options, but you’ll leave feeling stuffed and content. Things to do Nearby: Within a stone’s throw of the theatre district, Victor’s Café is near the Museum of Modern Art, Radio City Music Hall, and the Top of the Rock. Plus, you know, all the theatres. Vinegar Hill House View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vinegar Hill House (@vinegarhillhouse) on Aug 10, 2019 at 4:33am PDT Among the most popular restaurants in Brooklyn, Vinegar Hill House is a cozy space serving rustic dishes from a modest menu. You won’t have a wealth of choices, but what they offer makes up for it in taste. Some current dishes (although these may change) include sourdough pancakes, omelets, and shrimp and grits. Things to do Nearby: Explore the Brooklyn Navy Yard, walk around DUMBO, get some shopping in, or check out the local street art. Olmsted View this post on Instagram A post shared by Olmsted (@olmstednyc) on Aug 18, 2019 at 9:19am PDT Located in Prospect Heights, this eclectic restaurant features plentiful brunch in beautiful digs. The menu shifts frequently to cater to seasonal produce and local sources, but some recent options have included Austrian donuts, potato latkes, heirloom tomato schnitzel, and waffles with seasonal fruit and whipped cream. You can also enjoy a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Things to do Nearby: One of the best ways to unwind and burn a few calories from brunch is to stroll in some fresh air—fortunately, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Museum is right near Olmsted! Locanda Verde View this post on Instagram A post shared by Locanda Verde (@locandaverde) on Aug 15, 2019 at 6:01am PDT Fans of Italian cuisine will adore the rustic and hearty fare offered by one of the city’s best. A beloved spot in Tribeca, Locanda Verde features favorites like lemon-ricotta pancakes, frittatas, sandwiches, and all kinds of egg dishes. If you’re there on the later end of brunch, you can also opt for more hearty savory dishes—definitely worth the feeling of being extra full. Things to do Nearby: Several cruises depart from the adjacent piers if you’re hoping to enjoy a leisurely boat ride around the harbor. You’re also close to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Café Mogador View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mogador (@mogadorcafe) on Jun 17, 2019 at 10:05pm PDT Fans of Moroccan food, or anyone looking to try something unique, will delight in Café Mogador. Its East Village location boasts flavorful Mediterranean dishes like halloumi with eggs, French toast, eggs with spicy stewed tomatoes, buttermilk pancakes, and organic granola. You can also choose from sides like house-made merguez sausage, bacon, and authentic sauces like Schug. Things to do Nearby: You’re a few blocks or a quick transit ride away from several different cultural tours, including a tour of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral and the downtown experience by the RIDE, an entertaining tour perfect for visitors. Upland View this post on Instagram A post shared by Upland (@upland_nyc) on Aug 4, 2019 at 7:28pm PDT Anyone homesick for California or their fresh cuisine won’t want to skip brunch at Upland. Located in the Flatiron District, this chic restaurant combines Italian influences with a Cali cool vibe in dishes like funky donuts, buttermilk pancakes, eggs benedict, quiche, and bucatini cacio e pepe. May we also recommend “The Larry David,” an everything bagel with smoked whitefish, tomatoes, capers, and cream cheese? Things to do Nearby: If you’re brunching with your significant other—or a hot date—then try checking out the Museum of Sex. It’s a funky little space that’s among the most unique museums in the city. Otherwise, the Empire State Building is a few blocks farther north. Balthazar View this post on Instagram A post shared by Scott Shells (@scottshells) on Sep 1, 2019 at 9:18am PDT A longstanding Soho brasserie, Balthazar is not for those with a light budget. However, should you be in the mood to splurge, they offer a menu bursting with French delights like caramelized banana tartine, chicken liver, and foie gras mousse, eggs Florentine, a ratatouille omelet, and many (very expensive) seafood options. If you want to see the décor but only want to spend a bit, try one of their hangover drinks—which will still run you over $15/drink, but hey, it’s Soho. Things to do Nearby: Soho’s location makes it the perfect nexus for local tours, as well as the City Winery, which is an awesome destination if you want to keep up with the imbibing. Maison Kayser View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eric Kayser Officiel (@maisonkayser) on Aug 12, 2019 at 8:19am PDT This bakery-slash-café is one of a series of such outposts, but the original location in the UES is a nice place to start. Offering primarily French fare—and doing very well at baking said French pastries—this is the perfect option for those looking for a quick bite or less expensive option. Some of their most iconic dishes include natural levain bread and viennoiseries, all baked on-site. You can choose from a pit stop at the coffee bar to grab some bread, or a sit-down at the café to enjoy a full Parisian menu. Things to do Nearby: The Upper East Side is filled with nature, culture, and fun. Spend the rest of the day at the Met, zip around Central Park on a bike, or marvel at the architecture at the Guggenheim Museum. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination too!
Katie Sagal
Blog

5 of the Best Day Trips from New York

We can all appreciate how much of a draw New York City is for visitors, as well as why its residents so enthusiastically embrace living in this diverse metropolis. But sometimes, we’re in search of a different experience. Whether you’re a New Yorker looking for a weekend getaway destination, or a traveler hoping to expand the scope of your East Coast explorations, these excursions can be just the thing. Check out our top five best day trips from New York. For those destinations with estimated train times, we recommend opting for Amtrak over driving. If you have the flexibility, you can avoid paying loads for parking. Philadelphia An ever-popular city with loads of historical attractions like the Betsy Ross House and the Liberty Bell, there’s so much to draw families to Philly. They boast a number of amazing museums, too, like the Franklin Institute Science Museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art (home of the famed Rocky steps), and the Museum of the American Revolution. Philadelphia is also a major culinary destination. With new restaurants popping up in neighborhoods all over, you only have to explore areas like Rittenhouse Square and Washington Square West to find dozens of delicious places to eat. If you’re looking for something really unique, consider dining at the Moshulu – a restaurant aboard a ship! Getting there: Philadelphia is a two-hour drive or a one and a half-hour train ride from New York. Washington DC It’s on the longish end for a day trip, but it’s well worth it. Check out unique museums like the Newseum and the International Spy Museum, as well as the free Smithsonian offerings. Fortunately for day-trippers, the area near and north of the National Mall is also excellent for shopping and dining. For recommendations, here are our best places to eat in DC. DC is also a great place to take in a sporting event because most of their major stadiums are accessible via the Metro: check out Nationals Park, the Capital One Arena (home to the Washington Capitals), or Audi Field (where the red hot D.C. United soccer team plays). Getting there: Washington DC is a four and a half-hour drive or a three and a half-hour train ride from New York. Boston NYC’s neighbor to the north and cultural rival on multiple fronts, Boston is a perfect day trip city. You can really dig into one part of the city and make a full day out of a museum or three and a couple of great meals. We especially recommend the North End for Italian cuisine and Cambridge for New American favorites. Families will love the New England Aquarium, kids will adore the Museum of Science, and everyone will be inspired by the MFA. Boston is also another great sports town, with Fenway Park and the Boston Garden both representing multiple championship teams. Finally, don’t forget to just take a stroll and enjoy the iconic Boston Common and Boston Public Garden. Getting there: Boston is a four-hour train ride from New York. Long Beach Island This isn’t the closest Jersey Shore destination to New York City, but it’s probably the best one. If you’re willing to take that extra hour or so (depending on traffic) to get down to LBI, you’ll be amply rewarded. The beaches are less crowded than the ones immediately adjacent to NYC—especially the farther south on the island you go—and you can enjoy a better balance of shopping, dining, and sunbathing. Take the kids to Fantasy Island Amusement Park, Thundering Surf Water Park, and/or Settler’s Mill Adventure Golf. There’s shopping to be found in and around Bay Village, and Panzone’s Pizza & Pasta is a Jersey legend. You can also visit the Holgate Nature Conservatory to soak up the natural beauty of this island. Getting there: Long Beach Island is a two and a half-hour drive from New York. Catskill Mountains The inspiration for several prominent American artists of the nineteenth century, the Catskill Mountains are a massive protected forest preserve in southeastern New York State that will truly take your breath away with its natural beauty. Come here to kayak the Esopus Creek, bike the Catskill Scenic Trail, or hike Devil’s Path. There are also multiple mountains for skiing in the region. The Catskills are a cultural destination as well, having been home to many arts events and music festivals, including the legendary Woodstock. Now the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts offers an amphitheater, performing arts center, and museum on the former site of the 1969 festival. Getting there: The Catskill Mountains is a three-hour drive from New York. Save on the Best Day Trips from New York You can save on a few of these day-trip ideas with Go City. Save up to 55% on top tourist attractions and activities in many cities, including Boston, Philadelphia, DC, and, of course, New York City. It’s a smart way to budget for your ultimate day trip from New York. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination too!
Katie Sagal

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