New York City is an energetic city full of fun activities.
And it’s no secret that NYC can be expensive. It’s hard for both locals and visitors to enjoy the city on a budget.
But there are many cheap and fun things to do in NYC.
To give you a better idea, I’ve compiled a list of the 15 best, cheap, and free activities in NYC.
From museums to outdoor fun, explore the list below.
Top Cheap Things to Do in NYC
1. Explore NYC’s Cultural Gems with the Culture Pass
The Culture Pass initiative lets cardholders access over 40 major New York attractions. They can access them for free with their library cards.
This program lets you visit popular places. It includes the Brooklyn Botanical Garden and the Whitney Museum of American Art (watch the video above).
And, you don’t have to pay a cent. The Culture Pass is a great way to dive into the city’s vibrant culture. And, it won’t break the bank.
2. Take Advantage of Free Museum Days
Did you know that many museums in NYC offer free hours or days with pay-what-you-wish admission?
This means you can freely explore top art, history, and science museums.
Check the schedules of your favorite museums.
See when you can visit them for free or at a discount. It’s a great chance to grow your knowledge and learn to appreciate the city’s rich culture.
3. Try NYC Food
New York City is a food lover’s paradise, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a delicious meal. You can find cheap options to satisfy your cravings. They range from delicious pizza to tasty street food.
Get a classic New York hot dog.
You can also try ethnic cuisine from around the world. You’ll find many cheap eats that are tasty and budget-friendly.
You may also like: Top 25 Places to Enjoy the Best Brownie in NYC
4. Explore NYC During Winter Outing
NYC & Co.’s Must-See Week is from January to February. It offers 2-for-1 tickets to many cultural places. These places include museums, concert halls, and Broadway shows. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the city’s culture.
Also, NYC Restaurant Week is part of the Winter Outing. It features pre-fixe menus at nearly 500 restaurants. They allow you to enjoy a delicious meal at an affordable price.
5. Discover NYC’s Happy Hours
What’s better than enjoying a fabulous cocktail at one of New York City’s best bars?
Getting that cocktail at a discounted price!! 😉
New Yorkers love a good deal. The city is full of happy hour spots. At them, you can get cheaper drinks and appetizers.
Whether you’re in the mood for a trendy rooftop bar or a cozy dive, there’s something for everyone.
Check out the local guides to find the best happy hours in NYC and make the most of your nightlife experience.
6. Enjoy Public Art in NYC
New York City is like a giant outdoor art gallery. Incredible public art installations dot its parks, streets, and buildings.
You can see sculptures and murals. You can also see interactive installations.
Visit some of the most famous art spots. These include the High Line, Central Park, and the Met.
You may also like: Discover All 22 Museums in Midtown NYC
7. Discover NYC’s Art Galleries
There are many cheap things to do in NYC for gallery lovers as well. New York City has some of the world’s best art galleries. They show the works of both established and new artists.
Explore neighborhoods like Chelsea, Brooklyn, and the Lower East Side. You can feel the local vibes there.
Check out these websites for free admission (offered by NYC.gov):
- American Folk Art Museum
- American Museum of Natural History
- BRIC Rotunda Gallery
- Bronx Museum of the Arts
- CUE Art Foundation
8. Score Cheap Broadway Tickets
Broadway shows are a must-see when visiting NYC, but tickets can often be expensive.
If you think that Broadway shows are not among the cheapest things to do in NYC, you’re wrong!!
With some planning, you can find cheap Broadway tickets. You can then enjoy a world-class show for just a fraction of the cost.
I would advise you to check these three websites:
These websites offer cheap tickets to popular shows. You can also try your luck at the TKTS booth in Times Square for same-day discounts.
9. Escape to Governors Island
If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Governors Island. This car-free oasis offers a peaceful retreat. It has breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride. Have a picnic in the park. Or explore the island’s art and historic sites.
Governors Island is open year-round. Admission is free. This makes it perfect for a budget-friendly day trip.
10. Catch a Free Show at Pete’s Candy Store
Set in Brooklyn, Pete’s Candy Store offers many free entertainment options.
So if you’re an entertainment lover, keep this on your list.
It has live music and poetry readings. It also has comedy shows and art exhibitions. There’s always something happening at this intimate venue.
Uncover rising artists while you enjoy a drink.
Check their calendar for upcoming events. Make sure to experience the vibrant arts scene in Brooklyn.
11. Explore Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood Cemetery is a resting place for some of New York’s most prominent figures.
Take a walk through this pretty cemetery. Admire its Victorian mausoleums, nice landscaping, and city views.
Visit the Gothic arch at the main entrance. Battle Hill is a must-see too.
In fact, it was key in the Battle of Brooklyn during the American Revolution. You can even climb to the top.
Best of all, entry to Green-Wood Cemetery is free. So just grab it!!
You may also like: 13 Best Parks in Queens, NY
12. Watch a Movie at Syndicated
If you’re a film lover, don’t miss the opportunity to catch a movie at Syndicated in Brooklyn.
This special theater combines a restaurant and bar. So you can enjoy a tasty meal or drink while watching a movie. The theater offers first-run films for less than $10. It is an affordable and fun way to see movies in NYC.
Also, Syndicated hosts free sidewalk showings of popular movies in the summer. Watching an outdoor movie is just amazing there.
13. Visit the New York Public Library
The New York Public Library is a cultural institution that offers a wealth of resources and activities for free. So keep this as one of the best and most free things to do in NYC.
You can tour the beautiful Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. You can see the Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library’s Treasures. Or, you can attend one of the many free events and workshops.
The library also offers free access to a vast collection of digital resources. These include e-books, audiobooks, and databases. It’s a great place to learn, explore, and be inspired
14. Enjoy Free Food Samples of Bleeker Street
Want to go somewhere and taste some free food? They visit Bleeker Street, some pizzerias, etc.
You can find different food options. At no cost or for minimal expense.
Some of the food you can find there are pork meals, cheese samples, hot beverages, etc.
I suggest these food spots that I’ve personally experienced:
15. Get a Hair Care in NYC for FREE
Have a date or seek a place for your hair care?
This is actually possible for Free in NYC. Check this website. It offers many options including the salon’s name, service type, and date availability.
Licensed cosmetologists apprentice at local salons to gain hours and experience. This allows them to earn a beauty education beyond their Beauty School certification.
What does this mean?
This simply means that you can get a professional haircut or treatment for free. And all this by top-rated New York beauty salons.
Plus, you’ll save a lot of money since hair care in NYC is quite expensive.
Conclusion
New York City may be known for its high costs, but there are plenty of affordable and exciting things to do there.
There are endless opportunities to have a great time without spending much money.
Enjoy museums, art galleries, free performances, and outdoor activities. Get the most out of the city of New York.
With some planning and creativity, you can have an unforgettable experience.
Good luck!!
