free things to do in nyc

New York City offers a wide range of free activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some ideas:

Outdoor Activities:

  1. Central Park: Explore the park’s many paths, lakes, and landmarks like the Bethesda Fountain and Loeb Boathouse.
  2. High Line: An elevated park built on an old rail line, offering great views of the Hudson River.
  3. Brooklyn Bridge: Walk across the iconic bridge for spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.
  4. Times Square: While it can be crowded, Times Square is a great place to people-watch and take in the bright lights and billboards.
  5. Prospect Park: A beautiful park in Brooklyn with a lake, meadows, and walking trails.

Museums and Galleries:

  1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art: The Met offers pay-what-you-wish admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
  2. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Free admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
  3. The Guggenheim Museum: Free admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
  4. The American Museum of Natural History: Free admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
  5. The Whitney Museum of American Art: Free admission on Fridays from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Performances and Events:

  1. Broadway Shows: Many Broadway shows offer discounted or free tickets for certain performances.
  2. TV Show Tapings: Attend a live taping of a TV show like The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon or Saturday Night Live.
  3. Outdoor Concerts: During the summer, many parks in NYC host free outdoor concerts.
  4. Festivals: NYC hosts many festivals throughout the year, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the US Open tennis tournament.
  5. Street Performances: Catch street performers in iconic locations like Times Square, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Other Free Attractions:

  1. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum: While not entirely free, the memorial is free to visit, and the museum offers free admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
  2. The New York Public Library: A beautiful Beaux-Arts building with a stunning reading room.
  3. Grand Central Terminal: Admire the stunning architecture and people-watch in this iconic train station.
  4. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden: A peaceful oasis in the heart of Brooklyn.
  5. The New York Hall of Science: A science museum with interactive exhibits and a planetarium.

Remember to check the attraction’s website for any specific rules or restrictions before visiting.

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