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:
- Central Park: Explore the park’s many paths, lakes, and landmarks like the Bethesda Fountain and Loeb Boathouse.
- High Line: An elevated park built on an old rail line, offering great views of the Hudson River.
- Brooklyn Bridge: Walk across the iconic bridge for spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.
- Times Square: While it can be crowded, Times Square is a great place to people-watch and take in the bright lights and billboards.
- Prospect Park: A beautiful park in Brooklyn with a lake, meadows, and walking trails.
Museums and Galleries:
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art: The Met offers pay-what-you-wish admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Free admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- The Guggenheim Museum: Free admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- The American Museum of Natural History: Free admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- The Whitney Museum of American Art: Free admission on Fridays from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Performances and Events:
- Broadway Shows: Many Broadway shows offer discounted or free tickets for certain performances.
- TV Show Tapings: Attend a live taping of a TV show like The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon or Saturday Night Live.
- Outdoor Concerts: During the summer, many parks in NYC host free outdoor concerts.
- Festivals: NYC hosts many festivals throughout the year, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the US Open tennis tournament.
- Street Performances: Catch street performers in iconic locations like Times Square, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Other Free Attractions:
- 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.
- The New York Public Library: A beautiful Beaux-Arts building with a stunning reading room.
- Grand Central Terminal: Admire the stunning architecture and people-watch in this iconic train station.
- The Brooklyn Botanic Garden: A peaceful oasis in the heart of Brooklyn.
- 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.