things to do in nyc for free
Here are some free things to do in NYC:
Outdoor Activities
- Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge: Take in the stunning Manhattan skyline and East River views.
- Central Park: Explore the many walking paths, lakes, and gardens of this iconic park.
- High Line: Elevated park built on an old rail line, with great city views.
- Times Square: Experience the bright lights and energy of the "Crossroads of the World."
- Coney Island Beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf in Brooklyn.
- Hudson River Greenway: Bike or walk along the riverfront path.
- Prospect Park: Another large park in Brooklyn, with a lake, meadows, and walking trails.
Museums and Galleries
- Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET): Pay-what-you-wish admission every day.
- American Museum of Natural History: Free admission on Wednesdays.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Free admission on Fridays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- Guggenheim Museum: Pay-what-you-wish admission on Saturdays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- Whitney Museum of American Art: Free admission on Fridays from 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm.
- Brooklyn Museum: Free admission on the first Saturday of every month.
Performances and Events
- SummerStage: Free outdoor concerts and performances in Central Park and other city parks.
- Shakespeare in the Park: Free outdoor productions of Shakespeare’s plays in Central Park.
- Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall: Free concerts and performances, including the New York Philharmonic.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Summer Fridays: Free outdoor concerts and movies.
- TV Show Tapings: Attend live tapings of TV shows like The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon or Saturday Night Live.
Neighborhoods and Markets
- Chinatown and Little Italy: Explore the vibrant streets, shops, and restaurants of these two neighborhoods.
- Greenwich Village: Wander through this charming neighborhood’s historic brownstones and trendy boutiques.
- Union Square Greenmarket: Visit this bustling outdoor market on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
- Brooklyn Flea: Free to browse, with a variety of vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to artisanal foods.
- Smorgasburg: Another popular outdoor market in Brooklyn, with a focus on food and drink.
Other Attractions
- New York Public Library: A stunning Beaux-Arts building with a beautiful reading room.
- Grand Central Terminal: Admire the iconic main concourse and bustling atmosphere.
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum: Free admission on Tuesdays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
- Federal Hall: A historic building with a stunning Greek Revival facade.
- Washington Square Park: A charming park in Greenwich Village, with a famous arch and plenty of people-watching opportunities.
Remember to always check the attraction’s website or call ahead to confirm free admission or availability, as these can change.