10 Free Things to Do in New York City, USA

You guys seem to really like our ‘10 Free Things to Do’ series, which has so far covered Madrid and London. This time we thought we would focus our attention on the famous city that never sleeps? Have you been to New York City, or do you have a trip planned this year? Either way, you will enjoy this article as it will bring back some fun memories or inspire you.

So, here we go! Put away your wallet or purse because here are 10 things you can do that are totally and utterly free in the ‘Big Apple’.

1. Discover Chelsea’s Art Galleries

The Chelsea neighbourhood is located on the west side of Manhattan. This might just be the best area of NYC to delve into the art scene. There is plenty of street art to experience and photograph and there are also some awesome free art exhibitions and galleries to visit too. For example, Tanya Bonakdar Gallery. Also, while you are there you can walk around the Chelsea Market.

2. Relax in Central Park

You cannot visit New York City without stepping foot in Central Park. This famous urban park covers more than 800 acres, so you probably won’t be able to view it all. But the unmissable sections include Strawberry Fields, which is dedicated to John Lennon, the bronze Alice in Wonderland Sculpture, Bethesda Terrace and nearby Bow Bridge. On a great weather day, you could spend the whole day in Central Park.

3. Visit the Guggenheim Museum

Normally, this museum is not free. But, on Saturdays 5:45 p.m to 7:45 p.m it is pay-what-you-like day. So, potentially it is free. As well as portraits by the likes of Van Gogh, Kandinsky, Picasso, you can discover more about photography, interactive sculptures and digital art. Don’t just look at the artwork on show, look around the building as the architecture is very quirky and interesting.

4. Experience a NYC Walking Tour

A new NYC walking tour is currently ongoing from Rockefeller Center. This is your opportunity to experience some of the city highlights with a knowledgeable tour guide absolutely free. The route includes Trinity Church, Broadway, Wall Street and the World Trade Center Memorial.

5. Visit Grand Central Terminal

One of the most elegant and detailed train station halls ever is definitely not to be missed when you visit New York City. You don’t need a train ticket to enter! If you’re a movie buff, you won’t want to miss Grand Central Terminal.

6. Explore New York Public Library

You don’t need to be a bookworm to visit a library. The New York Public Library has a wealth of history, art and detailed architecture for you to enjoy. For the best experience, book yourself onto a free guided tour, at the reception desk. Places are limited and tours depart at 11am and 2pm, Mon-Friday.

7. Admire the views from The High Line

An old train line originally constructed for delivering fuel, has been converted into an urban oasis. Located within the Chelsea neighbourhood, the High Line is a gentle 50-minute walk and has  exceptional views, interesting street art and a chance for you to feel like a local.

8. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

A New York bucket list isn’t complete without a walk across the world-famous Brooklyn Bridge. It’s the perfect place for a selfie with the iconic New York City skyline in the background. Did you know, it took a whopping 14 years to build the bridge?

9. Window Shop at Fifth Avenue

For a shopper on a tight budget, window shopping is the best activity. Admire the window displays of the designer stores of Tiffany’s, Saks and many more.

10. Photoshoot in Times Square

The bright lights of Times Square make this area very exciting indeed. Each blink of the eye will catch something new to see. The only down side is, it can be incredibly overrun with tourists. The best time to experience Times Square is at sunrise or in the middle of the night, as it’s very eerie. The empty streets make it feel like you are in a post-apocalyptic movie.

 

So far, we have looked at London, Madrid and now New York City. What other great cities would you like us to write about? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below. Who knows, maybe your comment will inspire our next ‘10 Free Things to Do’ post.