I fell under New York’s spell when I first visited back in 2012. I went with my family for one week before heading elsewhere. I loved the city so much that I decided to go back and spend three months there, and I have now travelled solo to New York several times.
There is something special about this city. I can never quite put my finger on it but being in Manhattan is truly an experience like no other. It’s one of the most famous cities in the world and for good reason. It’s a hub for SO many things from theatre to art to food to business – it’s one of a kind. I feel like you could spend months in New York and never fully experience it all. Every time I go back there is something new and different to try.
Of course, somewhere so special and famous it means lots of ‘must do’ attractions. With hundreds of millions of people visiting every year, there is an endless list of things to do, with new spots popping up every week. I’ve paid to do a lot of these activities. You’re in New York, why wouldn’t you want to go up the Empire State Building or see a Broadway show? The truth is though New York is expensive. Really expensive.
Over the years, I’ve learnt to enjoy New York without spending tonnes of money. The city is full of history, culture and interesting sights. From a walk around Central Park, visiting Grand Central Station or visiting a free museum, there are plenty of things to do in New York that don’t require you to spend loads of money. Yes accommodation is expensive, but beyond that, you can fill your days walking around this bustling city and seeing its amazing sights without spending a penny.
I’ve shared my favourite free things to do in New York City below as well as a two-day suggested itinerary for how to fit a few of these things in. Of course, New York is a bucket-list destination and you’ll likely want to do some of the famous attractions. I’ve also shared my top five things that I believe are worth your money. If you’re planning to visit in my favourite time of year (autumn/fall), check out this guide to NYC in the fall with the best things to do.
Whether you’re visiting NYC for the first time or spending a few weeks/months there, I hope the below list gives you some inspiration on things to do without breaking the bank.
If you’re planning a road trip out of the city, be sure to check out these must-see waterfalls in New York.
Visiting Chicago? Check out this 4-day Chicago itinerary.
The best free things to do in NYC
Visit Battery Park
Right at the bottom of Manhattan, this small but lively park is a great spot to spend some time, have a picnic lunch and admire the views out into the bay. Most people head here to board their boat trip to the Statue of Liberty, but this spot itself boasts great views of the iconic landmark as well as the Jersey skyline. This is also the perfect spot to watch the sunset behind the Statue of Liberty.
Walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge
An obvious one, but it’s 100% worth your time. The Brooklyn Bridge was built in 1869 and connects Manhattan to Brooklyn. You can walk or cycle over and admire the historic structure as the famous Manhattan skyline soars behind. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s popular for a reason. Go as early as you can to avoid the crowds or consider visiting in the evening and admire the Manhattan skyline at night.
The Brooklyn Bridge is also one of the most iconic photo spots in New York City. Here are some of the best New York quotes for your Instagram posts.
Grab a bite to eat in DUMBO – Brooklyn
‘Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass’ – DUMBO is a trendy neighbourhood in Brooklyn filled with plenty of shops, cafes, and bars. It’s right by the Brooklyn Bridge so can easily be tied into your trip there. As well as plenty to eat, drink and buy, there is a lovely walk along the riverside with views out to Manhattan. It’s a nice escape from the madness of the city.
Tip: Time Out have a food court here which has some unique and delicious food.
Dumbo is one of the many most instagrammable places in NYC.
Explore the lesser visited areas of Central Park
No trip to New York would be complete without a trip to Central Park. Generally, people stick to the south end and walk down the famous Promenade before visiting the Pond. I’d urge you to go further up into the park and walk through the Ramble, a wooded area that offers a real escape from the city chaos. Keep walking up until you reach Turtle Pond and climb up Belvedere Castle.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, explore the north of the park. Walk through the beautiful Conservatory Garden then over to North Woods. It’s one of the most peaceful spots in the park and few tourists head that way.
Admire the Manhattan skyline from the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
This is my absolute favourite spot in New York. It’s a 1.5-mile (2.5km) track around a reservoir with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s popular for both running and walking and feels very removed from the business of New York City. You can easily build this into your trip to Central Park and it’s well worth your time and effort.
Tip: this place is particularly special in the winter when the reservoir has frozen
Stroll around Riverside Park
This is a scenic park on the waterfront in the Upper West Side. It’s a much more local experience and not many tourists visit, but it’s a great spot to admire the Hudson River and go for a stroll.
Walk the famous Highline through Manhattan
This fantastic 1.45-mile (2.4km) long elevated walk takes you along an old railway track that has now been converted into a park. The walk stretches the west side from 34th Street all the way down to the Meatpacking District (Gansevoort Street and Washington Street).
It’s one of my favourite free things to do in New York City and takes you from the chaotic midtown all the way down to the trendy West Village and Chelsea. There are plenty of benches and seats to relax on and in the summer, you’ll find vendors selling food and drink once you reach 14th Street. This is a good way of walking between midtown and sights you want to see further south (such as Washington Square Park). You can avoid the subway, see the city and not worry about traffic.
The recently opened Hudson Yards now sits at the top of the Highline. Start your walk here to see some of the unique architecture that has been constructed in this modern development.
Experience anything and everything in Washington Square Park
This vibrant spot is situated in Greenwich Village and attracts both locals and tourists. Pretty much anything goes here and on your walk through the park, you’ll encounter everything from performing musicians to locals playing chess. The park is known for being a safe spot to celebrate diversity and is a must-do on your trip to New York City.
Pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial is in downtown Manhattan where the Twin Towers once stood. The memorial allows visitors to pay their respects and learn more about the tragic events.
Visit the breathtaking Oculus
The Oculus is part of the new World Trade Center site and is one of New York’s most unique structures. The building is a transportation hub and shopping centre, but its famous design is why you’ll want to visit here. Built to show New York’s resilience after the 9/11 attacks, the structure resembles a hand releasing a dove. View the building from the outside then go inside to see the true scale of the design.
Take a trip to Chinatown and get your senses tingling
A walk through Chinatown is a must-do on any visit to New York City. It’s busy and chaotic but will be sure to get the senses going. With vendors lining the streets selling everything from fresh produce to delicious street food, be sure to explore here with an appetite.
Get a photo at the iconic Courthouses
Anyone who has watched a New York legal or cop drama (Law & Order fans pay attention) will need to visit here. These historical buildings are an interesting insight into the New York legal system and offer some fantastic photo opportunities. They’re located just before the Brooklyn Bridge and right next to Chinatown so can be a quick stop before exploring either of these places.
Admire the architecture at the famous Grand Central Station and grab a bite to eat
Arguably one of the world’s most famous train stations, Grand Central is an iconic landmark for architecture in New York City. You can visit here without needing to buy a train ticket and admire the unique and wonderful architecture.
Tip: There is a big food court underneath the station which has some great food stalls offering a variety of cuisines. Stop here for some lunch or a snack.
Be dazzled by Times Square
I’m not sure any visit to New York City can be complete without visiting here. This busy spot attracts millions and millions of visitors each year and is one of the most famous advertising spots in the world with its dazzling billboards. I won’t lie, Times Square certainly isn’t my favourite place in the city – it’s incredibly busy and chaotic but it’s like nowhere else I’ve ever been.
The area is home to the flagship stores for many shops including M&M World so build in some time to visit these (if they’re your cup of tea).
Tip: I’d personally avoid dining here – most of the restaurants are overpriced, and the food is not that great. If you walk a few blocks up or down you’ll find much better food stops.
Walk down Wall Street
Wall Street is the financial hub of the USA and one of the world’s most important financial spots. While you can’t go inside the infamous New York Stock Exchange, you can stroll around the financial district and visit Wall Street, including the famous Charging Bull.
Take a free tour of the Public Library
The New York Public Library is a historic spot in the city. Don’t worry if you don’t enjoy reading, a trip here has so much more to offer. Consider joining one of the free tours to learn more about this landmark: Tours at NYPL | The New York Public Library
Stroll around the many Flea Markets
Head to Brooklyn to experience some of the best flea markets New York has to offer. Wander around as vendors sell everything from jewellery to clothes and furniture. Some of the flea markets are permanent fixtures whereas some come and go. I’d suggest visiting Flea Market Insider for the latest of what’s on offer in Brooklyn.
Grab some food at Chelsea Market
The famous Chelsea Market is located in the Meatpacking District. It’s not a traditional food market by any means as the inside is full of the latest trendy food spots. From cupcakes to seafood, the market has it all.
Tip: the market is a few minutes walk from the south entrance to the High Line so could be visited before/after your Highline walk, depending on where you are starting.
Explore Williamsburg (and walk across the Williamsburg Bridge)
I loved my day exploring Williamsburg, a distinctive area of Brooklyn. It’s known for its unique food, creative culture and laid-back approach to life. You’ll struggle to find the bigger chains here but will find plenty of independent coffee shops, small shops and delicious food offerings. It’s a little bit out of the way, but if you have the time, it’s the perfect way to see a different side to New York City.
The Williamsburg Bridge connects the area to Manhattan and has a path for pedestrians. It doesn’t offer quite the same magnificent views as Brooklyn Bridge but is a nice stroll nonetheless.
Take a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry
If you want a free boat trip then the Staten Island Ferry is your answer. The boat takes you from the bottom of Manhattan near Battery Park, over to the small Staten Island. You get to see the iconic New York City skyline from the water without paying any money to do it.
There’s not the biggest list of things to do in Staten Island so your trip is mainly for the free ferry ride, but have a walk around to see some of the spots. The island is known for its beaches and famous for its freshly brewed beer.
Discover the Museums
New York is without a doubt home to some of the most famous museums and galleries in the world. Unfortunately, most of these cost money to visit but there are some you can visit for free. For starters, the Natural History Museum is technically free – they will advise on a donation amount but it’s up to you on if and what you give. The museum is one of the best I’ve ever been to.
A hub for culture and history, many museums in New York also offer free entry on select days at certain times. For example, the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum is currently offering free entry on the last Friday of each month between 5 pm and 9 pm. This is constantly changing so if there’s a museum you want to visit, have a look online to see if they have any free entry times.
Time Out also has a list of free entry opportunities: Best Free Museum Days and Discount Hours in NYC (timeout.com)
Experience 34th Street
34th Street is one of the city’s busiest spots. Home to Penn Station, the giant Madison Square Garden arena and the one and only Empire State Building, a stroll down this street guarantees to see some of New York’s famous landmarks. What’s more, shopping opportunities here are rife as giant stores are located here including the famous department store, Macy’s. Be sure to spend a few hours seeing what this area has to offer.
Suggested walking tour itinerary
Building your tour of New York City can be a mammoth task, especially if you’ve never visited before. I’ve put together the below two-day walking tour suggestion with my favourite free activities to do in the city.
Be warned, it’s A LOT of walking but there is always the option to jump on the subway or in a taxi. Walking is a great way to experience and learn about a city and all my routes take you through exciting parts of New York allowing you to truly experience this fascinating city for free.
Day one
- Start your day in Central Park and walk around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. Grab a coffee to take with you and admire some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline.
- Walk down through the park, and make sure you visit Belvedere Castle for views of Turtle Pond before heading down through the Ramble to the Pond. Walk over Bow Bridge and end your Central Park visit with a walk down the Promenade to the park’s entrance.
- Here, either jump on a train down to the Rockefeller Centre or walk 15 minutes south to Rockefeller Centre.
- At the Rockefeller Centre, view the famous Rockefeller Building (you can pay to go up to the Top of the Rock). In the winter, you can also ice skate on the rink here and view the famous Christmas Tree. The spot is between 48th and 51st streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenue. If you choose to walk here from the park, walk down Fifth Avenue and do a spot of shopping (or window shopping).
Tip: there is a food court underneath Top of the Rock if you need any food or drink.
- Walk about ten minutes south to Grand Central Station, admire the architecture and grab some food from one of the many stalls situated underneath the station.
- Head over to Time Square and be dazzled by the giant billboards.
- Walk 25 minutes through Manhattan’s midtown down to Penn Station. Get views of the Empire State Building and walk over to Hudson Yards.
- End your day with a stroll down the Highline from Hudson Yards and grab some food in the Meatpacking District or Chelsea Market before heading back to your hotel.
Day Two
- Begin your day in Washington Square Park and spend some time enjoying this diverse and unique spot.
- Wander down Prince Street where you can do some shopping before arriving in Chinatown. Feel your senses tingling as you pass the street vendors.
- Leave Chinatown and arrive at the famous courthouses. Take as many photos as your heart desires and start the ten-minute stroll to the Brooklyn Bridge.
- Cross the Brooklyn Bridge and admire the Manhattan skyline. Once you’ve reached Brooklyn, walk a few minutes to DUMBO and grab some food.
- Explore DUMBO before heading back to Manhattan. Either walk back across or get the subway to Chambers Street.
- Walk across to the 9/11 Memorial. Afterwards, visit The Oculus.
- Walk around the financial district and visit the charging Bull on Wall Street.
- End your day in Battery Park and watch the sun set over the Statue of Liberty.
For vegetarian and vegan food, check out some of the best restaurants on the Upper East Side.
