Free Things To Do In New York City
New York is no doubt an expensive place to visit.
Despite this, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
One of the primary reasons is that it offers a lot for even those traveling on a budget.
With its fascinating architecture, design, history, and culture, New York is a unique city to explore.
But apart from that, it has various free things to do that will make your visit to the Big Apple worthwhile.
Moreover, most of the iconic attractions of NYC, like Times Square and Central Park are completely free to experience.
Know about all the free things to do in New York City before your visit to make it worthwhile.
Live the life of a New Yorker in Central Park
One of the most fun-free things to do in New York City is to visit the iconic central park in the heart of Manhattan.
Join in with more than 25 million people visiting this beautiful, expansive park annually.
Feel the life and culture of New York with families on a day out, community activities, music and art displays, all in one place!
Spread across 843 acres, the park houses a lot of activities for you to do and sights to soak.
Fountains, Bridges, a carousel and a boat pond, you’ll find it all here.
There are also fascinating memorials steeped in history that give you insights into the history and culture of NYC as you stroll across the park.
Some famous memorials include the John Lennon Memorial, the Strawberry fields, etc.
If you are looking for exclusive activities, try renting bikes, bike tours, horse carriage rides or guided pedicab tours.
See The Glitz of Times Square With Your Own Eyes
Experience the place where the world stops, with the most electric atmosphere and do it completely free.
If you haven’t visited Times Square during your trip, you definitely haven’t seen NYC.
This is a must-visit spot during your first visit to New York.
Times Square is the image that comes to the minds of many when they first think of New York.
Filled with fascinating billboards and street performances, Times Square will leave you awestruck.
Times Square is one of the most lively and happening places in the whole city, and you’ll find an array of street entertainers.
Since Times Square is open and completely free for the public, we recommended visiting both during the day and after dark.
While at Times Square, check out the famous Madame Tussauds.
Feel Your Breath Taken Away At Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic setting you must have seen in various movies.
Brooklyn Bridge, along with the Williamsburg Bridge and Manhattan Bridge, is one of NYC’s famous bridges.
The bridge gives you a completely different perspective on NY’s skyline that you won’t get at any of NYC’s famous observatories.
Both cyclists and pedestrians share an elevated pathway, and you can get the best views of Manhattan’s and Brooklyn’s skylines.
You can also see the Statue of Liberty in a different light from Brooklyn Bridge.
For a more immersive experience, check out the waterfront bike tour, neighborhood tour from Manhattan to Brooklyn and food tour.
Step Into History In The Grand Central Terminal
Opened in 1913, the Grand Central Termination has become an iconic destination.
It is considered one of the city’s best architectural and historical achievements.
You can witness farmers’ markets, explore numerous shops and enjoy the celestial artworks displayed on the ceiling.
Next to Times Square, this is the most visited place in NYC, with over 750,000 people coming in daily.
If you wish to explore the Grand Central Terminal, the Guided Secrets of Grand Central Terminal Tour and a walking tour are also available.
See New York From A Different Perspective At The High Line
Ever wondered how Spiderman would have seen the world when he swung across the skyscrapers of NYC? This is where you’ll get your answer.
The High Line, initially an elevated freight train line on Manhattan’s west side, is now a hanging park that offers views for a lifetime.
The High Line is open year-round and is 1.5 miles (2.33 km) long, stretching from Gansevoort Street to West 34th Street.
You’ll see the same NY skyline from a different perspective than at observatories.
Explore the street art, the vendors, gardens and performances, particularly the areas of Chelsea Street and the Hudson River.
You can also try a walking tour, guided tour, small group tour and food tour.
Experience The Aura of The St. Patrick’s Cathedral
This cathedral is not just any religious place of worship that you can walk by.
It is famous for being one of the largest Catholic Cathedrals in North America and portrays the Gothic Revival style of architecture.
This stunning building is a must-visit, and it reeks of centuries-old history through its walls.
Visiting this place is free; you can even attend a mass to get the full experience!
Official and audio tours are also available to learn more about St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Dive Into The Treasury Of Knowledge At The New York Public Library
The New York Public Library is one of the biggest public library networks all around the globe.
With almost 53 million items of books, movies, music and plays, and multiple branches spread across NYC, the NYPL is a big storehouse of knowledge you can’t skip.
Due to its historical significance, this library became a national historic landmark in 1965.
For centuries, the New York Public Library has been a beacon of knowledge and a symbol of learning for American society.
Featured Image : Photo by Gautam Krishnan on Unsplash