New York is a dream. They say that you haven’t lived if you haven’t seen New York. That’s true. It’s a city everyone deserves to see at least once.
But let’s face reality. New York is very expensive. Not everyone can afford to visit the city, and once you do, you end up spending a hefty amount of money.
But what if I were to tell you that the best things to do in New York are cheap and in your budget? Sounds unreal, right? Well, it’s the truth!
Let’s explore the top 15 cheap things to do in NYC for a budget-friendly trip.
List of 15 Best Cheap Things To Do In NYC
1. Spend A Day In The Park
When it comes to parks in New York, there is an endless list, and each of them is completely free!
Central Park (Manhattan):
Walking through Central Park’s stunning landscapes is one of the best things to do in New York for first-timers. Not only that but if you plan to go there with your siginificant other for a date, it could become one of the most romantic things to do in NYC. You can take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park includes vast Strawberry Fields and the iconic Bethesda Fountain and Terrace. You can take a leisurely stroll down the idyllic mall. Don’t miss the opportunity to stand on top of the picturesque Bow Bridge. This spot offers stunning views of the Loeb Boathouse and the gorgeous lake
Prospect Park (Brooklyn):
Prospect Park is home to the nation’s first urban-area Audubon Center. Here, you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, from relaxing in the shade of cherry blossoms to picnicking in the park’s spacious fields. If you do plan to come here, you need to visit the band shell for live performances and take a whirl on the classic carousel for a touch of nostalgia. It’s best if you come in the later hours of the day because live performances are one of the best things to do in new york at night.
Inwood Hill Park (Manhattan):
At Inwood Hill Park, you take a step back in time. This park is living evidence of the city’s prehistoric roots. You can explore the caves, valleys, and ridges carved by ancient glaciers and keep an eye out for the park’s diverse bird population.
Bryant Park (Manhattan):
One way to enjoy the day with your family in NYC on a budget is to go to a park. And why not go to Bryant Park. It is a great place to go on a stroll with your toddler, and doing fun things to do in NYC with toddlers. From seasonal gardens to vibrant eateries and bars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Bryant Park. You can join in on free group yoga and tai-chi sessions during the summer months or experience the festive winter village that has an ice skating rink. This is the only one in the city with free admission. It’s one of the most enjoyable things to do in NYC for free.
Hudson River Park (Manhattan):
You can experience the beauty of the Hudson River at Pier 25. Here, you’ll find various recreational activities for all ages. You can challenge your friends to a round of mini golf on the professional-grade course or relax by the sand volleyball courts while taking in views of sailboats and iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
2. Winter Outing Deals
One of the bucket list things to do in New York is to check out NYC & Co.’s Must-See Week. This takes place from January to February each year. It offers 2-for-1 tickets to dozens of NYC cultural institutions, from museums to concert halls, as well as Broadway tickets and hotel deals. Winter Outing also includes NYC Restaurant Week pre-fixe menus at nearly 500 restaurants! You can go all out for a very cheap price.
3. Free Museum Days
Did you know most museums offer free hours or days? This is definitely one of the best free things to do in New York as a tourist. You just have to know where and when they are. So, do your research and enjoy a day filled with art, history, and culture without losing anything from your pocket. And if your kid loves history, you could even make a field day on their birthday. It can be some of the most fun things to do in New York for a birthday.
4. Walk From Fifth Avenue To Grand Central Station
The upscale shops on Fifth Avenue are best admired from the outside, particularly if you’re on a budget. This is one of the greatest things to do in NYC with teens. They will appreciate the fashion and luxury, and it’s definitely something that will pique their interest. The ornate window displays and high towers bring the whole area to life. Teens will find great spots for aesthetic pictures. Plus, it’s on the way to other landmarks like the Grand Central Station, which is another classic spot for photos.
5. Find Great Food At Chelsea Market
One fun thing to do in NYC this weekend is enjoying the affordable delicacies served at Chelsea Market. The now-gentrified Meatpacking District is home to Chelsea Market. This is a haven for foodies. It invites hungry travelers to explore its smorgasbord of diverse flavors. You’ll find items like fresh seafood at Lobster Place and the melt-in-your-mouth Mexican dishes at Los Tacos. You can even feed your sweet tooth with artisanal doughnuts at Doughnuttery or sweet pastries at Amy’s Bread for desserts.
6. Free Summer Concerts and Movie Screenings
Summer is known for music festivals, concerts, and outdoor settings. You can enjoy all of this for free in New York! Crazy, right? It’s true. You’ll find star-studded outdoor concert series and movie screenings against magnificent skyline views. There are good tunes and good times to be discovered at the GMA Summer Concert Series in Central Park.
Some of the recent performers include Tim McGraw, Busta Rhymes, and BTS. For more jams throughout all five boroughs of NYC, you can check out Summer Stage. This is an outdoor performing arts festival that presents nearly 80 free performances that represent the cultural fabric of New York City. The music ranges from jazz, hip hop, Latin, global, indie, and contemporary dance. If you’re looking for unique things to do in NYC, this is it.
There are so many other options for you to enjoy music and film for free! The Washington Square Music Festival has been providing free evening concerts in Washington Square Park since 1956. The Lincoln Center holds the Out of Doors Festival, where artists from around the world perform at music, dance, and spoken-word events over the course of several weeks.
You can also attend Summer for the City, which is a three-month-long festival with hundreds of free events, thousands of artists, and food from across the city. Another option is the BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn Festival. This brings entertainment to Prospect Park all summer long. It has free performances from talent across the globe. Truly, you’ll never run out of budget-friendly options here!
7. Enjoy the Statue of Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is one of the city’s greatest amenities. It gives you a fare-free, 25-minute ride across the river to Staten Island. If you’re traveling with children, this is a great option to get some sightseeing done from a safe and uncrowded place. The ride offers great views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. If you go to see the statue by itself, it will cost you a pretty penny.
So, this is a great deal because it’s completely free! It’s definitely one of the most safe and enjoyable things to do in NYC with kids. Once you arrive at the St. George Terminal on Staten Island, you can hop right back on and ride the ferry back. This would complete your cruise, which didn’t cost you a dime.
8. The New York Catacombs
Another fun yet weird thing to do NYC would be to visit the Catacombs. Beneath the bustling streets of New York City lies a secret world. Down under, you will find the eerie and historic New York Catacombs. This was once a 19th-century mass burial site for prominent New Yorkers. These underground passages hold a haunting allure, and they offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past. If you’re into dark history and you’re looking to get into some crazy things to do in New York, you should definitely check this out.
9. Paddle In The Brooklyn Bridge Park
You can escape the busy atmosphere of the city and take part in a picturesque paddling adventure at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Here, you’ll enjoy free kayaking sessions on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. You’ll also encounter breathtaking views of lower Manhattan and the NYC harbor. This is one of the world’s largest free kayaking programs. You can head to Pier 26 for additional opportunities to explore the waterways of New York City. Paired with a light drizzle, it can become the perfect thing to do in NYC in the rain.
10. Budget Your Happy Hours in NYC
You can indulge in fabulous cocktails at New York City’s best bars without breaking the bank. Take advantage of discounted prices during happy hours, and explore bottomless brunches and outstanding cheap eats across the city. Whether you prefer a dive bar or a lively atmosphere, there’s a happy hour spot in NYC to suit every taste and budget.
11. Cross the Iconic Brooklyn Bridge
You can experience the historic charm of the Brooklyn Bridge as you stroll across its iconic span. This bridge connects Lower Manhattan with Downtown Brooklyn. Take in the breathtaking views of the city skyline and the East River as you make your way across the 1.1-mile structure. Don’t forget to capture the moment with plenty of pictures along the way.
12. Escape Games
This is definitely one of the more unusual things to do in New York. Get ready to put your detective skills to the test in an exhilarating escape game experience. Race against the clock as you solve clues, crack codes, and decipher riddles before time runs out. If you’re up for the challenge, gather your friends and see if you have what it takes to escape the room. Escape rooms are scattered across New York, so you got to do a little digging of your own to find ones that match your taste and budget. These are some of the best hidden things in New York to look forward to.
13. Explore NYC’s Beaches and Boardwalks
If the bug crowd of the city overwhelms you, you can unwind at New York City’s stunning beaches and boardwalks. Whether you’re seeking the iconic atmosphere of Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk in Brooklyn or the peaceful shores of Rockaway Beach in Queens, there’s a destination for every beach enthusiast. Prepare to bask in the warmth of the sun, cool off with a refreshing dip in the ocean, and partake in a variety of beachside activities for the ultimate summer retreat in the heart of the city.
14. Explore the Art Scene
New York is known for its rich artistic culture. You can immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant art scene by visiting its renowned galleries during free visiting hours. There are so many places to choose from. You can find galleries in Chelsea, the artistic hubs of Brooklyn and Queens, and you even have options in the Upper and Lower East Sides of Manhattan. Here, you’ll find the works of some of the world’s most esteemed artists and stay ahead of the curve with the latest trends in art and design. It can also be a fun activity in NYC for couples.
15. Walk the High Line to Hudson Yards
Take a scenic stroll along the High Line. This is a repurposed elevated railroad track that now serves as a trendy pedestrian walkway. You can start your walk at Chelsea Market and make your way to Hudson Yards. On the way, you’ll find incredible views and a vibrant atmosphere. The best part is that you get to see the highlights of New York without spending a single penny because walking is absolutely free!
Conclusion
Clearly, you don’t need to spend a fortune to have an unforgettable vacation in New York. There are so many budget-friendly options, so browse this list to find the most adventurous things to do in New York that are cheap and memorable!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I have fun in NYC for cheap?
You can have fun in NYC on a budget by taking part in free or low-cost activities like exploring the city’s parks, visiting museums on pay-what-you-wish days, attending free outdoor concerts or movie screenings, exploring vibrant neighborhoods on foot, and enjoying street food from food trucks and vendors.
Can NYC be done on a budget?
Yes, NYC can definitely be done on a budget. While it’s known for its high costs, there are plenty of affordable options for transportation, dining, entertainment, and accommodations. By planning ahead, seeking out free or discounted activities, using public transportation, and exploring budget-friendly neighborhoods, you can experience the best of NYC without breaking the bank.
How to survive on a budget in NYC?
You need to prioritize your spending, utilize public transportation instead of taxis or rideshares, take advantage of free or discounted attractions, and explore affordable dining options like street food and local eateries. You should consider staying in budget accommodations like hostels or Airbnb rentals and seek out free events and activities happening throughout the city.
What part of New York is the cheapest?
While New York City is generally known for its high cost of living, some neighborhoods offer more affordable options for visitors. Areas like the Bronx, particularly neighborhoods like Hunts Point, Fordham, and Pelham Bay, tend to have lower rents and living costs compared to Manhattan or parts of Brooklyn.
