23 Free Things to do in New York City

It’s always an adventure to visit New York City, however it can be difficult to navigate your way around the over priced attractions.

To help you take a bite out of the big apple we’ve created a list of over 20 unique things you can do while in New York absolutely free.

1. Tour the Plaza Hotel
   The Plaza Hotel has been a New York icon for many years. If you are able to visit at 3 pm on Tuesday or Saturday you can go on a free behind the scenes tour. You must call head to reserve a place on the tour since space is limited.
2. Central Park Conservatory Walking Tours
   You can tour this beautiful conservatory for free with a volunteer. It is recommended that you call ahead before showing up for a tour since it is volunteer run.
3. Grand Central neighborhood Walking Tour
   This tour uncovers the neighborhood around Grand Central Station along with some information about Grand Central’s Terminal. You can meet for the tour in the lobby of the Altria Building every Friday at 12:30 pm.
4. Deep Relaxation yoga
   Participate in free relaxing yoga classes in the Meatpacking District. The Integral Yoga Institute offers these classes Fridays at 5 pm. It is recommended you call ahead to insure a spot in the class.
5. ASSSSCAT 3000
   If you enjoy comedy this is a great option. Comedy stars from hit shows such as Saturday Night Live (SNL) and 30 Rock have free shows at 8:15 pm on Sundays. It is recommended to come far in advance since the free tickets are first come first serve.
6. Entertaining the Bartender with Jena Friedman
   If you enjoy dark humor this is a fun comedy option to attend. The show is free on Thursdays at 8 pm.
7. Whiplash
   Comedy performances are provided by a wide variety of top comedians and up and coming comedians. Shows are free on Mondays at 11 pm.
8. Museum of Modern Art
   This famous museum has free admission between 4-8 pm on Fridays. If you plan to attend get your free ticket earlier in the day because this great offer tends to sell out quickly.
9. Staten Island Ferry
   If you would like to see Elis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and the New York Skyline but want to avoid the high cost of the tourist trap, the Staten Island Ferry is a great alternative. The ferry is free and allows you to see all the sites at convenient times throughout the day.

   
   Staten Island Ferry | Photo by r_catalano

10. Central Park
    Central Park has been one of the most notable sites in New York City for decades, luckily for tourists it is also free to visit. Take a stroll through the park and gaze at the many sites including statues.
11. Kayak the Hudson River
    If you are interested in water sports this is a great option. You can Kayak down the Hudson River from May until October every year. The Boathouse has free Kayak rentals and you have the option of starting your adventure at 72nd street, Pier 40, or Pier 96.
12. NY Fed Gold Vault Tours
    On this tour you get to go inside of the Gold Vault at the Fed and see all the shiny gold bricks that are being kept safe. This is a great option if you can plan ahead since you must reserve a spot on this tour in advance.
13. Time Square Subway Station
    For people who enjoy watching street performers or listening to musical performances this is a great free option. Throughout the Times Square Subway station you will run into all different kinds of acts.
14. TV Show Audience
    Frequently the TV shows that are filmed in New York City need extra people for their live studio audiences. There are many different ways to get the free tickets but I recommend checking out this website first.
15. Rockefeller Center Self Guided Tour
    Rockefeller Center has a unique way to substitute the expensive tours, which is going on a self guided tour. If you puck up a map in the main lobby you will be able to travel throughout the center on your own and experience the tour without the hefty price tag.
16. New York Public Library
    The library hosts different events and exhibits throughout the year for free. Stop by to see what the current event is or check out the library’s website for more information.
17. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
    This beautiful garden is free to visit throughout the year. If you time your visit right you may be able to attend a special exhibit.
18. Brooklyn Brewery
    If you can come between 1 – 4 pm on Saturdays there are free tours of this brewery. After the tours you also may sample a beer for free.
19. Walking tour of Times Square
    Times Square is a unique and overwhelming site to visit for many. If you are able to meet at the Times Square’s Info Center Friday at Noon you will be able to go on a great 2 hour tour completely free.
20. High Line
    This is a new type of park that just opened on an abandoned railway line. If you want to see this new beautiful innovative type of park just come by its always free to visit.

    
    Highline Park | Photo by davidberkowitz

21. Brooklyn Academy of Music
    The Academy offers free concerts show casing their up and coming talent on Friday and Saturday Nights.
22. B.B. King Blues Club & Grill
    If you love Blues music this is a great option. The club offers free concerts on Friday and Saturday nights, but make sure you come early since seats fill up quick.
23. Socrates Sculpture Park
    The park has a wide array of different sculptures to view while taking a walk through the park.