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The Top Seven Free Things to Do in New York City

A trip to New York City doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, if you know where to look you can do a lot without spending a dime. So to start, here are the top seven free things to do in New York City!

Spend a day (or two) at Bryant Park

Bryant Park Games Cart

There are countless free events and free things to do in Bryant Park. Just to name a few, there are ping pong tables, a board games cart, an art cart and a mini golf course open to the public every day (weather permitting) and there are also special events at the park from time to time like Summer movie nights, juggling classes, Broadway performances and more!

Attend a free summer concert

GMA Concert Series Central Park

If you love music, New York City is blessed with many opportunities to see some of the biggest music arts for free! For example, last year you could have seen performers such as Ed Sheeran or Chaka Khan. Some notable free concert series to keep an eye on include Summerstage and GMA’s Summer Concerts at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park and Celebrate Brooklyn at the Prospect Park Bandshell.

Take advantage of free museum days

New York City is home to a number of interesting, world famous museums and many offer free entry days. Some of our favorite museums with free entry days include the Museum of Modern Art (every Friday night from 4 PM until closing), Brooklyn Museum (first Saturday of every month 5-11 PM) and the Guggenheim (select Saturdays, 5:45–7:45 PM).

Visit the Main Branch of the New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is an invaluable resource for locals and travelers alike. In particular, the main branch at Bryant Park (Stephen A. Schwarzman Building) is like another museum in New York City that is always free and it is definitely worth a visit. The building itself is beautiful and it is full of history. There are always fascinating exhibits about New York City history, breath taking pieces of art on display and a ton of interesting stories with every step.

Take in the sights and stroll along the High Line

The Highline NYC

There are a lot of beautiful parks in New York City (like Bryant Park, Central Park and Prospect Park) but there is nothing like the High Line. It is built on abandoned elevated railroad tracks and there are a bunch of gardens, fantastic views of the city and public art works hidden across the park.

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge park

We also definitely recommend walking across the historic Brooklyn Bridge. It is a nice relaxing stroll and there are great photo opportunities of the city along the way. While on the Brooklyn side, you should also make your way to the Brooklyn Bridge Park for even more great photo opportunities.

Ride the Staten Island Ferry

Boat tours that go around New York City can cost a pretty penny but the Staten Island Ferry is still free. While riding the Staten Island Ferry, you can great views of the New York City skyline line and the Statue of Liberty.