7 Free Attractions in New York City
NYC is one of the most popular and expensive cities to visit in the U.S., so we made it our personal mission to enjoy the Big Apple without spending a fortune. See below for our favorite free New York City attractions.
Brooklyn Walking Tour
Our three hour free walking tour was led by a local who took us over the bridge and explained how it was made, taught us the neighborhood’s history and pointed out all the local hotspots. We imagined Brooklyn as an area where starving artists and hipsters lived, but were shocked to learn that apartments are often selling in the millions. Note: While this is a “free” tour, it is recommended that you tip your guide $5-10.
Central Park
What can we say? It’s one of the most iconic spots in the city. You can always find some entertainment by the Bethesda fountain or people watch all day and never get bored. The park also includes attractions like Belvedere Castle, Loeb Boathouse and Conservatory Water, where you can race model boats at the Boathouse (think Stuart Little).
Hidden Speakeasy
Thanks to Prohibition, New York boasts an impressive list of hidden speakeasies. After doing a little research, we found one not too far on the Upper East Side. UES is hidden in the back of a fully functioning ice cream shop, so you can kill two birds with one stone if you like a little beer with your ice cream.
Directions to entry: 1) Walk in and tell them that you want to see “the storeroom.” 2) Hit a button on the wall and someone will come to open the door to the speakeasy. Getting in is free, but the drinks are a bit pricey. Tip: they will not let you in if you are wearing sneakers, so dress up a little.
The High Line
It’s easy to think this city is all towering skyscrapers, busy streets and a lot of time underground on the metro. But there’s a cute stretch of green space along an abandoned railroad track that’s pretty underrated. On The High Line, you can stroll above the city as you take in lots of green, art installations and a relaxed experience you won’t find anywhere else in the hustle and bustle of NYC.
The Vessel
This free, interactive art piece is brand new (finished in 2019) to Hudson Yards. It’s like walking into a beehive with staircases weaving in and out for 16 stories. Climbing all the way to the top is a trek, but the view out at the water and skyline is incredible.
Tip: book your tickets online to secure a time slot and bypass the lines.
9/11 Memorial
As part of our country’s history, we knew this was an important item to add to our list. We were so humbled and affected by the memorial. It’s powerful to see the vast, empty spaces where the towers once stood. It’s free to walk around the memorial, but tickets into the museum and Ground Zero exhibition run about $28.
Staten Island Ferry
Looking for a relaxing way to take in the city skyline or get a closer view of the statue of liberty? Hop on the Staten Island Ferry, which boards right by Battery Park. Ferries go back and forth every 15-30 minutes, so it’s a stress-free activity that lets you get out on the water.
You can also spend your days touring around the various neighborhoods that make up NYC. Read through our neighborhood guide to find all of our suggestions.
