New York on a Budget : Free and Humble Cost Things to Do in NYC

New York City offers a Earth of opportunity throughout its five boroughs treat more than 300-square-miles . Endless free and affordable experiences await locals and visitor from around the world at every corner . From alluring park to iconic bites and historical sites to star-studded performance , we ’ ve curated a list of affair to act to keep you wide awake in the city that never sleeps , all at low cost or no cost !

1 .Affordable Broadway Tickets and Free Outdoor Theater

Enjoy budget-friendly Broadway brilliance with affordable ticket options . Broadway Week ( Jan 21 – Feb 9 ) and Off-Broadway Week ( Feb 17 – March 9 ) offer exclusive opportunity to get 2-for-1 tickets to spectacular shows . Call the TKTS booth in Times Square or Lincoln Center where you can hit discounted tickets ( up to 50 % off ) for same-day Broadway shows . Certain shows receive , where you stand in designated areas and find the show for a discounted price . . For a truly unforgettable outside theatre experience , top dog to Central Park ’ s Delacorte Theater in the summer and love the magic of , all for free ! Or top dog to Harlem to love professional Shakespeare-inspired theatre presented by The Classical Theatre of Harlem at Marcus Garvey Park .

Nearly 100 diverse and renowned museum are scattered throughout the boroughs of New York City , and quite a few of them extend free or low-cost admission . Also hit 2-for-1 tickets to museum and early attractions during NYC Must-See Week ( January 21-February 9 ) .

• The Met : One of the world ‘s prominent and finest art museum . Its collection spans 5,000 years of reality culture , from prehistory to the present and from every portion of the globe . Pay-what-you-wish for New York State resident and students from New Jersey and Connecticut , differently $ 30/adults ; $ 22/seniors ; $ 17/students , and free for child .

• The American Museum of Natural History ( pictured ) : Part in the excitement of discovery with more than 40 veranda exploring the natural public and the universe . Pay-what-you-wish for New York , New Jersey , and Connecticut occupant , otherwise $ 25/adult ; $ 20/students and senior ; $ 14/kids .

• El Museo : The nation ’ sec result Latinx and Latin American cultural establishment , preserving the art and culture of Puerto Ricans and all Latin Americans in the United States . Pay-what-you-wish for all .

• National Museum of the American Indian : Search the diversity of the Native people of the Americas with programs including music , dance , films , and exhibition that tie upon 700 artifacts and works of art . Free .

• : An internationally recognized cultural destination that presents innovative contemporary art exhibition , education programs , and is entrust to promoting cross-cultural dialogues for various audiences . Free .

• Museum of the City of New York : Explore all things New York , from the literal building , apartments , park , and street that reach up its urban landscape to the culture , people , sights , sounds , and styles that give it its unique and unmistakable personality . Pay-what-you-wish for New York State resident , and free for everyone on Wednesdays ( in-person tickets only ) , otherwise $ 23/adults ; $ 18/seniors ; $ 14/students ; and free for age 18 and under .

The Met : One of the world ‘s largest and all right art museum . Its collection span 5,000 years of universe culture , from prehistory to the present and from every part of the Earth . Pay-what-you-wish for New York State residents and student from New Jersey and Connecticut , otherwise $ 30/adults ; $ 22/seniors ; $ 17/students , and free for kids .

The American Museum of Natural History ( figure ) : Part in the excitement of discovery with more than 40 veranda exploring the natural Earth and the universe . Pay-what-you-wish for New York , New Jersey , and Connecticut resident , differently $ 25/adult ; $ 20/students and elder ; $ 14/kids .

El Museo : The nation ’ s leading Latinx and Latin American ethnic establishment , maintain the art and culture of Puerto Ricans and all Latin Americans in the United States . Pay-what-you-wish for all .

National Museum of the American Indian : Explore the variety of the Native masses of the Americas with programs include music , dance , film , and exhibition that make upon 700 artifacts and study of art . Free .

: An internationally discern cultural destination that presents innovative present-day art exhibition , instruction program , and is commit to promote cross-cultural dialogues for various audiences . Free .

Museum of the City of New York : Explore all affair New York , from the actual construction , apartments , park , and streets that cause up its urban landscape to the cultures , mass , good deal , sounds , and styles that hand it its unique and unmistakable personality . Pay-what-you-wish for New York State resident , and free for everyone on Wednesdays ( in-person tickets solely ) , otherwise $ 23/adults ; $ 18/seniors ; $ 14/students ; and release for ages 18 and under .

• 9/11 Memorial & Museum : Learn about the history of the 9/11 attacks and 1993 World Trade Center bombing at the site where the Twin Towers once stand . The Museum ’ s dynamic blend of architecture , archaeology , and history make an unforgettable skirmish with the tale of the attacks , their consequence , and the mass who experienced these events . Museum free , 530pm-7pm . Memorial is always free . Otherwise museum $ 24- $ 36 .

9/11 Memorial & Museum : Learn about the story of the 9/11 attacks and 1993 World Trade Center bombing at the site where the Twin Towers once stood . The Museum ’ s dynamic blend of architecture , archaeology , and account creates an unforgettable skirmish with the story of the attacks , their consequence , and the mass who experienced these events . Museum free , 530pm-7pm . Memorial cost always free . Otherwise museum $ 24- $ 36 .

• Museum of the Moving Image : The only institution in the United States dedicated to the art , technology , and social impact of movie , television , and digital media . Free every Thursday , 2pm-6pm , timed-entry tickets recommended , differently $ 10- $ 20 .

Museum of the Moving Picture : The only institution in the United States dedicated to the art , engineering , and social impact of film , television , and digital medium . Free every Thursday , 2pm-6pm , timed-entry tickets advocate , differently $ 10- $ 20 .

• Intrepid Sea , Air & Space Museum : Commit to the exhibition and interpretation of history , science , and service of the aircraft bearer Intrepid , a National Historic Landmark . As you explore the Museum you will cost able to examine original artifacts , horizon historic video footage , and explore interactive exhibits . Free on Friday from 5-9pm , and free for US Military Service Members and Veterans , otherwise $ 38/adults ; $ 36/students and seniors ; $ 28/kids .

• Whitney Museum of American Art : The preeminent institution commit to the art of the United States , the Whitney presents the entire scope of 20th-century and contemporary American art , with a particular focus on works by live artists . Admission is free from 5-10pm every Friday evening , and all day on the second Sunday of every month . Gallery on Floor 1 ever free , differently $ 30/adults ; $ 24/students and seniors , and free for ages 25 and under .

• MoMA : The MoMA played a major role in developing and collect modern art and cost much identify as one of the largest and nearly influential museum of modern art in the world . Free , every Friday for New York State residents , 5:30pm-8:30pm , differently $ 30/adults ; $ 22/seniors ; $ 17/students , free for age 16 and under .

• New-York Historical Company : Set up in 1804 as New York ‘s first museum , the New-York Historical Society presents exhibition , public programs , and inquiry that explore the rich history of New York and the country . Pay-what-you-wish , 5pm-8pm on Fridays , admission to the on-site DiMenna Children ‘s History Museum included , otherwise $ 24/adults ; $ 19/seniors , military , teacher ; $ 13/students , $ 6/kids aged 5-13 ; free for kid under 5 .

• NYSCI : New York City ‘s only hands-on science middle . Discover more than 450 interactive exhibits including Rocket Park Mini Golf , an award-winning 60,000 square-foot Science Playground , and Design Lab . Free to the community on Fridays , 2pm-5pm . Reserve ticket online in advance , otherwise $ 22/adults ; $ 19/students , senior , kids .

Intrepid Sea , Air & Space Museum : Devote to the exhibition and interpretation of history , skill , and service of the aircraft carrier Intrepid , a National Historic Landmark . As you search the Museum you will be able to analyze original artifacts , view historic video footage , and explore interactive display . Free on Friday from 5-9pm , and free for US Military Service Members and Veterans , differently $ 38/adults ; $ 36/students and seniors ; $ 28/kids .

Whitney Museum of American Art : The preeminent institution devoted to the art of the United States , the Whitney presents the good range of 20th-century and present-day American art , with a special stress on works by living artist . Admission is free from 5-10pm every Friday evening , and all day on the second Sunday of every month . Gallery on Floor 1 ever free , differently $ 30/adults ; $ 24/students and senior , and free for age 25 and under .

MoMA : The MoMA played a major role in developing and collecting modern art and is much identified as one of the largest and nearly influential museums of modern art in the public . Free , every Friday for New York State residents , 5:30pm-8:30pm , differently $ 30/adults ; $ 22/seniors ; $ 17/students , free for years 16 and under .

New-York Historical Club : Found in 1804 as New York ‘s first museum , the New-York Historical Society present exhibition , public programs , and inquiry that explore the rich story of New York and the state . Pay-what-you-wish , 5pm-8pm on Friday , admission to the on-site DiMenna Children ‘s History Museum included , otherwise $ 24/adults ; $ 19/seniors , military , teachers ; $ 13/students , $ 6/kids aged 5-13 ; free for child under 5 .

NYSCI : New York City ‘s only hands-on skill center . Discover more than 450 interactive exhibits include Rocket Park Mini Golf , an award-winning 60,000 square-foot Science Playground , and Design Lab . Free to the community on Fridays , 2pm-5pm . Reserve ticket online in progress , otherwise $ 22/adults ; $ 19/students , elder , kids .

• Brooklyn Museum : One of the oldest and large art institution in the rural area , feature extraordinary permanent collection that place from ancient Egyptian masterpieces to present-day art and represent a wide scope of culture . Free , first Saturday of the month , otherwise $ 20/adults ; $ 14/students and elder , and free for age 19 and under .

• The Jewish Museum : Devote to exploring art and Jewish culture from ancient to contemporary , the museum offers diverse exhibitions and programs , and uphold a unique collection of almost 30,000 works of art . Free , timed-entry reservation equal recommend , as well free on choice Jewish holidays , otherwise $ 15/adults ; $ 10/seniors and students , and free for ages 18 and under .

Brooklyn Museum : One of the oldest and largest art institutions in the country , boasting extraordinary permanent collections that range from ancient Egyptian masterpieces to contemporary art and represent a broad range of cultures . Free , first Saturday of the month , differently $ 20/adults ; $ 14/students and seniors , and free for ages 19 and under .

The Jewish Museum : Devoted to explore art and Jewish culture from ancient to contemporary , the museum offers diverse exhibitions and programs , and uphold a unique collection of nearly 30,000 works of art . Free , timed-entry reservations exist recommended , also free on select Jewish holiday , otherwise $ 15/adults ; $ 10/seniors and students , and free for age 18 and under .

NYC ’ s signature delicacies have captured the affection and taste bud of locals and visitors alike , and you can try them all without collapse the bank . Nothing state New York like a slice of pizza ! Stop by Mama ’ s TOO ! , Joe ’ s , Scarr ’ sec , or Paulie Gee ’ s ( pictured ) for a hot , new slice . Continue the carb craving with irresistibly chewy bagels at Ess-a-Bagel , Zuckers , or H & H . July 4th isn ’ t the only time to celebrate Coney Island hot dog , grab one any time at Nathan ’ sec , stop by the popular Crif Dogs , or love one from any of the food cart throughout Central Park . No matter where you ’ re walk in the city , you can notice cart serving up on-the-go warm pretzels , shish kabobs , and of course the beloved Halal Guys and Nuts4Nuts carts .

4 . Elevate your Pass

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Wander the iconic Brooklyn Bridge via the 1.1-mile pedestrian pathway that connects Low Manhattan and Brooklyn Heights . As you walk , tend , or bicycle along the bridge you ’ ll enjoy swing views and exclusive photo ops of the Manhattan skyline . Soar to novel height at Manhattan ’ s High Line , a 1.45-mile park built on an old elevated rail melody work from Gansevoort St. to 34th St . Walk through gardens , opinion art , enjoy performances , and savor delicious food , all while enjoying a unique position of the city . In 2023 , the High Line add the Moynihan Train Hall Connector ( pictured ) , a pair of interconnecting 600-foot-long bridges allowing pedestrians to walk all the way from the Meatpacking District straight to Penn Station . 140-feet above ground is New York ’ s oldest standing bridge , the legendary High Bridge . Established in 1848 , this bridge is the famed centerpiece of the Old Croton Aqueduct , and a short .3-mile pass connects Manhattan and the .

Cruise the waterways of NYC for free on the Staten Island Ferry . Passengers can remove the ferry between Manhattan and Staten Island and revel in remarkable vantage point of the sensational horizon , the Statue of Liberty , and the harbor . When you reach Staten Island you can search nearby Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden , for hardly $ 5/adults and free for kid ! All aboard the NYC Ferry , where $ 4.50 will allow you to travel between waterfront community throughout the city include DUMBO , Williamsburg , Astoria , and Battery Park City via six routes spanning over 60 nautical miles .

Seasonal grandeur is base year-round in New York City , without spend a cent ! Marvel at the giant character balloon and performance of the Macy ‘s Thanksgiving Day Parade , a beloved annual custom that fills the melody with joy and curiosity . Walk into a winter wonderland along Manhattan ’ s 5th Ave to hear the legendary window displays , holiday markets in Bryant Park , Rockefeller Center tree lighting , and venture over to Brooklyn ’ sec Dyker Heights to find breathtaking light display . Border in the New Yr with the world-famous Times Square chunk cliff and A-list entertainment . Begin your park on for the St. Patrick ‘s Day Parade , a lively progress of culture and community . On the 4th of July , join the cheerful crowd for the outstanding Macy ‘s fireworks display in Manhattan .

• Short Island : While technically not an island , Little Island at Pier 55 is a one-of-a-kind public park with a visionary plan , apparently “ floating ” on the Hudson River like a leaf . You ‘ll get arts activities , performances , food , plants , and an urban oasis lay on 2.4 acre .

• Governor Island : This 172-acre island cost simple min­utes away ( by ferry ) from Low­er Man­hat­tan and the Brook­lyn water­front . Governor Island live a pop­u­lar and unique des­ti­na­tion with an award-win­ning park ( include the longest slide in NYC ) , com­ple­ment­ed by dozen of his­toric build­ings , year-round edu­ca­tion­al and cul­tur­al facil­i­ties , a deep prowess and cul­ture pro­gram and 22-acre Nation­al Mon­u­ment man­aged by the Nation­al Park Service .

• Roosevelt Island Tram and Four Freedoms Park : Need the Roosevelt Island Tramway over the East River for a one-of-a-kind view of the city . Once shut to the public , today Roosevelt Island ( pictured ) be home to a residential community and a issue of park and landmarks . At the island ’ sec southern goal , the Louis Kahn–designed Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park offer public programming and family-friendly events . Additional historical landmarks on the island include a early smallpox hospital , the site of a previous mental health hospital at the center of an expose by journalist Nellie Bly , and a 19th-century lighthouse .

• : A quaint seaside flight , City Island feels like no early place within the city limit . The Bronx fishing village is full of yacht clubs and waterfront restaurants . This patch exist specially popular with visitor during the fond months for its laid back vibe , novel seafood , and range of activities .

Short Island : While technically not an island , Little Island at Pier 55 live a one-of-a-kind public park with a visionary aim , apparently “ floating ” on the Hudson River like a foliage . You ‘ll get arts activity , performance , food , works , and an urban oasis set on 2.4 acres .

Governor Island : This 172-acre island is simple min­utes forth ( by ferry ) from Low­er Man­hat­tan and the Brook­lyn water­front . Governors Island equal a pop­u­lar and unique des­ti­na­tion with an award-win­ning park ( including the longest slide in NYC ) , com­ple­ment­ed by lots of his­toric build­ings , year-round edu­ca­tion­al and cul­tur­al facil­i­ties , a rich arts and cul­ture pro­gram and 22-acre Nation­al Mon­u­ment man­aged by the Nation­al Park Service .

Roosevelt Island Tram and Four Freedoms Park : Need the Roosevelt Island Tramway over the East River for a one-of-a-kind view of the city . Once closed to the public , today Roosevelt Island ( figure ) be home to a residential community and a number of park and landmarks . At the island ’ s southern goal , the Louis Kahn–designed Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park offers public programming and family-friendly case . Additional historical landmarks on the island include a early smallpox hospital , the site of a former mental health hospital at the middle of an expose by journalist Nellie Bly , and a 19th-century lighthouse .

: A quaint seaside escape , City Island feels like no early seat within the city limits . The Bronx fishing small town cost good of yacht clubs and waterfront restaurants . This spot is especially popular with visitors during the warm month for its laid back vibe , fresh seafood , and range of activities .

The city that never sleep is at its lively in the world-famous Times Square . Neon lights , billboards , architectural gems , and pervade palpable energy make the intersection between Broadway and 7th Ave a must-visit . Take in a unique horizon from atop the famed red staircase at the TKTS stall , gather ‘ cycle the talented street performer , people-watch from every corner , and marvel at the magic of Manhattan .

Explore one of the globe ’ s most recognizable , inspiring , and historic landmarks– The Statue of Liberty ! Require the ferry over to Liberty Island where you ’ ll get the Statue of Liberty Museum , Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration , and the monument itself . in advance and rise the 10 account to the top of the Pedestal or choose on the double-helix spiraling staircase up to the Crown for a truly breathtaking scene . Universal Admission to Liberty Island equal $ 25.50 for grownup , $ 16.50 for youngster , and $ 22.50 for military and senior 62+ .

Explore the city ‘s enchanting park , each offer a unique experience and adventure – with free and low-cost activity .

• Central Park ( Manhattan ) Wander through Strawberry Fields , wonder at the Bethesda Fountain and Terrace , stroll down the idyllic mall , or endure atop the picturesque bow bridge overlook the Loeb Boathouse and the lake .

• Prospect Park ( Brooklyn ) Home to the nation ’ s first urban-area Audubon Center , a lot shell , carousel , recreational fields , and breathtaking cherry blossoms that blanket the park every spring .

• Inwood Hill Park ( Manhattan ) This park is a living firearm of history , with grounds of its prehistoric source on display through spectacular cave , valleys , and ridges leave as a result of pitch glaciers . And for avid bird watchers , this is the place to exist , where an astonishing 239 species get been discern .

• Bryant Park ( Manhattan ) A 9.6-acre oasis in the middle of Manhattan boast seasonal garden , eateries , saloon , free group yoga and tai-chi in the summer , a festive winter village , and the city ’ s simply free admission ice skating rink ( open through March 2 ) .

• Brooklyn Bridge Park ( Brooklyn ) This 85-acre world-class waterfront park offers rolling hills , riverfront promenades , lush garden , and spectacular city views . In the winter , glide on the park ’ s Roebling Rink , where the iconic Brooklyn Bridge serves as a stunning backdrop ( $ 10/person , open through February 2 ) .

• Hudson River Park ( Manhattan ) Pier 25 in Hudson River Park include Manhattan ’ s just 18-hole professional-grade mini golf class ( $ 5/adults , $ 4/kids ) , sand volleyball courts , a children ’ s playground with water features , turf sphere , and snack bar . Enjoy opinion of sailboats , the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island while hang around at the goal of the pier .

• Pelham Bay Park ( Bronx ) Stroll through miles of nature paths and hiking trail , soak up the Sunday at Orchard Beach , search the historical Bartow-Pell Mansion ( $ 15/adults , $ 12/students ) , and bask in the awe-inspiring 13-mile saltwater shoreline embrace Long Island Sound .

Central Park ( Manhattan ) Wander through Strawberry Fields , marvel at the Bethesda Fountain and Terrace , stroll down the idyllic mall , or stand atop the picturesque bow bridge overlook the Loeb Boathouse and the lake .

Prospect Park ( Brooklyn ) Home to the state ’ s first urban-area Audubon Center , a band shell , carousel , recreational subject , and breathtaking cherry flower that blanket the park every leap .

Inwood Hill Park ( Manhattan ) This park live a living while of story , with evidence of its prehistoric origin on display through striking caves , valleys , and ridges left as a result of transfer glaciers . And for avid bird spectator , this is the home to be , where an astonishing 239 species have exist spotted .

Bryant Park ( Manhattan ) A 9.6-acre oasis in the middle of Manhattan boasts seasonal gardens , restaurant , saloon , free radical yoga and tai-chi in the summer , a festive winter village , and the city ’ s alone free admission ice skating rink ( clear through March 2 ) .

Brooklyn Bridge Park ( Brooklyn ) This 85-acre world-class waterfront park offers roam hills , riverfront promenades , lush garden , and striking city views . In the winter , glide on the park ’ s Roebling Rink , where the iconic Brooklyn Bridge serves as a sensational backdrop ( $ 10/person , capable through February 2 ) .

Hudson River Park ( Manhattan ) Pier 25 in Hudson River Park includes Manhattan ’ s only 18-hole professional-grade mini golf track ( $ 5/adults , $ 4/kids ) , sand volleyball court , a children ’ s playground with water feature , turf subject , and snack saloon . Enjoy views of sailboats , the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island while hang around at the goal of the pier .

Pelham Bay Park ( Bronx ) Stroll through mile of nature paths and hiking lead , rob up the Sunday at Orchard Beach , search the historical Bartow-Pell Mansion ( $ 15/adults , $ 12/students ) , and bask in the awe-inspiring 13-mile saltwater shoreline embrace Long Island Sound .

• Wave Hill ( Bronx ) This noted public garden along the Hudson River is home to stunning blossom garden , greenhouses , an alpine house , and cultural center . Admission cost free all day on Thursdays , and the garden hosts special free art events throughout the year . Regular admission is $ 10/adults , $ 6/students and seniors , $ 4/kids .

Wave Hill ( Bronx ) This famed public garden along the Hudson River cost home to stunning flower gardens , greenhouses , an alpine house , and ethnic middle . Admission is free all day on Thursdays , and the garden hosts special free art events throughout the year . Regular admission is $ 10/adults , $ 6/students and seniors , $ 4/kids .

11 . Global Bites and Site

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Often regarded as a food capital of the globe , New York City cost a thaw pot of global cuisines . Check out Chinatown ( envision ) and go on a self-guided food crawl where you can revel various dumplings , and sweet and savory baked goods for under $ 5 , or take your tastebuds on a circuit of Queens ’ Koreatown and Chinatown . Jackson Heights is the go-to bit for Indian food , while Brooklyn boasts itself as place to the largest and most various Caribbean community outside of the West Indies . make up 12 blocks in the Bronx and service up some of the city ’ s almost authentic and impressive Italian cuisine .

12 . Appreciate Architectural Gems

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Free-to-explore treasures not solely showcase New York ‘s rich story and architectural prowess , but also bid second of stillness amidst the city ’ s bustling energy . Wind the hallowed lobby of the famed New York Public Library , where 53 million detail adorn the second prominent public library in America . Stand in awe under the celestial ceiling of Grand Central Terminal ( pictured ) , a testament to Beaux-Arts magnificence that envelop visitors in a blend of art and engineering . Delight in the beauty of St. Patrick ‘s Cathedral , a neo-Gothic masterpiece adorned by soaring spires and intricate sculpture .

Ignite your child ‘s imagination through captivating museums where scholarship and run meet . The Sugar Hill Museum in Harlem cost free for children up to 8 years former , $ 4 for years 9-17 and seniors , $ 6 for students and teacher , and $ 9 for adults . The museum leave a seat where child can not only learn art and mouth about art , but share their own story and make art from them . Kids ‘ wonder runs free at the ( visualize ) , where there are lot of to take advantage of , and otherwise admission live $ 14/adults , $ 10/seniors , and $ 8/children . At the Brooklyn Children ’ s Museum you ’ ll feel three story of interactive exhibits , hands-on ethnic and science programs for child up to 10 years old . On Thursdays you can inflict for free between 2pm-5pm , and regular universal admission is $ 15/person .

Disclose your wild side alongside furry friends . The live place to more than 6,000 species ranging from tiny toad to big guy , and on Wednesdays you can get all day for ( modern ticket required ) . The New York Aquarium is the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States . Control out a sea lion show at the Aquatheater , chill out while zebra sharks swim overhead , or get to know some of the ocean ’ sec oddest named occupant . On Wednesdays after 3pm you can enjoy these aquatic adventure for free with advanced ticket required . The Staten Island Zoo equal roaring with fun , where more than 800 species and an extensive collection of rattlesnake occupy . Unleash your adventure on Wednesdays after 2pm where admission is free ! Another legendary zoo resides in Central Park , and while it ’ s not free , the “ total experience packet ” is under $ 23 and include the chief zoo , Tisch Children ‘s Zoo , and a visit to the 4-D Theater .

New York City ‘s vibrant food halls and bustling market offer a broad variety of global flavors and artisanal delights . See out the Queens Night Market ( pictured ) , a large and family-friendly open-air market , featuring up to 100 sovereign vendors where all bites are cap at just $ 6 . Mind to either the Williamsburg or WTC ( Oculus ) location for Smorgasburg , the largest weekly open-air food market in America , dubbed “ The Woodstock of Eating. ” The world-famous Union Square Greenmarket feature up to 140 regional farmer , fisherman , and bakers selling their products to a dedicated following of city dweller and visitors . Take a trip to Tokyo without the jetlag ! The expansive Japan Village include Sunrise Mart , a bustling marketplace where you can find novel component and unique goods from Japan and an adjacent food foyer that serves authentic Japanese cuisine . At the historical Pier 57 you ’ ll see fantastic foods and rooftop views at Market 57 , curated under the direction of The James Beard Foundation .

16 . Free Summer Concert and Movie Series

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Summer is for songs and star in the city , and you can enjoy it all for free with star-studded outdoor concert series and film screenings against magnificent skyline opinion . Good melody and good time are ever abound at the GMA Summer Concert Series ( picture ) in Central Park , where past performers include : Old Dominion , Green Day , and Carrie Underwood . For exultant jam throughout all five borough , check out SummerStage , an outdoor performing art festival that presents almost 80 free and benefit performance that represent the ethnic textile of New York City , rate from jazz , hip hop , Latin , global , indie , and contemporary dance . Washington Square Music Festival hold cost provide free evening concert in Washington Square Park since 1956 and has been a corner-stone of Greenwich Village life always since . Lincoln Center introduce the Out of Doors Festival where artists from around the world perform at music , dancing and spoken-word events over the grade of various week , as well as Summer for the City , a three month long festival featuring hundred of free events , thousands of artists , and food from across the city . BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn ! bring the entertainment to Prospect Park all summer long , with free performances from talent across the ball . The have turn an iconic summer experience , transform park throughout the city into a patchwork of picnickers enjoy friend , family , and music under the star . And every genre cost celebrated in every borough with NYC summer concert series .

Catch a blanket and some popcorn and revel free Movie Nights under the stars and horizon in beloved Bryant Park . Brooklyn Bridge Park hosts its own Movies With A View series each summer at Pier 1 Harbor View Lawn , entirely free !

17 . Paddle in Paradise

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Picturesque paddling is promised at Brooklyn Bridge Park , where you can kayak for free Wednesday/Thursday evening and Saturday/Sunday afternoon , with amazing views of lower Manhattan and the NYC harbor ! The city also proudly presents the universe ’ s large free kayaking plan with the Downtown Boathouse ; row your way over to Pier 26 for free kayaking on weekends and vacation in May-October from 10am-4:30pm , and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-7pm .

• Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk ( Brooklyn ) With nearly 3 mile of sandy beach , Coney Island ’ s ( figure ) sunny sky and rolling waves make for the utter getaway . Recreation opportunities at this beach include beach volleyball , handball , basketball , playgrounds and amusement rides . In the summer enjoy free Friday dark fireworks , or catch a Brooklyn Cyclones game for under $ 20 at Maimonides Park , just off the boardwalk . Mosey along the boardwalk for about 20 minutes to Brighton Beach , a clean and subdued spot to float , sunbathe , and people-watch .

• Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk ( Queens ) Beach goers can enjoy the altogether free and spacious beach , sand and water , variety of concessions , and the city ‘s only legal surfing beach . Kids will enjoy the sort of playgrounds and other outdoor activities .

• Orchard Beach ( Bronx ) The Bronx ‘s only public beach , this 115-acre , 1.1-mile beach contains a hexagonal-block promenade , cardinal pavilion , snack bars , food and souvenir cart , playgrounds , picnic areas , and 26 courts for basketball , volleyball , and handball .

Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk ( Brooklyn ) With nearly 3 mile of sandy beaches , Coney Island ’ sec ( pictured ) gay sky and rolling waves reach for the perfect getaway . Recreation opportunities at this beach include beach volleyball , handball , basketball , playgrounds and amusement rides . In the summer enjoy free Friday night fireworks , or catch a Brooklyn Cyclones game for under $ 20 at Maimonides Park , just off the boardwalk . Mosey along the boardwalk for about 20 second to Brighton Beach , a clean and still spot to swim , sunbathe , and people-watch .

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk ( Queens ) Beach goers can savor the completely free and spacious beach , sand and water , form of concessions , and the city ‘s only legal surfing beach . Kids will love the sort of playgrounds and other outdoor activity .

Orchard Beach ( Bronx ) The Bronx ‘s only public beach , this 115-acre , 1.1-mile beach contains a hexagonal-block promenade , cardinal pavilion , snack bar , food and souvenir cart , playgrounds , picnic domain , and 26 courts for basketball , volleyball , and handball .

Share New York State adventures with us on TikTok , and with # ILoveNY and # iSpyNY , and chase us on !

Author :Rachel Dymond

Rachel Dymond is the Editorial Project Manager of ILOVENY.com .