This blog post uncovers 10 Free Things to do in New York City. In case you are visiting NYC for the first time, worry not, we got you covered.
New York City is one of the best places to visit in USA. Our list consists of museums, theme parks, visiting animal parks, hiking, and so much more.
Without further ado, this are 10 Free Things To Do In New York City. Have fun later!
Tour at Fashion Institute of Technology FIT Museum
If you are a fashion enthusiast or want to know all about the culture of the people in NYC, the FIT museum caters to that. The FIT museum has a Google rating of 4.3 stars after 250 reviews.
The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) is a renowned institution that houses several fashion exhibitions from centuries ago. These exhibitions offer free insights into historical iconic garments, craftsmanship, and the evolving fashion world, making it a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts and those interested in the culture of NYC.
FIT museum address: 27th St, New York, NY 10001, USA
FIT museum numbers: +1 212-217-4530
Traipse the Bushwick Collective’s Street Art
The Bushwick Collective’s street art is a hidden gem in NYC. With over 600 reviews, it has a Google rating of 4.0 stars, a testament to its popularity and the quality of the art you’ll find there.
At Bushwick, several performances will leave you admiring the talents of the young people who come to entertain music lovers.
The colorful murals and captivating street art are breathtaking, transforming the city into an urban canvas worth watching.
Bushwick Collective’s street art Address :427 Troutman St, Brooklyn
Bushwick Collective’s street art Numbers: +1 718-484-0065
Summer Fun at Portside in Brookfield Place
Visiting Summer fun is arguably one of the best activities to do in NYC. It is also among our list of 10 Free Things To Do In New York City. According to the latest Google rankings, this hidden gem has a rating of 4.2 stars after more than 284 reviews.
It is located at Brookfield Place and offers guided meditations, calligraphy lessons, painting classes, novel reading and review, dance partying, and tastings—all Free!
I found the dance lessons more enjoyable since I love dancing. You can tag along with a friend to enjoy all these memorable activities.
Summer Fun at Portside in Brookfield Place Address: Brookfield Place’s, Waterfront Plaza
Summer Fun at Portside in Brookfield Place Numbers:+1 703-746-5419
Visit The Little Island
Visiting the Little Island is one of the many fun things to do in New York City with kids. The Little Island has a Google rating of 4.5 stars after 216 reviews.
The Little Island, built over a river, offers a serene escape that blends art and nature. With a Google rating of 4.5 stars after 216 reviews, it’s a testament to its beauty. The calm waters and the sight of kids playing at the playground create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful day out.
It’s the best place to visit in New York since it has many activities, including pop-up dance classes, teen nights, story times, and DJ sets. However, you have to book a ticket here.
The Little Island Address: Pier 55, NY 10014
The Little Island numbers: +1 81-836-6222
Visit the Socrates Sculpture Park
Visiting Socrates Sculpture Park is among one of the Free Things To Do In New York City.
I visited this park in 2019, and it’s the best place for Instagrammable pictures. Socrates Sculpture Park has a Google rating of 4.6 stars after 200 reviews.
I wasn’t charged a penny at the entrance but was welcomed with the most expensive look. The crafts and art by the men at Socrates decorated the scene in an urban setting.
In addition, the displayed crafts are crafted on-site, so all revelers visiting get the time to engage with the crafters. Here, I have to follow up on the whole process used to create a piece of art, from the idea to the marketing of it.
Socrates Sculpture Park Address: Vernon Blvd, Queens, NY 11106
Socrates Sculpture Park Numbers: +1 718-956-1819
Walk Across Brooklyn Bridge
This architectural marvel is one of the most therapeutic things you can do in NYC for free! It has a Google rating of 4.5 after 26,021 reviews.
You can bring kids to walk on the pedestrian promenades. You can also take pictures or meditate while watching Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn.
From this viewpoint, you can watch the city’s East River. The view is breathtaking, especially at night when the lights are yellow, and the city is dim, hence the peaceful theme.
Brooklyn Bridge address: 360 Furman Street, NY 10038
Explore the Governors Island
Visiting Governors Island is one of the cheapest things to do in New York City. After over 200 reviews, this Island has garnered a Google review of 4.6 stars.
The Island is a 10-minute ferry ride from Manhattan, which costs $2 for adults and $0.5 for kids. Once you’re on the Island, most of the activities are free, making it a budget-friendly option for a day out in NYC.
I spent 3 hours exploring the Island here, and I can attest that the place is the best for picnicking with family and friends. I recommend you rent a bike and easily stroll around the Island as you stop to take pictures.
The lawns at the Island are something else! Who gets the Lawns experience for free? At Governor’s, the expensive feeling of being inside the lawns is offered for free.
Governors Island address: New York Habour, NY 11231
Governors Island numbers: +1 212-440-2200
Spend a day at Central Park.
This beautiful hub is the best place to relax. Its relaxation aspect has earned it a Google rating of 4.5 stars after 133,972 reviews.
Central Park stays green all year round, offering people a chance to enjoy the serenity every day and kids a chance to roam around the ever-clean park. Among the free places in the park are the Belvedere Castle, Bethsaida fountain, and Alice Wonderland sculpture.
You may also visit the park’s zoo. Although charges apply, it is the best experience in New York City.
Central Park New York Address: 110th Street, between 5th Avenue and Central Park West.
Central Park Numbers: +1 212-310-6600
Visit the Rock Away Beach
Visiting Rock Away beach also falls in our list of the Top 10 Free Things To Do In New York City.
Nestled on the horizon of NYC, this Beach offers a refreshing respite with food and fun. Rock Away Beach has a Google rating of 4.2 stars after over 200 reviews.
It would be best if you boarded a cheap ferry to enjoy the fun that awaits you at the Beach. There are also boardwalks where you can wash off the dirt from the sandy Beach you’ll have trekked on.
It’s a no-exception destination since there are activities for the kids and adults. You can surf in the boroughs with your family. The little ones can run around and soak in the water, shooting and firing cannons.
There are food centers where you can order food, too. Hunger catered for!
Rockaway Beach Address: 149th Street, Neponsit, NY
Rockaway Beach numbers: +1 718-318-4000
Hiking in New York City
While it’s considered part of exercise to help blood flow, New York City offers family-friendly hiking places. Hiking is among the best Free outdoor activities in NYC.
There is a variety of mountains and hills to choose from. Apart from Bear Mountain, where your dogs can accompany you, you can try the following;
- Breakneck Ridge Loop
- Storm King Mountain
- Mount Taurus
- Mt Beacon
Frequently Asked Questions about Free Things To Do In New York City
1. Are there any free attractions in NYC
There are many free attractions in New York City. Few are mentioned above.
2. Is it free to visit Central Park
Central Park is free but some sections and attractions are paid for.
3. What is the number one attraction in NYC
Brooklyn Bridge