Looking for free attractions in New York? Then you’re going to love this article. We’ll show you the best things to do in the Big Apple without spending a single dollar. Plus, we’ve included a handy map 🗺️ with all the locations and answers to your most common questions. Ready? The Capital of the World 🗽 is waiting for you with can’t-miss destinations.
Top 10 free activities in New York
We know you love having fun without spending money (who doesn’t?), so here’s our list of the 10 best free activities in New York. In the city that never sleeps 🏙️, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Enjoy everything from scenic viewpoints and historic landmarks to unique restaurants, impressive museums, and more. While many of these spots usually charge admission, there are still plenty of attractions you can explore without stretching your budget.
1. Visit Central Park
Without a doubt, one of the best free things to do in New York is to visit Central Park. This massive urban park has everything you need to unwind, such as lakes, walking trails, monuments, and beautiful gardens. It’s also been the backdrop for countless movies and TV shows. How many will you recognize?
We recommend exploring Central Park at your own pace, but you can also join a free walking tour. Just keep in mind that it’s customary to tip the guide at the end of the tour.
2. Ride the Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is a great way to cross New York Harbor without spending a dime. As you sail, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Plus, you’ll get the chance to explore the city’s quietest and least populated borough.
If you want to cross New York Harbor, enjoy a maritime experience without leaving the Big Apple, and do it all for free, taking the Staten Island Ferry is a plan you’ll love.
3. Explore New York’s free museums
Among New York’s top free attractions, its museums truly stand out. While most charge admission, there are plenty you can visit for free, like the National Museum of the American Indian and the American Folk Art Museum.
Other museums in New York operate on a pay-as-you-wish system. This means you can access parts of their exhibitions and, after your visit, pay whatever amount you feel the experience was worth.
Keep in mind that while some guides list several New York museums as free, most are only free for city residents. As a tourist, you’ll likely need to pay full admission. So make sure to check the details before each visit!
4. Admire Grand Central Terminal
If you’re a fan of art and historic landmarks, Grand Central Terminal is one of the best free attractions in New York you shouldn’t miss. It’s one of the busiest train stations in North America and also one of the most beautiful in the world.
Opened in 1913 and built in the Beaux-Arts style, Grand Central Terminal will impress you with both its exterior architecture and interior design. On the facade, the Glory of Commerce statue stands out just above the clock. Inside the main concourse, you’ll find a stunning ceiling decorated with astronomical motifs that resemble nighttime constellations.
| Attraction | Grand Central Terminal |
| Schedule: | Open daily from 5:15 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Keep in mind that shops, restaurants, and other facilities have their own hours, which may or may not match the station’s schedule. Be sure to check the hours of any place you’re interested in beforehand to avoid any surprises. |
| Location: | 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017. |
5. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is, without a doubt, the most famous bridge in New York. Walking across it is a free activity that should be on every itinerary. Take your time strolling along this engineering marvel as you cross the East River with ease. It also offers one of the best views of Manhattan, so get your camera ready and snap a photo to remember!
We also recommend enjoying the Brooklyn Bridge by car and exploring other parts of the city while saving on every trip. Just visit our website, Viajemos.com, and choose the rental vehicle that will let you travel across the U.S. with comfort and freedom. Plus, we offer discounts of up to 35% and Free Travel Insurance, exclusive for Latin American customers. Book today and make a smart investment in your journey.
6. Stroll through the High Line
If you enjoy natural spaces, be sure to explore the High Line, one of the best places to visit for free in New York. This public park was built on the remains of an old railway line that fell into disuse with the rise of the automobile. Before it could be demolished, local residents stepped in to preserve it. Today, it’s a lush, elevated walkway where you can relax, go for a walk, or get some exercise, without ever leaving Manhattan.
| Attraction: | High Line Park |
| Schedule: | Opening and closing hours vary depending on the time of year: December 1 to March 31: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. April 30 to November 30: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
| Location: | The park stretches roughly from the intersection of Gansevoort St and Washington St heading north, up to W 30th St. From there, it splits into two paths, nearly reaching W 34th St. It features numerous access points, including stairs and elevators, mainly around the split near W 30th St. |
7. Discover the treasures of the New York Public Library
Explore the New York Public Library, one of the city’s best free attractions. This popular destination houses a collection of over 15 million items, including medieval manuscripts, ancient scrolls, rare books, and even the original toys that inspired the adventures of Winnie-the-Pooh. If you’re passionate about literature, culture, and learning, this might just become your favorite spot.
The Stephen A. Schwarzman building, located on Fifth Avenue and guarded by two majestic stone lions, is the main branch of the New York Public Library. However, the institution has more than 90 branches spread across the Big Apple.
| Attraction: | New York Public Library |
| Schedule: | Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Hours may be subject to change, so it’s best to check the library’s website before your visit. |
| Location: | 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018. You can enter the building through the Fifth Avenue entrance or via 40th and 42nd Streets. |
8. Walk through Times Square and Broadway
No trip to New York is complete without a visit to Times Square. This iconic pedestrian plaza, filled with famous stores and dazzling screens, is one of the city’s top landmarks. While the shops can be a bit pricey, you can still window shop and soak up the atmosphere for free. The key is to let yourself get swept up in its unique energy.
Just a short walk away is the famous Broadway district. Stroll past some of the most important theaters in the English-speaking world and see what shows are currently playing. The air is filled with art, and soaking it in doesn’t cost a thing!
9. Visit Chelsea Market and its famous galleries
If you’re into art and quirky markets, Chelsea Market and its surroundings will be your favorite spot in New York. Chelsea is a charming neighborhood on Manhattan’s west side, home to a popular market filled with artisan shops, unique food options, and sensory-stirring installations. The best part? You can explore it all for free.
| Attraction: | Chelsea Market |
| Schedule: | Monday to Sunday: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Hours may be subject to change, so check the official website for the most up-to-date information. |
| Location: | 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011. |
In addition to Chelsea Market, the neighborhood is home to numerous art galleries that give it a unique charm. Many of them launch new exhibitions on Thursdays, so plan your visit accordingly. Discover New York’s art scene for free and admire the latest works while enjoying a complimentary drink.
Did you know that Oreo cookies were invented at Chelsea Market? 🍪
That’s right! Oreo cookies were created at Chelsea Market in 1912. Back then, Nabisco (the National Biscuit Company), the brand behind them, had its facilities in the neighborhood. But why would a baking company set up shop in what was then the Meatpacking District? The answer: they needed lard for their products, which was readily available there. Questionable? Maybe. Delicious? Absolutely.
10. Take a free tour of New York
Don’t miss out on any of the free attractions in New York! With a free walking tour, you’ll find the perfect guide, learn fun facts, and uncover the secrets of the Big Apple.
You can find these types of tours online. Compare which areas they cover, what each guide offers, and the reviews they’ve received. Keep in mind that while they’re called “free,” they’re more like pay-as-you-wish tours. And don’t forget that the guide will be expecting a tip at the end.
More free activities and attractions in New York
You’ve already seen the 10 most popular attractions, but there are still plenty of other free places to visit in New York. Take note, get ready, and keep enjoying the Capital of the World without spending a single cent.
Explore Roosevelt Island
If you’re looking to relax and enjoy a great free attraction in New York, taking a stroll around Roosevelt Island is always a good idea. This small island in the East River sits between Manhattan and Queens, right beneath the Queensboro Bridge. You can get there by taking the tram, and if you have an unlimited MetroCard, the ride won’t cost you a thing.
In the past, Roosevelt Island had different names and was home to wealthy family estates, hospitals, and even prisons. Today, however, it’s a peaceful destination with sports facilities, residential buildings, and lush parks, offering great views of the Manhattan skyline.
| Attraction: | Roosevelt Island Tramway |
| Schedule: | Sunday to Thursday: 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday: 6:00 a.m. to 3:30 a.m. |
| Location: | E 59th St 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10022. |
Attend a Gospel Service in Harlem
Experiencing a gospel service in Harlem is one of the best free activities in New York to fill your heart with passion and music. These religious gatherings blend sermons with powerful singing, creating a vibrant and uplifting experience.
To get the most out of a gospel service in the Big Apple, keep this in mind:
- While there are services at various times, most take place on Sunday mornings.
- It’s not a tourist attraction, but a religious service for the community. You’re welcome to attend and enjoy it, even if you have different beliefs, but remember to be respectful. Keep in mind that it’s not designed purely for your entertainment.
- Dress appropriately. For the local community, this is a solemn event where people often show up in their best attire. You’re not expected to wear a suit, but we recommend choosing formal or respectful clothing.
- There are several gospel services like this in Harlem, some openly welcome tourists, while others are private. Some are so popular that you’ll need to arrive at least an hour early just to get a seat.
Go kayaking for free on the Hudson River
If you’re into water sports, you’ve got to try kayaking on the Hudson River, one of the most popular free activities in New York. Several services operate along the Hudson’s piers on Manhattan’s west side, letting you paddle through the waters in one of these small boats. You must know how to swim and arrive early, and keep in mind that swimming directly in the river is not allowed.
Tour City Hall
If you want to experience some of the best free attractions in New York, you should take a tour of City Hall. Believe it or not, it’s the oldest city hall in the United States that’s still in use. With over 200 years of history, this building is a great example of French Renaissance-style architecture. Keep in mind that free tours are held weekly with limited capacity, so you’ll need to register in advance.
| Attraction: | City Hall Park |
| Schedule: | Monday to Sunday: from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight). This refers to the area of the park that is open to the public. City Hall operates on its own schedule, which is reserved for official matters. Tourist visits are limited to the free guided tours. |
| Location: | Broadway Park Row, Chambers St, New York, NY 10007. City Hall is located within the boundaries of the park. |
Admire New York’s graffiti and murals
If you enjoy street art and long walks, we suggest taking a tour to admire the murals and graffiti of the Big Apple, one of the best free activities to do in New York.
While some websites offer free guided tours to see the most popular murals, they typically follow a pay-as-you-wish model, meaning the guide will expect a tip based on your experience at the end. That’s why exploring the city on your own can be a great alternative. Below, we’ll highlight some of the most iconic graffiti works created by renowned international artists like Banksy and Kobra.
- Mona Lisa of Williamsburg: 462 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211.
- Braves of 9/11: 231 E 48th St, New York, NY 10017.
- Hammer Boy: 233 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024.
- Albert Einstein Mural: 776 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10017.
- Michael Jackson Mural: 400 E 11th St, New York, NY 10009.
Map of the free attractions in New York
Frequently asked questions about free attractions in New York
What can I do for free in New York in one day?
There are plenty of free activities you can enjoy in New York in just one day. Take note and plan your no-cost itinerary through the Big Apple.
- Stroll through Central Park.
- Enjoy the unique charm of Times Square.
- Stroll along Fifth Avenue and its iconic shops.
- Admire the 9/11 Memorial.
- Take a photo with the Charging Bull, the famous Wall Street statue.
- Discover the fascinating Grand Central Terminal and all its details.
- Travel through Chinatown.
- Fall in love with Little Italy.
- Take a round trip on the Staten Island Ferry.
- Admire St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
- Visit the Friends apartment building in Greenwich Village.
- Let yourself be inspired by the art in SoHo.
What can you do in New York on a budget?
There are plenty of things to do and attractions to visit in New York without spending much. Here are some of the most popular options.
- Grab a coffee in Little Italy.
- Enjoy an Asian lunch in Chinatown.
- Stroll through Times Square and Broadway.
- Have a picnic in Central Park.
- Explore DUMBO and Williamsburg on the other side of the Brooklyn Bridge.
- Explore Chelsea Market.
- Head up to one of the city’s observation decks.
- Rent a car and explore all of the Big Apple’s boroughs, including Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx.
What day is MoMA free in New York?
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York is free on Fridays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. It’s important to note that tickets must be reserved in advance. Additionally, this offer is only available to New York State residents, not to tourists.
Thank you so much for reading! We hope this article helps you explore the top free attractions in New York. Be sure to check out our other posts and discover your next favorite destination. Have the best travel experience with Viajemos!
