If you are travelling to New York City but you are on a tight budget, look no further. Here are few 11 free things to do in NYC (2023).
1. Time Square
The first place you will defintely want to visit is Time Sqaure. This location is special as it is one of the pinnacles of New York City. If you grew up watching movies and shows that were filmed in Time Sqaure, this will be your chance to see it in real life. The first thing that my friends and I did when we landed was go to Time Square. We went in the evening because we wanted to see the tall buildings, the lights, and all the screens.
Siri.. play Alicia Keys chorus… NEW YORK
Oh and it’s absolutely necessary that you play this song while you are in Time Square. There are many ways to get to time square, but the cheapest and most recommended is just getting on the subway. There are also many food options to choose from- pizza, burgers, wraps. It is your choice but just remember it is possible to just go for the experience.
2. Ferry to see the Statue of Liberty.
Take the Ferry to Staten Island to see the Statue of Liberty, the ferry is free. Make sure to go around the time when the sun is rising so you can get amazing pictures. My friends and I went evening time, so we got the opportunity to see amazing night time views.
Experience your Gossip Girl, Friends, and Carrie Bradshaw moment.
3. Carrie Bradshaw apartment
Another great thing you can do is enjoying the local architecture, restaurants and more. If you have ever watched Carrie Bradshaw famous early 2000s show, then you will know about her iconic apartment. I’m sure that content creators will enjoy seeing this place or fans of the show.
4. Friends apartment
Another tourist attraction is the Friends apartment. If you love the show, it is a good idea to go and visit this place.
Where is it located: It’s located at 90 Bedford Street at the corner of Grove Street.
5. Grand Central Station
Spotted Serena Van Der Woodsen… at Grand central station. Okay maybe, not everyone sees grand central station in this lens. But granted you have to go and see this famous train station location.
6. MET Museum
The metropolitan museum of art in located on the upper east side. This is a definite must see location in New York City. Make sure you walk to this location so you can see upper east side scenery. For the gossip girl lovers, this another top location from the show that is a must see.
7. Dumbo
The Dumbo name is an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Visitors usually explore this place after a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge, settling in for stunning Manhattan views at Brooklyn Bridge Park. My friends and I enjoyed food from the near by pizza place, be sure to check it out.
8. The Brooklyn Bridge
Okay… so this was truly an amazing moment in NYC. It was probably my favourite day. All I remember is walking on that Bridge and raveling at how beautiful it was. You need to visit Brooklyn Bridge, it is a great and free experience. You will get the opportunity to take good pictures with your friends or by yourself.
It’s also important to note that going in the morning is the best idea. There aren’t many people on the bridge at the time. Which means you can get great pictures and avoid the tourist crowds.
9. Central Park.
You can’t go to New York and not visit Central Park. There is so much to see and do in Central Park. This includes, visiting the zoo, an ice-skating rink, three small lakes, an open-air theatre, a band shell, many athletic playing fields and children’s playgrounds, several fountains, and hundreds of small monuments and plaques scattered through the area.
10. Little Italy
A visit to little Italy is something that you have to do. Little Italy is located in lower Manhattan and is every tourist’s must see. It is a location worth seeing, it is romantic and has the old New York atmosphere. If you are going to do one thing make sure to go to Mulberry Street to experience little Italy. Little Italy is a taste of culture- there are countless movies that have filmed there like the Godfather. There are many other things to do like food, shopping and NYC Architecture.
11. China Town
A visit to China town is a must. This is the oldest China town in the country and is conveniently near Little Italy. I am aware that it may be a little touristy like most of the things mentioned in this list. You will get to experience a bit of China among the locals, their traditions and authentic restaurants.
O’L Takeaway
Visiting New York City can be very expensive. However, in this list there are things you can find to do that are absolutely free. Don’t let money stop you from having a good time. If you are interested in booking a trip to NYC check out this blog post on How to book a Trip to New York City.