What to do in NYC paying nothing (or nearly nothing)
New York is undoubtedly one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. (and the world) but also a dream for many international travelers. While average accommodation in NY can strip your wallet out, and coffee & muffin easily reach up to $10, it’s necessary to show that there are other possibilities to enjoy the city. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities
Wander through the Central Park
Central Park is an outdoor park, therefore it’s free and open to the public from 6 am to 1 am. However many people are not aware that the Central Park Conservancy offers guided tours. There are dozens of virtual tours that are free although a suggested donation of US$ 5 is expected. But if you want to try the experience in person, you can enjoy an offer of 6 tours of 90 minutes in different areas of Central Park for US$ 15.
Stargaze on the High Line
The High Line, New York’s famous elevated park, is free and an amazing attraction by itself. But could you imagine you can also stargaze on the High Line? Every Tuesday, from April to October, starting at dusk, the Amateur Astronomers Association puts telescopes at Little West 12th Street. It’s the perfect time to visit the park and feel the cosmos just in the heart of NYC. In normal times, no RSVP needed.
9/11 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial in New York City is a must-visit site for travelers looking to pay tribute to the victims of the 2001 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Located at 180 Greenwich Street in Lower Manhattan, the Memorial is free to visit and open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Its two massive reflecting pools, set within the Twin Towers’ footprints, feature cascading waterfalls and bronze panels inscribed with victims’ names. The surrounding plaza, lined with over 400 oak trees, offers a peaceful space for reflection. Be sure to see the Survivor Tree, a symbol of resilience, and the Memorial Glade, dedicated to those affected by recovery efforts. Nearby, the 9/11 Museum (which requires a ticket) provides a deeper historical perspective. The site is easily accessible via the C, E, R, W, 1, 2, 3, A, and PATH trains to the World Trade Center. Visitors should allow at least an hour for the Memorial and additional time for the Museum if included in their visit.
Watch a Taping of the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon
Ever thought of seeing Jimmy Fallon in person? You can watch a taping of The Tonight Show at NBC’s studios in Rockefeller Center, but it takes a bit of planning. Free tickets are released a month in advance, though if you’re lucky you can get standby tickets the night of the event. All the information you find here.
Visit Chelsea art galleries
What about hopping around the artsy neighborhood in Manhattan? So you have to head to Chelsea, where there are dozens of galleries with groundbreaking works and free admission. Its galleries come in all shapes, sizes, and even virtual reality.
Take a walking tour
This is probably the best way to know New York City, make some exercise, and ask all your doubts to someone that knows the right answers. With Guruwalk, the traveler has 64 options of free walking tours in New York. Reservations are entirely free, and the traveler has the option to cancel without any fees, perfectly fitting their travel itinerary. Ultimately, the user determines the worth of the experience at the end of it.
Guggenheim Museum
Photo by Nicholas Ceglia on Unsplash
The Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, stands as a significant cultural landmark, making this opportunity a wonderful chance for art enthusiasts and newcomers alike to explore its unique architecture and outstanding collections. It doesn’t offer free tickets, but has Pay What You Wish hours on Mondays and Saturdays, from 4 pm to 5:30 pm. The suggested contribution is $10, and minimum is $1.